Maverick Transportation has named its 2025 Drivers of the Year, highlighting two drivers who have built that kind of reputation through their work on the road and within their teams.

Charles Baber was selected as Over the Road Driver of the Year, while Ron Watson earned Dedicated Driver of the Year honors.

“This recognition is awarded annually to Maverick drivers who consistently go above and beyond in their commitment to safety,” Maverick said. “Honorees exemplify the highest levels of integrity and professionalism in every aspect of their role, setting a benchmark for excellence while proudly representing the Maverick fleet as ambassadors of the professional driving community.”

Charles Baber Sets the Tone on the OTR Side

Baber, who operates in Maverick’s flatbed division, was recognized not just for how he handles the job, but how he shows up for other drivers.

“Charles exemplifies what it means to be a Maverick,” said John Coppens, vice president of operations. “He’s confident, approachable, and never afraid to take on new challenges, whether that’s assisting others to lead change in the ROC division or stepping up to provide a voice for Maverick drivers. Charles believes deeply in mentorship, safety, and asking the right questions, and he’s honored to be a professional driver. He’s proud to wear the Black Hat, proud to work at Maverick, and just as proud to go home to his family after a job well done. Charles is truly a deserving recipient of Maverick’s 2025 Driver of the Year award.”

For Baber, the recognition is simple but meaningful.

“I am feeling wonderful about it,” Barber said. “It is an enormous honor, and it feels like a huge pat on the back. If I could tell other drivers to start doing everything the way you are taught, and you’ll be ok no matter what.”

Ron Watson Recognized for Consistency in Dedicated Operations

Watson, who runs in Maverick’s final mile division, was recognized for reliability and stepping in where needed across operations.

“It feels surreal, and I am taking it one day at a time,” Watson said. “It is rare that a company shows appreciation to its drivers, so things like this boost the morale of drivers.”

Leadership pointed to his willingness to support the team wherever needed.

“Mr. Watson lives the Maverick Way every day,” said Justin Brown, senior vice president of dedicated operations. He sets the standard by doing whatever is needed to help our growing Final Mile team, including traveling to fill in other markets, assisting other drivers, and doing it all while providing his customers with top-notch service. Congratulations, Ron, and thank you.”

That consistency has not gone unnoticed at the account level either.

“Ron is as steady as the day is long,” said Gordon Lee, dedicated onsite account manager. “He exhibits a great work ethic, attention to detail, commitment to his job, and is an absolute joy to work with. He is always available when we need him to help and has stepped up numerous times. Ron carries himself professionally and sets a great example for other drivers to follow. I can’t say enough good things about Ron. He does everything the right way…the Maverick way.”

What This Recognition Signals Across the Industry

Driver of the Year awards carry weight because they reflect what fleets are actually looking for in today’s environment.

Safety, consistency, and professionalism are still the foundation. But just as important is how drivers support each other, represent their company, and handle the job when things do not go as planned.

For drivers, it is a reminder that the details matter. For fleets and industry stakeholders, it reinforces the value of recognizing the people who keep operations running strong every day.

At the end of the day, awards like this come down to doing the job right and doing it consistently.

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The announcement was made in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, where industry leaders gathered to celebrate drivers who represent the highest standards of the profession. Klingson was selected from a pool of monthly honorees who stood out throughout the year for their driving records, industry involvement, and commitment to safety.

A career built on safety and reliability

Klingson’s selection reflects more than longevity. Over 40 years behind the wheel, he has accumulated more than 6 million safe driving miles, a milestone few drivers ever reach. Minnesota Trucking Association leaders said that level of performance is especially notable given the daily challenges drivers face, including congestion, distracted motorists, and harsh winter driving conditions.

“This award is a great way to honor the best in our industry,” said John Hausladen, MTA president. “Driving safely is no easy task—especially with daily challenges like congestion, driver distractions, and Minnesota winters. Gary’s achievement of more than 6 million safe driving miles over 40 years is truly outstanding, and we’re proud to recognize him for this accomplishment.”

How the Driver of the Year is selected

The Minnesota Driver of the Year honor follows a yearlong process. Throughout 2025, trucking companies across the state nominated exceptional drivers to be considered for Driver of the Month. Those drivers were evaluated based on strict criteria, including driving and work history, contributions to highway safety, industry involvement, and community engagement.

From the twelve monthly honorees, one driver was selected as Driver of the Year by a judging panel that included representatives from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and the Minnesota State Patrol.

Recognition from Koch Trucking leadership

Koch Trucking leaders said Klingson’s recognition reflects the standards the company expects from its professional drivers.

“For four decades, Gary has shown up to work, day after day, with a strong work ethic and a commitment to doing things right,” said Rick Lueck, senior director of flatbed and oversized, Koch. “Gary truly represents the best of the best, recently accomplishing 6 million safe driving miles, a remarkable milestone that reflects his unwavering dedication to safety throughout his career.”

Why the recognition matters

Industry stakeholders say awards like Minnesota Driver of the Year highlight the role experienced drivers play in keeping freight moving safely. As fleets face ongoing challenges related to safety, retention, and public perception, honoring drivers who consistently perform at a high level reinforces the importance of professionalism behind the wheel.

For fellow drivers, Klingson’s recognition serves as a reminder that steady performance, attention to safety, and long-term commitment are still valued and celebrated within the industry.

Source: The Trucker

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Selected from a pool of elite candidates, Carter’s recognition underscores his lifelong commitment to safe driving, community service, and advocacy for his fellow veterans. The Driver of the Year award, accompanied by an exclusive prize package, will be officially presented at a special event this summer at Cargo Transporters’ terminal in Claremont, North Carolina.

Honoring a Legacy of Excellence

“Perry exemplifies what it means to be a professional driver, a servant leader and an industry ambassador,” stated Matthew Sheffield, marketing and public relations coordinator at Cargo Transporters. “He has the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and community service, and is a powerful voice for veteran causes and a dedicated advocate within the trucking community.”

Carter, a U.S. Air Force veteran, is celebrated for his remarkable leadership and selflessness. His efforts to support organizations aiding veterans stand as key pillars of his inspiring story. These organizations include Ride of Pride-DTNA Cleveland, American Legion Posts, Purple Heart Homes, and American Warriors of Liberty, NC.

Carter also drives Cargo Transporters’ Ride of Pride tractor, The Carolina, a military-themed Freightliner honoring veterans.

A Stellar Career Behind the Wheel

“Perry has also maintained a flawless safety record over nearly 3 million miles and 32 years, over two decades of which have been with Cargo Transporters,” said DMC. His long-standing dedication to safe and efficient driving played a major role in earning him this accolade.

Perry’s deep ties to the trucking industry go beyond the driver’s seat. His roles as a 2024 TCA Driver of the Year and a 2025 ATA Road Team Captain further highlight his influence and impact. On top of that, his participation in Truck Driving Championships and involvement in advocacy efforts for both community and industry causes showcase the qualities that set him apart from his peers.

The DMC Insurance Driver of the Year Award

This award is presented annually by DMC Insurance to acknowledge outstanding drivers among its customers. Candidates are nominated by their respective organizations, with each company having the chance to submit up to three names.

For more information about the DMC Insurance Driver of the Year Award, click here.

Image Source: DMC
Source: The Trucker

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