The Louisiana Motor Transport Association Foundation recognized Charles James of New South Express with the 2026 Louisiana Professional Truck Driver of the Year award during its Truck Safety Awards ceremony on June 20 in Lafayette. The ceremony was held alongside the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships awards program at the Cajundome Event Center. Casey Driggers of Custom Transport was also recognized as the 2026 Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year.

James Honored for Safety Record and Professionalism

According to the LMTA Foundation, James was selected for the driver award based on his safety record and professionalism on the job. Over the past seven years, he has logged roughly 700,000 accident-free miles without a preventable crash, moving violation, or DOT-recordable incident.

In announcing the award, LMTA described James as a reliable driver with a strong commitment to safety and a positive attitude on the job. The association said his professionalism behind the wheel and the way he represents the trucking industry made him a deserving choice for this year’s award.

Award Presented During the Louisiana Truck Driving Championships Weekend

The award was presented during the LMTA Foundation’s annual Truck Safety Awards ceremony, which took place June 20 at the Cajundome Event Center in Lafayette. The event was held in conjunction with the 2026 Louisiana Truck Driving Championships awards ceremony.

LMTA’s Truck Driving Championships serve as the state’s annual skills competition for professional drivers and are part of the association’s larger safety and driver recognition efforts in Louisiana.

LMTA Also Recognizes Safety Professional of the Year

Along with James’ award, the foundation recognized Casey Driggers of Custom Transport as the Louisiana Safety Professional of the Year.

LMTA said Driggers was selected for his work building a stronger safety culture across his company’s operations. According to the association, he oversees safety efforts tied to more than 20 million annual miles and nearly 300 employees. LMTA credited him with implementing training, accountability measures, and safety technology that produced measurable results.

The association also pointed to his focus on driver development, communication, and collaboration with industry and enforcement partners as reasons he was selected for the honor.

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: June 30, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Louisiana Motor Truck Association

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The annual program is presented by Kenworth, FASTPORT, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative. The award recognizes military veterans who have successfully moved into trucking careers following their service.

Carriers and CDL training schools can nominate up to five drivers for consideration. An expert panel of judges will select the top driver.

Who Can Be Nominated

Drivers must meet several eligibility requirements to qualify for the program. Eligible nominees must be military veterans or current or former members of the National Guard or Reserves. Drivers must also hold a valid CDL and have graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school.

In addition, nominees must have been hired as CDL drivers after January 1, 2025, by a for-hire carrier or private fleet that has pledged to hire veterans.

What’s Included in the Grand Prize

The winning driver will receive a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, which includes a PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles.

According to Kenworth, the truck also features a Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents, heated and cooled GT703 leather seats for both the driver and passenger, a factory-installed refrigerator, a rotating work table, and space for a microwave and television.

The truck is also equipped with several driver-assistance technologies, including Kenworth Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Stop and Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque-Assisted Steering.

This marks the 11th consecutive year that Kenworth has supplied the grand prize vehicle for the program.

Key Dates for the 2026 Award Program

Award semi-finalists will be announced on August 5. Finalists will travel to Columbus, Ohio, where they will tour the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and attend a reception before visiting the Kenworth manufacturing plant in Chillicothe.

Public voting is scheduled to take place from November 1 through November 11. The winner will be announced in mid-December and will drive home in the Kenworth T680.

Full criteria and online nomination forms are available here.

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: June 24, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Kenworth

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Maverick Transportation has named its 2025 Drivers of the Year, highlighting two drivers who have built that kind of reputation through their work on the road and within their teams.

Charles Baber was selected as Over the Road Driver of the Year, while Ron Watson earned Dedicated Driver of the Year honors.

“This recognition is awarded annually to Maverick drivers who consistently go above and beyond in their commitment to safety,” Maverick said. “Honorees exemplify the highest levels of integrity and professionalism in every aspect of their role, setting a benchmark for excellence while proudly representing the Maverick fleet as ambassadors of the professional driving community.”

Charles Baber Sets the Tone on the OTR Side

Baber, who operates in Maverick’s flatbed division, was recognized not just for how he handles the job, but how he shows up for other drivers.

“Charles exemplifies what it means to be a Maverick,” said John Coppens, vice president of operations. “He’s confident, approachable, and never afraid to take on new challenges, whether that’s assisting others to lead change in the ROC division or stepping up to provide a voice for Maverick drivers. Charles believes deeply in mentorship, safety, and asking the right questions, and he’s honored to be a professional driver. He’s proud to wear the Black Hat, proud to work at Maverick, and just as proud to go home to his family after a job well done. Charles is truly a deserving recipient of Maverick’s 2025 Driver of the Year award.”

