The annual campaign—now in its tenth year—is a collaboration between Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program. It’s designed to spotlight military service members who have successfully transitioned into professional driving careers.

“This year’s ‘Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence’ award semi-finalists exemplify the dedication, leadership, and commitment to service that military veterans bring to the trucking industry,” said Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing. “Kenworth is proud to partner with Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative for the tenth year, and we look forward to recognizing the distinguished semi-finalists who continue to serve our country through excellence behind the wheel.”

2025 Transition Trucking Semi-Finalists Named

The drivers selected for this year’s honor come from diverse military backgrounds and were trained by various respected institutions. The 12 semi-finalists are:

• Kathleen (Kat) Carreto, U.S. Army National Guard (E-5), Roehl Transport
• Bradley Lecky, U.S. Army (E-4), Crawford Electric, a Sonepar USA Company
• Federico Hudson, U.S. Air Force (E-7), Van Wyk, Inc.
• Gaylon Hensley, U.S. Army (E-7), Melton Truck Lines
• Daniel Hemphill, U.S. Army (E-4), Wayne R. West Trucking
• Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport
• Joseph Barotti, U.S. Air Force (E-6) and U.S. Marine Corps, Werner Enterprises
• Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army (E-5), Werner Enterprises
• Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines
• Ryan Gordon, U.S. Army (E-5), Prime Inc.
• Precious Cannon-Scott, Air National Guard (E-4), Prime Inc.
• Charles Jones, Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Honoring a Decade of Veteran Impact

First launched in 2016, the Transition Trucking award continues to serve as a powerful platform for uplifting veterans entering the transportation workforce. The 2025 semi-finalists will be honored at a special event on September 18 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. A visit to the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing facility will follow, where finalists will be named.

Each year, Kenworth donates a truck to the winner, and this year’s prize is a T680 featuring a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and high-end amenities like a fridge, TV space, and GT703 ultraleather heated and cooled seats.

The truck also includes cutting-edge safety features such as Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors, and Lane Keeping Assist.

“The Transition Trucking award campaign continues to highlight the extraordinary impact veterans are making in the transportation industry while also inspiring a new generation of service members to explore the real economic opportunities a trucking career can provide,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes. “As we celebrate a decade of partnership with Kenworth and Fastport, we’re proud to honor these remarkable individuals whose legacy will inspire and empower the veteran drivers of tomorrow.”

Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, added, “We’re honored to recognize this outstanding group of 12 semi-finalists, one of the most diverse and accomplished in the program’s history, including many participating in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. For 10 years, this campaign has changed lives by awarding a Kenworth truck to a deserving veteran, and this year’s finalists continue to prove that the future of our industry is in capable, committed hands.”

Finalist Selection and Public Voting

The winner of the 2025 award will be announced on December 12 during a veteran-focused celebration week. Public voting will take place online from November 1 through Veterans Day and will help inform the award’s final decision.

“This voting is an important determinant for the award’s Selection Committee, which makes the ultimate choice for the next Transition Trucking award winner,” Fastport stated.

Image Source: Kenworth
Source: The Trucker

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This year’s honorees, James “Jim” Jones, Roland Esquibel, and Mark Jones, have been inducted into Ryder’s prestigious “Driver Hall of Fame.” Together, these highly-skilled professionals share a staggering 105 years of combined experience and have collectively driven close to 6 million miles with an impeccable safety record.

“Our drivers move more than freight. They move our company and our customers’ businesses forward,” says Ryder Chairman and CEO Robert Sanchez. “Jim, Roland, and Mark represent the very best of Ryder and our customers, from their skill behind the wheel to their character and commitment to their communities. They are true ambassadors of our values and our brand.”

Meet the 2025 Driver of the Year Honorees

James ‘Jim’ Jones | Supply Chain Solutions

Based in Mason, Michigan, Jim Jones is a standout driver in Ryder’s Supply Chain Solutions division. With 38 years of professional driving experience, including the past eight with Ryder, Jim has safely logged over 2 million miles. Beyond his stellar driving record, Jim is a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Mason Fire Department. Known for his calm demeanor and team-first attitude, he exemplifies the values of responsibility and reliability that define Ryder.

(Source: Ryder) Jim Jones

Roland Esquibel | Dedicated Transportation Solutions

Hailing from Devine, Texas, Roland Esquibel is a driving force in Ryder’s Dedicated Transportation Solutions segment. Over a 35-year career, including the last four with Ryder, Roland has covered more than 2.3 million miles. A U.S. military veteran and an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Roland channels his leadership skills into every delivery. Outside of work, he contributes to his community through his local church, carrying forward his lifetime mission of service and mentorship.

