When Jack Keller began J.J. Keller & Associates in 1953, the transportation industry looked very different than it does today. Keller’s first product was a paper log book to help truck drivers track their mileage.
Today, the Neenah-based company still provides those paper log books, in addition to an electronic logging solution. But it does a lot more – providing educational and training information for all parts of the transportation industry through publications, consulting and online management tools that address safety, HR issues and more.
“Paper logs are still a primary tool for drivers, but there’s also electronic logging devices,” said Rustin Keller, J.J. Keller’s executive vice president and chief operating officer – and Jack’s grandson. “Technology validates what you’re doing.”
Major advances in technology since the Neenah company first opened its doors also help carriers stay abreast of regulations.
“It’s a sophisticated, regulated profession and drivers are scrutinized with drug tests, medical exams, lots of inspections and more,” Keller said.
J.J. Keller is heavily involved with training the future workforce through its investment in programs at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton. Jack Keller himself received his interstate commerce license from FVTC, and the company has supported its educational offerings for the truck driving industry through the years, including the college’s driving range, a driver simulator, a training facility and student scholarships.
“FVTC is so involved with the training of professionals for our industry” Keller said. “They’re important partners for us.”
