Brad Bentley, Fastport president, emphasized the importance of the program: “The trucking industry continues to demonstrate its commitment to those who have served by recognizing the leadership, discipline, and focus veterans bring to the workforce. Returning to the Mid-America Trucking Show with the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award and this year’s Kenworth T680 grand prize allows us to celebrate that commitment on one of the industry’s biggest stages. It’s an incredible opportunity to spotlight veterans who are excelling behind the wheel and to encourage more service members to see trucking as a pathway to long-term success.”

The Grand Prize Kenworth T680

The 2026 award winner will receive a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. This flagship model will be on display at the Mid-America Trucking Show, March 26–28, at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville, in the Fastport booth, #39501.

Kenworth’s T680 features the Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents, full heated and cooled GT703 Ultraleather seats, and a sleeper that includes a microwave, TV, factory-installed fridge, and rotating work table. Driver assistance technologies include DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing, highlighted the program’s significance: “The Mid-America Trucking Show brings together the very best of the trucking community, making it an ideal venue to highlight the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award. For the 11th consecutive year, Kenworth is proud to support this transformative program and to once again present our flagship T680 to an outstanding veteran who represents the future of our industry.”

Supporting Veterans in Trucking

Eric Eversole, U.S. Chamber of Commerce vice president and president of Hiring Our Heroes, added: “For many veterans, trucking offers a way to continue serving with purpose, responsibility, and pride. Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence recognizes veterans who are thriving in an industry that keeps our economy moving and offers durable, long‑term careers with real opportunity. We’re honored to work alongside Fastport and Kenworth to elevate these success stories for the 11th year.”

Eligibility and Timeline

Candidates are evaluated by a panel of industry experts. To qualify, drivers must:

• Be a U.S. resident and a military veteran, National Guard, or Reserves member.
• Graduate from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.
• Be employed by a for-hire carrier or private fleet that hires veterans and started driving after January 1, 2025.

Nominations open March 28, with a submission deadline of June 30. Semi-finalists will be announced on August 5, followed by a tour of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant. Public voting on finalists occurs November 1–11. The final award will be announced in mid-December, with the winner taking home the Kenworth T680.

Full criteria and nomination forms are available on the official Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence website.

The post Kenworth Continues Support for Veteran Truckers with 2026 Transition Trucking Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Online voting is officially open for the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, recognizing military veterans who have made an outstanding transition into professional trucking.

Voting began November 1 and runs through Veterans Day, November 11, giving the public the chance to help decide which veteran driver will take home this year’s top honor.

The award is a joint effort from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport. It celebrates service members who have successfully shifted from military life to careers in commercial trucking.

You can cast your vote now at TransitionTrucking.org/vote.

Meet the 2025 Transition Trucking Finalists

Charles Jones Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Charles Jones Jr. is a 20-year U.S. Army veteran who served as an unmanned aircraft systems operator, instructor, standards operator, and platoon sergeant, completing three combat deployments to Iraq and two rotations to South Korea.
A husband to Katrina and father to Alvin and Monica, Jones graduated from the Georgia Driving Academy in December 2024 and began his professional driving career with Roehl Transport in early 2025.

Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines

Macy Mattice served from 2010 to 2018 as an 88M motor transport operator specializing in heavy equipment transportation.
Originally from Winter Springs, Florida, she now drives flatbed for Melton Truck Lines and lives near Jacksonville with her son, Rusty.

Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport

A former staff sergeant and Patriot missile operator/maintainer, Mark Scriven spent nine years in the U.S. Army, earning multiple Army achievement medals and recognition as a combat lifesaver.
Today, he works as a driver and trainer with Stevens Transport, using his leadership experience to mentor new drivers. The father of three also welcomed a daughter in August.

Honoring Service and Skill Behind the Wheel

Each year, Transition Trucking highlights the top rookie military veterans who have made their mark in trucking. The finalists are selected through a nomination and review process, followed by a public vote that helps determine the winner.

The winner will be announced on December 12 during a ceremony at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

The grand prize is a new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, featuring a 455-horsepower MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission, and DX-40 tandem rear axles. The runner-up will receive $10,000, and the second runner-up will take home $5,000.

