What’s the best lesson your dad, grandpa, or another father figure taught you about hard work?

The responses showed that while every family is different, many drivers learned similar values growing up. Some lessons focused on showing up early. Others emphasized doing a job correctly, taking pride in your work, or earning what you have. Many community members also shared that the most important lessons did not come from words at all. They came from watching fathers and grandfathers lead by example.

Doing The Job Right Still Matters

One of the most common themes was the importance of doing quality work.

Gene McGlamery shared that his father taught him, “If you’re going to do something, do it right the first time, then you won’t have to fix it.” Billy Wolf offered a similar lesson, saying, “Do the job right the first time, every time, and on time.” Robert Laney summed it up with, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.”

Those comments reflect a lesson many drivers know well. Whether it involves securing a load, completing paperwork, or performing an inspection, taking the time to do a job properly often saves time and frustration later.

Showing Up Early Was a Lesson Many Never Forgot

Another lesson mentioned repeatedly was the value of punctuality. Nick Smith remembered being told, “If you’re on time, you’re late. Be there 15 minutes early.” Chris Leeret shared a similar version, saying, “Showing up 5 minutes early is 15 minutes late.” Keith Miller added, “Better to be 10 minutes early than 1 minute late.”

For many drivers, that advice extends beyond work. Being prepared, planning, and arriving early remain habits that can benefit both personal and professional life.

Hard Work and Smart Work Go Together

Several community members shared lessons that emphasized working smarter rather than simply working longer.

Rob Smith recalled his father telling him to “work smarter, not harder.” Paul-Maria Connelly shared a similar lesson, saying, “It doesn’t have to be hard if you do it smartly.” Adam Polley’s father offered another practical reminder: “Never do what a machine can do.”

While hard work was a common theme throughout the responses, many drivers pointed out that efficiency, planning, and problem-solving are equally important.

Nobody Owes You Success

Many fathers taught that if you want something in life, you have to earn it. John Masterson shared a lesson that stayed with him: “Nobody owes you anything. If you want something, earn it.” Victoria Vikemyr remembered her father telling her, “No one owes you a thing. If you want something, you have to work for it.” Janet Potts offered a similar message, saying, “If you want it, work for it.”

Those comments highlighted personal responsibility, a value that has long been associated with trucking and many other skilled trades.

Learning By Watching

Not every lesson came through direct advice. Richard Duncan shared a detailed reflection about watching his father work long days as an oilfield truck driver. He recalled seeing his father leave before sunrise, return home late, and provide for the family without complaint. Looking back, he said those years taught him what dedication and responsibility looked like.

Others expressed similar feelings. Crystal Jacobson said her father taught hard work through his actions, while Darlene Ryan said her father never had to give speeches because his example spoke for itself. Joan Haynes also credited her father’s example for teaching her the value of hard work.

Taking Pride in Your Work

Many responses focused on personal pride and integrity. Robert Stetson shared, “Take pride in everything you do or don’t do it.” Luis Otano emphasized doing your job with integrity, while Sharon Adams remembered her father saying, “No matter what the job is, make sure you give it your BEST.”

Those lessons continue to resonate because they apply regardless of profession. Whether someone drives a truck, works in a shop, manages a business, or farms the land, pride in workmanship remains something many families pass down from generation to generation.

The Lessons Continue Long After They Are Gone

As Father’s Day approaches, many of the responses reflected gratitude. Some drivers shared advice they still follow decades later. Others remembered fathers and grandfathers who are no longer here but whose lessons continue to influence their lives every day.

The exact words may differ from family to family, but the message was often the same. Show up. Work hard. Do things the right way. Take care of your family. Be proud of your work.

For many members of the Truck Drivers USA community, those lessons remain just as valuable today as when they first heard them.

FAQ

What question did Truck Drivers USA ask the community?

We asked community members, “What’s the best lesson your dad, grandpa, or another father figure taught you about hard work?”

What lesson appeared most often in the responses?

Doing a job right the first time and taking pride in quality work were among the most common themes.

Did drivers talk about punctuality?

Yes. Many community members shared lessons about arriving early, being prepared, and developing dependable habits.

Were the lessons only about work?

No. Many responses also focused on responsibility, integrity, self-reliance, and providing for family.

Did community members mention learning through example?

