Jones, a 20-year U.S. Army veteran who began driving professionally this year, was named the 2025 Transition Trucking Driving to Excellence Award winner. The award honors military veterans who are new to trucking and demonstrate strong performance, professionalism, and commitment early in their careers.

Recognition Presented in Washington, DC

Jones received the award during a formal ceremony held on Friday at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offices in Washington, DC. The honor is presented jointly by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Hiring Our Heroes program, Kenworth, and FASTPORT.

As part of the award, Jones received a new Kenworth T680 configured with a 76-inch sleeper. The truck is powered by the PACCAR Powertrain, including a PACCAR MX 13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, a PACCAR TX 12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX 40 tandem rear axles.

From Army Service to the Driver’s Seat

Jones graduated from high school in Indian Trail, North Carolina, in 2004 and entered the Army through its delayed entry program. Over two decades of service, he held roles as an unmanned aircraft systems operator, instructor operator, standards operator, and platoon sergeant.

His military career included three combat deployments to Iraq and two rotations to South Korea.

After completing his military service, Jones attended the Georgia Driving Academy, graduating in December 2024. He began his trucking career shortly after through Roehl Transport’s Safety and Job Skills Training Program.

Jones is married to his wife Katrina and is the father of two children, Alvin and Monica.

Other Finalists Recognized

Two additional drivers were named finalists for the 2025 award.

• Macy Mattice, a former U.S. Army E-4, now drives for Melton Truck Lines.
• Mark Scriven, who served as a U.S. Army E-6, currently drives for Stevens Transport.

Both finalists received cash prizes as part of the recognition.

Roehl’s Ongoing Veteran Support

Roehl Transport has a long-standing history of hiring and supporting military veterans. Jones is the second Roehl driver to earn the Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award.

Earlier this year, the company received the 2026 Military Friendly Employer Top 10 designation from the publishers of GI Jobs magazine, along with the Wisconsin Vet Ready Award. Roehl also supports National Guard and Reserve members through participation in the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve program.

About the Transition Trucking Award

The Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award program launched in 2016. It is part of a broader effort to encourage the hiring of military veterans, National Guard members, and reservists into trucking careers and to recognize early success within the industry.

For drivers considering a move from military service into trucking, Jones’ recognition highlights how structured training, consistency, and professionalism can translate into early career achievement behind the wheel.

Source: Truckers News

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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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As Roehl’s busiest hub, the terminal isn’t just about freight flow. It’s a space centered on driver comfort, convenience, and support. Whether you’re stopping between runs, catching up on rest, or starting orientation, Roehl says this terminal was built around what drivers really need.

Step inside, and it’s clear this place raises the bar. Roehl’s Chicago Area Terminal offers the kind of amenities that make downtime worthwhile, from an on-site grill serving made-to-order meals to private showers and sleeping quarters with real beds. There’s also free laundry, a computer room, TVs in the lounge, an exercise area, and courtesy cars to help drivers get around locally.

But Roehl didn’t stop at comfort. The company says this terminal also serves as a hub for training, maintenance, and professional growth. Drivers have access to on-site service bays, orientation classrooms, and advanced driving simulators. It’s a setup that supports both new drivers starting their careers and experienced ones looking to keep their skills sharp.

Roehl Transport says the Chicago Area Terminal was built around a simple belief that drivers deserve a place that values them. The facility stands as a reminder that behind every load, every mile, and every delivery, a driver is keeping the industry moving — and they deserve a home on the road that treats them right.

Image Source: Roehl Transport

Source: Truckers News

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Cosens joined Roehl Transport about a year and a half ago, drawn by the company’s strong reputation for safety and its driver-first culture. Today, she’s a flatbed driver trainer based out of Roehl’s Chicago Area Terminal, working with new drivers as they gain real-world experience on the road.

