ATA Opens Nominations for 2026–2027 America’s Road Team

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is now accepting nominations for the next class of America’s Road Team captains — a group made up of some of the safest and most experienced drivers on the road today.

“For nearly four decades, America’s Road Team has set the gold standard in promoting safety and professionalism on our highways,” said Chris Spear, president and CEO of ATA. “As we begin the process of selecting a new class of captains, we’re looking for drivers who not only demonstrate excellence behind the wheel but also have a passion for telling our industry’s story and inspiring the next generation of trucking professionals.”

Representing the Best in Trucking

Established in 1986, America’s Road Team brings together drivers with exceptional safety records and a passion for the industry. These captains aren’t just skilled behind the wheel — they also serve as public ambassadors, helping tell the trucking story across the country.

Backed by their employers, captains spend their term traveling in the ATA’s custom Volvo VNL 860 — also known as the Interstate One Image Truck. It’s more than just a truck. Inside, it’s outfitted with a mobile classroom and a simulator designed to give people a deeper look at what driving a truck is really like.

During their time as captains, drivers attend school visits, community events, policy meetings, and industry gatherings to talk about trucking’s impact on daily life and the economy.

Application Details

ATA will select the 2026–2027 captains following in-person evaluations in Washington, D.C., scheduled for January 18–24, 2026.

A panel of industry leaders will review each applicant based on their safety history, communicati.on skills, and industry insight — all key to representing trucking in public spaces.

Drivers interested in applying should go through their carrier. Application materials and eligibility info are available now on ATA’s website.

Strong Support from the Industry

“Volvo Trucks is proud to continue our support of this extraordinary program,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “America’s Road Team captains are powerful voices for the industry, and we look forward to meeting the next group of leaders who will help us continue advocating for safety, professionalism, and opportunity in trucking.”

The most recent team, chosen in early 2024, includes drivers from 14 carriers and together, they’ve logged over 61 million accident-free miles. That group will keep traveling and sharing their experiences through 2025, as the next round of applications gets underway.

“America’s Road Team captains are the face of our industry,” said Nikki Thomas, ATA’s vice president of industry affairs. “They exemplify the best of what trucking has to offer and play a vital role in shifting public perception and inspiring future drivers.”

Stay updated on the America’s Road Team and their events by following ATA’s Facebook page.

Image Source: ATA
Source: The Trucker