Kenworth Announces 11 Semi-Finalists for 2026 Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award

Kenworth, Fastport, and Hiring Our Heroes have announced the 11 semi-finalists for the 2026 Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award honoring military veterans in trucking

Kenworth, Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative have announced the 11 semi-finalists for the 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, recognizing military veterans who have successfully transitioned into professional trucking careers.

Now in its 11th year, the annual program recognizes veterans who have demonstrated leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to safety after entering the trucking industry.

Meet the 2026 Elite 11

The 2026 semi-finalists were selected from nominations submitted by trucking carriers, CDL training schools, private fleets and individuals nationwide. This year’s group represents four branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The 2026 Elite 11 includes:

Jeffrey Barber, U.S. Army, Prime Inc.
Brandon Ward, U.S. Navy, Werner Enterprises
Mohammad Arzola, U.S. Marine Corps, H-E-B
Juan Rosado Lozada, U.S. Marine Corps, Roehl Transport
Kishawn Forbes, U.S. Navy, Melton Truck Lines
Gary W. Williams, U.S. Army, Stevens Transport
Monica Brooks-Buck, U.S. Army, Werner Enterprises
Jenn Wilken, U.S. Army, Prime Inc.
Daryus Jones, U.S. Army, Anheuser-Busch
Daniel Doss, U.S. Air Force, Melton Truck Lines
Michael R. Bivens, U.S. Marine Corps, Stevens Transport

Several of the semi-finalists completed their CDL training through U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, reflecting the continued role apprenticeship pathways play in helping veterans transition into trucking careers.

Registered Apprenticeships Continue to Grow

According to the program’s organizers, about 60% of this year’s nominations came from drivers who are currently participating in or have completed a Registered Apprenticeship program. Five members of the Elite 11 are active apprentices.

Organizers say the apprenticeship model continues to provide veterans with a structured pathway into the trucking industry while helping carriers develop skilled professional drivers.

Winner Will Receive a New Kenworth T680

The overall winner will receive a new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission and DX-40 tandem rear axles.

The truck also includes DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Auto Go, Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering, a factory-installed refrigerator and several driver comfort features.

What’s Next?

The semi-finalists will be recognized Sept. 22 and 23 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. They will also tour Kenworth’s manufacturing plant in Chillicothe, where the finalists will be announced.

Public voting is scheduled for Nov. 1 through Nov. 11, with the results serving as one factor considered by the selection committee.

The 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award winner will be announced Dec. 14 during the Veteran Ready Summit at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

For more information about the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, visit the program’s official website.