The recognition is awarded by Military Friendly, an independent ratings organization that evaluates how employers recruit, retain, and support veterans through workplace policies and career development programs.

What the Recognition Means

Peterbilt earned the Military Friendly Employer designation based on its approach to veteran recruitment, career development, and long-term advancement opportunities. The evaluation looks beyond hiring numbers and considers how well organizations create environments where veterans can grow and build sustainable careers.

For individuals with military backgrounds entering manufacturing, engineering, technical, or leadership roles, the designation signals that Peterbilt has systems in place to recognize transferable skills and support professional transitions.

Leadership Perspective

Peterbilt leadership says the recognition reflects a broader commitment to its workforce, particularly those who have served.

“We are proud to earn the Military Friendly Employer designation,” said Jake Montero, Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president. “It affirms our ongoing commitment to maintain a work environment that supports the growth and development of all employees, especially veterans and their unique contributions.”

Ongoing Support for Veterans

Peterbilt’s support for veterans and active-duty service members extends beyond hiring. The company operates a Veterans Employee Resource Group designed to help former service members connect, share experiences, and build internal networks.

Peterbilt also partners with organizations that support and recognize the military community, including Wreaths Across America and RecruitMilitary. These partnerships focus on honoring service members and helping veterans connect with civilian career opportunities.

Why It Matters Across the Industry

Military experience often translates well into manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and operational roles, where discipline, technical aptitude, and teamwork are essential. Employer recognition like the Military Friendly designation helps signal which companies are prepared to support those transitions.

For veterans considering careers within the trucking and transportation manufacturing sector, Peterbilt’s recognition highlights an employer that actively values military experience and invests in long-term employee development.

Source: The Trucker

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The campaign allows Peterbilt employees to contribute through fundraising events, company initiatives, and personal donations, reinforcing the company’s commitment to giving back.

“The United Way Giving Campaign is a reflection of Peterbilt’s commitment to our community,” said Jake Montero, Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president. “The parade is a fantastic tradition that unites our employees, customers and the Denton community. It celebrates the dedication of our employees and their shared loyalty and passion with Peterbilt owners, dealers and fans.”

Since its debut in 2016, the Pride & Class Parade has grown into a marquee event for Peterbilt drivers across North America. Truck owners and operators travel to Denton to display their customized rigs, from classic 1969 Model 358s to the latest 2026 Model 589 trucks.

Gary Henderson, President and CEO of United Way of Denton County, highlighted the partnership’s long-term impact. “Peterbilt and United Way of Denton County have built a longstanding partnership that has strengthened our community for more than three decades,” he said. “Peterbilt’s ongoing financial support and employee engagement have created a meaningful and lasting impact across Denton County.”

For truck drivers, the parade isn’t just a celebration of trucks—it’s a reminder of the influence the trucking community has in supporting local causes and making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Image Source: Peterbilt

Source: Truckers News

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“Reaching the 100000th Model 567 milestone is a major achievement, and we’re proud to recognize WM as the recipient of this special truck,” said Jake Montero, Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president. “WMs’ trust in Peterbilt highlights our ability to deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique business needs of our customers.”

For those in trucking, the Model 567 has become a familiar sight, especially in heavy-duty and refuse operations where durability, uptime, and operator comfort are everything. WM has relied on Peterbilt trucks for years to keep its fleet moving, trusting in their performance and reliability day after day.

According to Peterbilt, “The Model 567 is a versatile vehicle designed for robust heavy and severe duty configurations. It offers maximum durability, fuel efficiency, and uptime for all applications, including refuse.”

That kind of versatility is why so many fleets and drivers value this model. Whether it’s hauling waste through tight city routes or tackling rough construction terrain, the 567 has built its name on consistency and strength.

Todd Poste, vice president of supply chain and chief procurement officer at WM, underscored the relationship between the companies. “We’re honored to accept the 100000th Peterbilt Model 567. Our partnership with Peterbilt and Rush Refuse Systems has been instrumental in helping us deliver on our mission of environmental responsibility and operational excellence. We look forward to continuing this relationship as we drive toward a more sustainable future.”

Rush Refuse Systems, which has worked closely with both WM and Peterbilt, also marked the event as a milestone for the industry. “Delivering the 100000th Peterbilt Model 567 is a tremendous milestone, and we are honored to share it with WM, one of our most valued and long-term customers,” said Rusty Rush, chairman, CEO, and president of Rush Enterprises. “As the market share leaders in the Refuse industry, Peterbilt and Rush Enterprises are proud of our partnership that drives innovation and provides total solutions for customers like WM who lead the way in the industry.”