For Baber, the recognition is simple but meaningful.

“I am feeling wonderful about it,” Barber said. “It is an enormous honor, and it feels like a huge pat on the back. If I could tell other drivers to start doing everything the way you are taught, and you’ll be ok no matter what.”

Ron Watson Recognized for Consistency in Dedicated Operations

Watson, who runs in Maverick’s final mile division, was recognized for reliability and stepping in where needed across operations.

“It feels surreal, and I am taking it one day at a time,” Watson said. “It is rare that a company shows appreciation to its drivers, so things like this boost the morale of drivers.”

Leadership pointed to his willingness to support the team wherever needed.

“Mr. Watson lives the Maverick Way every day,” said Justin Brown, senior vice president of dedicated operations. He sets the standard by doing whatever is needed to help our growing Final Mile team, including traveling to fill in other markets, assisting other drivers, and doing it all while providing his customers with top-notch service. Congratulations, Ron, and thank you.”

That consistency has not gone unnoticed at the account level either.

“Ron is as steady as the day is long,” said Gordon Lee, dedicated onsite account manager. “He exhibits a great work ethic, attention to detail, commitment to his job, and is an absolute joy to work with. He is always available when we need him to help and has stepped up numerous times. Ron carries himself professionally and sets a great example for other drivers to follow. I can’t say enough good things about Ron. He does everything the right way…the Maverick way.”

What This Recognition Signals Across the Industry

Driver of the Year awards carry weight because they reflect what fleets are actually looking for in today’s environment.

Safety, consistency, and professionalism are still the foundation. But just as important is how drivers support each other, represent their company, and handle the job when things do not go as planned.

For drivers, it is a reminder that the details matter. For fleets and industry stakeholders, it reinforces the value of recognizing the people who keep operations running strong every day.

At the end of the day, awards like this come down to doing the job right and doing it consistently.

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The announcement came during the annual Best Fleets to Drive For conference held at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina, where fleets across North America were recognized for how they treat and support their drivers.

Small Carrier Spotlight: Crawford Trucking

Crawford Trucking, based in Des Moines, Iowa, took home the Best Overall Fleet award in the small carrier category. While the company has appeared on the Top 20 list before, this marks its first time earning the top overall honor.

For drivers, the standout is the company culture. Feedback collected through the program highlights a workplace where communication is open and leadership is accessible.

One driver shared, “No door is locked at our company, except the restroom. Everyone is always available for the drivers, and that’s from the maintenance crew all the way to, and including, the owner of the company.”

That kind of environment doesn’t happen by accident. According to program organizers, Crawford Trucking leveraged driver feedback to improve day-to-day operations, policies, and overall support.

“This year’s winning fleet really utilized the Best Fleets program, using the reports and driver feedback to strengthen their programs,” said Jane Jazrawy, CEO of CarriersEdge.

Large Carrier Recognition: Fortigo Freight Services

In the large carrier category, Fortigo Freight Services Inc., headquartered in Etobicoke, Ontario, earned its first Best Overall Fleet award after seven years in the Top 20.

Drivers pointed to professionalism and consistency as key reasons the company stands out. One anonymous survey response captured that sentiment clearly:

“I enjoy working with this company because of its commitment to excellence and the opportunities it provides to grow professionally, and its honesty, fairness, quality, and respect.”

For fleets operating at scale, maintaining that level of consistency across drivers, dispatch, and operations is no small task. Fortigo’s recognition shows what’s possible when those pieces come together.

Standing Out in a Tough Market

Across the board, this year’s winners were recognized for finding ways to support drivers despite ongoing industry challenges.

“Winning fleets found a way to ‘make a difference for drivers in a continuing difficult market,’” Jazrawy said. “While all of our Top 20 winners are leaders in the industry, these two fleets stand out with great programs and exceptional safety and retention scores.”

For both drivers and fleet managers, that message hits home. Retention, safety, and driver satisfaction are not separate goals. They are tied directly to how a company operates every day.

Hall of Fame Honors: FTC Transportation

Oklahoma-based FTC Transportation Inc. received the Stratosphere Award, recognizing the top-performing fleet within the Best Fleets Hall of Fame.

