The Transition Trucking award, made possible through a collaboration between Fastport, Kenworth, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, honors military veterans who have taken the important step of transitioning into careers within the trucking industry.

Brad Bentley, Fastport president, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “The transportation industry not only embraces a veteran-ready ethos but actively integrates the invaluable skills and experiences our service members bring. We are thrilled to return to the Mid-America Trucking Show with this year’s Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence grand prize – the Kenworth T680, a symbol of innovation and opportunity. Participating in the largest gathering of heavy-duty trucking professionals offers an unparalleled platform to honor our veterans and inspire new talent from the military community to join our ranks.”

Nominations Are Now Open

Nominations for this year’s Transition Trucking award are officially open. The deadline for submitting applications is set for June 20, providing nominators with several months to recognize exceptional veteran drivers who embody excellence in the industry.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth’s director of marketing, expressed Kenworth’s dedication, saying, “Kenworth is honored to participate in this life-changing initiative for the tenth consecutive year, and we look forward to awarding our flagship T680 to a deserving military veteran at the end of this year.”

More Than Just the Grand Prize

While the spotlight shines on the T680 grand prize, finalists for the award will also receive significant rewards. Last year, the second-place finisher received $10,000, and the two other finalists each received $5,000.

Public Voting and Award Announcement

The public can play a role in November by voting for their favorite finalist. Afterward, a panel of judges will evaluate the candidates according to the official Transition Trucking award guidelines. The grand-prize winner will be revealed on December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

Honoring Veterans in Transportation

“The transportation industry is a natural fit for veterans looking to continue a purpose-driven career that leverages the critical skill sets, specialized training, and leadership gained during military service – all highly coveted attributes that make them a strategic asset,” said Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes. “Hiring Our Heroes is proud to partner with Fastport and Kenworth for the tenth year to help service members successfully transition into the commercial trucking industry.”

Source: Land Line

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Meet the 2024 Finalists:

Douglas Couch – Former U.S. Navy (E-5), now with Roehl Transport, Inc., has traveled over 150,000 miles showcasing a profound commitment to safety.

Brian Ferguson – With extensive service in the U.S. Army and National Guard (E-7), Brian brings a wealth of experience and a passion for flatbed driving to Melton Truck Lines.

Shawn Haley – Former Marine Corps (E-4), now a regional driver with Veriha Trucking LLC, has a background in security for presidential figures and two decades of successful entrepreneurship.

Billy Taylor – Retired Chief Petty Officer (E-7) of the U.S. Coast Guard, Billy has a diverse background in defense and recruitment, now driving for Werner Enterprises.

Cory Troxell – A decorated U.S. Army veteran (E-7) wounded in action, Cory has now embarked on a rewarding career with Stevens Transport.

Recent events celebrated ten semi-finalists in Ohio, with visits to the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and Kenworth’s manufacturing plant. Engaging experiences included a spot on the Road Dog Trucking Radio and an exclusive Kenworth facility tour.

The ultimate prize this year is a cutting-edge Kenworth T680 truck, fully equipped with advanced technology, while additional cash prizes are reserved for other top contenders.

“These finalists exemplify how skills developed in the military seamlessly transfer to successful careers in trucking. Their dedication and resilience continue to play a critical role in keeping America’s supply chain strong,” remarked Eric Eversole, Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and President of Hiring Our Heroes.

Fastport President, Brad Bentley, highlighted, “Our semi-finalists represent the best of what a Veteran-Ready trucking industry looks like. These individuals have successfully transitioned from military service to driving careers, and their stories inspire others to follow suit.”

The contest shines as a hopeful path for veteran drivers, with public voting open from Nov. 1 to Veterans Day, Nov. 11. On Dec. 13, during a special ceremony at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., the winner of this esteemed award will be revealed.

remarkable achievements of America’s standout rookie veteran truck drivers.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Transition Trucking

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