Miles Verhoef, aka “Kangaroo”, 44, is from Tomah, Wisconsin and has been trucking for more than 27 years.  

For 16 years, Miles drove a company truck. He then became an owner-operator leased to a carrier.  For the past 6 years, Miles has been an owner-operator with his own authority. He has hauled frozen food, produce, dry bulk, cryogenic liquids, grain, livestock, logs and aggregate. 

Miles joined OOIDA more than 10 years ago at the recommendation of another owner-operator.

If elected to the board as an alternate, Miles says, “I would continue to promote the Association to the trucking industry in a positive manner. I do this already as a senior/life member and feel I could contribute even more as an alternate.”

Miles believes it is the responsibility of the OOIDA board to always put the members’ best interests first, to benefit the Association, and to continue being the leader in fighting for the rights of truckers.  Board members and alternates should “represent OOIDA in a professional manner, be available when needed to assist the board and provide positive input to the board to help in the decision making process.”

Miles actively participates in the Association and its efforts.  He contacts elected officials when called upon to do so.  He comments on regulatory proposals via the FMCSA public comment docket system. He has represented OOIDA on FMCSA’s CDL Task Force, the Wisconsin Clean Diesel Coalition and at CVSA meetings; and, he contributes to the OOIDA PAC fund. 

Miles feels there are problems in the industry that need to be addressed.  One is the constant abuse of drivers from carriers, brokers and shippers. To combat this, we need to continue to pursue legislation to correct this issue and to hold the aforementioned accountable. Another problem is the uncompensated time wasted at shipping and receiving facilities.  We could address this by pushing for hourly pay or by pursuing legislation that would hold shippers and receivers accountable for delays. Finally, Miles sees the body mass index discussions by the Medical Review Board as a potential problem for many drivers.  Miles believes OOIDA needs continued efforts to educate the review board to prevent any improper proposal.

Miles says, “I think the most effective way to effect change in the industry is to dramatically increase our membership. I work hard on a daily basis to promote a positive image of our industry and OOIDA. If we encourage all of our members to do this and lead by example, it becomes contagious, like a smile.”

When Miles isn’t working, he enjoys a variety of outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and 4-wheeling.  Miles is a member of the NRA and the North American Hunting Club.