Now in its 22nd year, the survey asks participants to rank the industry’s most pressing concerns and identify potential strategies for addressing them. ATRI uses the results to produce its annual Top Industry Issues Report, which highlights the priorities identified by different segments of the trucking industry.

The 2026 survey will remain open through Oct. 2, with results scheduled to be released on Oct. 18 during the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Survey Compares Priorities Across the Industry

One of the distinguishing features of ATRI’s annual report is its comparison of responses from truck drivers and motor carriers.

The research organization analyzes how different groups rank industry issues, providing insight into where priorities align and where they differ. The report also tracks changes over time, allowing the industry to see which concerns have become more or less significant from year to year.

Drivers Encouraged to Share Their Perspectives

Bob Bramwell, an America’s Road Team Captain and professional driver for ABF Freight, encouraged drivers to participate in the survey and use it as an opportunity to highlight the issues affecting them most.

“ATRI’s annual survey gives all truck drivers a collective voice,” Bramwell said. “If your top concern is the lack of truck parking, driver compensation, detention at customer facilities, driver training, infrastructure or something else, this is your chance to bring those issues to light and have your voice heard.”

He also encouraged drivers to share the survey with others in the industry to help broaden participation.

Results Help Shape Industry Discussions

ATRI’s annual Top Industry Issues Report is widely referenced throughout the trucking industry by carriers, industry associations, policymakers and researchers.

Past reports have identified issues such as truck parking, detention, driver compensation, lawsuit abuse, infrastructure and fuel prices among the industry’s highest priorities, while also tracking how those concerns change over time.

Drivers, carriers and other industry stakeholders interested in participating can complete the survey by clicking here before the Oct. 2 deadline.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 27, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post ATRI Opens 2026 Top Industry Issues Survey for Truck Drivers and Carriers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Hosted by the American Trucking Associations (ATA) at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, this year’s championships brought together 429 competitors representing 49 states and 55 trucking companies. According to the ATA, the drivers competing in this year’s event have accumulated a combined 775 million accident-free miles throughout their careers, reflecting decades of safe driving and professionalism.

NTDC Chairman Heath Arnold congratulated all competitors, noting that qualifying for the national championships requires extensive preparation, dedication and an unwavering commitment to safety. He also praised the finalists for earning the opportunity to compete for national titles after several days of competition.

Nine Classes Will Crown National Champions

The championships recognize drivers across nine vehicle classes, with the top five competitors in each division advancing to Friday’s finals. Competitors earned their place through a combination of written testing, vehicle inspection and driving course performance, with one driver ultimately being named the Bendix Grand Champion during the evening awards banquet.

Step Van

• Ceth Christensen, United Parcel Service Inc. (Illinois)
• Robert Ledoux, Federal Express Corp. (Massachusetts)
• Logan Stacho, Federal Express Corp. (Ohio)
• Rafael Jusfredo, Federal Express Corp. (Vermont)
• Gregory Long, Federal Express Corp. (Virginia)

Straight Truck

• Robert Cochran, Federal Express Corp. (Maine)
• Robert Stokes, PITT OHIO (Maryland)
• David May, XPO (New York)
• Michael Bills, Federal Express Corp. (North Carolina)
• Lynn Wilson, Walmart Transportation LLC (Utah)

Three-Axle

• Chuck Pearson, ABF Freight System Inc. (Georgia)
• Jeffrey Halford, XPO (Idaho)
• Todd Loreman, Walmart Transportation LLC (Louisiana)
• John Jadrossich, FedEx Freight (New York)
• Chris Poynor, XPO (Washington)

Four-Axle

• Miguel Corral, United Parcel Service Inc. (Illinois)
• Stephen Johnson, FedEx Freight (Mississippi)
• Todd Gimpel, FedEx Freight (Nebraska)
• David Comings, FedEx Freight (North Dakota)
• Bryan Krol, The Martin-Brower Company LLC (Pennsylvania)

Five-Axle

• Adam Heim, FedEx Freight (Idaho)
• Robert Bramwell, ABF Freight System Inc. (Missouri)
• Daniel Bruch, FedEx Freight (New Mexico)
• Andres Garcia, FedEx Freight (Texas)
• Matthew Boenisch, FedEx Freight (Wisconsin)

