Since its founding in 1973, the TCA Scholarship Fund has supported the educational goals of students connected to the trucking industry. Eligible recipients are students in good standing who are enrolled in two- or four-year colleges or universities and are affiliated with TCA member companies.

“This is an incredibly exciting moment for all of us,” said Mark Walker, CEO of TransLand and chairman of the TCA Scholarship Fund.

“We are honored to raise the bar once again in supporting students and investing in their future. The volume and caliber of applications this year were outstanding, and it’s truly inspiring to see so many talented, driven individuals pursuing their goals,” he continued. “We are proud to play a part in their journeys and look forward to seeing the impact they will have on our industry and beyond.”

Congratulations to this year’s scholarship recipients, who are listed below.

Endowed, named scholarships (awarded only to four-year university recipients):

• NAIT Scholarship ($6,250): Jorleney Aguirre, Landstar Transportation
• John Kaburick Scholarship ($4,500): Isaac Crespo, NFI Industries
• Darrel Clark Wilson III Scholarship ($3,250): Kennedy Buatte, Prime Inc.
• Jim and Starla Ward Scholarship ($3,250): Wyatt Neese, Hogan Transports
• Kai Norris Scholarship ($3,250): Ganella Adams, Brown Trucking
• Keith Tuttle Scholarship ($3,250): Alec Schaublin, Thomas E. Keller Trucking
• Robert D. Penner Scholarship ($3,250): Anabella Caballero, Werner Enterprises
• Robert Low Scholarship ($3,250): Zach Polubinski, AIT Worldwide Logistics
• Stoney Reese Stubbs Scholarship ($3,250): Parnoor Gill, Bison Transport
• Thomas R. Schilli Scholarship (two recipients/$3,250 each): Jeremiah Leonard, Western Dairy Transport; and Gurjaan Rai, Bison Transport
• Thomas Welby Scholarship ($3,250): Brett Faccio, Buchanan Hauling and Rigging
• Tom Kretsinger Jr. Scholarship ($3,250): Zach Gaudette, Sibley Transport
• William Giroux Scholarship (three recipients/$3,250 each): Logan Dudley, Swift Transportation; Lily Maddox, Covenant Logistics; and Ryan Battista, NFI Industries

Four-year university scholarship recipients, $2,725 each:

• Kade Andrus, Doug Andrus Distributing
• Judah Bass, Saddle Creek Logistics
• Anika Birkelo, Royal Logistics
• Aden Brown, Prime Inc.
• Julian Chancellor, Maverick Transportation
• Sahitya Das, NFI Industries
• Christina Doucette, Werner Enterprises
• Joshua Duncan, Best Logistics Group
• Madeline Falknor, Fremont Contract Carriers
• Brody Gager, NFI Industries
• Tristen Gaulden, Maverick Transportation
• Bella Genco, Knight Transportation
• Samantha Hoffman, Firstfleet
• Paige Hudson, SMC3
• Darius Jarvis, Givens Transportation
• MacKenzy King, Marten Transport
• Erika Kraseman, Swift Transportation
• Caris Lincoln, Dana Incorporated
• Madeline Marten, Marten Transport
• Miranda Martinez, Werner Enterprises
• Jeremiah Mathew, Stevens Transport
• Orelon McNeal, SWTO
• Drew Merritt, Hendrickson
• Caleb Moore, J.J. Keller & Associates
• Ethan Moore, Halvor Lines
• Margaret Motts, Hendrickson
• Charlotte Pugh, Best Logistics Group
• Katie Pulliam, Danny Herman Trucking
• Andrew Ramirez, Lew Thompson & Sons
• Ava Reilley, NFI Industries
• Sebastian Ruiz, S&H Express
• Hannah Sherer, Knight-Swift Transportation
• Sarina Shrestha, Werner Enterprises
• Harleigh Smith, Heartland Express
• Brandon Stice, Heartland Express
• Macie Varley, Trans-System
• Demetrius Warnsley, KLLM Transport Services
• David Wiewiura, Hendrickson
• Teigen Wormstadt, Fortune Transportation
• Ryan Wyskowski, Werner Enterprises
• Isaac Yust, Heartland Express

