After launching the program in 2025 and recognizing 16 fleets for their work in developing future drivers and technicians, this year’s awards expand the scope. The 2026 program now includes both trucking employers and industry partners who are actively helping people get started in careers tied to trucking, diesel technology, logistics, and the broader supply chain.

What the Awards Focus On

The Career Catalyst Awards are centered on one thing: building real opportunities for the next generation.

That includes companies that are putting time and resources into:

• Hiring entry-level talent
• Training and mentorship programs
• Internships and apprenticeships
• Retention efforts that keep people in the industry
• Partnerships with schools and training programs

It also covers hands-on involvement like speaking in classrooms, participating in advisory boards, hosting student visits, and supporting work-based learning opportunities that show what trucking careers actually look like day to day.

“The future of trucking depends on companies willing to engage early and create clear pathways for long-term careers,” said Lindsey Trent, president and co-founder of the Next Generation in Trucking Association. “The Career Catalyst Awards recognize organizations that are building real solutions — investing in students, developing talent, and strengthening the connection between education and industry.”

Award Categories for 2026

There are two main categories this year, each recognizing a different part of the industry:

• Career Catalyst Award — Industry Employer
  This category focuses on for-hire carriers and private fleets that are creating entry-level roles, building structured training programs, and working with schools to create long-term career paths in trucking.
• Career Catalyst Award — Industry Partner
  This includes dealerships, technology providers, insurance companies, service providers, and other partners supporting the industry through hiring, training, and collaboration with education and workforce programs.

Both categories highlight organizations that are helping close the gap between interest and opportunity by giving people a clear way into the industry.

Who Should Apply

Companies of all sizes are encouraged to apply. A formal program is not required. What matters is a clear and consistent effort to bring new people into trucking and help them build a career.

Key Dates and How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 Career Catalyst Awards are open now, with a deadline of April 22. Companies can submit their applications online through the association.

Industry Support Behind the Program

This year’s awards are backed by support from Engine and the National Transportation Institute, both of which continue to play a role in workforce development across trucking.

Why This Matters

Finding and keeping good people has been a challenge across the trucking industry for years. Programs like this highlight the companies putting real effort into bringing new talent in and giving them a reason to stay. It’s not just about filling seats; it’s about building a workforce that can keep up with where the industry is headed.

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The event is designed to spark interest among girls and women in the wide variety of career paths available in trucking, logistics, and transportation. Open to the public, the program will include interactive learning, equipment displays, and opportunities to connect directly with professionals working in the field.

A Platform for Hands-On Learning

Attendees will be able to step inside trucks, buses, and heavy machinery while hearing from experts about how the supply chain keeps America moving.

“This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity in Wyoming to experience the transportation industry up close and connect with women who are thriving in the field,” said Ed Kimes, EWC CDL program director. “No other event in the region offers this level of hands-on learning and mentorship.”

Special guest U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, Wyoming’s representative in the U.S. House, will also be present to show support for women pursuing careers in transportation.

Spotlight on Industry Leaders

The featured speaker, Dakota Muniz, Fulfillment Manager at Refractories West Inc. in Pueblo, Colo., brings personal experience to the stage. As a third-generation leader in her family’s logistics and distribution business, she worked her way up from safety coordinator and sales associate to managing fulfillment and logistics, all while earning her associate degree in business management.

“I fell in love with the logistics industry early on,” Muniz said. “It’s fast-paced, rewarding, and offers endless opportunities for women who want to make an impact.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Girl Scouts attending the event can earn the official Women In Trucking patch, which introduces girls to the trucking industry through interactive activities. The patch emphasizes the essential role trucks play in everyday life while encouraging future career exploration.

Founded in 2007, WIT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women in trucking, celebrating their contributions, and breaking down barriers in the industry.

“Trucks Are For Girls” is free and open to all ages, offering a rare chance for young women to picture themselves in trucking and related fields.

Image Source: Eastern Wyoming College, Truckers News
Source: Truckers News

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Wearing Two Hats: Army Reserve and NFI Trucker

Kacy’s journey into transportation began soon after high school when she made the bold decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2019. The discipline she learned during Basic Combat Training shaped her approach to every challenge, whether she’s in uniform or behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler.

“I joined right out of high school,” Kacy remembers. Her schedule is a balancing act between drill weekends and long drives, but Kacy says she’s adapted well: “Sometimes it’s hard to balance, but I feel like I’m so used to it because I joined (the Army) at such an early age. It’s just part of me now.”

Her dual life as an Army Reservist and a professional truck driver with NFI shows how the skills from military service translate seamlessly to civilian life, especially within the logistics industry.