Flatbed

• Richard Prescott, Walmart Transportation LLC (California)
• Karl Wilkerson, United Parcel Service Inc. (Illinois)
• Darius Uible, United Parcel Service Inc. (Kentucky)
• Mark Collins, Walmart Transportation LLC (Louisiana)
• Kenneth Rageth, FedEx Freight (Wyoming)

Tank Truck

• Eric Ramsdell, Walmart Transportation LLC (Arizona)
• James Dixon, A. Duie Pyle Inc. (Connecticut)
• Steven Elliston, Walmart Transportation LLC (Georgia)
• Allen McNeely, ABF Freight System Inc. (North Carolina)
• Paul Waite, A. Duie Pyle Inc. (Pennsylvania)

Twins

• Gary Mars, Walmart Transportation LLC (Arkansas)
• Vladyslav Piatkovskyi, FedEx Freight (Maryland)
• Jeffrey Reed, United Parcel Service Inc. (New Mexico)
• Mark McLean, FedEx Freight (New York)
• Ronald Ramon, H-E-B Grocery Co. (Texas)

Sleeper Berth

• Patrick Condon, Walmart Transportation LLC (Florida)
• Ron Marker, Walmart Transportation LLC (Indiana)
• Erik McFarland, Fareway Stores Inc. (Iowa)
• Terry Covey, FedEx Freight (Kansas)
• Matthew Fletcher, The Martin-Brower Company LLC (Pennsylvania)

Grand Champion to Be Announced Friday Evening

Class champions and the overall Bendix Grand Champion will be announced during Friday evening’s awards banquet, bringing another National Truck Driving Championships to a close.

Since its inception in 1937, the NTDC has celebrated the safest and most skilled professional truck drivers in the country while promoting accident-free driving throughout the trucking industry. For many competitors, qualifying for the national championships represents years of safe driving, outstanding performance, and a commitment to excellence behind the wheel.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 19, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Greg Thompson, The Trucker

The post 45 Drivers Advance to Championship Finals at 2026 NTDC appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Among the group are 18 drivers who earned Grand Champion honors at their state championships this year, nine previous national champions and three defending class champions from the 2025 NTDC.

Experience Takes the Stage

The team’s accomplishments extend well beyond competition. Together, the 111 drivers represent more than 230 million accident-free miles and nearly 2,950 years of professional driving experience. Ninety-six competitors have driven more than one million safe miles, while 22 have surpassed three million accident-free miles.

Those numbers reflect the level of experience required to reach the national stage, where only drivers who qualify through state truck driving championships earn the opportunity to compete.

More Than a Driving Competition

Often called the “Super Bowl of Safety,” the National Truck Driving Championships challenge competitors with a written exam, a pre-trip inspection and a driving course designed to test precision behind the wheel. National titles are awarded across nine vehicle classes, with one competitor also earning the National Grand Champion title.

Hosted annually by the American Trucking Associations, the championships have recognized the nation’s safest professional drivers since 1937.

FedEx Freight’s Championship History

FedEx Freight has built one of the strongest records in the competition’s modern era. Since 2003, company drivers have captured 53 National Championship titles and seven National Grand Champion awards.

Returning this year are Jackie Reed of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the 2024 National Grand Champion, and David Comings of Wahpeton, North Dakota, who claimed the title in 2025. Three defending class champions from last year’s competition will also return to Pittsburgh looking to add another national championship to the carrier’s record.

With another experienced team headed to the National Truck Driving Championships, FedEx Freight will once again be among the carriers to watch as drivers compete for some of the trucking industry’s most respected safety honors.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 10, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: FedEx Freight

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Getting there is no small accomplishment. Drivers must first qualify through state truck driving championships after meeting strict eligibility requirements and maintaining an outstanding safety record. By the time they arrive at the national competition, they represent some of the most accomplished professional drivers in the country.

The championship has become one of trucking’s longest-running traditions, but its story began decades before today’s competition took shape.

A Tradition Begins

During the 1930s, commercial trucking was expanding rapidly as highways improved and more freight moved by road. As the industry grew, trucking organizations began holding driving competitions that recognized precision, vehicle control, and safe operation behind the wheel.

Unlike racing events, these competitions measured a driver’s ability to maneuver commercial vehicles accurately and consistently. The events quickly gained support from carriers and industry organizations, creating a tradition that continued to grow throughout the country.