For truck drivers, these milestones are more than corporate announcements; they represent the craftsmanship and reliability that keep fleets on the road and drivers on schedule. Every mile logged in a Model 567 stands as proof of how a truck built for performance and comfort supports the people doing the real work.

As Peterbilt’s Montero added, “The 100000th Model 567 delivery reflects manufacturing excellence and a legacy of class and outstanding performance Peterbilt is known for.”

The company recently reached another milestone by producing its first Model 567 in Canada for Environmental 360 Solutions, further evidence that this model continues to expand its reach in industries that rely on toughness and precision every single day.

Image Source: Peterbilt
Source: The Trucker

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“We’re proud to be recognized as a Military Friendly Brand,” said Jake Montero, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President. “This honor reflects Peterbilt’s long-standing efforts to build meaningful connections with the military community not only as an employer, but as a brand that stands behind service members and their families through charitable partnerships, outreach programs and initiatives that extend beyond the workplace.”

This badge of honor is awarded to brands demonstrating excellence in culture, policy, and partnerships that genuinely uplift veterans and service families. Peterbilt’s designation reflects their active collaborations with programs like Wreaths Across America and RecruitMilitary, support for veteran training through the Peterbilt Technical Institute, and the ongoing contributions of their Peterbilt Veterans Employee Resource Group.

On Thursday, Peterbilt also reaffirmed its status as a 2025 Military Friendly Employer (MFE) bringing military commitment from branding into hiring and retention efforts.

“Peterbilt has created a space where veterans’ service and talents are valued,” said Christopher Smith, Design Engineer and President of the Peterbilt Veteran Employee Resource Group. “From the employee resource group, to the exclusive veteran-branded hats we wear at work, to special events that celebrate and recognize our team members’ service.”

To learn more about how Peterbilt supports military members and their families, click here.

Source: The Trucker
Image and Source: Peterbilt

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If you’re a driver wondering when newer rigs might start showing up again, or when fleets might start investing in better equipment, this shift matters. Here’s what’s shaping up and why 2026 could look different.

What’s Slowing Things Down?

In Paccar’s Q2 earnings call, Feight made it clear: the hesitation in new truck orders is mostly about uncertainty. Fleets aren’t rushing to replace equipment just yet because too many variables still feel unpredictable — from trade policies to emission rules.

“I don’t think it’s just one area,” Feight told analysts. “I think it’s just getting certainty because, as we get clarity, that will create confidence for our customers. And as they have confidence, then that will increase their ability to order trucks.”

And right now, that confidence is still building. Overcapacity in the truckload sector has put pressure on rates and kept demand low, but that’s slowly starting to shift.

What Could Turn Things Around?

Feight outlined a handful of factors that could shake up the market and create momentum. As these pieces come together, the result could be a wave of truck purchases—benefiting both carriers and drivers.

He pointed to:

• A more balanced truckload sector as excess capacity works its way out
• The One Big, Beautiful Bill Act’s tax benefits create room for investment
• Upcoming emissions rules (specifically the 2027 NOx limits) are driving early equipment upgrades
• And a clearer picture of tariffs, which have inflated costs for months

“One of the things [in] the truckload sector … is that there was some overcapacity,” Feight said. “I think that overcapacity is coming out gradually. And as that gets in balance, it will help with rates … which will help with profitability for the carriers, which will help with the truck orders.”

As rates improve, so will carriers’ willingness to spend on new equipment. That means more reliable trucks—and potentially more options—on the road for drivers.

Where 2026 Comes Into Play

One big catalyst on the horizon? New NOx regulations arriving in 2027. These lower emissions limits will increase costs on newer models, which may push fleets to buy earlier to save money.

Feight explained it this way:
“The law in 2027 is that the standard of NOx will move from 200 milligrams down to 35 milligrams. And if it moves from 200 milligrams to 35 milligrams, that will bring cost to the product, which will encourage customers to buy trucks, probably beginning later in this year.”

And with those pre-buy decisions kicking in, he expects momentum to pick up.

“I feel pretty good about 2026,” he said. “I think that there’s going to be clarity on these regulatory standards … around tariffs one way or another. And … the trucks are getting used. So, 2026 should see improvement.”

