The event brought together 32 women from 14 states representing motor carriers, suppliers, and other transportation businesses for three days of meetings with members of Congress, congressional staff, and federal officials.

According to ATA, the discussions centered on policies affecting professional truck drivers, freight transportation, and the industry’s long-term workforce.

Truck Parking Remained a Key Topic

One of the primary issues raised during meetings on Capitol Hill was the continued shortage of safe truck parking.

Women In Motion members also encouraged lawmakers to support a long-term surface transportation reauthorization bill, protect independent contractor opportunities, improve restroom access for truck drivers, and address staged vehicle crashes that contribute to rising insurance costs throughout the trucking industry.

The group also discussed the importance of continued investment in transportation infrastructure and regulatory policies that support freight movement across the country.

Meetings Included Federal Agencies and Members of Congress

The council’s schedule included a regulatory briefing from Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Administrator Derek Barrs and a meeting with Acting Department of Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling.

Members also met individually with lawmakers, including Senators Joni Ernst of Iowa, Todd Young of Indiana, and John Boozman of Arkansas, along with Representatives Adelita Grijalva of Arizona, Steve Womack of Arkansas, and Mike Collins of Georgia.

Cait Hone, director of Women In Motion, said bringing industry professionals directly into discussions with policymakers gives lawmakers a better understanding of the challenges facing trucking.

“Our members brought real-world perspectives to Capitol Hill and highlighted practical solutions that would boost safety, strengthen the workforce, and support an industry that Americans depend on every day,” Hone said.

Annual Advocacy Event Continues to Grow

This year marked the third Call on Washington organized by Women In Motion.

ATA said the annual event gives women from across the trucking industry an opportunity to speak directly with elected officials about issues affecting carriers, professional drivers, and businesses that support the freight industry.

Women In Motion was established by ATA to encourage leadership and professional development for women working throughout trucking. Its membership includes truck drivers, technicians, human resources professionals, executives, suppliers, and other industry professionals.

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: July 24, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: ATA

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If implemented, the change would create what the department calls Workforce Pell Grants. These grants would apply to programs lasting between eight and fourteen weeks, opening the door for financial aid in training programs that currently fall outside the traditional Pell Grant structure.

For many drivers entering the industry, the cost of training can be one of the biggest barriers to getting started. CDL schools often run between six and eight weeks, which means they have historically been too short to qualify for federal Pell Grant funding.

The new proposal would change that by making high-quality short-term training eligible for assistance.

“By expanding Pell Grant flexibility to make short-term educational programs eligible, this rulemaking will open the door of opportunity to more young people seeking rewarding, good-paying careers in trucking,” said American Trucking Associations Chief Advocacy & Public Affairs Officer Henry Hanscom.

Industry groups have pushed for this change for years, arguing that shorter programs can still deliver the skills needed for strong careers behind the wheel or in the shop.

What the Workforce Pell Grant Would Cover

Under the proposed rule, eligible programs would need to run between eight and fourteen weeks and include between 150 and 599 total instructional hours. The goal is to support focused training programs that quickly prepare workers for jobs in industries where demand for skilled employees remains high.

That structure lines up with many existing CDL programs. While some schools run longer courses, many Class A programs fall within the six-to-eight-week range, which means they could soon become eligible for federal aid if the rule takes effect.

Diesel technician programs are often longer than a year, but certain specialized certifications can be completed in a shorter timeframe. Some manufacturer-specific programs offered through Universal Technical Institute, including training supported by Cummins, Peterbilt, and Daimler Truck North America, run about twelve weeks.

These types of programs could potentially qualify for Workforce Pell support if they meet the required standards.

Accountability Standards for Training Programs

The Department of Education is pairing the new funding opportunity with strict performance requirements for training providers.

To remain eligible for Workforce Pell funding, programs must demonstrate strong results for students. That includes a completion rate of at least 70 percent as well as a job placement rate of at least 70 percent within 180 days after graduation.

Schools must also pass what regulators describe as a value-added earnings test. This measure compares the median earnings of program graduates with a threshold based on 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Program tuition and fees cannot exceed the additional earnings students are expected to gain after completing the training.

State governments would also play a role in approving programs. Each eligible course would need authorization from a state governor after consultation with the state workforce board.

Part of a Broader Focus on Training Quality

The Workforce Pell proposal arrives as federal agencies continue tightening oversight of CDL training programs.

In recent months, the Department of Transportation removed thousands of CDL training providers from its official registry while placing thousands more on notice for potential removal as part of a broader effort targeting so-called CDL mills.

