Each year, the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award honors remarkable veterans who’ve made a successful move into the trucking industry. This event celebrates veterans who’ve not only transitioned from military service but are now thriving as professional truck drivers.
Hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, alongside Kenworth Truck Company and Fastport, this award shines a spotlight on the unique skills and dedication veterans bring to the field. Voting is open until Veterans Day, Nov. 11, giving you a chance to support your top choice among these dedicated rookie military drivers.
According to a recent announcement, the selection process includes a rigorous nomination, thorough review by a panel, and a public voting phase to identify America’s standout rookie veteran driver. The winner will be revealed at a special ceremony on Dec. 13 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C. This year’s grand prize is the cutting-edge Kenworth T680 with a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and premium components. The runner-up receives $10,000, and the remaining finalists each earn $5,000.
You can cast your vote on the Transition Trucking website (https://transitiontrucking.org/vote/), where you’ll find videos introducing each finalist. Your vote plays a significant role in helping the selection committee choose this year’s award recipient.
Meet the 2024 Finalists:
- Douglas Couch, U.S. Navy (E-5), Roehl Transport, Inc.
Douglas served aboard the USS Nimitz CVN 68 as a Culinary Specialist 2nd Class from 2012-2016, overseeing a team that fed over 5,000 personnel. Since switching to trucking, he has driven more than 150,000 miles with an unwavering commitment to safety. - Shawn Haley, U.S. Marine Corps (E-4), Veriha Trucking LLC
Serving from 1987 to 1991, Shawn provided security for Presidents Reagan and Bush. After running a successful business for two decades, he took on the challenge of becoming a regional truck driver, enjoying the sights of the country. - Billy Taylor, U.S. Coast Guard (E-7), Werner Enterprises
From Port Security to drug interdiction, Billy’s 20-year Coast Guard career was diverse. Since retiring, he drives for Werner Enterprises, contributing to the Anheuser-Busch account in Ohio, bringing the same dedication to his new role. - Cory Troxell, U.S. Army (E-7), Stevens Transport
Born into a legacy of military service, Cory joined the Army in 2004. Despite being severely injured in 2009, he continued to serve until his retirement in 2024. Following his family’s path, he now excels as a truck driver.
For more information, visit https://transitiontrucking.org/. Celebrate these outstanding veterans by casting your vote and supporting their journeys in the trucking industry.
Source: The Trucker
Image: Transition Trucking
