The annual competition, hosted by the American Trucking Associations (ATA), was held August 20–23 in Minneapolis. This year’s event brought together 425 drivers from 56 companies across 49 states, collectively representing nearly 756 million accident-free miles behind the wheel.

Comings, who has logged 3.1 million safe driving miles over nearly three decades in the industry, stood out among the nation’s most skilled drivers. In addition to being named Bendix Grand Champion, he also took first place in the 5-axle vehicle category.

“Congratulations to David on his extraordinary achievement,” said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear. “This week, David put on a master class of precision and professionalism that defines NTDC, emerging from an elite field of highly skilled competitors.”

A Career of Excellence

Comings has competed multiple times at both the state and national levels. In 2022 and 2023, he won first place in North Dakota’s 4-axle class, and in 2024, he claimed the 5-axle title at the state competition before advancing to the national stage.

His latest win marks his most significant achievement to date, cementing his reputation as one of the safest and most precise drivers in the industry.

Additional Awards and Highlights

The closing ceremony also recognized several other standout competitors:

• Rookie of the Year: Jeffrey Reed, UPS (New Mexico)
• State Team Champion: Colorado
• Neill Darmstadter Professional Excellence Award: Leroy Williams Sr., XPO
• Sam Gillette Lifetime Volunteer Award: Linda Nodland

Drivers competed across nine vehicle classes, along with a written exam and a vehicle inspection challenge. A full list of winners included:

Winners Across Vehicle Classes

Step Van:
1.    Logan Montandon, FedEx, Texas
2.    Matthew Futral, FedEx, Georgia
3.    Connor Christensen, United Parcel Service, Inc., Illinois

Straight Truck:
1.    Mark Carver, FedEx Freight, Missouri
2.    Samuel Bryant, FedEx Freight, Tennessee
3.    Bryan Reynaud, Walmart Transportation, Mississippi

3-Axle: 
1.    Daniel Shamrell, FedEx Freight, Oregon
2.    Gary Luster, FedEx Freight, Tennessee
3.    Brent Darnell, Southeastern Freight Lines, Georgia

4-Axle:
1.    Stephen Johnson, FedEx Freight, Mississippi
2.    Jeremy Steger, XPO, Wisconsin
3.    Robert Crowder, Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc., Virginia

5-Axle: 
1.    David Comings, FedEx Freight, North Dakota
2.    Roland Bolduc, FedEx, Connecticut
3.    John Willinger, FedEx Freight, Kentucky

Flatbed:
1.    Edward Hill, FedEx Freight, Delaware
2.    Adam Heim, FedEx Freight, Idaho
3.    Kenneth Rageth, FedEx Freight, Wyoming

Tank Truck:
1.    Jeff Langenhahn, XPO, Wisconsin
2.    Ernie Budlowski, XPO, Connecticut
3.    Glen Kirk, Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc., Indiana

Twins:
1.    Miguel Sanchez, United Parcel Service, Inc., Florida
2.    David Mogler, FedEx Freight, Colorado
3.    David Hall, ABF Freight, Arkansas

Sleeper Berth:
1.    Merle Ashbaugh, DHL Supply Chain, Ohio
2.    Todd Flippin, FedEx Freight, Colorado
3.    Herschel Evans, Aubrey Silvey Enterprises, Inc., Georgia

Vehicle Condition Award: 
•    Nick Gaudette, FedEx Freight, Colorado

Written Exam:
•    David Comings, FedEx Freight, North Dakota

State Team Award: 
1.    Colorado
2.    Illinois
3.    Virginia

The 2025 National Truck Driving & Step Van Championships were made possible by the support of several corporate sponsors, including:

Additional honors included:

• Vehicle Condition Award: Nick Gaudette (FedEx Freight, CO)
• Written Exam Award: David Comings (FedEx Freight, ND)

Event Sponsors

The ATA credited strong support from sponsors, including:

• Platinum: FedEx, Old Dominion Freight Line, Walmart, XPO
• Gold: ABF Freight, Boeing, C.A. Short Company, DHL, Samsara, UPS
• Silver: PITT OHIO

Why It Matters

The NTDC is often called the “Super Bowl of Safety” in trucking, spotlighting the skills, professionalism, and safety-first mindset that keep the nation’s highways moving.