The goal of both efforts is to improve the quality and reliability of driver training while making legitimate programs more accessible to new entrants.

If finalized, the Workforce Pell Grant program is expected to take effect in July 2026. Supporters say the change could help more students afford the training needed to begin careers in trucking and diesel technology while maintaining strong accountability standards for schools.

For an industry that continues to depend on skilled drivers and technicians, expanded access to training could play a role in strengthening the workforce pipeline in the years ahead.

The post New Workforce Pell Grants Could Help Future Truck Drivers Pay for CDL and Diesel Training appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Over the next two years, these drivers will represent the trucking industry across the country. Their work includes attending industry events, engaging with communities, visiting schools, and speaking with policymakers to promote safe driving while sharing firsthand insight into trucking as a career.

“This group of professional drivers have earned their place at the top through years of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to safety on the road,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “They represent a vital segment of the American workforce, one whose impact is felt by nearly every person in the country. As these Captains take to the road with a new mission and an important message, we are incredibly proud of their achievements and confident the nation will gain valuable insights from their leadership and the example they set for our industry.”

A Longstanding Program Focused on Safety

America’s Road Team was established in 1986 to recognize professional truck drivers who have demonstrated exceptional safety records and a commitment to representing the industry with integrity. With the support of their companies, Captains volunteer their time to participate in public outreach efforts that help explain the role trucking plays in everyday life.

The 2026 2027 class represents 13 states and includes four military veterans, one independent contractor, and drivers from both small fleets and large national carriers. Together, the group brings 51 million miles of safe driving experience to the program.

Volvo Trucks Celebrates 25 Years Supporting America’s Road Team

Volvo Trucks remains the program’s sponsor and will mark 25 years of partnership with America’s Road Team this October. During their two-year term, the Captains will travel the country in ATA’s Interstate One Image Truck, a Volvo VNL 860 pulling an American flag themed trailer. The trailer features a mobile classroom and a state of the art truck driving simulator used for education and outreach.

“Volvo Trucks is honored to continue our long-standing sponsorship of America’s Road Team and to take part in this week’s selection of the 2026–2027 Captains,” said Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve. “This year at MCE marks 25 years of Volvo’s proud support of America’s Road Team, a milestone that reflects our deep respect for professional drivers and our commitment to safety, professionalism, and leadership across the trucking industry. America’s Road Team is one of the most visible groups of professional truck drivers in the country, and we believe their hard work and dedication pays.”

How the 2026 2027 Captains Were Selected

ATA conducted the final round of selections from January 18 through January 20 at its headquarters in Washington, DC. During this process, drivers were evaluated on more than just miles logged or years of experience.

Candidates were judged on their ability to clearly communicate about trucking, safety, and transportation issues, as well as their overall driving records. The selection panel included trucking industry executives and members of the trade press, ensuring the final group reflected both operational excellence and the ability to represent the industry publicly.

Once selected, the new Captains received their signature navy blue America’s Road Team blazers and immediately began their work as ambassadors. Their focus over the next two years will be on improving public understanding of trucking and reinforcing the industry’s commitment to safety and professionalism.

Supporting the Mission of America’s Road Team

Trucking professionals and industry partners can support the work of America’s Road Team by following the Captains throughout their two year term and engaging with them at major industry events, conferences, and community visits. ATA also encourages industry members to follow the team’s journey on Facebook, where updates from the road and event appearances are shared.

“America’s Road Team Captains exemplify the highest standards of safety in our industry, helping to elevate trucking’s image by sharing their experiences and leading by example,” said ATA Chief Operating Officer Dan Horvath. “These respected leaders craft compelling safety messages and demonstrate how the trucking industry offers meaningful, rewarding careers. Through their participation in community events, conferences, and industry engagements, they fulfill the mission of America’s Road Team. We congratulate this new class for their dedication to excellence and for keeping our nation moving safely.”

