DMC Insurance announced the award on July 1, saying Barboza was selected by a panel of judges with experience in transportation, safety, and related fields. The company plans to present the award and prize package during a driver appreciation event at Barboza’s home terminal later this summer.

Barboza earned the recognition after compiling an exceptional career that includes more than 3.5 million miles behind the wheel and 28 years with Covenant Logistics. Throughout that time, he has received numerous safety and training honors, including Covenant’s 120 Club recognition for reaching 3 million consecutive accident-free miles, a milestone the company says is equivalent to driving around the Earth 120 times.

His accomplishments also include being named Covenant’s 2025 Professional Trainer of the Year, earning multiple Professional Trainer of the Month honors, receiving the 2025 TCA Professional Driver of the Year award, and competing in several professional truck driving championships.

DMC said Barboza distinguished himself not only through his driving record but also through his commitment to mentoring new drivers. During his career, he has trained more than 650 students, helping prepare the next generation of professional drivers entering the industry.

According to DMC, Barboza began pursuing a trucking career in 1998 to provide a better future for his family. He has remained with Covenant Logistics ever since, crediting the company’s investment in driver development and its family-oriented culture as reasons for building a long-term career there.

Away from work, Barboza and his wife, Nancy, have devoted much of their lives to serving others. The couple has provided foster care for more than 30 children and later became permanent guardians to four of them. DMC also highlighted Barboza’s volunteer efforts, noting that he enjoys fishing and preparing food for families in need when he is home.

“Nick reflects the very best of the transportation industry: hard work, loyalty, faith, generosity and a genuine desire to lift others,” said Lathen Whited, vice president of enterprise retention at Covenant. “His story is not only remarkable, but also an example for all to follow.”

The DMC Insurance Driver of the Year Award recognizes professional drivers employed by DMC Insurance customers who demonstrate excellence in safety, leadership, and community service. Participating companies may nominate up to three drivers each year, with one recipient selected following an independent review process.

Drivers interested in learning more about the DMC Insurance Driver of the Year Award, including the nomination process and past recipients, can find additional information on the company’s official website.

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 8, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: DMC

The post Covenant Logistics Driver Named 2026 DMC Insurance Driver of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Louisiana Motor Transport Association Foundation recognized Charles James of New South Express with the 2026 Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year award during its Truck Safety Awards ceremony on June 20 in Lafayette. The ceremony was held alongside the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships awards program at the Cajundome Event Center. Casey Driggers of Custom Transport was also recognized as the 2026 Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year.

James Honored for Safety Record and Professionalism

According to the LMTA Foundation, James was selected for the driver award based on his safety record and professionalism on the job. Over the past seven years, he has logged roughly 700,000 accident-free miles without a preventable crash, moving violation, or DOT-recordable incident.

In announcing the award, LMTA described James as a reliable driver with a strong commitment to safety and a positive attitude on the job. The association said his professionalism behind the wheel and the way he represents the trucking industry made him a deserving choice for this year’s award.

Award Presented During the Louisiana Truck Driving Championships Weekend

The award was presented during the LMTA Foundation’s annual Truck Safety Awards ceremony, which took place June 20 at the Cajundome Event Center in Lafayette. The event was held in conjunction with the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships awards ceremony.

LMTA’s Truck Driving Championships serve as the state’s annual skills competition for professional drivers and are part of the association’s larger safety and driver recognition efforts in Louisiana.

LMTA Also Recognizes Safety Professional of the Year

Along with James’ award, the foundation recognized Casey Driggers of Custom Transport as the Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year.

LMTA said Driggers was selected for his work building a stronger safety culture across his company’s operations. According to the association, he oversees safety efforts tied to more than 20 million annual miles and nearly 300 employees. LMTA credited him with implementing training, accountability measures, and safety technology that produced measurable results.

The association also pointed to his focus on driver development, communication, and collaboration with industry and enforcement partners as reasons he was selected for the honor.

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 30, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Louisiana Motor Truck Association

The post New South Express Driver Charles James Named Louisiana Driver of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The award follows his selection as Driver of the Month in March 2025.