Coming’s performance this year adds to his already remarkable career and highlights the high standards professional drivers bring to their work every day.

Image Source: American Trucking Associations
Source: Truckers News

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This year’s honorees, James “Jim” Jones, Roland Esquibel, and Mark Jones, have been inducted into Ryder’s prestigious “Driver Hall of Fame.” Together, these highly-skilled professionals share a staggering 105 years of combined experience and have collectively driven close to 6 million miles with an impeccable safety record.

“Our drivers move more than freight. They move our company and our customers’ businesses forward,” says Ryder Chairman and CEO Robert Sanchez. “Jim, Roland, and Mark represent the very best of Ryder and our customers, from their skill behind the wheel to their character and commitment to their communities. They are true ambassadors of our values and our brand.”

Meet the 2025 Driver of the Year Honorees

James ‘Jim’ Jones | Supply Chain Solutions

Based in Mason, Michigan, Jim Jones is a standout driver in Ryder’s Supply Chain Solutions division. With 38 years of professional driving experience, including the past eight with Ryder, Jim has safely logged over 2 million miles. Beyond his stellar driving record, Jim is a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Mason Fire Department. Known for his calm demeanor and team-first attitude, he exemplifies the values of responsibility and reliability that define Ryder.

(Source: Ryder) Jim Jones

Roland Esquibel | Dedicated Transportation Solutions

Hailing from Devine, Texas, Roland Esquibel is a driving force in Ryder’s Dedicated Transportation Solutions segment. Over a 35-year career, including the last four with Ryder, Roland has covered more than 2.3 million miles. A U.S. military veteran and an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Roland channels his leadership skills into every delivery. Outside of work, he contributes to his community through his local church, carrying forward his lifetime mission of service and mentorship.

(Source: Ryder) Roland Esquibel

Mark Jones | Fleet Management Solutions

Operating out of Sacramento, California, Mark Jones is the deserving winner of Ryder’s Fleet Management Solutions “Customer Driver of the Year” award. Over a 32-year career, with more than 1.5 million logged miles, Mark has displayed an unwavering commitment to safety and reliability. A decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, earning three Bronze Stars and the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Mark also mentors new drivers, ensuring future generations of professionals continue to excel.

(Source: Ryder) Mark Jones

Ryder’s Driver of the Year Program

Ryder’s Driver of the Year program is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence on the road. Highlighting unparalleled performance, the program celebrates top-tier drivers from Ryder’s workforce of 13,400 professionals, as well as drivers from their Fleet Management Solutions (FMS) customer base. Each honoree undergoes a rigorous selection process led by Ryder executives, safety specialists, and veteran drivers. For over half a century, this award has been one of Ryder’s most prestigious acknowledgments of driver excellence.

Through this annual recognition, Ryder not only honors its exceptional drivers but also highlights their critical role in driving the company, its customers, and the broader community forward.

Image Source: Ryder
Source: Truckers News

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Farness and the other class champions have now qualified to compete in the prestigious National Truck Driving Championships, scheduled to take place from August 20–23 in Minneapolis.

The competition saw over 80 skilled drivers showcasing their expertise across various challenges. Participants were required to:

• Complete a written test assessing their knowledge of federal regulations.
• Perform a meticulous pre-trip inspection to identify hidden mechanical defects.
• Navigate a demanding obstacle course, designed to test their precision driving skills under pressure.

“This competition highlights the extraordinary talent and dedication of Minnesota’s professional truck drivers,” said John Hausladen, President of the Minnesota Trucking Association. “These men and women deliver for our communities every day with an unwavering commitment to safety. The Truck Driving Championships allow us to recognize and celebrate that excellence.”

