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

A career built on safety and reliability

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

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

How the Driver of the Year is selected

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

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

Recognition from Koch Trucking leadership

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

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

Why the recognition matters

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

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

Source: The Trucker

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Highlighting Zima’s exceptional achievements, MTA President John Hausladen said, “This award is a great way to honor the best in our industry. Driving safely is no easy task, especially considering his daily driving conditions like congestion, driver distractions, and the added challenges of Minnesota winters. Having over 4 million safe driving miles is an outstanding accomplishment. We’re proud to award Roger for this achievement.”

Exemplifying Excellence

Ken Foltz, representing Foltz Trucking, further emphasized Zima’s commitment to excellence. “Roger is a prime example of an employee that lives and breathes the core values and principles of Foltz Trucking,” Foltz shared. “Roger does it right every trip, every day, every week, and every year.”

About Foltz Trucking

Founded in 1958 with just one truck, Foltz Trucking remains a family-owned and operated business, specializing in hopper freight. The company hauls a variety of bulk materials, including agricultural products and pet food ingredients—all while staying committed to safety and quality service.

The Road to Driver of the Year Recognition

Each year, the MTA celebrates exceptional drivers through its Driver of the Month program. Drivers who meet stringent requirements, such as an impeccable driving record, significant industry contributions, demonstrated commitment to highway safety, and community involvement, are nominated by their companies. One of these distinguished individuals is then selected as Driver of the Year by a panel of esteemed judges.

The 2024 judging panel included Charles St. Martin, Division Administrator for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; Laura Roads from MnDOT; and Captain Robert Zak of the Minnesota State Patrol.

Congratulations to Roger Zima for his remarkable achievements and for setting the standard in trucking excellence!

Source: The Trucker

Image: MTA

The post Minnesota Trucking Association Honors 2024 Driver of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.