This program continues to spotlight the impact veterans make in the trucking industry, bringing discipline, dedication, and leadership from the military to America’s highways.

To learn more or vote before November 11, visit TransitionTrucking.org.

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Transition Trucking

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Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes, emphasized the leadership veterans bring to trucking:
“Veterans bring mission focus, adaptability, and leadership to every role they take on, including careers behind the wheel. These finalists show how military experience translates into excellence in the trucking industry, and we’re proud to honor their service and celebrate the vital role veterans play in keeping America moving.”

The program is a joint effort by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport. Each year, the initiative recognizes rookie veteran truck drivers who exemplify professionalism, safety, and service. After nominations, review, and the announcement of four finalists, the final step will be a nationwide public vote.

Celebrating Veterans in Trucking

Twelve semi-finalists were recently honored at a reception hosted at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. The following day, finalists were revealed during an event at Kenworth’s Chillicothe manufacturing facility. Attendees enjoyed live broadcasts with Jimmy Mac and Lindsay Lawler of Road Gang Radio, along with exclusive plant tours offering a behind-the-scenes look at Kenworth’s flagship production site.

Meet the 2025 Finalists

Nicholas Baughan, Werner Enterprises
Baughan, from Nunica, Michigan, has served in the U.S. Army since 2004 and continues in the Army Reserve until his upcoming retirement in 2026. His career began in military police before moving into infantry. He has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, earning several commendations, including the Purple Heart. His military journey has taken him across Europe and South Korea, holding leadership roles from team leader to senior intelligence sergeant.

Charles Jones Jr., Roehl Transport
Sergeant First Class Charles C. Jones Jr. (Ret.) entered the Army through the Delayed Entry Program after high school in 2004. Over his 20-year service, he worked as an unmanned aircraft systems operator, instructor, standards operator, and platoon sergeant. His career included three combat tours in Iraq and two assignments in South Korea. After graduating from Georgia Driving Academy in late 2024, Jones began his civilian driving career with Roehl Transport in 2025. He and his wife, Katrina, raise two children, Alvin and Monica.

Macy Mattice, Melton Truck Lines
From 2010 to 2018, Mattice served in the Army as an 88M motor transport operator, specializing in moving heavy equipment. Today, she drives a flatbed for Melton Truck Lines, bringing the discipline of her service years into her trucking career. Originally from Winter Springs, Florida, she now lives near Jacksonville with her son, Rusty. Known for her adventurous spirit, she enjoys animals, travel, and taking on new challenges.

Mark Scriven, Stevens Transport
Scriven, a former Army staff sergeant, spent nine years as a patriot missile operator and maintainer. His service earned him multiple achievement medals, along with recognition as a combat lifesaver. Now, he applies his leadership skills and discipline as both a driver and trainer with Stevens Transport. A father of three, he welcomed a newborn daughter this past August.

The Prize Package

Kenworth will once again provide the grand prize truck for the program’s winner—a tradition that has lasted ten consecutive years. This year, the champion will be handed the keys to a brand-new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and PACCAR Powertrain, featuring the MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission, and DX-40 tandem rear axles.

Kyle Kimball, director of marketing for Kenworth, shared the company’s pride in supporting the program:
“Kenworth is proud to partner with Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for the tenth year to honor and recognize the distinguished semi-finalist drivers who exemplify excellence behind the wheel. Celebrating the accomplishments of this elite group is a special honor each year, and we look forward to awarding the keys to the grand prize Kenworth T680 truck to this year’s winner in Washington, D.C.”

The T680 comes with Kenworth’s Diamond VIT interior in slate gray and madrona trim, Ultraleather heated and cooled seating, a rotating worktable, a factory-installed refrigerator, and space for a microwave and TV. The truck also boasts cutting-edge safety features, including Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with torque-assisted steering.

Beyond the grand prize, all finalists will be recognized. The runner-up will receive $10,000, while the two remaining finalists will take home $5,000 each.

Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, underscored the significance of these drivers:
“Our four finalists represent three military branches and continue to serve their country in a critical industry. Each of them is also committed to delivering loads on time for veteran-ready employers and sharing the roads safely with the motoring public.”

What Comes Next

Public voting for the 2025 Transition Trucking Award opens November 1 and will continue through Veterans Day on November 11. The winner will be revealed during a December 12 ceremony at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters in Washington, D.C.

This program continues to spotlight how military skills translate into trucking excellence, offering veterans meaningful second careers while ensuring the industry benefits from their leadership and commitment.

Image Source: Kenworth
Source: The Trucker

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The annual campaign—now in its tenth year—is a collaboration between Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program. It’s designed to spotlight military service members who have successfully transitioned into professional driving careers.

“This year’s ‘Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence’ award semi-finalists exemplify the dedication, leadership, and commitment to service that military veterans bring to the trucking industry,” said Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing. “Kenworth is proud to partner with Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative for the tenth year, and we look forward to recognizing the distinguished semi-finalists who continue to serve our country through excellence behind the wheel.”

2025 Transition Trucking Semi-Finalists Named

The drivers selected for this year’s honor come from diverse military backgrounds and were trained by various respected institutions. The 12 semi-finalists are:

• Kathleen (Kat) Carreto, U.S. Army National Guard (E-5), Roehl Transport
• Bradley Lecky, U.S. Army (E-4), Crawford Electric, a Sonepar USA Company
• Federico Hudson, U.S. Air Force (E-7), Van Wyk, Inc.
• Gaylon Hensley, U.S. Army (E-7), Melton Truck Lines
• Daniel Hemphill, U.S. Army (E-4), Wayne R. West Trucking
• Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport
• Joseph Barotti, U.S. Air Force (E-6) and U.S. Marine Corps, Werner Enterprises
• Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army (E-5), Werner Enterprises
• Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines
• Ryan Gordon, U.S. Army (E-5), Prime Inc.
• Precious Cannon-Scott, Air National Guard (E-4), Prime Inc.
• Charles Jones, Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Honoring a Decade of Veteran Impact

First launched in 2016, the Transition Trucking award continues to serve as a powerful platform for uplifting veterans entering the transportation workforce. The 2025 semi-finalists will be honored at a special event on September 18 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. A visit to the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing facility will follow, where finalists will be named.

Each year, Kenworth donates a truck to the winner, and this year’s prize is a T680 featuring a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and high-end amenities like a fridge, TV space, and GT703 ultraleather heated and cooled seats.

The truck also includes cutting-edge safety features such as Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors, and Lane Keeping Assist.

“The Transition Trucking award campaign continues to highlight the extraordinary impact veterans are making in the transportation industry while also inspiring a new generation of service members to explore the real economic opportunities a trucking career can provide,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes. “As we celebrate a decade of partnership with Kenworth and Fastport, we’re proud to honor these remarkable individuals whose legacy will inspire and empower the veteran drivers of tomorrow.”

Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, added, “We’re honored to recognize this outstanding group of 12 semi-finalists, one of the most diverse and accomplished in the program’s history, including many participating in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. For 10 years, this campaign has changed lives by awarding a Kenworth truck to a deserving veteran, and this year’s finalists continue to prove that the future of our industry is in capable, committed hands.”

Finalist Selection and Public Voting

The winner of the 2025 award will be announced on December 12 during a veteran-focused celebration week. Public voting will take place online from November 1 through Veterans Day and will help inform the award’s final decision.

“This voting is an important determinant for the award’s Selection Committee, which makes the ultimate choice for the next Transition Trucking award winner,” Fastport stated.

Image Source: Kenworth
Source: The Trucker

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Since 2017, Fastport has teamed up with more than 300 organizations to build out apprenticeship programs that actually work. These aren’t just training checklists—they’re real-world, hands-on experiences that help people build careers in everything from trucking to railroads to maritime jobs.

Over time, the program has expanded to cover 35 different occupations, and it’s still growing. Behind every apprentice is a mix of structure, mentorship, and skill-building designed to open doors and get people hired.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Fastport’s exceeding 27,000 registered apprentices and acknowledge the great work of all of our great industry association partners, like the American Trucking Association, Truckload Carriers Association, The Trucking Alliance, Next Generation Trucking to name a few,” said Dave Harrison, executive director for Workforce Development, Government Programs, and Military Employment Issues at Fastport.