Two-year college scholarship recipients, $2,000 each:

• Molly Garner, Big G Express
• Mabel Ornelas, Arlo G. Lott Trucking
• Jenessa Rimer, Transportation Commodities Inc. (TCI)
• Alexandria Rivera, Saddle Creek Logistics
• Megan Tyler, Hogan Transports
• Sawyer Wickesberg, J.J. Keller & Associates

How recipients were selected

The application process was managed by the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges. A selection committee, established by OFIC, scored the applicants, taking into consideration the applicants’ GPA, major, extracurricular activities, hours worked, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did the TCA Scholarship Fund award for 2026-27?
A total of $182,000 was awarded to 64 students.

Who is eligible for the TCA Scholarship Fund?
Students must be in good standing, enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university, and affiliated with a TCA member company.

Who manages the application process?
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges manages the application and selection process.

What factors are used to select recipients?
Applicants are evaluated based on GPA, major, extracurricular activities, hours worked, and more.

Are there different scholarship types available?
Yes, including endowed named scholarships for four-year university recipients and standard awards for both two-year and four-year students.

The TCA Scholarship Fund continues to support students connected to the trucking industry through its annual scholarship program.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

Source: The Trucker

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Each year, TCA highlights professional drivers whose quick thinking, courage, and compassion make a real difference on the road. After reviewing dozens of nominations from across the country, TCA has selected its Top Five finalists. Now it’s your turn to help choose the Top Three drivers to be honored at TCA’s 2026 Annual Convention, February 28 through March 3 in Orlando, Florida.

“One of the most meaningful parts of this program is hearing directly from our members about the incredible things their drivers do when no one is watching,” said Zander Gambill, vice president of membership outreach at TCA. “These finalists embody the courage and compassion that define our industry, and we’re excited to invite the public to help us celebrate them.”

Meet the Top Five Finalists

These drivers’ stories show what it means to step up when it counts:

• Kevin Olsen
• Terry Walde
• Amity Cataldo
• Deshown Moye
• Heather Barkey

TCA encourages drivers, industry colleagues, friends, and family to read these stories, share them, and cast votes for the drivers who best represent the spirit of the Highway Angel program.

Click here to cast your vote and support the drivers making a difference every day.

Source: The Trucker

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Affectionately known as “The People’s Tree,” the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree travels from a different national forest each year, making stops along the way to connect communities and share the holiday spirit. This year’s tree, called “Silver Belle,” comes from Nevada’s Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and will journey all the way to Washington, D.C.

Truck drivers and families in Oklahoma will get a chance to see Silver Belle up close during a special whistle-stop celebration hosted by TCA. The free community event takes place Monday, November 10, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Remington Park in Oklahoma City (One Remington Place, C2 parking lot).

The event is made possible thanks to support from Oklahoma-based TCA members Drivers Legal Plan and Western Flyer Express, along with the Oklahoma Trucking Association. Attendees can expect a festive atmosphere filled with lights, community pride, and the kind of holiday spirit that trucking helps deliver every year.

“There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than by welcoming the People’s Tree,” said Zander Gambill, vice president, TCA. “We are especially proud to sponsor this tradition and to offer a completely free event that brings people together in the spirit of the season. And we are grateful for the support of Remington Park, Drivers Legal Plan, Oklahoma Trucking Association and Western Flyer Express.”

Drivers can follow the Silver Belle’s route from Nevada to the nation’s capital using the interactive tracking map on the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website. Whether you’re parked for a break or hauling through one of the tree’s stops, this event is a reminder of how trucking helps connect America — especially during the holidays.

Image Source: TCA

Other Source: The Trucker

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Delivering Wreaths and Scholarships

TCA’s goal for 2025 is to fill an entire trailer with approximately 5,000 sponsored wreaths that will be delivered to participating cemeteries in December. Each wreath sponsorship is $17, and when purchased through TCA’s dedicated link, $5 goes directly to the TCA Scholarship Fund, helping students with ties to the truckload industry.

