Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative are again teaming up to recognize America’s top rookie military veteran driver who has successfully transitioned to the trucking industry after military service.
For the ninth consecutive year, Kenworth will provide the grand prize in the “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” program. This year’s prize is a T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the advanced Paccar Powertrain, featuring the powerful Paccar MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, Paccar TX-12 automated transmission, and Paccar DX-40 tandem rear axles.
The showcased truck will be on display this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville, Kentucky, hosted at the Fastport booth #65024. The T680 boasts a luxurious Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents, incorporating cutting-edge driver amenities. Featuring GT703 leather seats that are fully heated and cooled for both driver and passenger comfort, the 76-inch sleeper includes provisions for a microwave, TV, factory-installed fridge, and a convenient rotating worktable.
Moreover, the T680 is equipped with state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, such as Kenworth’s Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Auto Go, and Lane-Keeping Assist with Torque-Assisted Steering.
A panel of expert judges will select the top driver. To be eligible, drivers must meet specific criteria including:
- Being a legal resident of the continental United States and a military veteran or current/former member of the National Guard or Reserves
- Graduating from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL
- Being employed by a for-hire carrier or private fleet committed to hiring veterans and hired as a CDL driver after Jan. 1, 2023
The nomination period is currently open, with the final deadline for applications set for June 20. Award semi-finalists will be announced on Aug. 1. Finalists will have the opportunity to visit Columbus, Ohio, for a tour of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, followed by a reception and a tour of the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant, where the ultimate winner will be revealed. Public voting on the finalists will take place from Nov. 1-11. On Dec. 13, finalists will convene at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where the final award announcement will be made, and the winner will drive home in the Kenworth T680.
Source: Commercial Carrier Journal
Photo: Kenworth
