Thank You, Tom “Z”: 34 Years of Dedication at Mercer Transportation
On April 11, 2025, we said goodbye to Tom Zabenco—better known to all of us as “Z.” After 34 years as a Truck Ops coordinator, his last day marked the end of an era and the start of a well-earned retirement. We are so grateful for every mile he helped plan, every call he took, and every friendship he made along the way.
Tom built his career on one simple skill: caring. He got to know drivers and their families like friends. He listened to their stories from the road. Then he used those stories to help new drivers find success at Mercer. As Chris Warner said, “I have worked with Z for all his 34 years. Whether a routine load and delivery, or a problem that seemed huge at the time, Tom always worked with integrity, fairness, and kindness to both his team mates and especially his drivers. Many of Z’s drivers have been with him since they started here. That is a testament to the work he has done and the kind of man he is. Great working with you Z. May the next chapter of your life be long and happy! Salute!”
His skill at building relationships became Mercer’s best recruiting tool. Brian Helton remembers, “Z is one of the best coordinators Mercer ever had. Back when I first started in recruiting, I’d have guys all the time that would be ready to come to Mercer, but only ‘If I can get on Tom’s board.’ If we said that he was full they would just say, ‘I heard he’s the guy I want, I’ll wait.’ We would literally have guys that didn’t want to start until Z got room for them on his board.” Talk about making an impact!
When times got tough—slow seasons, tricky loads, or a down economy—Tom was our beacon of light. He’d simply say, “I’ve been there, done that,” and guide younger coordinators through the hard spots. He knew not just the trucking business, but also how owner-operators live, work, and thrive. Debby Howard shared, “Z, 30 years ago, when I first walked into the doors of Mercer, you became one of my first friends here. Our friendship has continued all this time and I am really going to miss seeing you every single morning when I get here, but, on the other hand, I’m so happy and excited for you in this next chapter of that thing we call “Life”! Enjoy yourself, my friend and you know how to find me, so I will continue to bug you well in the future! Take Care and Enjoy Your new adventure!”
Outside the office, Tom loved to connect with people over fun events. He never missed a chance to head to TopGolf with the team. David Belden said it best: “Tell Z I’m going to miss him and I wish I could retire with him! Really enjoyed talking with him at Top Golf and the Bowling alley.” Those outings weren’t just games—they were another way Tom showed he cared.
On campus, Tom was always the gentleman with a warm smile. John Fallot joked, “Zzzzz will always be know for his signature (Zzzzz) and for always having the cleanest car at Mercer!” It’s true—Tom’s neat car and neat work went hand in hand.
As Tom steps into retirement, we all have messages for him. Kathy Kustes reminds him, “To my fellow Kentucky fan, your journey at Mercer may be coming to an end but your life is just now starting!! Go out and enjoy the freedom with friends and family. You will be greatly missed.” Tammy Stewart adds, “Tom, best wishes in your new journey.” And Staci Thomas tells him, “Hey Tom, It’s been great working with you all these years. We sure have seen a lot of changes at Mercer. Wishing you happiness and health as you retire from Mercer and move on to the fun stuff that all your hard work has allowed. Don’t be a stranger, stop by and say hello from time to time! Take care!”
Tom “Z” Zabenco, you leave behind a legacy of kindness, skill, and friendship. You shaped careers, warmed hearts, and made Mercer Transportation a better place. We will miss you more than words can say. Here’s to your next great adventure!