By taking part, supporters are both remembering a veteran and contributing to the future of the trucking community. Details on sponsoring wreaths are available at truckload.org/wreaths-across-america. Those interested in assisting with wreath deliveries can visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/getinvolved/supporttransportation.

Recognizing Professional Drivers

The night before the wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery, TCA and Pilot Flying J will host the annual Wreaths Across America Arlington Driver Appreciation Dinner. This year’s gathering is set for Friday, December 12. More than 75 professional drivers and guests will receive a meal and a token of appreciation for their contributions.

“Keep Moving Forward” – The 2025 Theme

Wreaths Across America has chosen “Keep Moving Forward” as its theme for 2025. The words came from Captain Joshua Byers, U.S. Army, moments after an IED struck his Humvee in Fallujah, Iraq, on July 23, 2003.

As Company Commander of Fox Troop in the 2/3 Armored Cavalry Regiment, Byers’ final command to his driver — “Keep moving forward” — saved lives, even though he did not survive. His family and fellow soldiers carried those words as a lasting call to persevere.

“There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities, and a country, but we must keep moving forward together,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of WAA. “This year, we will share not only the Byers’ story of resilience but also the stories of many others who continue to live with purpose every day and have chosen to keep moving forward.”

The Meaning Behind Each Wreath

WAA explains that every wreath placed in honor of a veteran is made from 10 balsam bouquets, each representing qualities America’s veterans embody:

• Belief in a greater good
• Love for one another
• Strength, work ethic, and character
• Honesty and integrity
• Humility, selflessness, and modesty
• Ambitions and aspirations
• Optimism for America
• Concern for the future
• Pride in their duties
• Hopes and dreams, fulfilled or not, with no regrets

Symbolism is woven into every part of the wreath: evergreen boughs for endurance, the fresh scent of balsam for purity and simplicity, a red bow for sacrifice, and its circular shape for eternity.

Image Source: Wreaths Across America
Source: The Trucker

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This annual gathering puts industry knowledge and experience at the center of major discussions about trucking policies and priorities. By participating, you help ensure the truckload segment remains active in shaping the legislative and regulatory landscape.

Mark Your Calendar: September 29–30, 2025

These Fall Business Meetings give TCA members and guests the chance to connect directly with key decision-makers and peers. Attendees learn about industry developments, the latest trends, and policy updates affecting daily operations and the sector’s future.

Whether this is your first TCA event or you’ve attended for years, your involvement helps drive actionable change that supports professional drivers, carriers, and everyone in the truckload industry.

What’s on the Agenda at the Fall Business Meetings

On September 29, the focus will turn to committee meetings and guest presentations that dive deep into the hot topics for truckload carriers. You’ll get updates and insights on:

• Creative solutions for driver recruitment and retention

• New ideas to improve truck parking availability

• Legislative news on zero-emission vehicles

• Progress on drug testing regulations

• Initiatives for young drivers and workforce development

• Funding proposals and highway safety measures

• Programs to build a stronger image for trucking and grow TCA membership

Everyone is invited—committee membership is not required to attend meetings or participate in discussions.

Why the Call on Washington Matters

September 30 is all about advocating for our industry on Capitol Hill. TCA’s Call on Washington allows members to meet one-on-one with lawmakers, staff, and officials who influence the rules and regulations governing trucking.

Participants address current topics such as:

• Size and weight guidelines for trucks

• Evolving classification rules for independent contractors

• Federal Excise Tax (FET) updates and highway funding

• Solutions for ongoing truck parking shortages

This is a valuable moment to have your perspective heard at the highest levels, influence legislative processes, and represent the interests of carriers nationwide.

Please note: The Call on Washington portion is open exclusively to TCA members.

Register and Make a Difference

Secure your spot for these meaningful industry events at tcafallcall.com. Registration gives you access to key meetings, learning opportunities, and a direct path to advocating for the future of trucking.

Image Source: TCA
Source: The Trucker

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This prestigious recognition celebrates truck drivers who go above and beyond in acts of kindness, courage, and courtesy while out on the road. For Combs, his commitment to helping others was clear when he intervened to protect a fellow motorist in distress.