This milestone isn’t just a number—it’s a reminder of how impactful registered apprenticeships can be when done right. For Fastport, it’s another step forward in helping build a strong, reliable workforce in some of the country’s most vital industries.

(Image Source: Fastport ) Jacob Szabo, Garner Trucking Registered Apprentice
Source: Truckers News

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Celebrating Veteran Drivers

Organized by Kenworth, FASTPORT, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, this program aims to highlight America’s top rookie military veteran driver. For 10 years, Kenworth has supported the program by offering an impressive grand prize. This year, the winner will take home a Kenworth T680, complete with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this prestigious award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Be a legal resident of the continental U.S. and a military veteran or current/former member of the National Guard or Reserves.
• Graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.
• Have been hired as a CDL driver by any for-hire carrier or private fleet committed to hiring veterans after January 1, 2024.

Key Dates

• Semi-Finalists Announcement: August 4
• Finalists’ Experience: Finalists will visit Columbus, Ohio, where they will tour the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, attend a reception, and visit the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant.
• Public Voting: November 1 to 11
• Winner Announcement: December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

The winner of this nationwide search will drive home in a fully equipped Kenworth T680.

To learn more about the full nomination criteria and access the nomination forms, visit the Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence website. Additional details are also available on the websites of FASTPORT and Hiring Our Heroes. Now is the perfect opportunity to honor a veteran trucker who exemplifies excellence!

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Kenworth

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A New Chapter for RadioNemo

On May 21, RadioNemo announced its next destination. Embodying its “Next-Gen Nemo” vision, the show is moving to a fully digital format, supported by Fastport, and will broadcast from a brand-new studio situated in the historic Degas House in New Orleans.

Beginning June 2, RadioNemo will stream live 24/7 at RadioNemo.com. Shortly after, on June 9, flagship shows “Nemo Nation” and “Road Gang Radio” will relaunch in expanded formats. Later this summer, Lindsay Lawler’s highly anticipated show, “We Should Write,” will also debut.

“Innovation is in our DNA,” said Dave Nemo in the announcement. “Partnering with Fastport allows us to bring everything our listeners love into one seamless digital home. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on your phone, you can tune in anytime and stay connected to the trucking world and beyond.”

What’s Coming to RadioNemo

The new digital schedule promises to keep listeners informed, entertained, and connected with a robust lineup of shows:

• Nemo Nation

This rapid-fire Monday morning show dives deep into the past week’s news highlights and previews must-know events for the week ahead. Expect a blend of rocking music, quirky trivia, and insightful interviews.

• Road Gang Radio

Airing Tuesday through Friday mornings, co-hosts Jimmy Mac and Lindsay Lawler bring you the latest in technology, travel, entertainment, and culture. Designed for life on the go, this fast-paced show packs real-time news and stories for anyone on the move.

• We Should Write (coming later this summer)

This unique program, hosted by Lindsay Lawler, explores the art of writing in everyday life. “Whether you’re a songwriter, traveler, or someone who jots down thoughts on your phone, writing is powerful,” Lawler explained. “This show is about feeling seen, telling stories, and having fun with it all.”

Building a Stronger Community

RadioNemo’s transition to a digital platform is much more than a technological step; it’s a commitment to fostering a connected and engaged audience.

“As we turn this page, our commitment to our community remains stronger than ever,” said Jimmy Mac, co-host of “Road Gang Radio.” “You’ve been with us on our current home for years, and now we’re creating a space where every story, tip, and track can be heard anytime you choose.”

Nicholas DiMeo, RadioNemo’s general manager, added, “This move to an always-on platform for our content is focused on how we connect, grow, and partner. We’re building something that invites deeper audience engagement and opens new doors for sponsors and strategic partners who believe in the power of storytelling on the move.”

