WINNIPEG, MAN. — April 1, 2026 — Searcy Trucking, part of the Trimac family of companies, has recognized a major milestone as Fleet Maintenance Manager Peter Chernecki marked 50 years of service with the company.
Chernecki joined Searcy Trucking in April 1976, following a chance encounter with company founder Gerry Searcy in Winnipeg, Man. That conversation led to a job offer and the beginning of a five-decade career that helped shape the company’s growth, culture and fleet operations.
Before joining Searcy, Chernecki worked in southeastern Manitoba at Garson Limestone Quarries. His work ranged from hauling 10-tonne stone blocks and cutting slabs to delivering products and crafting headstones. His strong work ethic and ability to learn quickly set him apart early in his career.
At Searcy Trucking, Chernecki spent many years driving as the company expanded its fleet. As operations grew, he began taking on equipment maintenance responsibilities while continuing to work on the road. In 1994, when the company built its shop at 1470 Chevrier Blvd., Chernecki transitioned full-time to the maintenance department.
He went on to hire and mentor mechanics as the fleet expanded, building a maintenance team recognized for its high standards, reliability and teamwork. Chernecki also oversaw the company’s dust-free road maintenance operations, adding to a career marked by versatility and hands-on leadership.
So far during his 50-year career, Chernecki has witnessed significant changes in the trucking industry, from mechanical engines to advanced computerized systems, emissions controls, telematics and modern safety technologies. He played a key role in ensuring Searcy’s fleet remained safe, compliant and up to date through each shift.
Relationships have been central to Chernecki’s career. He developed longstanding partnerships with vendors and colleagues and formed a close friendship with founder Gerry Searcy, who often referred to him as a friend rather than an employee. Chernecki also maintained strong ties with the Volvo dealership community through Barry Searcy, who opened Beaver Truck Centre in 1997.
Chernecki’s influence extends beyond the company. Both of his sons entered the trucking industry, following paths shaped by the reputation and relationships he built over decades.
Despite reaching the 50-year milestone, Chernecki has no plans to retire. He continues to work at Searcy Trucking, motivated by his passion for the job and the people he works with.
The Searcy Winnipeg office recognized this milestone with a celebratory lunch where a custom video of colleagues’ well wishes played for Chernecki.
About Searcy Trucking
Founded in 1969, Searcy Trucking Ltd. is one of the largest open deck trucking companies in Western Canada. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the company specializes in truckload, LTL, and heavy-haul services with operations across Western Canada and the U.S. Midwest. Searcy is known for its expertise in hauling construction and agricultural equipment, and it also offers warehousing, transloading, and distribution through its Universal Reload facility. With a focus on customer service, operational efficiency and safety, Searcy has built a trusted reputation over more than 50 years in the industry. Trimac Transportation acquired Searcy Trucking on July 31, 2025.
About Trimac Transportation
Trimac is an industry-leading bulk transportation company that provides a diverse range of transportation and logistics services across Canada and the United States. Founded in 1945 in Moose Jaw, Sask. and based in Calgary, Alta., Trimac has grown from a small family trucking company to one of the safest and most efficient transportation service companies in North America—with over 140 operating branches and unparalleled expertise in responding to service demands in critical bulk commodity sectors.