The National Championships Take Shape

The American Trucking Associations established the National Truck Driving Championships in 1937, creating a national event where the top competitors from state championships could compete against one another.

That qualification process remains largely unchanged today. Drivers earn their place through state competitions, making the national championship a recognition of sustained performance rather than a single day’s result.

Over the years, the championships have grown alongside the trucking industry while continuing to recognize the drivers who demonstrate exceptional skill behind the wheel.

More Than a Precision Driving Course

Although the driving course is the portion most spectators recognize, competitors are evaluated in several areas.

Before entering the course, drivers complete a written examination covering safety knowledge and industry regulations. They also participate in a pre-trip inspection challenge that tests their ability to identify vehicle defects before operating a commercial vehicle.

The driving course itself rewards precision rather than speed. Every maneuver is designed to evaluate control, accuracy, and consistency while operating equipment similar to what competitors use in their daily work.

Adapting With the Industry

The trucks competing today bear little resemblance to those that appeared in the earliest championships.

As commercial vehicles evolved, the competition evolved with them. Equipment classes expanded to reflect the different types of commercial vehicles operating across the country, allowing drivers to compete against others using similar equipment.

Despite those changes, the purpose of the championships has remained remarkably consistent. They continue to recognize professional drivers whose knowledge, preparation, and driving ability represent the highest standards of the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the National Truck Driving Championships held?

The host city changes from year to year. The American Trucking Associations announces the location before each annual championship.

Can spectators attend the National Truck Driving Championships?

Yes. The championships are typically open to spectators, although attendance details and event schedules vary each year.

What equipment classes compete at the National Truck Driving Championships?

Drivers compete in several equipment classes, including straight trucks, tank trucks, flatbeds, five-axle tractors, sleeper berths, twins, and step vans, allowing competitors to be judged alongside drivers operating similar vehicles.

What does a driver receive for winning a National Truck Driving Championship?

Class winners receive national recognition for their achievement, joining a respected group of drivers recognized for outstanding skill and safe driving.

How many drivers compete in the National Truck Driving Championships?

The number varies from year to year, but hundreds of professional drivers compete in state championships before qualifying for the national event.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: July 16, 2026

The post How Truck Driving Championships Became One of Trucking’s Long-Running Traditions appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Federal law generally prohibits foreign truck drivers operating under B-1 visas from performing point-to-point freight transportation inside the United States beyond a limited permitted activity.
Under current rules, B-1 visa holders are typically allowed to complete one pickup or delivery within the U.S. tied to an international movement. However, ATRI said anecdotal reports suggest some foreign drivers may be operating outside those limitations and conducting additional domestic freight activity beyond border commercial zones.

ATRI Says Research Will Focus on Industry Impact

ATRI’s new survey asks truck drivers and motor carriers to share information about where and when suspected unauthorized cabotage activity is being observed.
The organization said survey responses will help support a larger research effort aimed at measuring the economic impact unauthorized cabotage may have on U.S. freight operations, trucking jobs, and carrier competition.
“Cabotage laws were created to protect U.S. jobs and ensure that a level playing field exists,” said Kaitlyn Holmecki, American Trucking Associations’ director of international policy. “When illegal low-cost transportation services undercut domestic freight operations, the entire trucking industry pays the price.”
ATRI said the research findings will eventually be used to help build an economic model estimating the broader financial impact unauthorized cabotage activity may have across the trucking industry.

Survey Responses Will Remain Confidential

The organization said all responses submitted through the survey will remain confidential and will only be used in summary statistical reporting.
The survey remains open through June 12 and is available to both truck drivers and motor carriers.
Cabotage enforcement has remained a recurring topic throughout trucking as concerns continue surrounding cross-border freight operations, labor costs, regulatory enforcement, and competitive pressure tied to international freight movement.

Industry groups supporting stronger enforcement have argued that unauthorized domestic freight activity involving foreign drivers can place downward pressure on freight rates and create competitive disadvantages for U.S.-based carriers and drivers operating under domestic regulations.
ATRI encouraged truck drivers and fleets with firsthand observations related to cabotage activity to participate in the survey as part of the ongoing research effort.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 19, 2026

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The award follows his selection as Driver of the Month in March 2025.