2025 Class Champions

Here are the first-place winners from each competition class:

• Five-Axle: Gideon Slabaugh, UNFI
• Flatbed: Thomas Gummo, Walmart Transportation
• Four-Axle: Anthony Zvorak, FedEx Freight
• Sleeper Berth: Calvin Logan, UPS
• Step Van: Lindy Jackson, FedEx Corporation
• Straight Truck: Nathan Wick, FedEx Corporation
• Tank: Michael Hager, Wayne Transports
• Three-Axle: Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight
• Twin Trailer (and Grand Champion): Nicholas Farness, XPO

The Minnesota Trucking Association’s annual event not only celebrates exceptional skill but also underscores the commitment to safety and professionalism upheld by truck drivers across the state. Congratulations to all participants and winners!

Image Source: Minnesota Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

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Additional award recipients

Several other drivers were also recognized for their exceptional skills and contributions during the event.

• Rookie of the Year: Daniel Skidmore, Prime Inc.
• Professional Excellence Award: Robert Hussey, Walmart Transportation
• Written Exam Award: Jamie Ingram, FedEx Express
• Pre-Trip Inspection Award: Audrey Lewis, DHL
• Team Champion: FedEx Freight

Class winners

The winners across various competition classes were as follows:

• Sleeper Berth: Bob Bramwell, ABF Freight Inc.
• Twin Trailers: Robert Leach, Old Dominion Freight Lines
• Tank Truck: Eric Carpenter, Walmart Transportation
• 3-Axle: Robbie Roth, FedEx Express
• 4-Axle: Joshua Price, Old Dominion Freight Line
• 5-Axle: Jamie Raines, Walmart Transportation
• Flatbed: Ron Hoover, Prime Inc.
• Straight Truck: Mark Carver, FedEx Freight
• Step Van: Courtney Husser, Walmart Transportation

Image Source: Missouri Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

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The Aliquippa, Pennsylvania-based company honored 48 Million Mile Drivers, 102 Safe Drivers, and 22 Premier Professional Drivers, applauding their dedication and commitment to excellence.

Top Award Winners

This year’s top accolades were awarded to notable individuals who have made a significant impact at PGT Trucking:

• Zachary Springer – Bill Wright Award for Team Player of the Year
• Ryan Drozynski – David Levin Award for Company Driver of the Year
• Sam Thompson-Graves – Safety Professional of the Year
• Terrence Fitzgerald – Harry “Buster” Barnes Award for Independent Contractor of the Year
• Clay Jones – Hobert Hill Award for Agent of the Year
• Jarrod Waugh – Certified PRO Trainer of the Year
• Cameron Foutch – Terminal Manager of the Year
• Christian McCon – Rookie Driver of the Year
• Doug Halulko – PGT MVP of the Year
• Michael Carreon – Terry “Kuz” Kusniar Award for Premier Professional Driver of the Year
• Laurence Cox – President’s Award

Additionally, PGT inducted five new Million Mile Drivers into their prestigious Hall of Fame, recognizing Timothy Austen, Donald Cunningham, Jr., Raul Delgado, Robert Tudor, and Andrew Utz for their exceptional dedication and safe driving records.

“When I started PGT 44 years ago, I knew that I needed a team of good people to help build my business, something that remains true to this day,” said Pat Gallagher, PGT Trucking founder and CEO. “PGT’s Million Mile and Safe Drivers are the very best at our company, and I am honored and blessed to have them on our side.”

A Digital Celebration for Driver Excellence

This year’s awards ceremony took a unique twist, with all celebrations held virtually across social media platforms. Individual award presentations were shared online, allowing the wider community to join in honoring these outstanding professionals.

To view a full recap of this year’s awards celebration and the exceptional achievements of PGT’s drivers, visit their official event page here.

