CONCORD, N.C. -- It takes a dedicated group of individuals to work for a team in the motor sports world. From public relations to engineering to marketing with sponsors, an employee of Hendrick Motorsports is always kept on their toes.
Here we explore the ins and outs of what it takes to work in motor sports as we dive into our new series, “Fueling Futures.” An initiative started by Hendrick Motorsports partner Ally, “Fueling Futures” was created in 2019 to help middle and high school aged students learn about careers they might not realize are available.
This week get to know Devin Alston, a former Marine-turned hauler driver and pit support member for Hendrick Motorsports.
Hendrick Motorsports: What does your job entail?
Devin Alston: I am in control of the inventory of the truck, all the supplies and parts, it is my responsibility that they are on the truck. Along with my co-driver, we make sure all the parts are on the truck, including the cars and make sure they get safely to the racetrack. Once we get to the track, we unload everything like toolboxes and pit equipment. On race day, I work in pit support by running gas for our gas man and I catch the first can on pit stops.
HM: How did your background lead you to Hendrick Motorsports?
DA: I graduated from Jordan Matthews High school, went to college, decided that college wasn’t for me, so I went into the Marine Corps and spent four years in there. After I got out of the Marine Corps as a supply specialist, I went into law enforcement for 16 years and I started working here part time in 2017. I went into the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series in 2018 and then came here in 2019 and became full time.
HM: For someone who is looking to break into the industry in a role like yours, what skills must they have?
DA: In a role as a hauler driver, it’s more attention to detail. You have to be on top of your game and you basically take care of the whole team. Everything from buying groceries to making sure the supplies are on the truck and making sure they have everything they need. You have to be a personal person, you have to be open to knowing what people want, what they need and making sure that your teammates are taken care of.
HM: What advice would you give to those in high school who are interested in a career like yours?
DA: It would be the same advice I give my daughter right now: do your research and ask yourself, ‘Is it something you would be happy doing for a long period of time?’ You always want to be looking for a career, not a job. Just find something you like and if you can make a career out of it, shoot for the stars.
HM: Lastly, what is your favorite part of your job?
DA: My favorite part of my job is working at Hendrick Motorsports in general. There are a lot of great people here, and another part would just be traveling across the country, seeing different things, being places I’ve never been. The open road gives you a lot of time to think life and stuff like that.