Driving record and recognition

Segebart’s career includes 4.5 million safe miles over 45 years. The Kansas Motor Carriers Association highlighted that record in its announcement, noting “Not one shortcut.”

That phrasing reflects how the association described his approach to driving.

Role as a trainer and mentor

In addition to his time on the road, Segebart serves as a mentor and a certified trainer. These roles place him in direct contact with other drivers as part of training and development.

Next step at the national level

The recognition also positions Segebart as Kansas’s entry for the national Driver of the Year award through the American Trucking Associations.

“Nearly five decades behind the wheel, a driver mentor, a certified trainer, and now Kansas’s entry for the ATA National Driver of the Year,” said the association. “Tom, the entire Kansas trucking industry is proud of you. This one’s well-earned.”

What this recognition reflects

The award recognizes long-term performance, safety, and involvement in training within the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who named the 2025 Kansas Driver of the Year?
The Kansas Motor Carriers Association.

What company does Tom Segebart drive for?
Walmart Transportation.

What milestone is highlighted in his career?
4.5 million safe miles over 45 years.

What roles does he hold beyond driving?
He is a mentor and a certified trainer.

Is he eligible for a national award?
Yes. He is Kansas’s entry for the ATA National Driver of the Year.

Recognition at the state level reflects a driving record built over time and acknowledged by industry organizations.

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: April 28, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post Kansas Driver Logs 4.5 Million Safe Miles and Earns Statewide Recognition appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The winner will be announced during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event on March 27 at the Mid America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky.

Each of the finalists brings a unique background to the industry, with careers that include safety leadership, driver mentoring, and outreach efforts that highlight the importance of professional drivers across the country.

Ingrid Brown

Ingrid Brown of Boone, North Carolina, has spent more than four decades building a career in trucking centered on safety and leadership. Over her 46-year career, she has worked as both a driver and an industry advocate while continuing to stay active behind the wheel.

Brown operates as an independent owner-operator through Rollin’ B LLC while also serving as operations manager for a refrigerated fleet. She continues hauling freight for Blackjack Express LLC, including oversize, heavy haul, and refrigerated loads.

Her safety advocacy reaches beyond her day-to-day work. Brown serves as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Voice of Safety for the Our Roads, Our Safety campaign and has appeared in national public service announcements, billboards, radio programming on SiriusXM, and social media outreach efforts.

Her previous honors include the 2015 NASTC America’s Road Team and Woman Driver of the Year recognition, the 2025 NASTC Ambassador of the Year award, and the 2018 TA Petro Citizen Driver Award.

Brown has also been involved with the Women In Trucking Association since 2007 as one of its charter members and currently serves on the organization’s board of directors. After surviving melanoma, she has also focused on raising awareness about the disease while mentoring new drivers entering the industry.

Fabiola Campos-Buenavista

Fabiola Campos Buenavista built her trucking career through determination and a strong commitment to learning the craft. When she joined FedEx Freight, she had limited driving experience, but by age 22, she was already operating a tractor-trailer and beginning a career focused on safety and driver development.

In 2014, she became the first female driver development instructor at FedEx Freight. Since then, she has trained more than 40 drivers, helping new operators build the skills and confidence needed to handle commercial equipment safely.

Campos Buenavista is known for taking a hands-on approach when working with trainees and takes pride in helping new drivers find success in the industry.

Beyond the cab, she serves as a FedEx Road Team Captain and participates in outreach efforts that include school safety education programs and disaster relief initiatives.

Gina Jones

Gina Jones entered trucking after a long career in retail management and chose to pursue a commercial driver’s license at age 50 so she could join her husband Steve on the road.

Since then, she has built an impressive safety record that includes more than 1.5 million accident-free miles.

Her driving career has earned several recognitions, including the 2024 TA Citizen Driver Award, the Werner Safe Driver Award, and membership in the NTA President’s Safe Driver Club.

Jones also became active in industry advocacy. In 2025, she was invited to speak at the White House about the real-world impacts of electric vehicle mandates on trucking operations.

She previously served as an ATA America’s Road Team Captain from 2022 through 2023 and has remained involved in mentoring future drivers through school visits and recruitment efforts.