The 2026- 2027 America’s Road Team Captains

1. Cardell Benfield Jr., Titan Transfer, Mississippi
2. Victor Blackburn, Prime Inc., Florida
3. Antonio Cruz, Groendyke Transport, Florida
4. Jason Damron, Convoy Systems, Kansas
5. Nathan Evans, Tyson Foods, Arkansas
6. Bruce Hoyes, ABF Freight Systems, Missouri
7. Izet Kanarevic, Werner Enterprises, Missouri
8. Matthew McKnew, ABF Freight Systems, California
9. Matt Meadows, ABF Freight Systems, West Virginia
10. Myles Piotrowski, FedEx Freight, Indiana
11. Selvin Ramirez, XPO, Rhode Island
12. Jackie Reed, FedEx Freight, Mississippi
13. Jeffrey Reed, United Parcel Service, New Mexico
14. Miguel Sanchez, United Parcel Service, Florida
15. Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight, Minnesota
16. Omar Stebbin, XPO, Florida
17. David Swierenga, FedEx Freight, Florida
18. Dave Thomas, ABF Freight Systems, Iowa
19. Kenneth Tolliver, Hoffman Transportation, Kentucky
20. Ryan Ybarra, United Parcel Service, California

To learn more about the 2026 2027 America’s Road Team, visit the official America’s Road Team webpage.

Source: American Trucking Associations

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The nationwide survey gathers detailed information on wages, benefits, bonuses, and incentive structures from trucking companies operating in different regions and business segments. The goal is to provide carriers with reliable benchmarks they can use to evaluate their own driver pay programs and remain competitive in a challenging market.

“In this difficult and prolonged freight recession, the companies with the greatest edge are the ones that have the best data,” said Bob Costello, ATA chief economist. “As a one-of-a-kind benchmarking tool, the Driver Compensation Study provides the crucial, actionable intelligence motor carriers need to recruit and retain their most valuable resource: professional truck drivers. To get as accurate a picture of industry trends as possible, we rely on input from a large cross-section of motor carriers to provide detailed information about their total compensation packages and supply a clear view of how – and how much – trucking companies pay their drivers.”

First Update Since 2024

The compensation study was last conducted in 2024 and remains one of the most comprehensive sources of driver pay data in the industry. Previous surveys included hundreds of fleets, representing for-hire truckload carriers, less-than-truckload carriers, private fleets, and other commercial trucking operations.

“The 2026 Driver Compensation Study will include detailed pay estimates broken down by carrier types, trailer types, and routes,” ATA said. “It will also explore the wide variety of driver pay structures (hourly, per-mile, annual salary, percent of revenue) as well as various incentives. All proprietary information from individual carriers is kept confidential; only aggregate data is included in the final report.”

Why Participation Matters

Survey participants are eligible to purchase the 2026 ATA Driver Compensation Study for $100, representing more than 90 percent off the full price. Additional benefits include a free executive summary ahead of the full report’s release and an invitation to a no-cost webinar with ATA’s chief economist to review the findings and answer questions.

To participate in the 2026 ATA Driver Compensation Study survey, click here. The survey deadline is March 30.

To review participation benefits and see sample pages from previous reports, click here or email lbur@trucking.org.

Source: The Trucker

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Hosted by the American Trucking Associations, the conference is co-hosted by ATA’s Safety Management Council and Transportation Security Council. The event brings together industry professionals responsible for policy, risk management, compliance, and operational decision-making.

“Earlier this year, the 2025 SSHR National Conference in Louisville showcased the power of innovation and collaboration,” said Dan Horvath, ATA’s COO. “The sessions equipped safety, security, and HR professionals with practical strategies to meet today’s challenges and prepare for what’s ahead. The momentum from Louisville has us energized for the 2026 conference in Oklahoma City, where we’ll continue driving a safer, more secure, forward-thinking mindset for the industry.”

Conference details and focus areas

The 2026 conference is scheduled for April 1–3, 2026, at the Omni Oklahoma City. More than 400 attendees are expected to take part in educational sessions and networking opportunities.

Programming will be organized into four dedicated tracks:

• Safety
• Security
• Human resources
• Claims and loss prevention

Sessions are designed to deliver practical insight into current challenges, with discussions centered on real-world application rather than theory.

Speakers, sessions, and networking

The agenda includes three general sessions featuring industry leadership, including ATA President and CEO Chris Spear, along with keynote speaker Tim Richardson. Attendees will also participate in panels and interactive roundtables covering topics such as camera technology, driver coaching, artificial intelligence, and recruitment and retention.

“Our mission with SSHR is to create a space where trucking professionals can collaborate, grow, and elevate their impact,” said Jacob Pierce, executive director of ATA’s Safety Management Council & Transportation Security Council. “By uniting a wide range of expertise and perspectives, we strengthen the industry’s safety and security efforts while advancing a more innovative and supportive human resources landscape for the trucking workforce.”

In addition to educational sessions, the conference will feature networking events, including a casino night and an evening at TopGolf.

