Trent Miller is like many of his peers whose jobs entail servicing the boats and motors used by the pros on the Bassmaster Elite Series. Miller and others learned their trade through other jobs in the marine industry, and brought their skills and experience with them.
In the service yard, there is no job too difficult or any problem that cannot be solved. There is always help nearby when something unusual comes up.
For 25 years, Miller worked for EZ Loader Custom Boat Trailers in Midway, Ark., which also happens to be located in the epicenter of boat building in the Arkansas Ozarks. While working there, the company made customer trailers for Skeeter Boats.
“I always had a great relationship with Skeeter when I worked on the trailers, and it eventually turned into a full-time job,” said Miller.
Here’s more about Miller and how he works and lives on the road.
Where are you from and how much do you travel?
I am from Mountain Home, Ark. I travel a bit more than the other guys, because I have to cover more tournaments at different levels across the country. I travel about 225 days each year.
What is your job title and how long have you been at it?
I am a service tech for Skeeter Boats and have been since October 2015.
Beyond the technical training what does it take to be good at your job?
It takes patience and people skills. Getting to know our pros helps us to better understand what they need, and how I can help them get back on the water sooner.
How do you travel and what’s in the truck?
I have a Dodge Ram 1500, and in the back are the parts and tools I need to do basic repairs on the boat. Nothing cosmetic, it’s just the basic parts.
What kind of service do you perform?
It’s minor things like running lights, pumps and electrical repairs with the batteries. Nothing ever major. Our boats are well built and can stand up to everything the pros put them through.
What does your work week look like?
On Sunday night we arrive and set up at the service yard. We all work together, all the brands, and there is no pecking order about who gets the best spot. We set up the yard so the boats can get to us easy, and then get back out without blocking traffic.
What about practice days?
We are here from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. during practice days. We tend to the issues as they come into the yard.
And then tournament days?
That’s before daylight and after dusk. Everything is usually working in good order in the morning. About the only thing I ever deal with is a shorted out stern light, something like that. In the afternoon the guys show up after they have weighed in.
What is one tool you cannot do without?
My battery powered screwdriver and a torch tip drill set. With that setup I can do just about anything.
What do you most like about your job?
The camaraderie. We all work together and live like a family. When one guy gets backed up, we all pitch in to help get the job done. The goal is the same. That is to get all the guys back on the water as soon as possible.
What do you do away from work?
Fish and hunt. We’ve got the better of both worlds in the Arkansas Ozarks. It’s a great place to unwind and get away from it all, and I live right in the middle of it.
