From tank to the open road: John celebrates 25 years at Frode Laursen

On 17 September 2026, John Nør Nielsen celebrates his 25th anniversary at Frode Laursen. For most of his working life, he has been behind the wheel, but it all actually started in a tank.

John, an 18-year-old from Mors, was ready for something new when he applied for a place at the Jutland Dragoon Regiment in Holstebro in the mid-1980s. After a quiet upbringing in northern Jutland, he was ready to try life in the military.

“I was assigned as the loader and was part of the four-man crew in our Leopard 1. I was responsible for loading the cannon and the machine gun. It was really exciting.”

After the military, John found his way into the transport industry somewhat by chance. A job at an electronics company in Brabrand led to driving the company’s truck, followed by several other transport jobs, including for DSB Gods.

A new working life at Frode Laursen

When his employer at the time went bankrupt in 2001, John applied to Frode Laursen in Hørning, a company he already knew from his previous work. He started in the warehouse. But the road soon called again, so John asked if he could get back behind the wheel. He could, and since 2002 the truck has been his regular workplace.

“It was fantastic to get back on the road. Over the years, I have transported many different types of goods and driven many different routes. I enjoy the freedom and the responsibility that come with it.”

That freedom is still one of the things John appreciates after many years as a driver. Much of the working day is spent on his own, but the job also comes with responsibility for the goods, the truck and the people he meets along the way.

At home, John lives with his wife and daughter. When he is not behind the wheel, motorsport is a big interest, especially Formula 1 and WEC.

After 25 years at Frode Laursen, life on the road is still what appeals to him.

“It is freedom with responsibility. You are trusted to get on with your job and take responsibility for making sure things are done properly. That has always suited me well.”