Driving record and recognition

Segebart’s career includes 4.5 million safe miles over 45 years. The Kansas Motor Carriers Association highlighted that record in its announcement, noting “Not one shortcut.”

That phrasing reflects how the association described his approach to driving.

Role as a trainer and mentor

In addition to his time on the road, Segebart serves as a mentor and a certified trainer. These roles place him in direct contact with other drivers as part of training and development.

Next step at the national level

The recognition also positions Segebart as Kansas’s entry for the national Driver of the Year award through the American Trucking Associations.

“Nearly five decades behind the wheel, a driver mentor, a certified trainer, and now Kansas’s entry for the ATA National Driver of the Year,” said the association. “Tom, the entire Kansas trucking industry is proud of you. This one’s well-earned.”

What this recognition reflects

The award recognizes long-term performance, safety, and involvement in training within the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who named the 2025 Kansas Driver of the Year?
The Kansas Motor Carriers Association.

What company does Tom Segebart drive for?
Walmart Transportation.

What milestone is highlighted in his career?
4.5 million safe miles over 45 years.

What roles does he hold beyond driving?
He is a mentor and a certified trainer.

Is he eligible for a national award?
Yes. He is Kansas’s entry for the ATA National Driver of the Year.

Recognition at the state level reflects a driving record built over time and acknowledged by industry organizations.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: April 28, 2026

Source: The Trucker

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The honors were announced during TMC’s 2026 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition in Nashville, where technicians, fleet leaders, and industry partners were recognized for their service to both the council and the trucking industry.

“TMC strives to advance the professional standards for commercial vehicle maintenance in our industry and has done so for 70 years,” said TMC Executive Director Robert Braswell. “We have leaders across our organization, but the technicians and executives we honor here set and raise the bar for excellence in this industry every day.”

Recognized Associates

Several professionals were named Recognized Associates for their contributions to the council and the industry.

• Bailey Stephenson, Alcoa Wheels
• Bob Cornwell, ASE
• Kristy Coffman, Mitchell 1
• Greg Matheson, The Lubrizol Corporation

Leonard Wheatley of FleetPro, Inc., received the Distinguished Service Provider Award.

Additional award recipients

TMC also recognized individuals and organizations across several categories tied closely to real shop and fleet operations.

• Excellence in Maintenance Supervision Award: Paul Snyder, Truck Fleet Management Services
• Gerri Murphy Membership Leadership Award: Peter Savage, Clarke Power Services, Inc.
• Uncle Darrell Hicks TMC Mentor Award: Kenneth Calhoun, Altec Industries
• Corporate Engagement Achievement Award: PITT OHIO
• Peggy Fisher Study Group Leadership Award: Randy Obermeyer, Online Transport, Inc.

Leadership program graduates

The council also announced the graduation of its seventh group from the TMC of Tomorrow Leadership Development Program, which focuses on building the next generation of leaders in trucking.

• Valedictorian: Steve Smith, Hill International Trucks
• Kyle Kinslow, Bluegrass Dedicated LLC
• Erin Acker, Messer North America, Inc.
• Matthew Kelly, Greenbush Logistics

What it means for the industry

Recognition like this highlights the people who keep equipment reliable and operations running day to day.

For drivers, it shows up in equipment that is ready to go. For fleets, it comes down to consistency, fewer disruptions, and stronger maintenance practices across the board.

At the end of the day, the people recognized here are part of what keeps trucks moving.

The post TMC honors members for service to the organization and the industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Over the next two years, these drivers will represent the trucking industry across the country. Their work includes attending industry events, engaging with communities, visiting schools, and speaking with policymakers to promote safe driving while sharing firsthand insight into trucking as a career.

“This group of professional drivers have earned their place at the top through years of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to safety on the road,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “They represent a vital segment of the American workforce, one whose impact is felt by nearly every person in the country. As these Captains take to the road with a new mission and an important message, we are incredibly proud of their achievements and confident the nation will gain valuable insights from their leadership and the example they set for our industry.”

A Longstanding Program Focused on Safety

America’s Road Team was established in 1986 to recognize professional truck drivers who have demonstrated exceptional safety records and a commitment to representing the industry with integrity. With the support of their companies, Captains volunteer their time to participate in public outreach efforts that help explain the role trucking plays in everyday life.

