The trucking industry is evolving quickly, and its future depends on the energy and dedication of young professionals stepping up to lead the way. This year, the Next Generation in Trucking Association (NGTA) honored that commitment by announcing the winners and finalists of its first-ever NEXT Top Talent Award competition, recognizing CDL drivers and diesel technicians under 30 who are redefining what it means to be a professional in the industry.
Recognizing the Next Wave of Leaders
“I am in awe of the participation by fleets who took the time to nominate and celebrate such a vital cohort of their workforce — those younger than 30 who are diligently pursuing the fantastic, rewarding careers that trucking offers in professional truck driving jobs and as diesel technicians,” said Lindsey Trent, president and founder of NGTA. “Reading through this year’s nominations, there are dozens of amazing stories about young people in our industry, and their work ethic, their commitment, and their promise for what’s ahead for trucking. From those as young as 14 already excelling in their family’s trucking business to those who’ve already worked their way through the ranks into coordinator roles, it was a tall task to narrow this year’s list down to the winners and even harder to select the Grand Champions. Isaiah and Joe were exemplary, and I extend my highest congratulations to them as this year’s NEXT Top Talent Award Grand Champions.”
The NEXT Top Talent Award highlights not only technical skill but also dedication, professionalism, and a drive to keep the industry strong for decades to come.
Grand Champion CDL Driver: Isaiah Hicks-Dixon
Taking the title of 2025 Grand Champion CDL Driver is Isaiah Hicks-Dixon of Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL). His career is a story of persistence and determination, beginning in 2019 as a dock worker before working his way into the ODFL training program. From there, he grew into roles as a switcher, combo driver, and now a respected linehaul driver.
“Known for his calm under pressure, impeccable safety record and outstanding customer service, Hicks-Dixon is frequently praised by customers who specifically request him for their deliveries,” NGTA said. “He is a professional in every sense—his dress, demeanor, and respect for coworkers make him someone others want to work with. His ‘winning attitude’ is infectious, lifting morale and setting a high bar for everyone around him.”
Grand Champion Diesel Technician: Joe Reed
The 2025 Grand Champion Diesel Technician honor went to Joe Reed of Kenan Advantage Group (KAG). Starting as a technician, Reed steadily climbed the ranks to become Shop Foreman for KAG Energy in North Canton, Ohio. His leadership has been credited with transforming the shop’s performance and atmosphere.
“Reed leads by example and holds himself to high standards while motivating his team to grow alongside him,” NGTA said. “His responsiveness and ability to manage KPIs effectively have strengthened KAG’s terminal operations by keeping trucks on the road and maximizing load revenue. Reed actively collaborates with corporate fleet leaders, and his hunger for learning has positioned him for even greater opportunities in leadership, such as terminal manager or regional maintenance manager roles. His mentorship has raised the performance of other team members, and several technicians have expressed interest in advancing their careers because of Joe’s example. He exemplifies what it means to lead with humility, skill, and a vision for the future.”
Why Programs Like This Matter
Beyond the two grand champions, NGTA also recognized 56 finalists from fleets nationwide. Each one represents the next wave of skilled drivers and technicians who will play a critical role in keeping supply chains moving.
“Also, as you will see in our winners list, several companies have multiple NEXT Top Talent Award winners, showcasing their commitment to being leaders in our industry in creating programs and cultures that create opportunities for young people, as well as work environments where they succeed and thrive,” said Trent.
Sponsors like Fullbay and Project 61 underscored the importance of investing in the next generation.
“Technicians keep our economy moving, and the industry cannot thrive without investing in the next generation,” said Matt Stone, CMO of Fullbay. “At Fullbay, we believe in recognizing rising talent and providing the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. Supporting future technicians and drivers is not just the right thing to do; it is essential to ensuring the long-term strength and sustainability of the heavy-duty repair industry.”
“At Project 61, we’re committed to improving the health and well-being of professional drivers—those who keep our country moving,” added Jeremy Reymer, founder of Project 61. “Sponsoring the NEXT Top Talent Award is our way of helping empower the next generation of professionals who lead with heart, purpose, and pride in their work. This award is about recognizing rising professionals who represent the future of trucking and exemplify what it truly means to be a professional.”
Building the Future of Trucking
Industry leaders agree this recognition is about more than awards—it’s about inspiring a generation.
“It is inspiring and encouraging to see these incredible young people recognized and celebrated for their hard work and dedication to our industry,” said Leah Shaver, president and CEO of The National Transportation Institute. “The NEXT Top Talent program paints an exciting picture about where our industry can go from here. It’s critical that we continue to tell these stories loudly and often. The data is clear: As an industry, we are lagging in our progress in bringing younger people into our industry and keeping them here. In the next 5-10 years, we need to make big strides in recruiting our next generation of truck drivers and diesel technicians. Having so many amazing examples to point to as success stories in our industry and at our companies should be a catalyst for us all to double down on our efforts to reach and grow the number of young people aspiring to careers in trucking.”
With its NEXT Top Talent Awards, NGTA is sending a clear message: the trucking industry’s future is already in motion, powered by dedicated young professionals. From CDL drivers like Hicks-Dixon to shop leaders like Reed, these rising stars are proof that the next generation is ready to lead with passion, professionalism, and purpose.
For a complete list of winners and finalists or to learn more about future nominations, click here.
Source: The Trucker
