The trucking industry is gearing up for an exciting event, as nominations for the esteemed Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award open today. Presented by Kenworth, FASTPORT, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, this annual award recognizes the achievements of military veterans who have successfully transitioned into the trucking industry.
Nominations close on June 20, and a series of key dates follows. On August 4, semi-finalists will be announced, and later in the year, finalists will have the opportunity to visit Columbus, Ohio. This special event includes a tour of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, a reception, and a visit to Kenworth’s Chillicothe manufacturing facility, where finalists will also be revealed. Public voting for finalists is scheduled from November 1 to 11, with the grand announcement of the winner taking place at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on December 12.
A Grand Prize Worth Driving For
For the tenth consecutive year, Kenworth is providing an impressive grand prize. This year’s winner will drive away with a Kenworth T680 equipped with a spacious 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, which features the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. The T680 will make its appearance at the Mid-America Trucking Show, showcased at the FASTPORT booth (#39001) at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville.
Why Veterans Are a Perfect Fit for Trucking
“The transportation industry is a natural fit for veterans looking to continue a purpose-driven career that leverages the critical skill sets, specialized training, and leadership gained during military service – all highly coveted attributes that make them a strategic asset,” remarked Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes. He emphasized the pride Hiring Our Heroes takes in partnering with FASTPORT and Kenworth for a decade to support veterans transitioning into commercial trucking.
Criteria and Eligibility for Nominees
An expert panel of judges will select the top rookie driver. Nominees must meet the following qualifications:
- Be a legal resident of the continental United States and either a military veteran or a current or former member of the National Guard or Reserves.
- Have graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.
- Hold employment with a for-hire carrier or private fleet committed to hiring veterans and have been employed as a CDL driver after January 1, 2024.
Full eligibility details and the nomination form are available on the Transition Trucking website.
Join an Initiative That Makes an Impact
For additional resources or questions, visit FASTPORT and Hiring Our Heroes. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate and support the military veterans who are driving excellence every day.
Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Kenworth Truck Company