A Heroic Display of Awareness on I-81

It was the early hours of April 23 when Combs, who has been a truck driver with ABF Freight based in Fort Smith, Arkansas, found himself traveling northbound along Interstate 81 in Virginia. The stretch between Roanoke and Harrisonburg is often bustling with vehicles, yet Combs’ attentiveness allowed him to notice something unusual.

“I thought it was chains dragging,” Combs recalled after observing sparks flying from a GMC pickup truck just ahead of him. “When I saw it sparking a little too much, I was flashing my lights on and off; I was trying to get him to stop before he passed another truck, and then the sparks got even worse.”

His persistence paid off. The driver of the pickup noticed the signals and began pulling over, just in time for a situation that could have turned disastrous.

Preventing a Catastrophe

Combs’ instincts were spot-on. Moments after the pickup truck began to pull off to the side, it lost its right front wheel.

“I knew something was gonna happen,” Combs said, describing the chaotic scene. “Sparks went everywhere. It went from a few sparks to, when it hit the ground, it was like somebody set a fire underneath it.”

The situation could have escalated further, but fortune favored preparation that day. Combs, a seasoned driver with 16 years of experience, stopped immediately to ensure everyone was safe. Inside the pickup truck were the driver and two passengers—thankfully, none of them were injured.

Realizing the potential fire risk from the sparks, Combs checked the vehicle to confirm it hadn’t ignited. For him, taking action in emergencies is second nature. “I’m always gonna stop,” he emphasized.

Celebrating Heroes of the Highway

Stan Combs’ story is just one example of the incredible acts of service recognized by the TCA’s Highway Angel program. Since its launch in 1997, the program has honored nearly 1,500 professional truck drivers for their extraordinary efforts on the road.

Each honoree exemplifies the values of kindness, responsibility, and vigilance—qualities that are vital in the trucking profession. TCA’s ability to showcase these drivers is made possible thanks to program sponsors like presenting sponsor EpicVue, along with DriverFacts and Northland Insurance.

The Legacy of Being a Highway Angel

For truck drivers like Combs, recognition as a Highway Angel isn’t just about the award—it’s about reflecting the values that define the industry. Stories like his serve as inspiration, reminding us of the humanity behind the wheel of these massive vehicles.

Image Source: ABF Freight
Source: Truckers News

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The TCA reported the incident occurred on October 4th, around 3 p.m., in Peninsula, Ohio. A woman found herself stranded with her SUV on the edge of Seasons Road when Thomas, driving for ABF Freight based in Ft. Smith, Arkansas, noticed her distress and decided to help.

“She was kind of almost halfway in the intersection,” explained Thomas. “I hopped out and asked her if she had a spare tire? And she said yes — that’s what I did — I changed her tire.”

He spent approximately 20 minutes ensuring she was safely out of harm’s way, changing the tire, and providing reassurance.

“It’s just kindness, it’s just my nature,” Thomas mentioned. “I try to be a gentleman — I’m a truck driver and that’s what we do.”

Since its launch in August 1997, the TCA Highway Angel initiative has acknowledged nearly 1,400 truck drivers for their extraordinary acts of kindness, courtesy, and bravery while on duty. This program is made possible thanks to EpicVue, the presenting sponsor, along with DriverFacts and Northland Insurance, who support honoring exceptional drivers like Thomas.

Source: Truckers News

Image:TCA

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Why You Should Attend

This year’s agenda is packed with informative sessions designed to enhance your operational strategies and industry knowledge. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:

The Power of Benchmarking for Operational Excellence

Benchmarking is a powerful tool for organizations striving to boost performance and meet strategic goals. During this session, executives from TCA member companies will share their experiences and insights on how benchmarking has helped them achieve significant improvements. They will discuss benefits such as enhanced performance, gaining a competitive edge, effective goal setting, and strategic development.

The panel will be moderated by TCA President Jim Ward and features industry leaders like Trevor Kurtz from Brian Kurtz Trucking, Kevin Erb from Erb Transport Ltd., and Dave Martin from Bison Transport.