PGT Trucking continues to prioritize driver recognition, showcasing the massive impact of its team in delivering excellence across every mile.

Source: Truckers News
(Image Source: PGT Trucking) Ryan Drozynski, recipient of the David Levin Award for Company Driver of the Year

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National Carriers Inc. (NCI), based in Irving, Texas, is shining the spotlight on four exceptional drivers who have been named the first finalists for the 2025 Driver of the Year. These finalists exemplify outstanding customer service, a commitment to safety, and a positive attitude, setting an industry gold standard.

Monthly Honors Lead to Prestigious Recognition

“Each month, National Carriers selects an outstanding driver to recognize for their continued contributions to our company’s success,” said Ed Kentner, NCI spokesman. “When making each selection, we consider service, safety, attitude, and appearance. These driving professionals transcend the requirements for superior performance and are the elite of the “Elite” fleet.”

The 2025 monthly honorees, now finalists for Driver of the Year, are Bradley Rickman, Ty Gurr, Ronald Hotchkiss, and Ken Bohn. Each has received a $1,000 recognition bonus and a shot at the coveted Driver of the Year award, which includes a $10,000 prize.

Meet the Finalists

Bradley Rickman

Named January 2025 Driver of the Month, Bradley Rickman has been an NCI “Elite” fleet driver since 2017. Based in northwest Oklahoma, Rickman specializes in transporting cattle hides from National Beef Packing Company’s facilities in Kansas to Missouri. With over one million accident-free miles under his belt, Rickman is a pillar of safety and professionalism.

Ty Gurr

Ty Gurr, a Florida resident from Ocala, earned the February Driver of the Month title. Joining NCI in 2021 as a company driver for refrigerated freight, Gurr operates across the lower 48 states. His dedication to safety and exceptional customer service has quickly elevated his status within the “Elite” fleet.

Ronald Hotchkiss

March’s Driver of the Month, Ronald Hotchkiss, an owner-operator who has worked with NCI for 12 years. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Hotchkiss focuses on serving Midwest customers and is well-known for his professional demeanor and polished appearance.

Ken Bohn

Representing April 2025, Ken Bohn is a U.S. Army veteran who joined NCI in 2019. Operating within the 48-state refrigerated lease division, Bohn’s commitment to safety and customer service sets him apart. His willingness to go above and beyond has made him a standout member of the NCI team.

A Commitment to Excellence

NCI’s Driver of the Year program represents their ongoing dedication to recognizing and rewarding exemplary performance within the trucking industry. With these Driver of the Month honorees now vying for the annual title, the competition highlights the exceptional contributions made by NCI drivers across the country.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2025 Driver of the Year, as NCI continues to celebrate excellence within its “Elite” fleet while fostering a culture of safety, service, and professionalism.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: NCI

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The deadline for submitting nominations is Friday, May 9.

(Source: CVSA) Darryl Tolle was last year’s IDEA award winner

What Makes Someone Eligible for the IDEA Award?

This award celebrates drivers who elevate the standards of the commercial driving industry, going far beyond the basic expectations of their role. These individuals exemplify safe driving excellence, responsible compliance, and a stellar personal character. To be considered for the award, nominees must meet specific criteria, including:

• A minimum of 25 cumulative years of crash-free driving in a commercial vehicle.
• A clean driving record, free of any violations (excluding form and manner violations) for the past three years.
• No felony convictions.
• No safety-related driving suspensions within the past three years.

It’s important to note: This award is open to all commercial motor vehicle industry members, regardless of their membership status with CVSA.

What Does the IDEA Winner Receive?

The IDEA recipient in 2025 will be honored as part of the CVSA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Denver, Colorado. The prize package includes the following:

• A $5,000 award.
• A stunning crystal trophy.
• A complimentary economy flight to Denver International Airport for the winner and one guest.
• A two-night stay at the Sheraton Denver Downtown.