Stay Tuned

RadioNemo expresses immense gratitude to its loyal audience and longstanding partners for their ongoing support during this exciting transformation. Starting June 2, listeners can catch the live stream at RadioNemo.com or access content on their preferred platforms.

Get ready to join the next generation of RadioNemo. Your trucking companion is now just a click away!

Source: Land Line Media

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The Transition Trucking award, made possible through a collaboration between Fastport, Kenworth, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, honors military veterans who have taken the important step of transitioning into careers within the trucking industry.

Brad Bentley, Fastport president, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “The transportation industry not only embraces a veteran-ready ethos but actively integrates the invaluable skills and experiences our service members bring. We are thrilled to return to the Mid-America Trucking Show with this year’s Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence grand prize – the Kenworth T680, a symbol of innovation and opportunity. Participating in the largest gathering of heavy-duty trucking professionals offers an unparalleled platform to honor our veterans and inspire new talent from the military community to join our ranks.”

Nominations Are Now Open

Nominations for this year’s Transition Trucking award are officially open. The deadline for submitting applications is set for June 20, providing nominators with several months to recognize exceptional veteran drivers who embody excellence in the industry.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth’s director of marketing, expressed Kenworth’s dedication, saying, “Kenworth is honored to participate in this life-changing initiative for the tenth consecutive year, and we look forward to awarding our flagship T680 to a deserving military veteran at the end of this year.”

More Than Just the Grand Prize

While the spotlight shines on the T680 grand prize, finalists for the award will also receive significant rewards. Last year, the second-place finisher received $10,000, and the two other finalists each received $5,000.

Public Voting and Award Announcement

The public can play a role in November by voting for their favorite finalist. Afterward, a panel of judges will evaluate the candidates according to the official Transition Trucking award guidelines. The grand-prize winner will be revealed on December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

Honoring Veterans in Transportation

“The transportation industry is a natural fit for veterans looking to continue a purpose-driven career that leverages the critical skill sets, specialized training, and leadership gained during military service – all highly coveted attributes that make them a strategic asset,” said Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes. “Hiring Our Heroes is proud to partner with Fastport and Kenworth for the tenth year to help service members successfully transition into the commercial trucking industry.”

Source: Land Line

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Nominations close on June 20, and a series of key dates follows. On August 4, semi-finalists will be announced, and later in the year, finalists will have the opportunity to visit Columbus, Ohio. This special event includes a tour of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, a reception, and a visit to Kenworth’s Chillicothe manufacturing facility, where finalists will also be revealed. Public voting for finalists is scheduled from November 1 to 11, with the grand announcement of the winner taking place at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on December 12.

A Grand Prize Worth Driving For

For the tenth consecutive year, Kenworth is providing an impressive grand prize. This year’s winner will drive away with a Kenworth T680 equipped with a spacious 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, which features the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. The T680 will make its appearance at the Mid-America Trucking Show, showcased at the FASTPORT booth (#39001) at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville.

Why Veterans Are a Perfect Fit for Trucking

“The transportation industry is a natural fit for veterans looking to continue a purpose-driven career that leverages the critical skill sets, specialized training, and leadership gained during military service – all highly coveted attributes that make them a strategic asset,” remarked Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes. He emphasized the pride Hiring Our Heroes takes in partnering with FASTPORT and Kenworth for a decade to support veterans transitioning into commercial trucking.

Criteria and Eligibility for Nominees

An expert panel of judges will select the top rookie driver. Nominees must meet the following qualifications:

• Be a legal resident of the continental United States and either a military veteran or a current or former member of the National Guard or Reserves.

• Have graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.

• Hold employment with a for-hire carrier or private fleet committed to hiring veterans and have been employed as a CDL driver after January 1, 2024.

Full eligibility details and the nomination form are available on the Transition Trucking website.

Join an Initiative That Makes an Impact

For additional resources or questions, visit FASTPORT and Hiring Our Heroes. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate and support the military veterans who are driving excellence every day.

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Kenworth Truck Company

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

A Legacy of Service

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

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

A Record-Setting Achievement

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

Honoring Finalists

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

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

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

Beyond Awards

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

Eligibility and Program Details

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

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

Source: Land Line

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