The 2026 2027 class represents 13 states and includes four military veterans, one independent contractor, and drivers from both small fleets and large national carriers. Together, the group brings 51 million miles of safe driving experience to the program.

Volvo Trucks Celebrates 25 Years Supporting America’s Road Team

Volvo Trucks remains the program’s sponsor and will mark 25 years of partnership with America’s Road Team this October. During their two-year term, the Captains will travel the country in ATA’s Interstate One Image Truck, a Volvo VNL 860 pulling an American flag themed trailer. The trailer features a mobile classroom and a state of the art truck driving simulator used for education and outreach.

“Volvo Trucks is honored to continue our long-standing sponsorship of America’s Road Team and to take part in this week’s selection of the 2026–2027 Captains,” said Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve. “This year at MCE marks 25 years of Volvo’s proud support of America’s Road Team, a milestone that reflects our deep respect for professional drivers and our commitment to safety, professionalism, and leadership across the trucking industry. America’s Road Team is one of the most visible groups of professional truck drivers in the country, and we believe their hard work and dedication pays.”

How the 2026 2027 Captains Were Selected

ATA conducted the final round of selections from January 18 through January 20 at its headquarters in Washington, DC. During this process, drivers were evaluated on more than just miles logged or years of experience.

Candidates were judged on their ability to clearly communicate about trucking, safety, and transportation issues, as well as their overall driving records. The selection panel included trucking industry executives and members of the trade press, ensuring the final group reflected both operational excellence and the ability to represent the industry publicly.

Once selected, the new Captains received their signature navy blue America’s Road Team blazers and immediately began their work as ambassadors. Their focus over the next two years will be on improving public understanding of trucking and reinforcing the industry’s commitment to safety and professionalism.

Supporting the Mission of America’s Road Team

Trucking professionals and industry partners can support the work of America’s Road Team by following the Captains throughout their two year term and engaging with them at major industry events, conferences, and community visits. ATA also encourages industry members to follow the team’s journey on Facebook, where updates from the road and event appearances are shared.

“America’s Road Team Captains exemplify the highest standards of safety in our industry, helping to elevate trucking’s image by sharing their experiences and leading by example,” said ATA Chief Operating Officer Dan Horvath. “These respected leaders craft compelling safety messages and demonstrate how the trucking industry offers meaningful, rewarding careers. Through their participation in community events, conferences, and industry engagements, they fulfill the mission of America’s Road Team. We congratulate this new class for their dedication to excellence and for keeping our nation moving safely.”

The 2026- 2027 America’s Road Team Captains

1. Cardell Benfield Jr., Titan Transfer, Mississippi
2. Victor Blackburn, Prime Inc., Florida
3. Antonio Cruz, Groendyke Transport, Florida
4. Jason Damron, Convoy Systems, Kansas
5. Nathan Evans, Tyson Foods, Arkansas
6. Bruce Hoyes, ABF Freight Systems, Missouri
7. Izet Kanarevic, Werner Enterprises, Missouri
8. Matthew McKnew, ABF Freight Systems, California
9. Matt Meadows, ABF Freight Systems, West Virginia
10. Myles Piotrowski, FedEx Freight, Indiana
11. Selvin Ramirez, XPO, Rhode Island
12. Jackie Reed, FedEx Freight, Mississippi
13. Jeffrey Reed, United Parcel Service, New Mexico
14. Miguel Sanchez, United Parcel Service, Florida
15. Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight, Minnesota
16. Omar Stebbin, XPO, Florida
17. David Swierenga, FedEx Freight, Florida
18. Dave Thomas, ABF Freight Systems, Iowa
19. Kenneth Tolliver, Hoffman Transportation, Kentucky
20. Ryan Ybarra, United Parcel Service, California

To learn more about the 2026 2027 America’s Road Team, visit the official America’s Road Team webpage.

Source: American Trucking Associations

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“Each year, the Mike Russell Award highlights the creativity and dedication of those who work tirelessly to share our industry’s story,” said Nikki Thomas, vice president of industry affairs at ATA. “This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond in showcasing the essential role trucking plays in our daily lives and the pride that drives our workforce.”

What the Award Means

Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award recognizes motor carriers, individuals, and trucking organizations that demonstrate professionalism, dedication to safety, and leadership in promoting a positive image of the industry.