What It Means for You

This shift isn’t just about Paccar’s sales — it could shape the rigs you see (and drive) in the next year or two. If the market starts picking up steam:

• Fleets may start cycling in newer trucks again
• Tariff resolutions could ease price pressure on parts and equipment
• Pre-buy trends could give owner-operators more incentive to invest sooner

Whether you’re driving for a carrier or planning your next purchase, these changes could lead to better rides, fewer breakdowns, and more chances to grab the keys to newer gear.

Feight’s forecast points to a rebound—not overnight, but soon. For truckers on the ground, that could mean a stronger market, more investment in equipment, and a better seat for the long haul.

Source: Transport Topics
Image Source: Glass Door

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Manufacturer-driven decision

This adjustment stems from a request by PACCAR Inc., the manufacturer of the heavy-duty truck base used in Aurora’s fleet. The reason? According to Aurora CEO Chris Urmson, it’s related to “certain prototype parts in their base vehicle platform.” PACCAR’s hesitancy may be tied to concerns over potential collisions involving their prototypes.

“We are confident this is not required to operate the truck safely based on the exhaustive testing (covering nearly 10,000 requirements and 2.7 million tests) and analysis that populates our safety case. PACCAR is a longtime partner and, after much consideration, we respected their request,” explained Urmson via a statement on the company’s website, reinforcing Aurora’s commitment to maintaining trust with key collaborators.

While this decision reflects a conservative approach, Aurora affirms that their trucks remain fully autonomous and continues to proceed confidently with its long-term development plans.

Rapid advancements—with caution

Aurora Innovation has made impressive progress with autonomous technology, recently incorporating inclement weather conditions into its driving framework in March. However, considering the complexity of launching a large-scale self-driving operation, challenges like the PACCAR request arise inevitably. This is far from uncommon, given the long and complex history of self-driving advancements.

From its roots in 1939 to vaguely promising trials in the 1950s, the self-driving industry has continuously skirted the promise of “five more years” to success. Nonetheless, Aurora appears to be making significant strides toward tackling lingering obstacles and breaking free from this cycle of delay.

Solving trucking’s labor shortage

Aurora’s rapid development is timely, given a worsening labor shortage in the US trucking industry. According to recent freight research from Tech.co, 25% of US freight companies cite labor shortages as their foremost business challenge. Projections suggest a shortfall of 160,000 drivers by 2030 and a 50% rise in the freight demand by 2050.

Fully autonomous trucks could be a game-changer, addressing staffing issues while enabling companies to meet increasing logistical demands and sustain profit margins. However, steps like PACCAR’s request for increased oversight indicate that measured progress remains the preferred course.

The road ahead

Aurora Innovation remains dedicated to setting a new benchmark for self-driving technology. While the inclusion of human observers might temporarily symbolically dampen their pioneering spirit, their cautious rollout demonstrates a maturity and readiness to collaborate with stakeholders. These calculated moves put Aurora that much closer to overcoming the persistent challenges that have kept self-driving vehicles “just around the corner” for decades.

For now, Aurora’s strategy signals that patience, collaboration, and precision remain the guiding principles in their quest to revolutionize the trucking industry. Safe, fully autonomous freight may not be here just yet, but with Aurora steering the way, the horizon suddenly feels much closer.

Image Source: Fast Company
Source: Tech.Co

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“It is an honor to receive the Military Friendly Employer designation,” said Jason Skoog, Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president. “We value the service and experience of the military community by investing in their careers and providing them with a supportive workplace.”

A Legacy of Supporting the Military Community

The Military Friendly recognition is awarded to organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to recruiting, retaining, and advancing military veterans. Peterbilt has consistently been at the forefront of these efforts, meeting and exceeding the qualification standards established by Military Friendly—a leading ratings organization.

Through initiatives like its Veterans Employee Resource Group, Peterbilt builds a strong community for veterans and active-duty service members. This platform fosters employee connections, engagement, and mutual support. The company makes it a priority to highlight and celebrate the contributions of military personnel through meaningful recognition events.

Additionally, Peterbilt collaborates actively with organizations such as Wreaths Across America and RecruitMilitary to further its mission of honoring and empowering those who serve.

To explore career opportunities for veterans and military service members at Peterbilt, visit https://www.peterbilt.com/careers/veterans.