Discovering Life on the Road

It was a friend in the trucking industry who first introduced Kacy to the idea of driving big rigs. “He would bring me to work with him, and I was always fascinated with how it works,” she says. Watching the ins and outs of trucking sparked her interest in pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The transition wasn’t without nerves. “I was a little bit scared at first, because I’m a small female,” Kacy shares. “But I went through basic training and made it through — and I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I was like, ‘Well, I’m going to try.’ And now, here I am!”

That determination powered her through CDL training. She started as a yard jockey, spent time with another trucking company, and then, thanks to a recommendation from a friend, officially joined NFI—as well as the SheDrives NFI community, a dedicated space for women in trucking.

Empowerment Through SheDrives NFI

Now, with over two years as a full-time professional truck driver, Kacy has found a supportive workplace culture through SheDrives. “In my previous trucking job, there were only three women, including me,” she points out. NFI’s commitment to female drivers has made a big difference, creating more opportunities for women in trucking and mentorship within the industry.

“They’re friendly. I can talk to anybody in the office,” she says, highlighting the approachable and supportive team environment at NFI.

Kacy beams with pride when she talks about life on the road: “It feels great to be a truck driver,” she says. “I show up to the stores (in my rig) and a lot of people look at me like, ‘Are YOU a truck driver? Oh my gosh, you’re doing this!” Her presence in the field serves as a visual reminder that women belong in every part of the logistics industry.

Overcoming Roadblocks

Like many professional drivers, Kacy deals with challenges that go beyond the basics of driving. Navigating heavy vehicles requires a unique skill set and a great deal of patience, not just for the truck but also for other motorists. “They don’t understand (a truck’s) stopping distance and how (much space we need) to make turns,” she explains, pointing to frequent misunderstandings from drivers of smaller vehicles.

Kacy’s experiences behind the wheel underscore the importance of good training and a level-headed approach—qualities she now brings to new female truck drivers through mentorship and example.

Guidance for Women Entering Trucking

What advice does Kacy have for other women interested in joining the world of trucking? Her answer is clear: be patient and open-minded. “Listen to all the advice other truck drivers have to give. Don’t rush. Don’t let fear take over,” she says. She also cautions new drivers not to compare themselves to others. “Also, don’t compare yourself to other truck drivers; do what works for you.”

Kacy’s journey is proof that with the right attitude, determination, and community, women can excel in careers traditionally dominated by men.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Kacy H. sets a shining example for both her fellow Reservists and for the next generation of women eager to become truck drivers. She’s made it clear that support networks like SheDrives NFI, strong mentors, and a belief in your goals are crucial for success in the world of logistics.

Want to know more about the SheDrives NFI program and how it supports female truck drivers? Visit NFI online or connect with them on social platforms to join the conversation.

Image Source: NFI
Source: The Trucker

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The launch comes at a crucial moment as the trucking industry grapples with unprecedented challenges in maintaining a steady workforce while continuing to underpin the state and national economy. By spotlighting a diverse array of lucrative career paths, FTA aims to attract new talent and create clear entry points for aspiring professionals to join the industry.

“Every truck on Florida’s roadways represents a team of skilled professionals making it all possible,” said Alix Miller, President and CEO of the Florida Trucking Association. “The trucking industry offers exciting, high-earning careers, many of which we want to highlight. The campaign includes first-hand accounts from employees about the skills and paths they’ve developed. We want to showcase the dynamic opportunities for Floridians to discover how their talents fit in this essential industry where innovation meets opportunity.”

Career Opportunities Beyond the Driver’s Seat

The focal point of this initiative is an informative, user-friendly website at www.floridatrucking.org/jobs. The platform provides a comprehensive resource for job seekers, featuring career insights, training opportunities, job postings, and direct connections to employers statewide. It also highlights various roles within the industry that extend far beyond driving, such as:

• Diesel Technicians ensuring trucks and trailers operate smoothly

• Manufacturing Experts responsible for creating and repairing truck components

• Brokers and Customer Operations managing vital client relationships

• Dispatch and Load Tracking Specialists serving as lifelines for drivers on the road

• Transportation Attorneys providing expert legal support on safety and regulatory compliance

• HR, Accounting, and Recruitment Professionals keeping trucking companies fully staffed

• Safety Trainers and Experts committed to keeping the roads safe for everyone

• Public Relations and Digital Communications Specialists sharing the trucking industry’s narrative

Multifaceted Campaign Promotion

The “Jobs Beyond the Wheel” campaign leverages an extensive multichannel marketing strategy to amplify its reach and impact. Efforts include placements in career-focused publications, presentations at public events like the Truck Driving Championships, collaborations with workforce development organizations, and targeted outreach to schools to inspire the next generation of trucking professionals. A robust presence across social media platforms ensures the campaign reaches audiences at every corner of the digital landscape.

