“Each year, the Mike Russell Award highlights the creativity and dedication of those who work tirelessly to share our industry’s story,” said Nikki Thomas, vice president of industry affairs at ATA. “This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond in showcasing the essential role trucking plays in our daily lives and the pride that drives our workforce.”

What the Award Means

Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award recognizes motor carriers, individuals, and trucking organizations that demonstrate professionalism, dedication to safety, and leadership in promoting a positive image of the industry.

“Great West Casualty Company is proud to sponsor the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award, which celebrates those who promote a deeper understanding of the trucking industry,” said Steve Ponder, senior vice president at Great West. “Thanks to the ongoing efforts of past and future recipients, the public’s perception of trucking continues to grow more positive each year.”

Meet the 2025 Honorees

This year’s winners highlight how everyday actions and community involvement can make a real difference.

Trucking Association of New York (TANY)

Through TANY’s Community Supervision initiative, more than 55 individuals have earned their Commercial Driver’s Licenses since 2023. “This isn’t just workforce development – it’s life-changing,” ATA noted. Beyond licensing support, TANY funds and supports the Transportation Club at the Charter School for Applied Technologies High School in Buffalo. What started small has grown into a hub where students explore transportation careers, gain hands-on experience, and connect with mentors in the trucking industry.

Antoine Sadler, Professional Truck Driver, Walmart Transportation

A second-generation driver, Sadler has logged over 2.7 million safe driving miles across a 29-year career. He serves on North Carolina’s Road Team, Walmart’s Road Team, and America’s Road Team, and has competed in multiple truck driving championships. Since 2021, Sadler has served on the TAT board, helped launch the TAT Man to Man campaign, and contributed to the TAT Freedom Drivers Project trailer. He also volunteers with organizations like the Special Olympics, National Night Out, and Samaritan’s Feet, showing that dedication to trucking goes hand in hand with giving back to the community.

“These individuals have seamlessly woven positivity into their everyday lives, creating a ripple effect that touches countless others,” said Dan Horvath, COO of ATA. “Today, we’re proud to expand that list to 66, with two new recipients. These recipients embody ATA’s commitment to promoting a positive image of trucking. Their applications stood out as powerful examples of how storytelling, leadership, and innovation can shape public perception and inspire meaningful change.”

Image Source: ATA

Other Source: The Trucker

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The survey highlights that 46% of respondents said they would pursue a trucking career if it offered a salary greater than their current earnings. Interestingly, 32% said they would need the job to pay $100,000 or more annually before taking the leap.

Key Findings From the Survey

The survey uncovered some compelling insights into perceptions surrounding truck driving careers, including:

• 85% of respondents believe truck drivers play a crucial role in supporting the nation’s economy.

• 79% consider truck driving a solid career option for young professionals entering the workforce.

• 44% of participants have thought about becoming a truck driver at some point.

• A gender divide exists, with 53% of men having considered truck driving compared to 35% of women.

• 62% of respondents feel truckers are not compensated well enough.

Generational Perspectives on Truck Driving

When breaking the data down by age group, Gen Z respondents (52%) were the most likely to have considered pursuing truck driving as a career. Millennials and Gen Xers followed closely, with 50% of each group reporting they’ve thought about the profession. However, Baby Boomers (ages 59 and up) were 20% less likely than younger generations to consider truck driving as a career path.

Despite growing interest, there’s still a portion of the population—about 25% of respondents—who said they wouldn’t become truck drivers under any circumstances, regardless of pay.

Why Aren’t More Americans Behind the Wheel?

One of the primary barriers keeping Americans from committing to a trucking career is reduced home time. Over half of respondents named this as the biggest downside to pursuing truck driving as a profession.

Safety and health concerns ranked second, cited by 26% of survey participants. Surprisingly, factors like low pay, lack of job security, or negative societal perceptions of trucking ranked much lower, with each receiving less than 10% of responses.

These findings suggest that while compensation is a primary motivator, lifestyle challenges present a significant hurdle for attracting new talent to the trucking industry.

Source: Truckers News

The post Would You Leave Your Job for Trucking? New Survey Says 46% of Americans Might—But There’s a Big Catch appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Minimum Age Guidelines

Your age determines whether you qualify for a CDL. These requirements differ based on the type of driving you intend to do:

• Interstate Driving (crossing state lines) requires you to be at least 21 years old.

• Intrastate Driving (within a single state) allows individuals aged 18 and up to obtain a CDL.

Medical Disqualifications

Certain medical conditions can make you ineligible for a CDL. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) outlines specific criteria under 49 CFR 391.41 that applicants must meet. Common medical issues that may disqualify you include:

• Hearing Impairments – Failure to meet federal hearing standards.

• Vision Problems – Not meeting required eyesight levels.

• Epilepsy or Seizures – A history of epilepsy or seizures.

• Diabetes Requiring Insulin – Using insulin to manage diabetes.

That said, exemptions can sometimes be granted. Consult a certified medical examiner to assess your eligibility and explore any possible waiver options.

Substance Abuse History

A record of drug or alcohol abuse can disqualify you from obtaining a CDL. The FMCSA has strict regulations to ensure commercial drivers remain free from substances that impair their judgment or ability to drive safely. Failing drug or alcohol screenings during the application process, or having unresolved violations related to substances, can jeopardize your chance of earning or keeping your CDL.

Traffic Violation History

Your driving record is a significant factor in CDL eligibility. Serious traffic offenses may disqualify you, including:

• Excessive Speeding (15 mph or more over the limit).

• Reckless Driving—showing careless disregard for safety.

• Unsafe Lane Changes—frequent or improper lane switching.

• Tailgating—following other vehicles too closely.

• Traffic-Related Fatalities—committing offenses that result in fatal accidents.

Repeat violations over time can lead to extended periods of disqualification. Demonstrating a history of responsible driving is essential.

Criminal Convictions

Certain criminal convictions may bar you from obtaining a CDL, depending on their nature and severity. Disqualifying crimes include:

• Felonies Committed with a Commercial Vehicle – Using a truck to commit major offenses.

• Drug Offenses – Convictions involving controlled substances.

• Crimes Endangering Public Safety – Examples include vehicular manslaughter or other offenses posing risks to others.

The time elapsed since the conviction and its relevance to driving safety will likely influence any eligibility determinations.

Legal Work Authorization

Only individuals with the legal right to work in the U.S. are eligible for a CDL. Acceptable proof includes being a U.S. citizen, holding permanent residency, or maintaining a valid work visa. You’ll need to submit evidence of your legal status during the application process.

Staying Prepared for CDL Eligibility

Securing a CDL means meeting clear federal and state guidelines. Understanding potential disqualifications—whether related to your age, health, driving record, or legal status—is the first step to achieving a commercial driving career. Be proactive, address any outstanding issues, and consult a certified medical examiner or legal professional if needed.

A career in trucking offers incredible opportunities, but ensuring compliance with necessary regulations will help set you on the right course for success.

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