(Source: Ryder) Roland Esquibel

Mark Jones | Fleet Management Solutions

Operating out of Sacramento, California, Mark Jones is the deserving winner of Ryder’s Fleet Management Solutions “Customer Driver of the Year” award. Over a 32-year career, with more than 1.5 million logged miles, Mark has displayed an unwavering commitment to safety and reliability. A decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm, earning three Bronze Stars and the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Mark also mentors new drivers, ensuring future generations of professionals continue to excel.

(Source: Ryder) Mark Jones

Ryder’s Driver of the Year Program

Ryder’s Driver of the Year program is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence on the road. Highlighting unparalleled performance, the program celebrates top-tier drivers from Ryder’s workforce of 13,400 professionals, as well as drivers from their Fleet Management Solutions (FMS) customer base. Each honoree undergoes a rigorous selection process led by Ryder executives, safety specialists, and veteran drivers. For over half a century, this award has been one of Ryder’s most prestigious acknowledgments of driver excellence.

Through this annual recognition, Ryder not only honors its exceptional drivers but also highlights their critical role in driving the company, its customers, and the broader community forward.

Image Source: Ryder
Source: Truckers News

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Recognition of Excellence

Headquartered in Bellevue, Wash., MHC Truck Leasing has earned this distinguished title for the second time since receiving its first recognition in 2018. Serving 33 locations across 11 states, this franchise has paved the way for excellence since its partnership with PacLease began in 1982.

Ken Roemer, president of PACCAR Leasing, highlighted MHC Truck Leasing’s steadfast commitment to facility investments and operational efficiency as key factors behind their success. MHC continues to enhance their locations with modern upgrades and expanded service bays to accelerate vehicle servicing. Additionally, their fleet of 20 mobile service vehicles empowers them to service customers directly at their locations, bringing convenience and efficiency to the forefront.

Driven by Superior Customer Service

MHC’s success emphasizes more than just operational capabilities.

“Along with a commitment to facilities and operational excellence, MHC’s dedication to customer service has helped the group continue to thrive,” Roemer said. “They understand the value of offering programs tailored to their customers, backed by a service team that ensures exceptional uptime and driver satisfaction. This is a very well-deserved award for MHC.”

Recognizing Other Top Franchises

PacLease also applauded outstanding performers in other regions, highlighting excellence among its U.S., Canadian, and medium-duty franchises.

• The Pete Store Truck Leasing (Baltimore) took home the top honor for Peterbilt’s U.S. franchise.

• Kenworth Sales Company PacLease (Salt Lake City) was awarded Kenworth’s top U.S. franchise.

• PacLease Edmonton Kenworth received recognition as Canada’s Franchise of the Year, marking its third win for this accolade. Additionally, they were a previous North American Franchise honoree.

• Rush Truck Leasing earned the title of Medium Duty Franchise of the Year, thanks to impressive sales performance and extensive customer support.

“I can’t say enough about each of these franchises,” Roemer said. “They’re consistently recognized for their excellence that’s been upheld for years, and in some cases, decades.”

Milestones and Achievements

Each franchise recognized by PacLease exemplifies exceptional growth and commitment.

• The Pete Store Truck Leasing: With 18 locations along the East Coast, this franchise expanded by adding two more locations in the past year. “Their strong leadership has taken this franchise to another level,” remarked Roemer.

• Kenworth Sales Company PacLease: Operating across 19 locations in eight states, this long-standing franchise has been in business since 1945 and became a PacLease partner in 1997. “They do things the right way, with a dedicated focus on their customers, which is why they’ve been a top franchise many times in the past,” said Roemer.

• PacLease Edmonton Kenworth: A Canadian powerhouse, this franchise has been with PacLease since 1982 and has earned numerous accolades, including the 2024 Canadian Franchise of the Year award. “Their dedication to top-tier service and expertise with Kenworth products make them stand out,” noted Roemer.

• Rush Truck Leasing: With 36 locations spanning 10 states, Rush has built an impressive network. “They consistently provide top-quality coverage to ensure their customers receive the best possible service, and their growth is a testament to their superior commitment,” Roemer added.

The Road Ahead

These recognitions highlight the remarkable achievements of PacLease’s franchises, but the common thread among them is their dedication to service excellence and a customer-first approach.

With MHC Truck Leasing and other franchises setting the benchmark for excellence, PacLease’s network’s future looks brighter than ever.

Source: MHC
Source: The Trucker

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