Jones and her husband also participate in Werner’s Operation Freedom Fleet program, driving a specially wrapped truck while supporting the 50 Mile March. When she is not on the road, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and riding her Harley.

Kellylynn McLaughlin

Kellylynn McLaughlin brings more than a decade of professional driving experience across multiple sectors of the industry. Her background includes dry van operations, driver training, equine transportation, and over-the-road hazardous materials hauling with Clean Harbors Environmental Services.

Earlier in her career, she served as the first Driver Ambassador for Women In Trucking. In that role, she traveled across the country speaking about the role drivers play in the economy and encouraging more people to consider trucking careers.

Before entering the industry, McLaughlin earned a degree from Oklahoma State University, served in the Peace Corps, and worked internationally for a nonprofit organization.

She continues to advocate for professional drivers by sharing industry perspectives through speaking engagements, interviews, and advisory work.

Her involvement includes participation in several industry groups, such as the FMCSA Women of Trucking Advisory Board, the TAT Advisory Council, and the Travel Centers of America Women’s Safety Advisory Panel.

The 2026 Driver of the Year announcement later this month will highlight one of these four finalists whose work behind the wheel and within the industry continues to shape the future of trucking.

The post Women In Trucking Names Four Finalists for 2026 Driver of the Year Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

ISAAC Instruments hosts the annual awards to spotlight fleets and drivers who set the standard for safety, compliance, and driver satisfaction. This year’s program, sponsored by Optimal Dynamics, added two new categories focused on eco-efficiency and driver performance.

According to ISAAC, “For the fourth consecutive year, the Awards have recognized fleets with outstanding performance in safety and compliance, as well as driver happiness. This year’s edition, sponsored by Optimal Dynamics, included two new categories: one for fleets excelling in eco-efficiency and another for drivers with exemplary performance behind the wheel.”

The awards are open to fleets using the ISAAC platform that were fully deployed before June 2024.

A Lifetime Behind the Wheel

Taking home the Driver of the Year Award, Joseph Bayards has been a professional driver for nearly four decades, spending 36 of those years with Tandet Group. In all that time, he’s maintained a spotless record with zero accidents.

“Drivers are at the heart of fleet performance, and ISAAC is happy to highlight their contribution to fleet success and road safety,” the company shared.

Bayards said the recognition hit home after so many years of dedication. “This means a lot to me. Back when I began my career, paper logs didn’t even exist, things have changed dramatically since then! I was always a safe driver, but with the ISAAC Coach it’s easier. It’s user-friendly, and I’m glad I learned how to use it to my advantage.”

Tandet’s Senior Vice President of Innovation, Corey Cox, praised Bayards as the kind of driver every fleet hopes for. “I would think that Joe Bayards is an excellent example of this process in practice,” he said. “Joe has been driving with an incredible ISAAC Coach score of 100% for over 2 years.”

Driving Toward a Greener Future

Tandet Group also took home the Eco-Efficiency Award, marking the first time the fleet has received this recognition. The award highlights fleets that prioritize fuel efficiency and sustainability while using ISAAC’s technology to support safer, cleaner operations.

“Our goal has been and continues to be: have the best-performing, safest drivers on the road,” Cox said. “Our efforts are magnified by every individual in our organization. Being recognized in this way is a validation of these efforts and an example of the dedication of our drivers. There were a lot of fist-pumps when our teams got the news of the award.”

Safety and Compliance Standouts

In the Safety and Compliance Improvement Award for fleets of up to 100 trucks, the winner was Trans-Frt McNamara, a C.A.T. company.

Executive Vice President Karine Goyette credited the entire operation. “Every day, they dedicate themselves to each other and the company. Their strong work ethics and ‘we can always do better’ approach have earned them this award. Showing us that it has been noticed just confirms that this award won’t be our last!”

She added that the company’s safety culture encourages drivers to take ownership of their performance. Many now actively request their safety numbers and feedback, proof that accountability and teamwork are paying off.

For fleets with over 100 trucks, Challenger Motor Freight earned the top safety award.

