These aren’t just workers doing their jobs. They’re young professionals who are stepping up, demonstrating exceptional skill, professionalism, and a deep commitment to safety, quality, and growth. The award is a nod to those who are proving that trucking and diesel careers can offer purpose, pride, and long-term opportunity.

“These young professionals are setting the standard for what it means to build a meaningful, purpose-driven career in the industry — and we want to recognize them for it,” said Lindsey Trent, president of the Next Generation in Trucking Association.

Who’s Eligible for the NEXT Top Talent Award?

To qualify, nominees must:

• Be employed in the U.S. as a truck driver or technician
• Be under 30 years old
• Demonstrate excellence in skill and professionalism
• Prioritize safety and quality in their work
• Contribute positively to their team or company
• Show motivation to grow within the industry
• Inspire others with their passion for trucking

Winners will be named in September 2025, aligning with both National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and National Technician Appreciation Week. Those selected will receive national recognition and will be featured in the association’s communications and at key industry events.

Rebecca Brewster, president and COO of the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), emphasized why programs like this are so important:

“With the average age of today’s truck driver at 47, our industry must be intentional about attracting and retaining younger talent.”

How to Nominate a Rising Star

Nominations for the NEXT Top Talent Award are open through August 29, 2025. If you know a young driver or technician who’s raising the bar, this is the chance to shine a light on their work. Submit a nomination here.

Source: The Trucker

The post NEXT Top Talent Award Honors Young Drivers and Technicians Making a Mark in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Honoring the Backbone of the Industry

“National Technician Appreciation Week is a time to pause and thank the men and women who keep our trucks up and running,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “Their professionalism and commitment to upholding exacting standards enhance the efficiency of our supply chain and help to keep everyone on the road safe. Without technicians’ skill, knowledge, and attention to detail, our industry would not be able to deliver the goods that American families and businesses depend on.”

Highlighting Critical Roles

Professional technicians fulfill one of the trucking industry’s most vital and demanding roles. NTAW not only celebrates their contributions but also helps attract new talent to this in-demand career.

“We are very excited to announce the dates for the sixth annual National Technician Appreciation Week to recognize the professional technicians who are indispensable to trucking operations from coast to coast,” said Robert Braswell, TMC executive director. “Without technicians ensuring vehicles are ready for service and in safe condition, drivers could not make the deliveries we rely on. This is the perfect time for our industry and the general public to show our appreciation and say ‘thank you’ to these important individuals for the valuable work they do.”

Learn More

Mark your calendar and join the trucking community in expressing gratitude to these professionals who keep the supply chain moving safely and efficiently. For additional details about National Technician Appreciation Week, visit TMC’s official event page.

Source: The Trucker

The post National Technician Appreciation Week Set for September 21-27 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The purpose of the week is to provide an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and commitment of the professional technicians of the trucking industry. Across America, professional technicians play one of the most demanding and important roles in trucking. This week is will not only acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of these dedicated professionals, but also help attract prospective talent to one of the most in-demand careers in the trucking industry.

Professional technicians are the people that keep trucks moving. To recognize these important men and women, NTAW highlights one of the most demanding and challenging roles in the transportation industry. NTAW will provide an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and commitment of professional technicians. Professional technicians perform one of the most demanding and critical roles in trucking. Considering things like uptime, fuel economy and overall vehicle performance, maintenance technicians are a vital part of a fleet’s overall safety. This week will not only acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of these dedicated professionals, but also help attract prospective talent to one of the most in-demand careers in the industry.

For More Information, Click Here.

The post ATA’s 2022 NATIONAL TECHNICIAN APPRECIATION WEEK appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.