Life after UPS: Retirement can be a well-earned rest after decades of work, a new chapter or a chance to focus on a passion. For former UPS driver Greg, retirement is a continuation of everything he built during his 44-year career.
“It’s been outstanding. I always thought once I retire, that I was going to have to watch every penny,” Greg said. “But I was blessed with a great pension and health insurance.”
“I’m living a very comfortable lifestyle, the same as I did when I was working,” he continued. “I didn't have to sell my house or downsize anything – I even bought a brand-new truck as soon as I retired. And I still do all the things I love to do.”
These days, Greg spends his time enjoying his grandkids, supporting his wife through her cancer treatment and traveling as much as possible. Retirement has also allowed him to keep pursuing his passion – helping others.
Service never stops: Greg founded Operation Ramp It Up while working as a UPS driver. Supported by The UPS Foundation and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Foundation, his nonprofit installs wheelchair ramps to help people with mobility challenges gain independence at home. In 2022, Greg received UPS’s highest community service honor, the Jim Casey Community Service Award, in acknowledgement of his exceptional volunteer service.
In retirement, Greg is still active with Operation Ramp It Up, promoting its mission, fundraising and coordinating volunteer events. He stays in touch with UPS friends from across the U.S., and many of them are regular volunteers with his organization.
“UPS was very good for my family and me. And now I just want to give back to the community,” he added.
Voluntourism over vacation: These days, Greg has more time to travel – and he gives back everywhere he goes. He and his family have hosted a snorkeling event for veterans in Hawaii, helped at the Boys and Girls Club in Cabo San Lucas and repaired a handicapped ramp on Hilton Head Island.
“I spent two-thirds of my life at UPS. You know, I still get excited when I see the trucks go up the street,” Greg said. “It’s hard work, but it pays off. You know, the reward at the end is a great lifestyle and a great pension.”
Check out these facts about UPS retirement benefits for drivers:
- Paid pensions like those offered at UPS are rare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 15% of private industry workers have access to a defined benefit plan.
- In 2024 alone, UPS contributed more than $9 billion to employee health, welfare and pension benefits.