Yes. Several drivers said the most important lessons came from watching their fathers and grandfathers work hard throughout their lives.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 17, 2026

The post Truck Drivers Share the Best Lessons Their Fathers Taught Them About Hard Work appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The annual event, organized by the Nebraska Trucking Association, brought together professional drivers from across the state to compete in written testing, pre-trip inspections, driving skills, and vehicle class competitions. The championships also determine which drivers will represent Nebraska at the American Trucking Associations National Truck Driving Championships later this summer.

FedEx Freight and Walmart Transportation Drivers Earn Top Awards

In addition to Badgett’s Grand Champion title, several competitors received special awards recognizing outstanding performance throughout the event.

Logan Booker of Walmart Transportation, LLC earned Rookie of the Year honors after posting the highest overall score among first-time competitors.

Todd Gimpel of FedEx Freight claimed the Professional Excellence Award for the second consecutive year. The award is presented to the driver with the highest score on the written examination.

Garet Poland of Walmart Transportation received the Bucky Buchholtz Top Driver Award for achieving the highest score on the driving course. The award is named in honor of the late Bucky Buchholtz, a former Nebraska State Patrol trooper and longtime championships committee member.

Booker also earned the Kurt Everett Vehicle Condition Award for recording the highest score during the pre-trip inspection portion of the competition.

Joseph Busch of ABF Freight Systems, Inc. received the Jerry Wessel Award, which recognizes professionalism, industry knowledge, and attitude demonstrated throughout the championships. The award is open to drivers and volunteers who have participated in the event for at least five years.

Class Champions Secure Spots at National Competition

Nine class champions earned the opportunity to represent Nebraska at the National Truck Driving Championships scheduled for August 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.

Class winners included:

• Straight Truck: Clinton Rast of Omaha, Nebraska, ABF Freight Systems, Inc.
• Three Axle: Garet Poland of Kenesaw, Nebraska, Walmart Transportation
• Four Axle: Todd Gimpel of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Five Axle: Tom Canning of Bellevue, Nebraska, Old Dominion Freight Line
• Five Axle Sleeper: John Putney of Blanchard, Oklahoma, Greater Omaha Express
• Tank Truck: Tim Dean of Griswold, Iowa, Werner Enterprises
• Flatbed: George Chaney of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Twin Trailer: Paul Badgett of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Mixer Truck: Jacob Friederich of Papillion, Nebraska, Lyman-Richey Corporation
• Step Van: Korey Clifton of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, FedEx Express

Old Dominion Freight Line earned the team championship.

Friederich will also advance to the National Mixer Driver Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Nashville this October.

Inspector Competition Held Alongside Driver Championships

The Nebraska State Patrol Inspector Championships were conducted alongside the truck driving competition.

Inspectors competed in a series of evaluations that included personal interviews, hazardous materials exercises, and hands-on inspection challenges designed to test professional knowledge and technical skills.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Nebraska Trucking Association

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For some drivers, it is the scenery. For others, it is the freedom, the quiet, the music, or the feeling of rolling down the highway before sunrise with nobody else awake.

And for a surprising number of drivers, it is still kids asking for the air horn.

The Road Still Shows Drivers Things Most People Never See

A lot of responses centered around the changing view outside the windshield.

Drivers talked about snow-covered mountains, desert highways at night, changing fall leaves, sunsets across the plains, and those random stretches of road that somehow still look impressive no matter how many times they have been driven.

Anya Ramirez wrote, “The views from my office. Even when I see the same stretch over and over, it never gets old.”

David Manewal talked about waking up near the Rocky Mountains one week and desert scenery only days later.

Maria Armold shared stories about spotting black bears, wild goats in the Rockies, and panthers in the Everglades during her years on the road.

Several drivers mentioned Arizona sunsets, Pacific coast highways, and mountain passes that still stick with them years later.

Susie Gilcrease described one of those moments that many drivers immediately recognized.

“My favorite part of any drive…cresting a grade and looking out over the valley below. The view always lifted my mood and made me happy.”

For many truck drivers, the windshield still beats any office window.

A Lot Of Drivers Still Love The Quiet

Several drivers talked about something people outside trucking often misunderstand completely: the peace that can come with being alone on the road.

Clayton McDaniel called it “The quiet solitude.”

Whitney Jo Wiley simply answered, “The quiet.”

Neil Van Tonder described trucking as “Peaceful, sweet solitude…” while Robert Wyman summed it up with “No walls, no cages.”

That feeling came up repeatedly throughout the discussion. Long stretches of highway. Music in the background. Just the truck and the road ahead.

