John Mauseth’s journey from a parts driver to the general manager at Beaver Truck Centre is a testament to his lifelong passion for the trucking industry and his commitment to fostering a thriving work environment. With over three decades of experience, Mauseth’s career trajectory mirrors the evolution of Beaver Truck Centre itself, embodying a deep-rooted dedication to the industry.

Reflecting on his career path, Mauseth reminisces, “My whole life has actually been in the trucking industry.” His upbringing immersed him in the world of trucks, with his father being a heavy-duty technician, laid the foundation for his career. Starting as a parts driver at the local Western Star dealership in 1994, Mauseth steadily climbed the ranks, transitioning through various roles within the dealership, such as shipper-receiver and parts sales. He then joined Beaver Truck Centre as a service advisor in 1997 and transitioned to a sales rep, then moved into fleet sales, and in 2018 he took on the general manager. Each role provided invaluable insights into different facets of the business. Mauseth’s diverse experience, coupled with his hands-on knowledge of every department, uniquely positions him to steer Beaver Truck Centre toward continued success. As he aptly puts it, “I have virtually worked in every department of a dealership, which I feel gives me a good understanding of every corner of the business.” 

At the helm of Beaver Truck Centre, Mauseth’s primary focus is nurturing a positive and productive work environment. He emphasizes the importance of providing a safe and supportive atmosphere for both customers and staff. “It’s my job to provide a safe environment,” Mauseth asserts. The dealership’s SAFE Work certification underscores its commitment to safety, complemented by an open-door policy that encourages communication and fosters a sense of belonging among employees. Mauseth’s leadership philosophy revolves around empowering his team to thrive, recognizing that their satisfaction directly correlates with the quality of service offered to customers.

The hallmark of Beaver Truck Centre’s culture is its familial atmosphere. Mauseth proudly describes their company culture as akin to a family, attributing its success to the collective efforts of the team. “Our staff jointly make it feel that way,” he affirms. Central to this ethos is the emphasis on hiring individuals based on character rather than solely on experience. Mauseth firmly believes in “hire character, train skill,” a mantra that resonates throughout the organization. Regular team activities outside working hours, such as Thursday golf outings and backyard barbecues, further reinforce the sense of camaraderie and solidarity among employees. “We definitely have a great thing going on here, and it just seems to happen when you put the right people in the right place. It’s all about listening to what they need and, again, providing an environment where people can have fun and do their job,” Mauseth says.

Despite the camaraderie within the dealership, Mauseth acknowledges the challenges facing Beaver Truck Centre and the broader trucking industry in Manitoba –
rapid changes in the business landscape, coupled with economic fluctuations, present ongoing hurdles. Mauseth points out the impact of fluctuating freight volumes and interest rates on business operations, necessitating a proactive approach to adaptation. “For the last three or four years through the pandemic, freight volumes were so high that everybody was buying trucks – literally every truck they could get their hands on. So, we went from selling everything we could to now where dealerships are sitting on inventory, and trucking companies are not getting the freight volumes and/or rates they were used to,” Mauseth explains. Amidst these challenges, he remains optimistic about the industry’s future, advocating for greater recognition of the trucking sector’s indispensable role in the economy.

Mauseth expresses hope for the trucking industry, emphasizing the need for recognition and respect, stating, “My biggest hope would be for people to see what a great industry we have.” He highlights the stability of careers for technicians and drivers, stating, “Both career paths can provide a very secure livelihood.” Mauseth underscores the industry’s critical role in daily life, noting, “Everything we have in our lives was once on a truck. We would be in big trouble if the trucking industry were not here.” Looking ahead, Mauseth envisions technological advancements like EVs. He emphasizes the need for real-world solutions that balance environmental concerns with operational realities, such as developing reliable alternative fuels. Still, he stresses the importance of dependability and practicality for day-to-day operations, particularly in Winnipeg’s extreme climate.

Beyond his role at Beaver Truck Centre, Mauseth is actively involved in the Manitoba Trucking Association (MTA), where he serves on the Associated Trade Division Executive. His engagement with the MTA goes back to 2015 when John Oades took him under his wing. Mauseth says, “He saw something in me that he thought would benefit both our company and the MTA. He took me to a meeting, and eventually, he eased out, and I eased in.” Since joining the ATD Executive in 2017, Mauseth has been committed to promoting the trucking industry and addressing its challenges collectively. He sees his involvement as an opportunity to advocate for the industry’s interests and attract talent to its diverse career opportunities.

Outside work, Mauseth finds solace in music and cherishes time spent with his family. An accomplished guitarist and occasional vocalist, he enjoys playing music and occasionally performing with bands. Family remains a cornerstone of his life, with cherished moments spent with his wife of 25 years, children, grandchildren, and grand-dog. Mauseth’s adventurous spirit is reflected in his varied experiences, from serving as a volunteer firefighter to his tenure as the Mayor of Headingley.

In closing, John Mauseth’s journey epitomizes the spirit of dedication and community that defines Beaver Truck Centre and the trucking industry at large. His unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive work environment, coupled with his advocacy for industry advancement, underscores his role as a driving force behind the success of Beaver Truck Centre and the broader trucking community in Manitoba. As Mauseth himself encourages, for those considering a career in the trucking industry, the message is clear: “Go for it!”