From Firefighter to Flatbed Driver

Before finding her home in trucking, Cosens led a uniquely diverse career. She spent years as a firefighter, worked in fine dining helping restaurants earn Michelin stars, and even tackled pest control as an exterminator. Each role demanded discipline and adaptability—qualities that now guide her success as a trainer and professional driver.

Teaching Beyond the Wheel

For Cosens, training isn’t just about learning to drive. She teaches her trainees how to thrive on the road, covering topics from trip planning to personal wellness. One of her favorite lessons? How to cook healthy, affordable meals in the truck. She shows new drivers that preparing food on the go can save money, boost energy, and make long hauls more enjoyable.

Why Roehl Transport Stands Out

Cosens says what truly sets Roehl apart is its respect for drivers and commitment to maintaining safe, high-quality facilities. The company’s terminals provide clean showers, safe parking, hot meals, and comfortable bunk rooms, giving drivers a sense of home no matter where they stop.

She also appreciates the company’s leadership. “It makes us feel like he knows what we go through and strengthens our community,” she said, referring to CEO Rick Roehl, who still takes the wheel himself as an active CDL driver.

Safety remains Roehl’s top priority value, and Cosens reinforces this with every trainee. “Safety is a cornerstone here,” she said. “Everything you do daily — whether it’s working with customers, hauling a load, or talking to your fleet manager — comes down to safety.”

Building Careers, Not Just Jobs

Roehl Transport offers a wide range of driving opportunities—from flatbed and hazmat to oversized loads—allowing drivers to expand their skills and earning potential over time.

“Roehl gives drivers the chance to get their foot in the door with support to earn a license and build real experience,” Cosens said. “But you can also keep growing your career here because there are so many different driving opportunities and routes to choose from.”

Cosens embodies Roehl’s Driver Driven philosophy, helping trainees balance professionalism, safety, and self-care while building a career they can be proud of.

Her story reflects what makes Roehl Transport different: a company where drivers aren’t just employees, they’re part of a community. As Cosens puts it, “Roehl is going to help you be the best driver you can.”

Source: Roehl, Kayla Cosens
Source: Truckers News

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Roehl’s commitment to being there “for every mile of your driving career” goes beyond a slogan—it’s a promise delivered every day through hands-on training, modern equipment, flexible schedules, and a variety of fleets to meet drivers where they are. While many may know Roehl for its excellent reputation in training and launching driving careers, it’s essential to note that Roehl is a highly advantageous career home for drivers at all experience levels, as evidenced by many of our drivers who have reached milestones of one to six million miles of accident-free driving.

“From day one, we want our drivers to feel supported and empowered,” said Tim Norlin, Vice President of Driver Employment. “Our programs are designed to help associates start strong, drive ahead, grow their careers, and thrive long-term.”

With options including Home Daily, Regional, Dedicated, OTR, and the company’s innovative HOMEtime PLUS fleets, Roehl offers scheduling flexibility and steady miles across the board. The company’s Address-to-Address Practical Route Mileage Pay means drivers are paid for more of the miles they actually drive—boosting weekly averages and overall satisfaction.

For those new to the industry, Roehl’s Get Your CDL Program provides a direct path to success through paid on-the-job training, backed by the same resources and support that seasoned drivers receive.

For experienced drivers, Roehl’s diverse fleet offerings allow associates to align their work with their goals—whether it’s getting home more often or maximizing pay.

Additional highlights of Roehl’s driver experience include:

• Top earnings ranging from $1,300–$1,800+ weekly
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company profit sharing
• Passenger and pet policies
• Paid vacation and holiday time
• 24/7 maintenance and modern equipment
• Smartphone app to stay connected on and off the road

Each fleet is backed by a commitment to safety, efficiency, and respect—core values that have guided Roehl since its founding.

To learn more about Roehl’s driving opportunities or to apply, contact a recruiter at 715-591-7050.