Rick Whited described it as “Being the captain of my own ship.”

Carolyn Smith answered with “Freedom of the open road.”

Even retired drivers said that feeling never really leaves.

Peter Ludwell reflected on earlier years in trucking before phones and tracking systems became part of daily operations.

“The freedom of driving everywhere, especially in the 70s and 80s, when you were your own boss, no phones, no tracker, just phone in when done for next job,” he wrote.

Drivers Say The Little Things Still Matter

Some of the most common responses were also some of the simplest.

Mark Owen wrote, “Blowing the horn for kids doing the arm pump.”

Jerry Dewayne added, “When them arms pump I’m blowing that horn the most awesome feeling in the world, no matter what age.”

Others talked about truck stop coffee, CB conversations, nighttime highway runs, hearing the engine pull through the gears, and watching storms move across the horizon late at night.

Harold Bartleson mentioned “Cruising down the highway listening to Christopher Cross Sailing.”

Beth Lindquist described “Running fully opened up at night esp through the desert with the stars out, listening to music.”

For a lot of drivers, those smaller moments are still tied closely to why they fell in love with trucking in the first place.

Many Retired Drivers Still Miss The Road

Some of the strongest responses came from retired drivers who admitted that trucking still stays with them long after leaving the industry.

Zoranda Fox Newman wrote, “The sound of a diesel still stirs my soul.”

Tom Fiala reflected on 48 years in trucking by saying, “It was a great life!”

Brian Kelleher added, “I miss the road and the scenery.”

Even after retirement, many drivers said they still think about the highways, the routines, the people they met, and the feeling of watching the country roll by through the windshield.

Not every response was serious. Some were funny. Some were only a few words long. But together they painted a clear picture of why trucking becomes more than just a job for so many people who spend their lives on the road.

As Martha Martel wrote, trucking gave her the chance to appreciate “our country… every mile.”

Join our TDUSA community to take part in conversations like these.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 1, 2026

The post Truck Drivers USA Drivers Share the Parts of Trucking They Still Love After All These Years appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“This year, we were thrilled to receive over 80 drawing and writing entries,” said Lisa Broyhill, vice president of industry relations for IFDA. “The creativity, emotion, and pride these children express every year are a touching reflection of the commitment our competitors show daily. We’re grateful for Fleet Advantage’s continued partnership and their dedication to celebrating the families that make this industry so special.”

The foodservice distribution sector depends on the professionals who keep freight moving safely and on schedule. Fleet Advantage continues to highlight the families who support those workers day in and day out.

For nearly a decade, the Kids Drawing and Writing Contest has given children a chance to describe why their parent or guardian is their hero. The entries are heartfelt, creative, and often surprisingly deep for their age groups.

This year’s drawing contest winner for second grade and below was Payton Keiser, child of Justin Keiser from Dot Foods. In the third through fifth grade writing category, first place went to Aumber Singh, daughter of Harjinder Singh from Mondelez. “My dad reminds me of the Disney character Beast because he is strong and kindhearted. My dad works hard like a Beast and sometimes looks serious,” Aumber said. Second place went to Avery Gomez, daughter of Gustavo Gomez from Performance Food Group, and third place went to Declan Falconburg, son of James Falconburg from Nicholas and Company.

In the sixth through eighth grade writing group, first place was awarded to Emilie Ditscheit, daughter of Mark Ditscheit from Performance Food Group. “My competitor shows me that being a hero is not all about superpowers, it’s about lifting others and making a difference in their lives,” Emilie said. Micky Parker, daughter of Mike Parker from Shamrock Foods, earned second place, and third place went to Aaryn Kissire, daughter of Jason Kissire from Vistar and PFG.

The ninth through twelfth grade writing category was topped by Annabelle Nichols, daughter of Richard Arens from Performance Foodservice. “He’s my hero because he didn’t just step into my life; he stepped into my heart,” Nicholson said. Second place went to Ilyana Vasquez, daughter of William Vasquez from Shamrock Foods, and third place was awarded to Natalie Heredia, daughter of Luciano Heredia, also from Shamrock Foods.

Fleet Advantage noted that this year’s entries showed impressive creativity and genuine admiration for the drivers and warehouse workers who keep the nation’s foodservice network running strong.

The IFDA National Championship itself is one of the leading events in the foodservice distribution world. Drivers and warehouse professionals compete in challenges that test precision, safety, and real-world skills. It is a chance for the industry to recognize the people who keep goods moving long before they reach a restaurant or grocery store.