Safety Manager Nick Sampogna said their success comes down to putting people first. “Winning an award like this is always a powerful reminder that when you lead with care and conviction, you protect what truly matters, our people,” he said. “Not long ago, we stopped a driver for having an expired permit during our routine gate check. Although initially frustrated, he came back and thanked our safety team for catching it later that day after being pulled in for an inspection. It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but it means everything when your drivers know you’re on their side.”

He also credited ISAAC Instruments for tools that have helped strengthen safety, from live HOS tracking and AI video programs to re-torque monitoring and critical event alerts.

Keeping Drivers Happy

The Driver Happiness Award went to Rio Valley Biofuel Transport.

President Jed Smith said the recognition validated their focus on supporting drivers beyond the wheel. “This achievement feels really good,” Smith said. “After so much hard work, it’s incredibly rewarding to see improvement in our workflow, driver retention, and overall morale. I remember the day I knew we’d made the right choice by switching to ISAAC. One of our newer drivers, Eddy—who had come from a big carrier—walked up to my truck and thanked me, saying how much he loved our E-log system.”

Smith added that the new system has eased stress across the board. “Overall, our drivers have reported fewer paperwork headaches that used to affect their bonuses, and greater peace of mind with the visibility of their daily trip flow and site-specific delivery details.”

Technology That Works for Drivers

ISAAC CEO and co-founder Jacques DeLarochelliere said the company takes pride in helping fleets and drivers succeed together.

“The Awards are a highlight for our entire team at our user conference,” he said. “The accomplishments that Award nominees share with us in the process are concrete proof that our platform helps them drive results and positively impacts the day-to-day of their team. And that makes us happy.”

The post Tandet Group and Veteran Driver Recognized with ISAAC Awards appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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

The post Ryder Celebrates Excellence with 53rd Annual Driver of the Year Awards appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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

The post Recognizing Excellence in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Source: (Bekins) Bekins Director of Traffic Doug Robinson (left) presents Joe Childs (second from left) with the 2024 Bekins Driver of the Year award, which the celebrated driver accepted with his wife Cheri (second from right) and son Joey (far right) at his side.

To qualify for this top accolade, candidates must first earn a Driver of the Month award and demonstrate exceptional performance throughout the year. Bekins Van Lines carefully selects winners based on claim records, customer feedback, and safety metrics, in which Joe Childs has consistently excelled.

“Joe is an outstanding driver who has not only excelled in his driving responsibilities but has also consistently gone above and beyond in representing our organization,” stated Kevin Miller, Vice President of Operations at Bekins Van Lines. “His commitment to delivering exceptional service, often at the expense of personal time and comforts, truly sets him apart.”

A Life Dedicated to Moving Excellence

Joe’s journey in the moving and storage industry began when he was just 19 years old. After earning his Class A license, he joined the family business, Pozas Bros., in San Jose, hauling freight. By 1990, Joe founded his own company, Silicon Valley Moving & Storage, with his wife, Cheri. While Joe concentrated on customer moves and estimates, Cheri handled operations and managed the office. Over the decades, their hard work transformed the business into one of the most trusted names in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving thousands of residential and commercial clients annually.

A Family Affair

His commitment to his family equally matches Joe’s dedication to his craft. At the awards ceremony, Joe’s son, Joey, expressed pride in his father’s many accomplishments and shared the exciting news that he had recently earned his own Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) at the same age his father did.

A Passion for Community

Beyond his professional achievements, Joe is an active community member, primarily through his involvement with Wreaths Across America. He has generously volunteered his time, trucks, drivers, and warehouse space to ensure wreaths reach their destinations to honor fallen service members.

Joe’s community contributions don’t end there. A devoted family man, he spends his free time boating, dirt bike riding, camping, off-roading, and hunting with his loved ones. His passion for baseball runs deep, having coached both his children, Joey and Brooke. Today, he continues to give back by maintaining the local ballpark, mowing the grass, manning the snack shack, and supporting future generations of baseball enthusiasts.

Joe Childs’s story highlights the values of hard work, family, and community, making his recognition as the 2024 Bekins Driver of the Year well-deserved.