The winner’s achievements will be spotlighted at the conference’s awards ceremony on September 24.

How to Submit a Nomination

Submitting a nomination is simple. CVSA has created an online nomination form, allowing individuals to provide the necessary details and upload supporting documentation conveniently.

Sponsor Spotlight

The 2025 IDEA Award is proudly sponsored by PrePass Safety Alliance, a non-profit organization that unites state agencies and industry leaders. Together, they focus on enhancing North America’s highway system’s safety, security, and efficiency.

Need More Information?

If you have any questions about the IDEA Award or the nomination process, feel free to email CVSA Fatigue Management Specialist Rodolfo Giacoman or call 202-998-1830.

Don’t miss the chance to shine a spotlight on a deserving professional driver who exemplifies the values of safety, commitment, and excellence. Nominate today!

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: International Drivers Association

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Among the three exceptional honorees was Jay Hosty, a dedicated member of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and a former board member. Hosty now stands alongside Craig Daniels and Darryl Tolle as individuals celebrated for their extraordinary dedication to the trucking profession.

Recognizing Outstanding Contributions to Trucking

Craig Daniels, based in Columbus, Georgia, is a U.S. Army veteran and currently drives for Crete Carrier. He represents the company with pride as part of their “Patriot Fleet,” a division committed to honoring veterans’ service to America.

Meanwhile, Darryl Tolle of Cynthiana, Kentucky, has consistently demonstrated unparalleled safety and professionalism throughout his career, accumulating an impressive 3.6 million accident-free miles on the road. Tolle’s unwavering commitment to safety earned him the prestigious 2024 Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance International Driver Excellence Award, further reinforcing his stellar reputation within the trucking industry.

Jay Hosty, a resident of Diamondhead, Mississippi, began his driving career in Louisiana in 1980. By 1989, he joined OOIDA, aligning with an organization dedicated to empowering and advocating for owner-operators like himself.

Celebrating Their Impact

Winners of the Citizen Driver program are each awarded $5,000 in cash, along with the opportunity to donate an additional $2,500 to a charity of their choice. Their accomplishments are further immortalized with a dedicated plaque prominently displayed at a location of their choosing within the TA, TA Express, or Petro Stopping Center network. Each dedication is marked by a celebration that pays tribute to their lasting contributions.

According to the TravelCenters of America Citizen Driver website, the program was conceived to honor professional drivers who excel on the road and within their communities. Each nomination undergoes careful evaluation by a panel of seasoned trucking professionals who select the winners based on their extraordinary impact.

Upholding a Legacy of Excellence

Since its establishment in 2013, the Citizen Driver program has consistently recognized the achievements of outstanding OOIDA members and their service to the trucking community.

The program’s significance was highlighted during the 2024 awards, with TA CEO Debi Boffa acknowledging the winners’ remarkable contributions. She stated, “It’s an honor to recognize such extraordinary individuals who consistently demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism, safety, and citizenship on and off the road.”

Her remarks reflect the ethos behind the Citizen Driver program, which celebrates not only the skills of professional truckers but also their dedication to safety and community involvement.

The recent ceremony at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville continues to highlight the exceptional individuals driving the trucking industry forward. Programs like Citizen Driver serve as a testament to the values of professionalism, safety, and service that define this essential profession.

Source: Land Line

Image Source: (Travel Centers – TA-Petro) from left to right: Craig Daniels, Daryl Tolle, and Jay Hosty.

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A Testament to Driver Excellence

Darrel Wilson, founder and CEO of Wilson Logistics, expressed his pride in achieving this honor, saying, “(I am) especially proud of this award because it recognizes positive results obtained by our drivers, supported by our non-driving staff, with the ultimate goal of safely picking up and delivering all freight on time and damage-free. It’s encouraging to see the TCA gaining credibility with new programs like the Elite Fleet that utilize actual data without subjectivity to certify carriers as being the best. Thank you to all of our drivers for all of your hard work and dedication.”