“Drivers and warehouse operators are the heart of our food supply chain,” said Katerina Jones, CMO of Fleet Advantage. “We are honored to continue recognizing the individuals and families who support this vital industry. The Kids Drawing and Writing Contest is a heartfelt reminder that behind every competitor is a family filled with pride, admiration, and love.”

For truckers everywhere, the message resonates. Families may not be in the cab every day, but they fuel the miles. This contest gives those families a moment to shine and reminds the industry who is cheering behind every load.

Image Source: Fleet Advantage

Source: The Trucker

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Always Striving to Be the Best

Being the best isn’t about chasing titles or boasting numbers. For Crete, Shaffer, and Hunt, it means setting a higher standard for what it means to be a professional in trucking. Every detail matters, from safe equipment and reliable service to transparent communication and consistent performance.

These companies invest in their people and their tools. Drivers receive ongoing training and support, and the fleets are kept up to date with modern, well-maintained equipment. Dispatchers and operations teams work with the same level of accountability and pride. Together, that mindset builds long-term trust with customers and strengthens every part of the business.

Drivers know that excellence is expected, but it’s also recognized. Milestone awards, career growth opportunities, and clear communication make it easier to stay motivated and proud of the work being done. For these companies, being the best means being dependable, honest, and committed to continuous improvement.

Working Hard and Having Fun Along the Way

Trucking is a demanding career, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyable. Crete, Shaffer, and Hunt believe that when people enjoy what they do, they perform better and stay longer. That’s why the principle of having fun is more than a motto; it’s part of everyday life on and off the road.

Drivers are celebrated for their achievements, whether it’s safe miles, years of service, or a job well done. Team gatherings, appreciation events, and family-friendly celebrations create a strong sense of community. Even on tough days, that camaraderie makes a difference.

Fun also shows up in small, meaningful ways: supportive dispatchers, management that listens, and an environment where drivers feel respected and valued. It’s about creating a culture that recognizes hard work but doesn’t forget the importance of enjoying the ride.

Why These Values Matter

In an industry where demands are high and time is tight, the combination of excellence and enjoyment helps keep everything in balance. By focusing on doing things right and keeping morale strong, Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation continue to set an example for what a driver-focused company should look like.

They’ve built a place where safety, performance, and appreciation go hand in hand, and where success is measured not just in miles driven but in the satisfaction of the people who drive them.

If you’re looking for a company that values excellence, respect, and genuine teamwork, explore driving opportunities with the Crete Carrier family of companies here.

The post How Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation Pursue Excellence and Keep Trucking Fun appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Membership Built for Drivers

To show appreciation, WIT is giving drivers 50% off all Driver Memberships with the code DRIVER2025. Whether you are joining for the first time or renewing, this limited-time offer makes now the perfect moment to get involved.

Membership with Women In Trucking is not just about discounts or perks; it is about connection. Drivers become part of a supportive network that uplifts women and allies across the industry, providing resources, mentorship, and community when it is needed most.

How to Join

Drivers can take advantage of this offer before National Truck Driver Appreciation Week comes to an end by signing up through the Women In Trucking website. Enter DRIVER2025 at checkout to receive 50% off your Driver Membership.

Source: Women In Trucking

Image Source: Star Arandale (Unsplash)

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“The ongoing freight recession has brought challenges for all segments of the trucking industry,” said Jane Jazrawy, CEO of CarriersEdge. “However, that hasn’t stopped fleets from finding creative ways to support their drivers, and we’re looking forward to hearing all the great ideas they’ve come up with.”

Nominations are now being accepted through October 31. Drivers, including company employees and independent contractors, can nominate their fleets at www.bf2df.com. The program welcomes all for-hire fleets operating 10 or more tractor-trailers across the U.S. or Canada, regardless of freight segment.

Once nominated, participating fleets complete a detailed questionnaire and interview, outlining driver-focused programs across multiple categories. Selected drivers are also surveyed to provide firsthand insight into their experiences. Responses from both management and drivers are scored, determining the top 20 fleets. These are then split into small and large fleet categories, with the highest-scoring fleet in each recognized as the Best Overall Fleet for their category. Hall of Fame entrants may also be honored as overall winners.

Recognition for Top 20 fleets, overall winners, and Hall of Fame entries will take place during the Best Fleets to Drive For Education and Awards Conference, scheduled for March 2026.

