Get to know our incoming drivers and office/shop team! If you see them around, be sure to say hi and welcome them to Nussbaum!
New Hire Drivers
Austin Smith
Domicile: Nussbaum
Austin Smith comes to Nussbaum with 3 years of driving experience and a strong family foundation that inspires him on the road. Before trucking, he worked in factory environments around Peoria, IL. Outside the truck, Austin is a gamer and streamer who enjoys unwinding through digital adventures. One of his favorite memories is visiting the beach in California, and his go‑to road snack is a sausage and egg sandwich. Austin shared that he loves meeting new people while driving — something that fits perfectly with the Nussbaum culture. Welcome aboard, Austin!
Dream Vacation: Hawaii
William Frye
Domicile: Herculaneum, MO
William Frye brings 12 years of driving experience to Nussbaum. He previously served in the Army and worked in construction in Hamilton, AL. William loves traveling with his wife and hopes to explore Ireland one day. His favorite part of trucking is taking his children on the road and seeing their excitement when they experience new places. Pistachios keep him fueled while driving, and he enjoys anything outdoors — camping, fishing, and more. We’re glad to welcome you, William!
Dream Vacation: Ireland
Kendrick Bolton
Domicile: Nussbaum
Harold “Kendrick” Bolton is fresh out of CDL school and excited to step into a dream he’s had since childhood. Before pursuing trucking, he worked as an IT analyst and calls Chicago, IL home. Harold enjoys reading and cruising in his car on the weekends. He looks forward to experiencing warm, scenic island destinations in the future. Welcome to Nussbaum, Harold!
Dream Vacation: Any warm scenic island
Carlos Hayes
Domicile: Elgin, IL
Carlos joins us with 1 year of driving experience and a background rooted in service. During his time in the Illinois National Guard, he hauled Humvees and other armored vehicles — work that made him feel like he was helping make a difference. Now in trucking, he hopes to continue contributing to the world through every delivery, big or small. Born and raised in Chicago, he’s excited to finally explore new places beyond the city. Energy drinks and chips keep him going on the road. Carlos shared that he’s shy at first, but once comfortable, he becomes an open book. Welcome to the team, Carlos!
Dream Vacation: France or somewhere in Europe
Quinetta Jones
Domicile: Indianapolis, IN
Quinetta comes to Nussbaum with eight to nine months of experience and a passion for both driving and cooking. Before trucking, she worked as an Executive Chef and is currently based in Indiana. She enjoys self‑care and discovering great local restaurants wherever she goes. One of her proudest moments was earning her CDL, and she dreams of staying in a cabin in Tennessee. Fresh fruit and trail mix are her favorite snacks on the road. She also shared that she greatly values communication — and she’s a twin! Welcome, Quinetta!
Dream Vacation: Cabins in Tennessee
Mercedes Brown
Domicile: Waukegan, IL
Mercedes comes to Nussbaum with a year of experience. Before Nussbaum she was in the air force for 4 years. She got into trucking because of a dare with her siblings. Mercedes is excited to be a driver at Nussbaum. Welcome to Nussbaum, Mercedes!
Dream Vacation: Anywhere warm
