If you’ve been putting in the miles, keeping it safe, and setting the bar high in this industry, now’s the time to get your name in the ring or nominate someone who deserves the spotlight.
The Truckload Carriers Association has officially opened nominations for its 2026 Professional Drivers of the Year program. Five drivers will be selected, and each one will walk away with a 20000 dollar cash prize and industrywide recognition. Nominations stay open through December 5, and the winners will be announced at TCA’s annual convention in Orlando, Florida, running February 28 through March 3.
Nominations are submitted online, but here’s the catch: you can’t nominate yourself. Drivers must be employed by a TCA carrier member and put forward by their company. If you’ve got a spotless safety record, help others on and off the road, and make a difference in your fleet, you’re exactly who this award is built for.
TCA Vice President Zander Gambill shared why the program matters so much.
“This program is a powerful way to shine a spotlight on the men and women who represent the very best of our industry,” said Zander Gambill, TCA Vice President. “These drivers not only keep our supply chain moving, they lead, inspire, and set the standard for excellence. We’re incredibly grateful to Love’s and Cummins for their continued partnership in celebrating their achievements.”
Every year, five pros are picked from fleets nationwide. For 2025, the honorees were Perry Carter of Cargo Transporters, Scott Lindsey of Cheema Freightlines, Toby Wallis of Freymiller, Walter Jackson of Landstar, and Gerald Rhoden of Stevens Transport.
Drivers like these prove that professionalism and pride behind the wheel still get noticed. If you think someone in your fleet deserves a shot, or your company wants to put your name forward, now is the window. Programs like this don’t just hand out plaques; they pay real money and shine a light on the drivers who keep the industry moving.
If you want to be nominated, talk to your safety manager, dispatch, or company leadership and let them know the deadline is coming fast.
Image Source: Toby Wallis, a driver for Freymiller, one of TCA’s Professional Drivers of the Year for 2025 (Source: Truckload Carriers Association)
Other Source: Truckers News