For additional information about the program, including past winners and best practices, visit www.bf2df.com. Stay connected with the program on social media using the hashtag #BestFleets26, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BestFleetsToDriveFor, and on LinkedIn at www.LinkedIn.com/company/BestFleetsToDriveFor.

Image Source: Nigel Tadyanehondo (Unsplash)

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Giving Back Through Action

“As a family-owned company, we believe strongly in giving back to the communities where we live and work,” said Phill Wilt, president and CEO of ACT. “Cancer has touched so many of our lives in deeply personal ways, and it reminds us how important it is to stand together. This fundraiser is more than a meal; it is a reflection of our shared hope, our resilience, and our belief that we can make a difference when we unite for a cause greater than ourselves. At ACT, we see our employees and community as family, and when one of us is affected, all of us are called to act. That is why supporting the American Cancer Society is not just an event on our calendar, but a commitment in our hearts.”

The event took place at the ACT Plaza Building in Kansas City and was themed “ACT Fights Cancer in All Colors,” emphasizing that cancer affects everyone, not just breast cancer patients.

Bringing the Community Together

More than 160 people attended the fundraiser, enjoying ribeye steak sandwiches along with sides and desserts. A raffle, featuring prizes donated by ACT employees and vendors, offered participants a chance to contribute further. All proceeds from raffle ticket sales and lunch donations were directed to cancer research and patient support.

Together, the ACT community raised $7,650 for the American Cancer Society.

Ongoing Efforts

Support for the cause doesn’t stop with the fundraiser. Community members can continue donating online at http://main.acsevents.org/goto/TeamACT. Raffle ticket sales will continue until Friday, September 19, with winners announced during National Driver Appreciation Week.

“ACT’s commitment does not end with this luncheon,” ACT said. “The company and its associates will participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Crown Center. Team members and their families will walk in honor of those who have battled cancer and in support of research, treatment, and the hope for a cure.

Source: ACT

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Behind the wheel was Barry Carlson, a longtime Hy-Vee driver whose face now graces the side of one of the company’s semi-trailers. After 40 years on the road, Barry received one of the company’s highest honors: becoming the face of Hy-Vee’s “helpful smile” campaign on a moving tribute that spans nine Midwestern states.

But this wasn’t just about a photo on a trailer. Barry had the chance to drive that very truck into his hometown store, where friends, coworkers, family, and corporate leaders from Hy-Vee were waiting to welcome him back. As a special keepsake, Barry was given a miniature replica of the truck that now carries his image across the region.

Source: Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee has revived its long-standing tradition of honoring employees who’ve dedicated more than four decades of service. Barry is among 18 team members whose photos are now featured on the sides of Hy-Vee trucks. These rigs are more than just delivery vehicles—they’re a rolling tribute to the commitment and care of some of the company’s most loyal employees.

As they make their way across Iowa and beyond, these trucks will deliver more than groceries—they’ll carry the story of people like Barry Carlson, whose “helpful smile” has been part of the journey for 40 years and counting.

Source: The Trucker
Images Source: Hy-Vee

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These aren’t just workers doing their jobs. They’re young professionals who are stepping up, demonstrating exceptional skill, professionalism, and a deep commitment to safety, quality, and growth. The award is a nod to those who are proving that trucking and diesel careers can offer purpose, pride, and long-term opportunity.

“These young professionals are setting the standard for what it means to build a meaningful, purpose-driven career in the industry — and we want to recognize them for it,” said Lindsey Trent, president of the Next Generation in Trucking Association.

Who’s Eligible for the NEXT Top Talent Award?

To qualify, nominees must:

• Be employed in the U.S. as a truck driver or technician
• Be under 30 years old
• Demonstrate excellence in skill and professionalism
• Prioritize safety and quality in their work
• Contribute positively to their team or company
• Show motivation to grow within the industry
• Inspire others with their passion for trucking

Winners will be named in September 2025, aligning with both National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and National Technician Appreciation Week. Those selected will receive national recognition and will be featured in the association’s communications and at key industry events.

Rebecca Brewster, president and COO of the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), emphasized why programs like this are so important:

“With the average age of today’s truck driver at 47, our industry must be intentional about attracting and retaining younger talent.”

How to Nominate a Rising Star

Nominations for the NEXT Top Talent Award are open through August 29, 2025. If you know a young driver or technician who’s raising the bar, this is the chance to shine a light on their work. Submit a nomination here.

Source: The Trucker

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