The Next Generation in Trucking Association is bringing back its NEXT Top Talent Award, a national recognition program for professional drivers and diesel technicians under 30. Nominations open September 1 and will remain open through October 9, allowing trucking companies to recognize younger employees who are already building strong careers in the industry.
Who Can Be Nominated
The award is open to professional drivers and diesel technicians under 30 who demonstrate strong safety performance, professionalism, career growth, leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to their work. Nominees do not need to hold management positions or have lengthy industry experience to be considered.
After nominations close, a selection committee made up of trucking industry leaders will review the submissions. Selected nominees will be named NEXT Top Talent Finalists, with one professional driver and one diesel technician ultimately chosen as Grand Champions. The finalists and Grand Champions are scheduled to be announced October 27.
Last Year’s Award Recognized 56 Finalists
The program launched in 2025 and recognized 56 professional drivers and diesel technicians from carriers, regional fleets, local operations and maintenance organizations across the country.
Isaiah Hicks-Dixon of Old Dominion Freight Line was named the inaugural Grand Champion Professional Driver after beginning his career with the company as a dock worker in 2019 and later moving into linehaul driving. Joe Reed of Kenan Advantage Group was selected as the Grand Champion Diesel Technician after advancing to the position of Shop Foreman for KAG Energy in North Canton, Ohio.
Finalists Receive Company Recognition
In addition to the national recognition, finalists receive personalized banners featuring their photo and company logo that can be displayed at terminals, shops and other workplaces. Next Generation in Trucking said some of the banners from last year remain on display at participating companies.
The 2026 NEXT Top Talent Award is sponsored by Fullbay and Advanced Training Systems. Companies can submit nominations through the Next Generation in Trucking Association beginning September 1, with the nomination period closing October 9.
The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.
Last Updated: September 3, 2026
Source: The Trucker
Image Source: Next Gen Trucking