According to Elizabeth Emmanuel, Vice President of Public Affairs at FTA and creative lead for the project, the campaign is designed to resonate with job seekers across all life stages. “‘Jobs Beyond the Wheel’ showcases different roles and people driving the trucking industry—for those looking for a job today, to students looking at opportunities after graduation,” Emmanuel explained. “Whatever stage of life, or level of education, we want people to think of the transportation sector as a compelling career choice.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Industry Professionals

This forward-thinking initiative is partly funded by FloridaCommerce and reflects FTA’s commitment to fostering a thriving workforce. By bridging the gap between skilled professionals and the trucking industry, the “Jobs Beyond the Wheel” campaign plays a vital role in ensuring the continued success of this essential sector.

To learn more about career opportunities or get started on your professional trucking path, visit www.floridatrucking.org/jobs.

Source: AJOT

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Take Andrea McFarland, a standout leader at NFI, whose journey into trucking was influenced by her father’s 30-year career. Growing up, Andrea spent countless hours at NFI’s Lawnside and Vineland shops, absorbing lessons from her father’s dedication to the trade. These moments sparked her passion for the industry, leading her to pursue her own path in trucking.

Andrea’s story is far from unique in the trucking world. Family legacies like hers create a foundation for many careers, whether through direct involvement with parents who drive or work in logistics, or simply through the values they pass down. Her memories of assisting her father on nighttime road calls and observing his connections with drivers highlight how family traditions can inspire future generations to carry the torch.

Mentorship in Trucking: Learning From the Best

Beyond family ties, mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping careers in trucking. Veterans of the industry often serve as guides for new drivers or logistics professionals, offering insight, advice, and encouragement. These mentors help newcomers navigate challenges, build confidence, and find their footing in an industry that can be both demanding and rewarding.

At companies like NFI, leaders like Andrea McFarland embody the spirit of mentorship. In her role, she not only draws on the lessons from her father but also gives back to her team, creating an environment where others feel supported and valued. It’s this sense of community—passed down from one generation to the next—that helps the industry thrive.

Women Leading the Way

Family and mentorship have been critical for women breaking into the trucking industry, an area historically dominated by men. Andrea’s story exemplifies this evolution. From following in her father’s footsteps to attending the Women in Trucking annual conference, she represents a growing movement of women proving that success in logistics is achievable for everyone.

The trucking industry has come a long way in welcoming women into leadership roles, but there’s still progress to be made. Stories like Andrea’s show that with support, passion, and determination, barriers can be broken, and new standards can be set.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As the industry evolves, stories of family legacies and mentorship will continue to inspire the next generation of drivers and logistics professionals. Whether it’s through passing down a love for the road or guiding newcomers through their first challenges, these connections ensure that trucking remains a vibrant and thriving community.

Want to hear Andrea’s story in her own words? She sat down with She Drives on Radio Nemo to discuss her journey, her breakthroughs at NFI, and her vision for the future of trucking. Listen to the full episode here.

The post Generations Behind the Wheel: Family Legacies and Mentorship in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“Our strength as a company comes from the diversity within our team,” said Paula Frey, Chief Human Resources Officer at Echo. “We’re lucky to work alongside some of the most skilled, dedicated women in the logistics industry, and this recognition is a reflection of their hard work and contributions.”

Why Echo Stands Out Among Employers in Transportation

Echo’s recognition stems from its consistent efforts to foster a workplace rooted in gender diversity, equitable opportunities, and strong work-life balance. With competitive compensation, exceptional benefits, and a focus on professional development, Echo has cultivated an environment where women can not only succeed but thrive.

“Our people and our culture are what make Echo such a great place to work,” said Doug Waggoner, CEO of Echo Global Logistics. “We have a team that’s committed to pushing each other forward, advancing in their careers, and driving our shared success.”

Championing Inclusivity Through Action

Echo secured its place on the prestigious 2024 list through its proactive and impactful initiatives aimed at inclusivity. A standout feature of its approach is the company’s Business Resource Groups (BRGs)—employee-led programs designed to nurture support and empowerment within the workplace. Notably, the Women at Echo group focuses on driving gender equity, creating leadership opportunities, and cultivating professional growth for women across the organization.

A Commitment to Diversity and Growth

At the heart of Echo’s success lies its culture of inclusivity and a steadfast focus on employee development. By investing in its workforce and prioritizing diversity as a business imperative, Echo continues to strengthen its position as a top employer in the transportation industry.

Echo Global Logistics proves that inclusivity is more than just a buzzword—it’s a principle that drives innovation, collaboration, and success at every level of the company. This recognition further solidifies Echo’s dedication to creating a workplace that champions women, celebrates diversity, and promotes growth for all its employees.

Source: The Trucker

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