Safety: First and Foremost

Safety, first and foremost, is the foundation of all operations. Drivers have access to well-maintained equipment, structured training programs, and clear safety protocols. These measures allow drivers to work confidently while keeping themselves and the communities they serve protected.

Say What We Mean and Mean What We Say

Say what we mean and mean what we say reflects the commitment to clear communication. Drivers and employees are given precise guidance about routes, schedules, and expectations. Management ensures that all commitments are honored, which reduces misunderstandings and builds trust throughout the organization.

Be Ethical: We Always Do What Is Right

From workload management to recognition programs, ethical practices maintain fairness and transparency. This principle reinforces trust between drivers, management, and customers.

Lead: Pursue the Road Less Traveled

Pursuing the road less traveled emphasizes guiding by example. Experienced drivers mentor new employees, and management encourages problem-solving and initiative. This approach fosters accountability, professional growth, and a culture of excellence.

Be the Best Trucking Company in the Country

This principle drives the focus on high standards. Training, equipment, and processes are continuously improved to maintain operational excellence. Performance is measured not only by safety and reliability but also by driver satisfaction and customer trust.

Respect: Give It and Earn It

Giving and earning respect highlights the importance of valuing others. Employees are expected to treat each other professionally, and contributions are recognized consistently. This principle strengthens relationships and morale while ensuring drivers feel supported and respected.

Have Fun: Work Hard and Play Hard

This principle demonstrates that enjoying work is part of the culture. Achievements are celebrated, team events are hosted, and recognition programs encourage a positive and balanced workplace. This principle helps maintain engagement, motivation, and a sense of community.

Start Your Driving Career

By practicing these seven principles every day, Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation create a workplace that prioritizes professionalism, safety, respect, and engagement. Drivers interested in joining the team can explore opportunities and apply here.

For more information or to explore driving opportunities, click here.

The post How Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation Apply Their Seven Principles to Create a Strong Driver Culture appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Doing What’s Right, No Matter Who’s Watching

At these companies, ethics aren’t a talking point. They’re the standard. Whether it’s dealing with drivers, customers, or vendors, the commitment is to fairness and honesty. Pay is clear, communication is direct, and expectations aren’t hidden in fine print. If something goes wrong, a breakdown, a delay, a personal hardship, it’s handled with transparency and accountability, not blame or brush-off. That consistency builds long-term trust on and off the road.

Respect That Goes Both Ways

Respect shows up in how people are treated, not just how they’re talked about. Drivers have voices here, not just truck numbers. If someone has a concern about a route, equipment, or home time, it’s taken seriously. The same respect extends to dispatchers, customer service teams, and shop staff. Customers benefit from that mindset too. Communication stays professional, relationships stay strong, and promises are kept because everyone involved is treated with basic human decency, something that’s not always a given in this industry.

Leading Instead of Following

Leadership for these companies isn’t about titles or spotlight. It’s about being willing to take the harder road if it benefits drivers, customers, or the industry. They invest in safer equipment, adopt forward-looking practices, and make decisions that improve long-term stability rather than chasing shortcuts. When others wait to see what the market will do, they move first, whether it’s compensation, technology, training, or safety initiatives. That forward momentum helps attract the right people and set a standard others try to match.

Why These Principles Matter in Today’s Industry

The trucking world is competitive and unpredictable, but the companies that last are the ones that stick to their values. By doing what’s right, showing respect at every level, and leading with intention, Crete, Shaffer, and Hunt don’t just move freight; they build careers, partnerships, and trust that outlast trends.

To read about all seven principles that guide Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation, visit their website here.

If you’re interested in building a career with a company that lives these values every day, check out available opportunities and join a team that puts integrity, respect, and leadership first.

The post How Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation Live Their Values: Ethics, Respect, and Leadership on the Road 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 Excellence in Transportation

The inaugural honorees of the Women in Motion Recognizes Award are inspiring leaders from diverse areas of the trucking sector. These women have exemplified excellence, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields. The 2024 award recipients are:

• Alexandra Frye – ContainerPort Group

• Jennie Malafarina – Virago Marketing

• Bonnie Supan – Brenny Transportation

• Vanessa Villegas – Hippoz Express Inc.

