This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with long-time shop foreman Toby Bishop to unpack how Oakley’s shop operations are evolving to better serve owner-operators. They cover the design and opening of the new West Shop, the full remodel of the East Shop, and planned upgrades to the wash bay, including floor and lighting improvements. Toby explains Oakley’s work-release and reentry programs with the state of Arkansas, highlighting how they give incarcerated individuals a real second chance and help them become strong employees. A major focus is the upcoming fleet-wide tire and wheel change from 11R24.5 to 22.5, why manufacturers are phasing out 24.5s, and how Oakley will manage costs, casings, and logistics during the transition. They also discuss trailer specs with MAC, strategies for keeping trailers looking sharp, and the underused capabilities of the Reserve LA terminal. The key takeaway for drivers: Oakley is investing heavily in facilities, equipment, and people to improve efficiency, safety, appearance, and long-term cost savings, and driver communication is critical to making these changes work.
Key topics in today’s conversation include:
- Truck Show Announcement and Sponsor Shoutouts (0:12)
- Introducing Toby Bishop and Purpose of Shop Conversation (4:34)
- New West Shop Overview and Design Goals (7:47)
- Ventilation Challenges, Storage Additions, and Morale Boost (10:31)
- How the Old East Shop Was Emptied and Fully Remodeled (13:34)
- Repurposed Brick Sign From Original Office Building (21:32)
- How Oakley’s Work Release Program With Arkansas Works (25:51)
- Wash Bay Layout and Purpose of the Third Express Bay (31:20)
- Why Drivers Can’t Just Wash Anything and City Sampling Rules (32:39)
- Illumiclear Clear Coat Failing on Tanks and Removal Plan (39:41)
- Why Oakley Is Changing From 11R24.5 to 22.5 Tires (41:23)
- Dollars per Tire, Wheel, and Mount Adding Up Across Fleet (48:42)
- Ground Clearance Loss Going to 22.5 and Low Pro Risks (52:17)
- Tank Trailer Spec Changes to Reduce Valves and Components (56:12)
- Reserve Terminal Capabilities in Shop and Wash Bays (1:00:37)
- Idea of a Ready Yard for Trailers and Dispatch Benefits (1:02:17)
- Growing Pains, Space Limits, and Future Shop Expansion (1:03:57)
- Parting Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up (1:06:27)
Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com.