“Great West Casualty Company is proud to sponsor the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award, which celebrates those who promote a deeper understanding of the trucking industry,” said Steve Ponder, senior vice president at Great West. “Thanks to the ongoing efforts of past and future recipients, the public’s perception of trucking continues to grow more positive each year.”

Meet the 2025 Honorees

This year’s winners highlight how everyday actions and community involvement can make a real difference.

Trucking Association of New York (TANY)

Through TANY’s Community Supervision initiative, more than 55 individuals have earned their Commercial Driver’s Licenses since 2023. “This isn’t just workforce development – it’s life-changing,” ATA noted. Beyond licensing support, TANY funds and supports the Transportation Club at the Charter School for Applied Technologies High School in Buffalo. What started small has grown into a hub where students explore transportation careers, gain hands-on experience, and connect with mentors in the trucking industry.

Antoine Sadler, Professional Truck Driver, Walmart Transportation

A second-generation driver, Sadler has logged over 2.7 million safe driving miles across a 29-year career. He serves on North Carolina’s Road Team, Walmart’s Road Team, and America’s Road Team, and has competed in multiple truck driving championships. Since 2021, Sadler has served on the TAT board, helped launch the TAT Man to Man campaign, and contributed to the TAT Freedom Drivers Project trailer. He also volunteers with organizations like the Special Olympics, National Night Out, and Samaritan’s Feet, showing that dedication to trucking goes hand in hand with giving back to the community.

“These individuals have seamlessly woven positivity into their everyday lives, creating a ripple effect that touches countless others,” said Dan Horvath, COO of ATA. “Today, we’re proud to expand that list to 66, with two new recipients. These recipients embody ATA’s commitment to promoting a positive image of trucking. Their applications stood out as powerful examples of how storytelling, leadership, and innovation can shape public perception and inspire meaningful change.”

Image Source: ATA

Other Source: The Trucker

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Sponsored by DMC Insurance, the award highlights a single professional driver whose career reflects consistent safety, responsibility, and long-term leadership behind the wheel. ATA explained that the finalists come from a group of state-level Drivers of the Year submitted by their affiliated state trucking associations. “Each candidate’s qualifications and achievements are examined by a group of professional industry judges who narrow down the nominees to a group of finalists,” ATA said.

For drivers out on the road, these finalists represent the kind of steady professionalism and clean records that everyone in the cab can appreciate.

The 2025 Finalists

Steve Brand
With 36 years on the road and 29 of them at FedEx Freight, Brand has stacked up more than 4.8 million accident-free miles. He’s active with America’s Road Team, the FedEx Freight Road Team, and serves as an Ambassador for Truckers Against Trafficking. He was also named the 2024 Ohio Driver of the Year.

Don Carpenter
Carpenter’s career spans 45 years, including the past 11 with Old Dominion Freight Line. He has logged more than 4.5 million accident-free miles. An Army veteran and frequent Truck Driving Championships competitor, he earned the title of 2024 Oklahoma Driver of the Year.

Kevin Flick
Flick has 37 years of experience, 22 of them with Buchheit Logistics. He has collected over 6.1 million accident-free miles. His list of accomplishments includes 11 years in the Missouri Trucking Association’s Chairman’s Safe Driver Club, seven Driver of the Month awards, and being named the 2024 Missouri Driver of the Year.

Williams Jones
Jones brings 51 years of driving experience and 29 years with Walmart Transportation. He has accumulated more than seven million accident-free miles. He was the 2006 Walmart Driver of the Year and continues to train and mentor new drivers. He was also named the 2025 Kansas Driver of the Year.

Duane Staveness
With 33 years in trucking and 25 with FedEx Freight, Staveness has achieved more than 2.55 million accident-free miles. He serves on the Wisconsin Road Team, is a longtime member of the Master Presidents Club for safe driving, and won the 2018 NTDC 5-Axle National Championship. He is the 2025 Wisconsin Driver of the Year.

What Happens Next

The Safety Management Council Awards & Recognition Committee reviews each finalist’s video submission before selecting the winner. The official announcement will be made during ATA’s Safety, Security, and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition in Oklahoma City from April 1 through April 3, 2026.

Source: The Trucker

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