Source: Truckers News

The post Joe Childs of Silicon Valley Moving & Storage Earns 2024 Bekins Driver of the Year Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This award shines a spotlight on outstanding female drivers who set the bar high with impeccable safety records, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to advancing the trucking industry. But this recognition is more than just about skill—it’s about celebrating women who inspire, mentor, and lead by example.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Women currently working as professional drivers in the trucking industry are eligible.

Recognition and Celebration Awaits

Finalists and the winner will be celebrated at the highly anticipated 2025 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event. Scheduled during the Mid-America Trucking Show on March 28 in Louisville, Kentucky, this celebration is an opportunity to applaud the invaluable contributions of women drivers.

“The remarkable accomplishments of women on our team here at Walmart inspire us daily, and we know their successes are paving the way for more women to join the exciting world of trucking,” said Ryan McDaniel, vice president, Walmart Transportation. “Women in our business are not just driving trucks, they are fueling progress that is making the freight industry better, and we are honored to continue sponsoring Women In Trucking’s prestigious Driver of the Year Award.”

To qualify for the 2025 Driver of the Year Award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Professional Driving Experience: A minimum of two years in the profession.

• Safety and Excellence: A proven track record of safe, skilled, and professional driving.

• Advocacy in Trucking: Active involvement in mentorship or initiatives that support women in the industry.

• Industry Contributions: A history of making significant, positive impacts in the trucking community.

Nominations can be submitted through WIT’s official website (womenintrucking.org) by January 31, 2025.

“Recognizing the accomplishments of female drivers and the value they bring to the trucking profession is a key mission of WIT and we’re pleased to showcase their stories through this award,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president and CEO.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Honor Industry Trailblazers

Do you know a woman driver who exemplifies excellence, leadership, and inspiration? Nominate her today to ensure her efforts and contributions to the trucking industry receive the recognition they deserve.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Women in Trucking

The post Nominate a Trailblazer: 2025 Women in Trucking Driver of the Year Award is Now Open! appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Honoring Porfirio Martinez – October Driver of the Month

Porfirio Martinez began his driving career with NCI in June 2006 as an owner-operator. Originally from Garden City, Kansas, Martinez shared how deeply rooted his connection to trucking is.

“My wife Emma and I have lived in Garden City most of our lives. I worked on a hay farm before earning a Commercial Driver’s License,” Martinez said. “I have five brothers who all have driven for National Carriers. In 2006, I bought my own truck and joined them. I love what I do; I like working with cattle. The most enjoyable thing about my job is the people I work with because we all get along.”

Martinez’s dedication goes beyond his daily responsibilities and doesn’t go unnoticed. Gillermo Torres, a livestock dispatcher at NCI, praised Martinez’s reliability and strong communication skills.

“Co-workers report he has always been someone that is easy to talk to,” Torres explained. “Every time he is asked to help, he never complains and always goes above and beyond for National Carriers. Whether an accident, road construction, traffic jam, or a minimal thing like excessive wind preventing safe travel, Porfirio will communicate through emails or call directly to update us on any situation that will conflict with loading or unloading on time. This allows our staff to update the feed yards or National Beef to let them know he will be running late.”

Recognizing Jason White – November Driver of the Month

Returning to NCI in January 2023, Jason White’s career path reflects an interesting blend of military discipline and trucking passion. After retiring from a 22-year service in the U.S. Marine Corps, White decided to pursue a career in driving.

“Before exiting the armed forces, I was offered the opportunity to earn a CDL license through the military,” White said. “As a youngster, I rode with my cousin, who drove a truck. After that experience, I thought I would enjoy the lifestyle. He is now in management at National Carriers and invited me to join the company once I was qualified. All NCI expects a driver to do is what all drivers are expected to do. In return, they provide current model trucks, keeping repair and breakdowns at a minimum.”

White’s return to the company continues to demonstrate his reliability and skill, making him a standout among his peers.

Rewards and Next Steps

Martinez and White’s well-deserved recognition comes with a $1,000 bonus for each of them. Additionally, both drivers are now finalists for NCI’s prestigious Driver of the Year Award, which includes a grand prize of $10,000.

Source: The Trucker & NCI 

The post NCI Celebrates Top Drivers for October and November appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.