Julien's Journal January 2017 (Volume 42, Number 1) | Page 21

JANUARY 2017
Building energy behind the power structure in America . Supporting the needs of men and women whose labor drives this country .

JANUARY 2017

Hirschbach facility located along Highway 20 in East Dubuque is truly a “ Sanctuary for Drivers .” It is used for truck maintenance , repair , staging , and new driver training . A recent $ 2 million restoration upgraded the drivers ’ lounge , shower and restrooms , fitness center , laundry facilities , and nap rooms . “ We transformed the site into a best-in-industry driver amenities with some unique things ,” said Brad . Perhaps one of the most unique amenities is the onsite kennel . “ About a third of our drivers have a pet with them ,” said Brad . “ We worked with the Humane Society and created climate-controlled kennels .” The kennels feature cages adapted for dogs and cats along with a deep sink and counter for pet washing . Taking good care of their drivers has paid off for Hirschbach . “ In our journey over the past four years , we ’ ve doubled in size , but at the same time we ’ ve cut our driver turnover rate in half ,” said Brad . Taking care of the fleet is also important and Hirschbach is proud of their fuel efficient trucks . “ Smart Way , a part of the EPA , gives out elite awards to the top 1 % of their thousands of members based on the measure of their carbon footprint ,” said Brad . Recently , Hirschbach received the “ Smart Way Elite
Award ” as a result of their remarkable performance and fuel economy . What ’ s in the future for Hirschbach Motor Lines ? The company is committed to Dubuque and is pursuing an option to purchase the five-story , Voices building in the Millwork District . The likely timeline to start construction / renovation will be mid 2017 – work is expected to take one-and-ahalf years . Hirschbach plans on using two floors and the roof top for their headquarters and leasing out the remainder of the building . There are plans for lower floor retail opportunities . “ There will be an arts presence ,” said Jillayne . “ I have my studio in Studio Works , so I ’ m centered in the Millwork District , and

Building energy behind the power structure in America . Supporting the needs of men and women whose labor drives this country .

Brazen is our favorite restaurant . It ’ s a really cool place to hang out .” “ We envision a barista coffee bar or smoothie bar and an onsite daycare for our employees ,” said Brad . “ We want to be the Google of Dubuque . It doesn ’ t matter what business you ’ re in , being progressive , treating people right , attracting and hiring good workers – there are opportunities to do well and succeed in any business .” Brad and Jillayne are enthusiastic about the slogan “ All in to Win ,” one of Hirschbach ’ s internal brands . “ We want anyone who interacts with us to be a winner ,” said Brad . One thing is certain : Dubuque is a winner with Hirschbach Motor Lines . ❖
IBEW LOCAL 704
IBEW Local 704 1610 Garfiled Avenue Dubuque , Iowa , 52001
IBEW Local 704 support all union electrical workers and utility workers and the electrical industry .
Julien ’ s Journal ❖ 19