The American Trucking Associations has announced the 31 professional drivers who are finalists for the 2026-2027 America’s Road Team, the organization’s prestigious program highlighting the safest and most dedicated truck drivers on the road.
“These [people] were selected as finalists for America’s Road Team because they have outstanding safe driving records, share a passion for the trucking industry, and serve as role models among their peers,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “They proudly represent ATA and exemplify some of the very best professional truck drivers on the road today. Their dedication and professionalism continue to inspire the entire industry.”
What America’s Road Team Represents
Founded in 1986 and sponsored by Volvo Trucks North America, America’s Road Team brings together professional truck drivers with superior safety records to represent the industry at events, schools, and meetings with policymakers. Captains dedicate a few days each month to share their knowledge of safe driving, the importance of trucking, and industry best practices.
This year’s 31 finalists, representing 19 states, have a combined total of 57 million safe-driving miles and 737 years of professional driving experience. They drive everything from short-haul deliveries to long-haul routes across all 48 continental states. Their goal is to continue raising awareness about highway safety, professionalism, and the essential role trucking plays in the U.S. economy.
Final Selection Process
The finalists will compete for the final team in January at ATA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Judges from various sectors of the trucking industry will evaluate candidates based on safety records, communication skills, industry knowledge, and dedication to promoting trucking to the public.
The new America’s Road Team captains will receive the signature navy blue blazers and begin outreach work with media, public officials, business and community groups, and their fellow drivers nationwide. Past Road Team captains continue to serve as industry ambassadors, frequently participating in safety events, conferences, and speaking engagements.
“Being named a finalist for America’s Road Team is a tremendous honor for professional truck drivers, and ATA applauds each of them for this accomplishment,” said Dan Horvath, ATA COO. “These drivers are the very best of the industry, sharing their expertise and commitment to safety, while educating the motoring public about the vital role trucking plays in our economy.”
2026-2027 America’s Road Team Finalists
- Mark Behr, ABF Freight Systems Inc., Michigan
- Cardell Benfield, Titan Transfer, Mississippi
- Victor Blackburn, Prime Inc., Florida
- Robbie Cottrell, XPO, Virginia
- Antonio Cruz, Groendyke Transport Inc., Florida
- Jason Damron, Convoy Systems, Kansas
- Nathan Evans, Tyson Foods, Arkansas
- Marshall Hopkins, Werner Enterprises, Texas
- Bruce Hoyes, ABF Freight Systems Inc., Missouri
- Izet Kanarevic, Werner Enterprises, Missouri
- Benjamin Mansfield, XPO, Michigan
- Matthew McKnew, ABF Freight Systems Inc., California
- Matt Meadows, ABF Freight Systems Inc., West Virginia
- Aaron Mendoza, FedEx Freight, Illinois
- Donald Michael, Werner Enterprises, Louisiana
- George Moore, United Parcel Service, Florida
- Charles Pearson, ABF Freight Systems Inc. Georgia
- Myles Piotrowski, FedEx Freight, Indiana
- Selvin Ramirez, XPO, Rhode Island
- Jackie Reed, FedEx Freight, Mississippi
- Jeffrey Reed, United Parcel Service, New Mexico
- Robert Roth, FedEx Freight, Missouri
- Miguel Sanchez, United Parcel Service, Florida
- Gary Schmidt, Jacobson Transport, Minnesota
- Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight, Minnesota
- Omar Stebbin, XPO, Florida
- David Swierenga, FedEx Freight, Florida
- Dave Thomas, ABF Freight Systems Inc., Iowa
- Kenneth Tolliver, Hoffman Transportation, Kentucky
- Darius Uible, United Parcel Service, Ohio
- Ryan Ybarra, United Parcel Service, California
These drivers exemplify the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and industry knowledge, making them standout ambassadors for trucking on America’s highways.
Source: The Trucker
Image: ATA
