Haulin’ Glory: Kaleb Hammett on Truck Shows and Family Legacy
In the vibrant world of trucking, where the hum of engines and shine of metal meet, Kaleb Hammett stands as a shining example of passion and dedication. Recently featured on the “Trekking Risk and Insurance Podcast,” Kaleb shared insights on competing in truck shows, managing a family business, and the thrill of the trucking community. Here’s a glimpse into his world worth sharing.
### A Family Legacy
Kaleb Hammett, an owner-operator from Dodge City, Texas, unveils a storied history intertwined with every mile his trucks conquer. The Hammett legacy dates back to 1963, when his grandfather sowed the seeds of the family business with a dozer and ambition at his side. From those beginnings, Kaleb’s business has flourished, now boasting 32 trucks and a specialization in heavy haul services, particularly known for handling “Yellow Iron.”
### The Road to Super Rigs
For Kaleb, truck shows aren’t just about trophies; they are about personal expression and community connection. His pride and joy—a 2019 Peterbilt 389 heavy haul—has garnered recognition due to his commitment to its quality and performance. Last year, this magnificent machine earned the Best of Show at the Shell Rotella Truck Show, one of Kaleb’s favorites.
Kaleb approaches these events with an ethos of camaraderie and learning, explaining, “Going to these shows, it’s not about a trophy. It’s about meeting people, talking, and seeing what they do to their trucks.” This commitment to networking and sharing ideas speaks to the broader spirit of the trucking community.
### Preparing for the Big Show
Preparing a show truck is no small feat, as Kaleb will attest. The process begins a week ahead of time, stripping the truck down for thorough cleaning and touch-ups. It’s a labor of love that resonates deeply with fellow truck enthusiasts. “It’s a sense of pride you get,” Kaleb reflects, as the polished end result gleams under the show lights.
This year, Kaleb will showcase his trucks again, including a notable day cab, at the iconic Atlanta Motor Speedway from May 29th through the 31st. Accompanying him are team members who share his dedication and passion, underscoring the team’s cumulative effort to shine at the show.
### Advice for Newcomers
For those looking to enter the competitive world of truck shows, Kaleb offers this advice: “Don’t be scared to do it. Go to have fun and meet new people.” He emphasizes that it’s about the journey, the friendships formed, and the communal enjoyment rather than just the accolades.
### Looking Forward
The trucking shows represent an opportunity for gathering, learning, and celebrating shared interests. Kaleb’s journey is a testament to the hard work and dedication it takes to succeed in this industry. As he gears up for the Shell Rotella Super Rigs, Kaleb looks forward to the friendships and memories awaiting him.
For those able to attend, it promises to be a festival of innovation and fellowship—a perfect example of the trucking community at its finest. As you wander the showgrounds, remember Kaleb’s words: it’s not just about the spectacle, but the people and stories behind each gleaming truck.
Join the conversation at the Shell Super Rigs, meet industry legends like Kaleb Hammett, and become part of a thriving trucking tapestry. Whether you’re there for the chrome, the competition, or the camaraderie, this is one show you won’t want to miss.
00:00 Introduction and Show Highlights
00:28 Meet Kaleb Hammett
01:02 Kaleb’s Truck and Family Business
02:16 Truck Shows and Competitions
03:46 Truck Customization and Tribute
06:51 Preparing for Super Rigs
09:41 Behind the Scenes of Truck Shows
16:29 Advice for Newcomers and Conclusion
Reach out to Kaleb: https://www.hammett-excavation.com/
Your Hosts:
John Farquhar National Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGB https://www.ajg.com/ca/ M: 437-341-0932 John_Farquhar@ajg.com
Chris Harris CEO, Safety Dawg Inc. 905 973 7056 Chris@SafetyDawg.com https://safetydawg.com/