Aim high and take flight with Gary McClellan
When the general driving public thinks of responders, they may
not always think of our partners in the tow community. As members of our TIM
community we know better. Our tow partners are at the heart of every incident
and usually the last ones to leave. Members of our tow community love helping,
teaching and keeping people safe. They exemplify what it means to be a
responder, a community partner and a TIM champion. We are proud to spotlight
one of the best, Gary McClellan of Ray’s Towing.
Gary has been in the tow industry for 43 years! The knowledge
and experience he carries and shares with his trainees is invaluable and a
critical asset of our TIM program. If you’re lucky enough to get into one of
his classes, you’ll find out that in addition to being a trainer, a tower and
an all-around great guy, he likes to fly radio controlled planes.
Read on to get to know Gary a little better!
TIM: What do you love about your job?
Gary: Having the ability to help people in need.
TIM: What are some of the ways you partner with other responders
to keep the traveling public safe?
Gary: I’ve been involved with the TIM program since its
implementation in 2013. I traveled around Oregon teaching both students and
upcoming TIM Trainers. I have taught 60 TIM classes to date and hope to
participate in many more.
TIM: In your experience, what is critical to clearing an
incident safely and quickly?
Gary: Being provided accurate information in a timely manner to
allow for fast, efficient response with proper equipment and personnel.
TIM: What are some of the ways we can strengthen the
communication, coordination and collaboration between response partners?
Gary: I’d love to see the TIM Team have the ability to connect
with a greater number of partnering responders from each discipline to increase
awareness and educate those who are on our roadways, putting themselves at risk
each day.
TIM: Tell us about a Traffic Incident Management best practice
you find particularly effective.
Gary: Understanding and considering the needs of fellow
responders, thus allowing for safer and more efficient clearing.
TIM: How is your agency investing in Traffic Incident
Management? What benefits are you seeing?
Gary: Our company employs and manages 12 drivers/incident
responders, all of whom are TIM trained. We benefit personally from knowing our
staff is utilizing tools like curb-side hookups, working courteously and professionally
with other responders and that they are able to do so in a fast and efficient
manner. Additionally, our drivers are kept up to date on vehicular advances and
safety techniques such as handling electric vehicles.
TIM: What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Gary: Fly radio controlled air planes in precision aerobatics
competitions.
TIM: Are there any other things that you want to add?
Gary: I truly enjoy learning new things
each time I have the opportunity to participate in a TIM class and interact
with new students from different disciplines. There are many things to consider
when responding to an incident, and TIM educates students by providing
solutions and shedding light on all angles and perspectives.
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