Kim Tinson, 49, is the director of the Tri Area Trucking School located at 6272 Midland Road in Freeland. They train people on how to drive semi-trucks safely. They train for Class A and Class B CDL licenses and endorsements in school bus and passenger vehicles.
Tinson has been the director since December and started as an instructor in January 2022. The school’s headquarters is in Freeland. They have locations in St. John’s, Grayling at Kirtland Community College, Benton Harbor and Canton. They have 14 employees including instructors, office staff, and a mechanic. The school is owned by Ross Education Holdings, Inc of Clinton Township. To enroll, call the admissions team at 844-989-1800. Check out their website at www.triareatruckingschool.com and their Facebook page.
Tinson and her husband, Jeff, have been married for two years. He’s the mechanic in Freeland. They share seven kids and 17 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Tinson’s a graduate of Beaverton High School and she attended Mid-Michigan Community College.
What’s the history of this school?
TINSON: The original owner was Al Triechel. He was in this business for 15 years or more. He decided to sell it in 2015. Ross was looking for a good investment, so they bought it. They’re mainly known for their medical schools (phlebotomy, nursing, now dentistry) and have those nationwide including one in Midland.
What inspired you to work at the school?
TINSON: I retired in January 2020, pre-COVID, after eight years as an OTR (over the road) trucker and before that, farming and construction. I drove a semi. Jeff’s son went through the school in Mount Pleasant, and I thought I would be good at it. Started out as an instructor in St. John’s. It’s very rewarding, watching the people accomplish this. You get the feeling like watching your children learn how to walk.
What makes this area a great place for this business?
TINSON: Lots of people need to learn how to drive a truck. We have the farming community, city and county workers. Garbage haulers send their crews here. DNR (Department of Natural Resources) sends their people here. GFL, City of Bay City, City of Midland. One of our instructors worked for the City of Midland for 20 years.
What are some ways you’re active in the local community?
TINSON: For the Arc of Midland, we donated a CDL A, valued at $5,400. The weekend this article comes out, the Freeland Coffee Beanery is hosting the “Dog Days of Summer Double Elimination Cornhole Contest.” We are a sponsor, setting up a booth, and we’re also participating.
What are some of your interests and hobbies?
TINSON: I lived in a box – we call the semis a box, an 8’x10’ box. I’m a mother of four. Love getting the children to come over with the grands. But my passion is trucking. My dad didn’t have any sons, so I became who I am today.
What are some local businesses you work with that help make your business a success?
TINSON: Lots of businesses. We work with Michigan Works daily. They help sponsor and pay for some of our students. Kirtland Community College, one of our campuses is through Kirkland. Work a lot with the State of Michigan. Pepsi, Coke, Meijer, NTB, GFL, Simmon Brothers out of Fowler, there’s so many.
Final thoughts to share?
TINSON: Biggest one is safety. Please give semis room and if you ever want to learn how to drive a truck, give me call. I want to thank our community members. Without them, we wouldn’t be here.
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