Source: The Trucker & Peterbilt 

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According to documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 6,000 Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks from the model year 2025 are being recalled by Paccar. The affected models include:

• Kenworth C500

• Kenworth T680

• Kenworth T800

• Kenworth T880

• Kenworth W900

• Kenworth W990

• Peterbilt 567

• Peterbilt 579

• Peterbilt 589

These trucks are equipped with Cummins X15 diesel engines featuring specific fuel pumps. It has been identified that some fuel pump barrels were manufactured with parts that have low fatigue strength, increasing their risk of fracturing. This fracture could lead to a fuel leak, potentially causing an engine stall, thereby elevating the chance of a crash.

Vehicles experiencing this engine defect might show reduced performance or trigger a warning light when fuel pressure dips below the required level. The presence of diesel fuel may also be detectable by sight or smell.

Paccar, in collaboration with the engine manufacturers, will replace the faulty Cummins X15 fuel pump barrels at no cost. Owners will receive notification letters by December 22.

This recall forms a segment of a comprehensive equipment recall issued by Cummins in September, affecting over 9,000 Cummins X15 engines supplied to different vehicle manufacturers such as Navistar, Daimler Truck, Kenworth, and Peterbilt. Of the total recalled units, only about 3% are anticipated to have this defect.

On October 1, both Daimler Truck North America and Navistar initiated their recalls related to the Cummins X15 issue, affecting nearly 1,700 trucks collectively. Together with Paccar’s recall, the majority of the engines initially recalled by Cummins are now accounted for. These engines were sold not only to heavy-duty commercial truck manufacturers but also to several fire truck manufacturers.

For inquiries regarding the Kenworth recall, customers can contact customer service at 425-828-5888, referencing recall number 24KWH. Peterbilt attendees can reach out to 940-591-4220 with recall number 24PBH or contact Cummins at 812-377-5000. The NHTSA recall number is 24V-789 for both recalls.

Source: Land Line

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An Industry Immersion

According to a recent press release, Junker has deeply engaged with the industry, from trucking fleets to product marketing.

“Her journey in the trucking industry is a testament to its possibilities and growth,” the release stated. “She has poured her heart and soul into her career in outside sales, fleet and dealer support, and product marketing, demonstrating a genuinely inspiring passion. Her enthusiasm for learning anything she could about the industry led her to dedicate herself to participating in the Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) and the TMC Leaders of Tomorrow Program. She feels the field is infectious because of the products she represents and their crucial economics.”

Making an Impact

WIT noted that Junker is particularly passionate about making a difference within the trucking industry and inspiring other women who either aspire to join or are already part of it. Junker believes that women in the trucking field provide a strong support system for each other.

“Perhaps because we are not always the majority in the room, we understand what it is like not to be the majority. Therefore, we really support each other by bringing each other into the middle. We have the empathy to support each other,” Junker said. “What has made this industry so successful is its ability to adapt and evolve. Electrification is a new opportunity to continue that evolution.”

Words of Wisdom

Junker offers simple yet empowering advice to women looking to enter the trucking industry—stay authentic, believe in your capabilities, and don’t allow anything to diminish your passion. This focus on support and mentorship aims to reassure and encourage others.

“The Women In Trucking organization is not just a supportive network, but a lifeline of professionals who are rooting for each other’s success,” she said. “It truly highlighted how impactful having a female mentor benefited me. Her being there for me has inspired me to be there for other women.”

About Megan Junker

Junker holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from St. Bonaventure University and an MBA from Ohio University. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé and engaging in outdoor activities such as gardening, backpacking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Women in Trucking

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A June 17 letter from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that a ball stud in the tie rod or drag link could break.

The recall involves Kenworth models K270, K370, T280, T380, T480, T680, T880, W900, and W990, along with Peterbilt models 220, 536, 537, 548, 567, 579, and 589, all under the Paccar brand.

The issue was reported to Paccar by a supplier in late May. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or fatalities, as stated in the recall report.

Truck drivers are advised not to operate these vehicles until the necessary repairs are made, due to the potential for “complete loss of steering control,” which heightens the risk of accidents, according to NHTSA.

Dealers will inspect and replace the tie rod and drag link assemblies at no cost to the owners, NHTSA confirmed.

Additionally, other recalls have been issued for many of the same 2025 truck models, addressing problems related to the steering gear sector shaft and steering gear assembly.

Source: Trucking Dive

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