About Roehl Transport
Founded in 1962, Roehl is one of North America’s safest trucking companies, as recognized by the American Trucking Associations (ATA), and is a 5-time recipient of the ATA’s President’s Award, the trucking industry’s highest honor. Roehl offers a wide range of career paths for CDL drivers. Through programs that promote balance, growth, and reliability, Roehl offers support to people at every step—whether they’re just getting started or driving toward their next career milestone, which supports the company’s message: Roehl, for every mile of your driving career. 

(Image and Source: Roehl Transport)

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Matyka, a skilled flatbed driver, began his career with Roehl Transport in March 1984. He joined the company after hearing great things from a friend who had recently signed on. Roehl was a much smaller operation at that time, employing around 140 drivers. Early in his career, Matyka remembers connecting with another Roehl driver over the CB radio during a Michigan route. That driver was none other than Rick Roehl, who has since risen to become the company’s CEO, leading a workforce that now exceeds 3,000 team members.

“Alan demonstrates our cornerstone value of safety with every mile he drives. Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and dedication,” said CEO Rick Roehl, praising Matyka’s remarkable accomplishment.

A Lifelong Passion for Driving

Growing up on a farm in Wisconsin, Matyka discovered his passion for driving at a young age. Whether it was navigating a tractor, maneuvering a lawn mower, or hitting the road in a truck, driving came naturally to him. “Being a truck driver just fit,” Matyka explained. “I’ve got to have a steering wheel in my hands. You can always look back and see what you’ve done.”

Throughout his career, Matyka remained committed to constant improvement. He kept a close eye on other drivers, learning from their actions and finding smarter ways to approach challenges. This growth mindset helped him achieve the incredible feat of 5 million accident-free miles, making him only the second driver in Roehl’s history to accomplish this.

Reflecting on his decades behind the wheel, Matyka shared, “Everything you’ve got in life is attributed to having a good, steady job.”

What’s Next for Matyka?

With an illustrious career now behind him, Matyka looks forward to spending more time at home, focusing on projects around his property. That love for driving hasn’t disappeared, though. Whether on the highway or in his backyard, Matyka will always enjoy being behind the wheel.

“I’m going to go home and mow the grass and watch it grow for once,” he joked.

Source:  Truckers News
Source: Roehl Transport

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A Legacy of Safety and Excellence in Trucking

John Moeller began his career with Roehl Transport in 1979 and has since become a driving force in the company’s focus on safety. His consistent dedication to safe driving practices is a testament to Roehl Transport’s core values and commitment to the trucking industry’s highest standards.

“Our company is built upon our cornerstone value of safety, and John has lived that value with every mile he’s driven. Thank you, John, for your dedication to our industry, to our company, and for driving to protect others,” said CEO Rick Roehl.

John Moeller’s Record-Breaking 6 Million Mile Achievement

Moeller’s recent accomplishment of 6 million accident-free miles distinguishes him as the first driver in Roehl Transport’s history to reach this extraordinary milestone. His track record includes being the first driver to achieve 3 million, 4 million, and 5 million safe miles, earning him accolades such as the 2011 Truckload Carriers Association’s Company Driver of the Year.

Currently, Moeller drives for Roehl’s Curtainside National Fleet, continuing his legacy of safe and efficient driving. Before this role, he spent years as a flatbed driver, where he was known for expertly securing and tarping loads. In 2009, he made history by completing Roehl’s first delivery to Alaska, showcasing his versatility and expertise in the trucking industry.

Personal Life: Family and Community in Marshfield, Wisconsin

John Moeller’s life outside of trucking is rooted in family and community. He resides in Marshfield, Wisconsin, with his wife Debbie, to whom he has been married for over 40 years. The couple has three children and six grandchildren. Moeller’s commitment to his family mirrors his dedication to his profession, making him a role model for drivers at Roehl Transport.

“John moves into an elite class of drivers—having driven more than 6 million miles accident-free is a top-tier accomplishment,” stated John Spiros, Vice President of Safety and Claims Management at Roehl Transport.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Roehl Transport 

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