• Tomika Willis – TDS Trucking, Training & Technology

• Laura Wilson – Lawrence Companies

“Women in Motion remains committed to building a supportive community for women in transportation. The WIM Recognizes Award embodies this mission, empowering women from all areas of the industry to foster inclusivity, pursue career goals, and break barriers,” stated Nikki Thomas, ATA Vice President of Industry Affairs. “Through this award, we’re creating new opportunities and celebrating the innovation these women bring to the industry, and I want to congratulate these first six winners on exemplifying what this Council is all about.”

Driving Innovation and Inclusion

The Women in Motion Recognizes Award highlights the strength and impact of women in trucking by spotlighting their contributions to innovation, leadership, and inclusivity. Honorees are selected by the Women in Motion (WIM) Board of Directors and are acknowledged for embodying the values of mentorship, progress, and diversity within the industry. Each recipient received a $500 award to support their professional development and career growth.

“These women proudly represent the future of trucking. By creating mentorship opportunities, advocating for women, and driving success in transportation, they are inspiring future generations and setting the standard across the industry,” shared ATA COO Sarah Rajtik. “Over the past year, we’ve been inspired by the innovative ideas we’ve seen, and we look forward to even more applications in 2025.”

Industry Support and Recognition

The Women in Motion initiative thrives with the support of ATA members and corporate sponsorships. “This award, and the other good work WIM is doing, would not be possible without the backing of ATA members. I want to express heartfelt gratitude to our corporate members for funding this initiative through their annual dues, and to our Founding Sponsor, FedEx, for their invaluable support,” added Rajtik.

This award signifies an ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive and empowered transportation industry, celebrating the women who continue to drive progress and innovation.

Source: Truckers News

Image: American Trucking Associations

The post ATA Honors Trailblazing Women with the First Women in Motion Recognizes Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Recognition from WIT

The president and CEO of WIT, Jennifer Hedrick, expressed her admiration, stating, “Women In Trucking is honored each year to name a leader in our industry who demonstrates remarkable grit, talent and passion to advance opportunities for women in trucking. We’re thrilled to give this honor to Tracy Rushing this year. Tracy’s commitment to this profession and desire to mentor future leaders is an example for all of us.”

Award Sponsored by Daimler Truck North America

Sponsored by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), the award highlights the contributions of female pioneers in the trucking sector.

Rushing shared her appreciation, “I’m incredibly grateful to be named 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking but this honor isn’t mine alone. It belongs to all the women who have paved the way and continue to push our industry forward. I’m just proud to be a part of this community of strong, dedicated women who work tirelessly to keep America moving. We’re all in this together, and I’m thankful every day that I get to be a trucker.”

Panel Discussion and Announcement

The announcement followed a panel discussion titled “Becoming an Influential Woman in Trucking,” featuring finalists Lisa Gonnerman, VP of Enterprise Services at TA Dedicated, and Sheri Aaberg, COO at Transport Enterprise Leasing. Facilitators included Kelley Martin and Heather Callahan of DTNA, recognized as 2024 WIT Top Women to Watch in Transportation. Rushing later captivated nearly 2,000 attendees with her personal experiences and insights.

Rushing’s Journey and Contributions

Beginning her career three decades ago in a scale house, Rushing progressed into leadership roles, driven by perseverance and mentorship. She offered insights into her early days in trucking, underscoring the significance of building relationships within the industry. Her inspirational message encouraged others to discover their “why” in trucking and to create a legacy of support and opportunity.

Rushing’s active involvement includes memberships in SHRM, TCA, and the Alabama Trucking Association’s SMMC. She serves on various committees, including ATA Comp Fund’s RMAC and as chair of TCA’s Safety, Recruiting, and Retention Committee.

A Vision of Community

Reflecting on the conference, Kelley Martin noted, “This year, Daimler Truck North America attended the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo with the theme ‘one of many.’ It’s about being part of a larger community, not just the only one or the best one, but one of many. The finalists for the Influential Woman in Trucking Award embody this vision. Through their dedication and hard work, they are paving the way for women to excel and thrive in our industry. Additionally, I’d like to congratulate Tracy Rushing for being named the 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking. Her outstanding career and unwavering passion have made a lasting impact on the trucking industry and beyond and she is truly deserving of this prestigious honor.”

Tracy Rushing’s achievements are paving the way for the next generation of leaders in trucking, leaving a legacy of empowerment and progress.

Source: The Trucker and WIT

The post Tracy Rushing Honored as WIT’s 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.