“CVTA’s focus on increasing safety and opportunity in the industry led us to consider ways to support the health of drivers, and to do so in a way that will work for them in the real world through bite-sized pieces of information that are actionable,” said Andrew Poliakoff, CVTA’s executive director. “We’ve also seen schools and carriers that are interested in making this a reality.”

Mother Trucker Yoga isn’t your standard workout plan. Built from Hope Zvara’s own experience overcoming health challenges, the program focuses on simple, sustainable changes that drivers can use. Zvara, a nationally recognized wellness expert and best-selling author, created her platform with one clear goal: to help drivers feel better, move better, and live better.

Instead of long workouts or gym memberships that don’t fit a driver’s lifestyle, Mother Trucker Yoga offers quick three- to five-minute routines. Filmed in real-world settings, the videos are easy to follow and require no special equipment. Exercises focus on mobility, energy, stress relief, and overall well-being, making them practical for anyone behind the wheel.

“Hope’s energy and expertise were a great fit for a partnership, and we’re excited to see the program make a difference, especially as new drivers are beginning their careers,” Poliakoff added.

Through CVTA’s dedicated wellness portal, drivers can now enroll in a structured, self-paced course. The program begins with a personal health assessment and continues with four focused modules:

• Everyday Movement Essentials
• Fuel and Food for Better Health
• Four Exercises Every Driver Should Do Daily
• Managing Stress and Sleep for Better Health

The CDL Wellness Academy was built to be flexible and realistic, helping professional drivers take control of their health without losing valuable time on the road.

For more details on how fleets or schools can integrate the program, visit cvta.org/wellness.

To explore more tips and guidance from Hope Zvara, check out her monthly “Mind Over Matter” column, available exclusively on The Trucker.

Image Source: Mother Trucker Yoga
Source: The Trucker

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Captivated by a Semi-Truck

For Chris Clardy, the trucking dream began when he was just 12 years old. Visiting the Mt. Comfort Air Show with his family, his attention wasn’t on the soaring planes as one might expect. Instead, he was drawn to one exhibit — a semi-truck that stood as a symbol of strength and connection. The polished machine mesmerized young Chris, sparking an early desire to one day become a part of the trucking world.

It was also at the air show where he first came across C1 Truck Driver Training, the school that would later be instrumental in fulfilling his aspirations. Although the seeds of a dream were planted that day, life had a more complex road in store for him.

A Life-Changing Gesture

Not long after the air show, Chris was dealt a challenging hand. He faced severe medical hardships that put his young life on pause and left him hospitalized. For a child brimming with dreams, such obstacles were daunting.

But during these difficult times, a small but profoundly impactful gesture instilled hope in Chris. Chris Welch, the owner of C1 Truck Driver Training, sent him a heartfelt note. Included in the letter were words of encouragement and a promise that stayed with Chris for years. Welch assured him, saying, “Once you’re well enough, you’ll be treated to a ride in a semi-truck at our school.”

This promise wasn’t just about a truck ride; it symbolized belief in Chris’s potential and gave him a goal to hold on to.

Coming Back to a Dream

Fast forward nearly two decades. Despite life’s twists and turns, Chris never forgot the promise that had meant so much to him. When the time was right, he returned to C1 Truck Driver Training, determined to finally achieve the dream he had nurtured since childhood.

Chris arrived prepared, with his CDL (Commercial Driver License) permit and DOT (Department of Transportation) physical certification already in place. He wasn’t just chasing a dream — he was committed to making it reality.

With laser focus and tireless determination, Chris excelled during his training. He graduated as the top student in his class and passed his CDL test on the first attempt. His hard work earned him his first professional trucking role at PAM Transport, marking the successful completion of his first major milestone. But the story didn’t end there.

From Employee to Business Owner

For many, achieving childhood dreams offers a satisfying conclusion. But for Chris Clardy, it was the beginning of a greater mission. Driven by ambition, he continued to expand his horizons within the trucking industry.

Today, Chris not only drives trucks — he owns a fleet of them. Transitioning from employee to employer, he built a successful business that now provides opportunities for other aspiring drivers. His experience and insights make him a mentor to others, proof that success in trucking goes far beyond hauling freight.

Chris’s story exemplifies the ripple effect of quality education, resilience, and the right support system. Thanks to the foundational training he received at C1 Truck Driver Training and the mentorship that guided him, he is making a lasting impact in the trucking community.

Through programs offered by CVTA’s extensive member network, countless individuals like Chris Clardy are able to turn aspirations into achievements.

Image Source: CVTA
Source: The Trucker

The post A Promise That Drove a Dream: Chris Clardy’s Story with CVTA appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The announcement took place at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., where Troxell was presented with a brand-new Kenworth T680—a generous donation from Kenworth, marking the ninth year of their support for this event.

A Legacy of Service

Troxell comes from a family with deep military roots, as his grandfather, father, and uncle all proudly served their nation. Following in their footsteps, Troxell joined the Army in 2004, dedicating 20 years of his life to service. His commitment earned him distinction, including a Purple Heart after sustaining severe injuries in 2009.

Much like his decision to dedicate himself to the military, his choice to enter the trucking industry was inspired by his family’s strong connection to the trade.

A Record-Setting Achievement

Fastport, a key partner in the award program, expressed gratitude to the community for their involvement. “Thank you to everyone who voted and contributed to one of our largest voter turnouts ever,” the organization stated on Facebook. “Thanks to Kenworth, Hiring Our Heroes, and all who made this possible. Together, we honor and support veterans transitioning into the trucking industry.”

Honoring Finalists

The ceremony also recognized the other exceptional finalists who have transitioned from military service to successful trucking careers. Navy veteran Douglas Couch, a driver for Roehl Transport, Inc., was named runner-up and received a $10,000 cash prize.

Additionally, runners-up Shawn Haley, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran driving for Veriha Trucking LLC, and Billy Taylor, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran with Werner Enterprises, each received $5,000.

“These individuals have successfully transitioned from military service to driving careers, and their stories inspire others to follow suit,” said Brad Bentley, President of Fastport. “They truly embody the potential of the next generation of trucking professionals.”

Beyond Awards

Finalists also received valuable memberships from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), with Couch additionally awarded access to the comprehensive Truck To Success program.

Eligibility and Program Details

To qualify for the Transition Trucking award, nominees must be U.S. residents who are military veterans or members of the National Guard or Reserves. They must have graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS- or CVTA-member driver training school with a valid CDL, and been employed by a carrier or fleet committed to hiring veterans after Jan. 1, 2023.

For more information about the program and future awards, visit the official Transition Trucking website.

Source: Land Line

The post U.S. Army Veteran Cory Troxell Wins 2024 Transition Trucking Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.