This achievement underscores the company’s dedication to safety and performance, reflecting the hard work of both its drivers and support teams.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Innovation

Wilson Logistics, a family-owned and operated business, began its journey in 1980 with a single truck. Since then, the company has expanded into a forward-thinking leader in the trucking industry, known for its unwavering focus on driver development and safety. Wilson Logistics fosters an environment where drivers choose career paths tailored to their individual preferences and needs.

Additionally, the company offers comprehensive resources, including a CDL training program, leasing options, and a broad range of carrier services, ensuring drivers are equipped for success.

About the TCA Elite Fleet Program

The TCA Elite Fleet Program identifies carriers based on measurable criteria, including safety, operational performance, driver compensation, benefits, technology, and quality of life. The certification is rooted in data and feedback, incorporating surveys from drivers and independent contractors for true validation.

“We are incredibly proud to announce this first class of TCA Elite Fleets,” said Jim Ward, president, TCA. “These carriers went through a comprehensive and detailed application process, had their drivers surveyed for validation, and received top scores for their combination of driver compensation, benefits, engagement, satisfaction, training, support, company equipment, safety and facilities. These forty-seven carriers are truly Elite Fleets, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to them.”

Commitment to Drivers’ Success

Being named a TCA Elite Fleet Certified Carrier cements Wilson Logistics’ standing as a top-tier carrier for professional drivers. This recognition serves as a testament to the company’s longstanding commitment to providing drivers with the tools, support, and opportunities needed to thrive, all while maintaining a steadfast emphasis on safety and innovation.

For more on the TCA Elite Fleet Program or Wilson Logistics, visit their website or social media platforms.

Source: The Trucker

Source: Wilson Logistics

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The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is now accepting applications for the 2025 International Driver Excellence Award (IDEA). This annual honor celebrates exceptional commercial motor vehicle drivers who demonstrate an unwavering dedication to public safety.

Last year’s winner Daryl Tolle (Source: CVSA)

About the Award

The IDEA is designed to highlight professional drivers who exceed the expectations of their role, showcasing exemplary performance and commitment to safe vehicle operation. Eligible candidates must have consistently maintained high safety standards and demonstrated distinction in their careers. Candidates are also expected to exhibit impeccable personal character and meet outlined criteria to qualify for this recognition.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the following criteria to be considered for the award:

• Accumulated at least 25 years of crash-free driving in a commercial motor vehicle.

• Maintain a clean driving record for the past three years with no safety-related violations or suspensions.

• Have no felony convictions or disqualifying behavior.

• Exclude minor form and manner infractions from their record.

The IDEA is open to the entire commercial motor vehicle industry, and CVSA membership is not a requirement for nomination.

What the Winner Will Receive

The 2025 IDEA award recipient will receive:

• A $5,000 cash prize and a crystal trophy.

• A complimentary round-trip economy flight to Denver International Airport for them and a guest.

• Accommodations including a two-night stay at the Sheraton Denver Downtown.

• Recognition at the CVSA Annual Conference and Exhibition awards ceremony on September 24, 2025.

Submitting Nominations

Nominations are open until Friday, May 9. Candidates can be submitted through CVSA’s online application form where all supporting documentation must also be uploaded.

The IDEA Program Committee will oversee the evaluation of all nominations, confirm their validity, and present their recommendations to CVSA’s Executive Committee. The selected recipient will be announced via a news release and will also be featured on CVSA’s website, social media platforms, and in Guardian, CVSA’s quarterly publication.

Learn More

• Looking for additional details? Visit CVSA’s FAQs page for answers to common questions about the IDEA award.

• Take a moment to explore what previous winners have achieved by reviewing the past award recipients.

Sponsored By

This year’s award is proudly sponsored by PrePass Safety Alliance, a nonprofit organization that unites state agencies and industry leaders to promote safety and efficiency across North America’s highways.

Source: Truckers News

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