Navigating the Freight Market and Preparing for Future Opportunities

This segment is tailored for both small/medium-sized carriers and larger organizations, offering insights from C-level executives on navigating the current freight market. Attendees will learn about effective strategies that have helped companies weather challenges and set themselves up for future success.

The Small Carrier Panel, moderated by Peter Stefanovich of Left Lane Associates, includes experts like Mark Bylsma from Spring Creek Carriers Inc., Julie Tanguay from EG Gray Transportation, and James Steed from Steed Standard Transport Ltd. Meanwhile, the Large Carrier Panel, moderated by John G. Smith from Newcom Media Inc., features insights from David Tumber of Kriska Transportation Group, Craig Germain of XTL Transport Inc., and Steve Brookshaw of TFI International.

Stay Informed with the Economic Update

Gain valuable perspectives on recent economic data from Nathan Janzen, assistant chief economist at RBC. His expertise in macroeconomic analysis will provide essential insights into developments affecting both Canada and the U.S. trucking industries.

Latest Regulatory and Safety Insights

TCA’s senior vice president of safety and government affairs, Dave Heller, will present the latest updates on regulatory compliance and safety issues. He will also discuss implications from the U.S. presidential election and how these results may impact the trucking sector.

For more information or to secure your spot, visit truckloadbbb.com.

Source: The Trucker

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To nominate a deserving driver, visit www.tcaprofessionaldriversoftheyear.com. Sponsored by Love’s Travel Stops and Cummins, this program highlights drivers who exemplify safety, leadership, and impactful contributions to their companies and communities.

“This awards program plays a vital role in honoring the dedication and hard work of exceptional truck drivers. Recognizing their contributions not only boosts morale within the industry but also highlights the critical role they play in our economy and communities. Thanks to sponsors Love’s and Cummins for their support and ensuring that these important celebrations continue,” said TCA Vice President Zander Gambill.

Last year’s honorees included Tim Chelette of Big G Express, Rosalinda Tejada of Knight Transportation, Howard Robinson of NFI Industries, Clark Reed of Nussbaum Transportation, and James White of P&S Transportation.

“Every day, the Love’s Travel Stops’ team strives to make life on the road easier for professional truck drivers. These underappreciated heroes impact each and every one of us as they perform one of our country’s most demanding and important jobs. We are honored, once again, to recognize those drivers who set the highest standard for the industry mile after mile,” said Jon Archard, Love’s Travel Stops’ Vice President of Fleet Sales.

José Samperio of Cummins Inc. noted, “Many truckers are responsible for more than just safely transporting the goods we rely upon in our daily lives. When they aren’t logging miles, they are also responsible for community involvement, peer leadership, and improving their respective company cultures. Cummins is honored to continue to support the TCA Professional Driver of the Year program that rewards those drivers who go above and beyond to make a positive difference in the world around them.”

If you know a driver who embodies these qualities and works for a TCA member carrier, nominate them today and celebrate their remarkable impact.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Truckload Carriers Association 

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Here’s the sequence of events reported by the TCA:

On July 9, while traveling on a Missouri highway, Patterson observed a vehicle that had flipped and was emitting smoke.

“I saw a car on fire and pulled over to make sure they were okay,” Patterson recounted.

Demonstrating quick thinking, Patterson halted his truck, disembarked, and shattered the car’s windshield to access those trapped inside. He discovered four young adults and assisted each of them to safety. Emergency personnel arrived swiftly after, allowing Patterson to continue his journey to prevent traffic obstruction. Reflecting on the incident, he credited his military background for his swift actions.

“I’m prior military,” remarked the Navy veteran. “It’s just kinda in me.”

Since its establishment in August 1997, the TCA Highway Angels program has celebrated nearly 1,400 truck drivers for their remarkable acts of heroism, kindness, and goodwill on the road. This recognition is supported by sponsors like EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, underscoring the inspiring deeds of truck drivers like Patterson.

Source: Truckers News

Image: TCA

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