Sowder also finished first in the flatbed division during the two-day competition held May 1 and 2 at the FedEx Freight facility in Tennessee.

Hosted by the Tennessee Trucking Association, the annual championships test drivers on written exams, pre-trip inspections, and driving skills designed around precision, safety, and vehicle control.

Several additional honors were handed out during the event, recognizing both competitors and volunteers involved with the championships.

Donnie Shelby of XPO Logistics received the rookie award, while The Martin-Brower Company earned the team trophy award.

The Inspector Challenge award went to Dallas Lange. Ed Hauhn of Martin-Brower received Driver of the Year honors, while Jack Hawkins of Thompson Machinery was recognized for volunteer contributions during the event.

Division winners included drivers representing multiple carriers and equipment classes across the competition field.

Division Winners from the 2026 Tennessee Championships

“We are proud of all of this year’s professional drivers who showcased their skills this past weekend,” the association said in a social media post. “Thank you, participants, volunteers, and sponsors, for another great event!”

Drivers advancing from state competitions will continue to the National Truck Driving & Step Van Driving Championships scheduled for Aug. 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.

State truck driving championships remain one of the industry’s longest-running ways to recognize professional drivers for safety knowledge, vehicle handling skills, and consistency behind the wheel.

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: May 14, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Tennessee Trucking Association

The post FedEx Freight Driver Takes Top Honor At Tennessee Truck Driving Championships appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Throughout his career, Rue has dedicated himself to providing outstanding service to his community and the trucking industry. Currently driving for FedEx, he serves as an over-the-road driver with his home terminal stationed in Memphis. With his dedication and remarkable record, Rue sets a high standard for all other drivers to follow.

In a statement about Rue’s award, Ozark Motor Lines said he “exhibits leadership and professionalism every day at work.”

Rue is a former firefighter/EMT of 21 years who chose to pursue a career as a trucker.

After graduating from a commercial CDL school, he joined Ozark Motor Lines in 1999 as a student/trainee. Rue’s exceptional skills and passion for driving enabled him to become a solo over-the-road driver before transitioning to a trainer and Smith System instructor.

He completed specialized training with Truckers Against Trafficking and served as a Road Team Captain for the Tennessee Trucking Association in 2020-2022.

Aside from driving, Rue’s dedication to serving his community is evident. He spends his time as a Boy Scout leader, American Red Cross volunteer for disaster relief, and field instructor for the Arkansas State Fire Academy.

For 40 years, Rue has been an advocate of first aid and CPR education and continues to teach as an instructor. He also leads the youth program and teaches Sunday school in his church.

In his free time, you can find Rue indulging in his hobbies, which include studying American history, fishing, and searching for treasures with his metal detector.

Source: Truckers News

The post Tennessee Trucking Association Announces Driver of the Year Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.