Registration now open

Registration is now available through ATA’s official SSHR conference website. The event continues to serve as a central meeting point for advancing safety, security, and human resources practices across the trucking industry.

Source: The Trucker

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The foundation also used the year end update to highlight continued fundraising goals and announce additions to its board of directors.

Industry support continued despite economic pressure

“The extraordinary generosity and steadfast commitment of trucking industry leaders and companies that contributed to the Trucking Cares Foundation this year are truly inspiring,” said Greg Owen, TCF Chairman, head coach of Ability Tri-Modal. “In a year marked by significant economic challenges, your continued support speaks volumes about the compassion and resilience of our industry. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every donor who chose to give despite the headwinds we all faced. Together, we made a meaningful difference for a wide range of nonprofits that support not only truckers, but the communities our industry serves every day. While the financial impact of these contributions is impressive, the positive ripple effects are immeasurable. I look forward to building on this spirit of generosity and momentum in 2026.”

Where the 2025 donations went

The Trucking Cares Foundation listed the following organizations and amounts it supported in 2025.

Disaster relief

• $10,000 to the American Logistics Aid Network to support delivery of humanitarian aid to disaster affected areas

Support for truckers and workforce development

• $15,000 to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund to help truck drivers and families recover from injury or illness and support health and wellness initiatives including funding used to purchase cancer screening kits for drivers
• $15,600 to Garrett High School to support a high school CDL program developed through the Center for Transportation Safety

Veterans and first responders

• $10,000 to At Ease USA to support confidential trauma treatment and therapeutic support for active military, veterans, and their loved ones regardless of ability to pay
• $13,380 to the North Bangor Fire Co. in Pennsylvania to support the purchase of a heavy lift airbag extrication kit

Trucking Cares and community support

• $25,000 to TAT formerly Truckers Against Trafficking to support its work training transportation professionals to recognize and report human trafficking
• $5,000 to West Kerr Education Foundation in Texas to support teachers and counselors impacted by catastrophic flooding in the Texas Hill Country with the contribution made on behalf of H E B as the recipient of the John Lex Premier Achievement Award
• $5,000 to the Monarch School in San Diego which provides academic, social, emotional, and life skills support to unhoused youth and is in the host city of ATA’s Management Conference and Exhibition with TCF noting it plans to partner with a similar school when the event convenes in Charlotte in 2026

Fundraising focus moving forward

The Trucking Cares Foundation said it is redoubling fundraising initiatives with the goal of creating an endowed fund to support long-term giving. The foundation said continued support from trucking companies and industry leaders is needed to reach that goal.

Board of directors’ additions

The foundation also announced the following additions to its board of directors.

• Joey Ballard, Covenant Logistics
• Andrew Okuyiga, UPS
• Sheri Call, Washington Trucking Associations
• Randy Clifford, Ventura Transfer

Source: The Trucker

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Utley is the vice president of government services for Bennett Family of Companies and vice chairman of ATA’s Government Freight Conference. Before trucking, he dedicated nearly 30 years to the U.S. Army, where he learned the kind of discipline and teamwork that later carried over into his work at Bennett.

“Jim served in the Army for nearly three decades, and following his extraordinary service to our nation, he brought his skill, dedication, and fortitude to trucking,” said Ed Gilroy, ATA chief advocacy and public affairs officer. “Jim leads by example, encouraging his colleagues and inspiring the next generation of truckers. His contributions to our advocacy efforts have been indispensable to achieving results that benefit our entire industry.”

At Bennett, Utley’s work centers on improving how carriers interact with the Department of Defense, especially around base access for drivers. He’s also focused on policies that treat drivers with respect and make the movement of sensitive freight safer for everyone on the road.

The ATA noted that Utley played a key role in helping move forward the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act, which aims to fix the outdated credentialing system that has frustrated truckers for years.

Beyond policy, Utley has been a strong voice for the independent contractor model, and he supports programs that bring new people into the industry through ATA’s Women In Motion and LEAD ATA initiatives.

The Cathy Evans Highway to Victory Award is named after longtime ATA lobbyist Cathy Evans and is presented annually to a member who’s made a lasting mark on the Federation’s advocacy work at both state and federal levels.

Previous honorees include well-known industry leaders such as Stormie Janzen of Total Transportation of Mississippi, John Chipman Jr. of Chipman Relocation & Logistics, Mike Card of Combined Transport Inc., Robert Low of Prime Inc., Randy Guillot of Triple G Express, Robert Haag of Perfect Transportation, Greer Woodruff of JB Hunt, Derek Leathers of Werner Enterprises, and Brian Parke of Maine Motor Transport Association.

