Truck drivers know that life on the road isn’t easy, and Pilot has once again recognized the dedication, skill, and heart of professional drivers with its annual Road Warrior contest. This year, Stacy Batiste of Lafayette, Louisiana, takes the top honor as the 2025 champion.
Honoring the Drivers Who Go the Extra Mile
After sifting through thousands of entries, Pilot selected two standout drivers who embody professionalism, safety, and service. In addition to Batiste, Bobby Peeker, a Marine Corps veteran, also earned recognition for his exceptional contributions to the trucking and veteran communities. Peeker will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with a $25,000 charitable donation made by Pilot to a veterans-focused organization of his choice.
“We received thousands of entries celebrating the efforts of drivers who go the extra mile each and every day,” said Jordan Spradling, senior vice president of transportation and midstream assets at Pilot Company. “Stacy’s and Bobby’s hard work, dedication to the profession, commitment to safety and service stood out. We are honored to welcome them to the Road Warrior winner’s circle. They both are prime examples of the positive impact professional drivers have on and off the road.”
Pilot’s Road Warrior contest is its way of recognizing the drivers who keep North America moving, day in and day out.
Stacy Batiste: 33 Years of Dedication
Batiste was awarded the largest prize in contest history: a custom Kenworth truck built by the Diesel Brothers and a $50,000 cash prize. With over 33 years behind the wheel and more than 5.1 million accident-free miles, Batiste views trucking not just as a career, but as a calling.
A Marine Corps veteran, he has consistently prioritized road safety and has earned a reputation as a mentor for younger drivers. Beyond trucking, Batiste is an active member of his local community, always finding ways to give back.
On October 21, Pilot surprised Batiste while he was on the road at a Flying J in Baytown, Texas, presenting the keys to his custom Kenworth and the $50,000 check. His family joined the celebration, hidden in the travel center to share the moment. Batiste began his driving career hauling sugar cane in South Louisiana, and now, as an owner-operator, the new truck supports his ongoing passion for safe, community-focused driving.
Bobby Peeker: Veteran and Community Advocate
Peeker has logged more than 1 million accident-free miles and continues to give back to the military community after his service in the Marine Corps. He regularly volunteers his time and resources to help fellow servicemen and women and participates in truck shows supporting the Special Olympics.
His passion for trucking was shaped early on by his family, and particularly by his grandfather, who helped remove rubble after the 9/11 attacks using his truck.
Celebrating Trucking Excellence
For over a decade, Pilot has honored professional drivers through the Road Warrior contest, highlighting more than 30 drivers whose dedication and safety-first approach set the standard for the industry.
For more information about the Road Warrior contest, including past winners and how drivers can be recognized, visit Pilot’s website.
Image Source: Pilot
Other Source: The Trucker