For Utley, the award reflects not just personal achievement but a reminder of what keeps the industry strong: people who care enough to push for better roads, smarter policies, and more respect for professional drivers.

Image Source: ATA

Other Source: The Trucker

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The session, titled “How the New FMCSA Exemption and TMC Streamline Technician Training Requirements for Inspections,” is designed to help techs, fleet managers, and maintenance leads understand how the rule will speed up technician certification while keeping safety front and center.

According to ASE, “The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) earlier this year granted American Trucking Associations (ATA) and its Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) a five-year exemption that will cut the time new technicians need to spend preparing to enter the workforce while maintaining high standards for safety and competency.”

What This Means for Techs

In simple terms, this exemption gives trained techs a faster path to qualify for key inspection and repair work. Instead of completing a full year of experience or training, technicians can now qualify with 540 hours of instruction if that training follows TMC’s recommended practices (RPs).

This rule change, originally requested by ATA back in 2020, helps both new and seasoned techs move up more quickly while ensuring the same level of safety and skill the FMCSA requires.

Webinar Details and Who’s Speaking

Robert Braswell from TMC will break down exactly how the new exemption applies to motor carriers, intermodal equipment providers, and individuals. He’ll also explain how self-certification works for those who complete RP-based training programs.

According to the FMCSA, this new approach “would likely achieve a level of safety equivalent to or greater than the level of safety provided by the regulatory requirements.”

Anyone who joins the live session will receive a certificate of attendance for professional development. ASE notes it may take up to a week for certificates to arrive by email.

Even if you can’t make the live event, it’s still worth registering. Attendees will get a follow-up email with access to the recorded version once it’s available.

Why It Matters for the Shop and the Road

This new rule could help fleets and repair shops get qualified techs up to speed faster without cutting corners. For drivers, it means more skilled hands keeping rigs safe and compliant, which keeps everyone rolling smoothly.

To register for the free ASE webinar, visit the official ASE Education Foundation webinar registration page.

Source: The Trucker

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ATA President and CEO Chris Spear emphasized just how much the country relies on professional drivers:

“When every convenience and necessity is available on a store shelf or just a click away, it can be easy to overlook America’s 3.6 million truck drivers who pull off this logistical feat day after day. Our reliance on truckers is absolute, and our appreciation for them should be as well. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week provides the opportunity for Americans to give them the gratitude they richly deserve. We applaud Senators Boozman and Kelly for leading the bipartisan effort to recognize the extraordinary hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of America’s professional drivers.”

The resolution was introduced by Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), who both underscored the vital role truck drivers play in everyday life.

Sen. Boozman called drivers both essential and a point of pride for his state:

“Truck drivers are the backbone of our economy and a source of pride for our state. These men and women spend long hours away from their families to deliver the goods that keep our communities moving. Trucking touches most facets of modern life, and I am proud to lead the Senate in showing professional truck drivers gratitude and respect.”

Sen. Kelly echoed that sentiment, pointing to the daily impact of drivers in Arizona and beyond:

“Arizona’s truck drivers are the reason our grocery shelves stay stocked, our hospitals get critical supplies, and our businesses reach their customers. They put in long hours on the road, away from their families, to keep our economy moving. I’m proud to join Senator Boozman in recognizing the hard work and sacrifice of these men and women during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.”

The Senate’s bipartisan resolution highlights the importance of America’s 3.6 million professional truck drivers and the sacrifices they make to keep goods moving across the nation.

Source: The Trucker

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“Being named Grand Champion at TMC’s National Technician Skills Competitions is a tremendous honor,” said Robert Braswell, TMC executive director. “Matthew demonstrated the kinds of skills, technical knowledge, and professionalism we have come to expect from our members. Congratulations to him and to all our competitors who displayed extraordinary talent during this competition.”

Other Top Performers

• Kelby Bentley of FedEx Freight, winner of the 2019 TMCSuperTech Grand Champion title, took second this year.
• Carl Diehl with Hogan Truck Leasing placed third.
• In the team competition, FedEx Freight won with John Blanchet and Philip Barlow representing the team.
• Tully McKinley won the student competition (TMCFutureTech) from Forsyth Technical Community College. Madison Boone from the same school placed second, and Bennett Fischer of WyoTech came in third.

Click here to see the complete list of station winners and click here for the final competition rankings.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: TMC

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