The company has been part of the Hall of Fame for five years and has earned Best Fleets recognition for 14 consecutive years. That level of consistency puts it in rare company.

The Hall of Fame category highlights fleets that sustain high standards over time. To qualify, companies must be named a Best Fleet for at least 10 straight years, or seven years with at least one overall win.

“Over the years, we’ve watched them continue to grow and innovate, and they are deserving winners of our third annual Stratosphere Award. As a fleet with 23 drivers, they are also proof that you don’t need to be big to offer great programs,” she said.

What This Means for Drivers and Fleets

The Best Fleets to Drive For program, now in its 18th year and run by CarriersEdge, evaluates companies based on real driver input and operational practices. Areas like pay, benefits, training, work-life balance, and communication all factor into the final rankings.

For drivers, these awards offer a snapshot of which companies are doing things right. For fleet leaders, they provide a benchmark for what it takes to build a workplace that keeps drivers on board.

At the end of the day, the fleets that rise to the top are the ones that listen, adapt, and follow through.

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The newly created award recognizes transportation professionals who show an exceptional commitment to ongoing education and professional growth. While the honor is aimed at individual achievement, its impact reaches drivers directly by strengthening compliance, safety practices, and carrier operations that affect day-to-day life on the road.

Why This Award Matters to Drivers

Strong HR and compliance leadership plays a direct role in how drivers are recruited, supported, and retained. Policies around onboarding, hours of service, safety programs, and driver communication all begin with educated professionals behind the scenes. TCA created this award to highlight how continued learning improves real-world trucking jobs.

“Education is one of the biggest advantages a career can invest in, especially in HR and compliance, where the details matter,” said Mark Hill, CEO, PCS Software. “Congratulations to Tory McQueen of Parish Transport on earning the TCA Education Award and leading with a real commitment to safer, smarter operations.”

A Year of Heavy Lifting in Education

According to TCA, McQueen completed 130 hours of on-demand education throughout 2025. That level of coursework reflects the same discipline drivers apply to mastering new equipment, regulations, and routes.

Her efforts included earning the full “trifecta” of TCA professional certificates.
TCA Recruitment Certificate
TCA Retention Certificate
TCA Human Resources Certificate

Together, these credentials cover the full driver lifecycle, from hiring and onboarding to long-term retention and compliance. That combination helps carriers build programs that respect drivers’ time, improve communication, and reduce costly turnover.

Recognition from Industry Leadership

“This is the very first year we’re presenting the TCA Education Award, and I couldn’t be more excited about recognizing such a deserving recipient,” said Tracy Rushing, executive director, safety and HR, RE Garrison, and chairperson, TCA’s Retention, Recruitment and Human Resources Committee. “What makes this special is their real commitment to lifelong learning, not just for themselves, but for the people they support every day. When we invest in education, we directly improve the driving job, and that’s exactly what this award is meant to celebrate.”

TCA also emphasized the broader value of McQueen’s achievement, noting that her approach to education provides a model for how carriers can improve operations, driver satisfaction, and workplace culture through structured learning.

Honored at the TCA Annual Convention

McQueen will be formally recognized during the Recruitment, Retention, and HR Committee Meeting on March 1 at the TCA Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida.

For drivers, awards like this signal an industry shift toward better-trained support teams, clearer policies, and stronger carrier leadership. When the people managing compliance and HR invest in education, drivers benefit through safer operations, more consistent standards, and a more professional work environment across the fleet.

Source: The Trucker

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Each year, TCA highlights professional drivers whose quick thinking, courage, and compassion make a real difference on the road. After reviewing dozens of nominations from across the country, TCA has selected its Top Five finalists. Now it’s your turn to help choose the Top Three drivers to be honored at TCA’s 2026 Annual Convention, February 28 through March 3 in Orlando, Florida.

“One of the most meaningful parts of this program is hearing directly from our members about the incredible things their drivers do when no one is watching,” said Zander Gambill, vice president of membership outreach at TCA. “These finalists embody the courage and compassion that define our industry, and we’re excited to invite the public to help us celebrate them.”

Meet the Top Five Finalists

These drivers’ stories show what it means to step up when it counts:

• Kevin Olsen
• Terry Walde
• Amity Cataldo
• Deshown Moye
• Heather Barkey

TCA encourages drivers, industry colleagues, friends, and family to read these stories, share them, and cast votes for the drivers who best represent the spirit of the Highway Angel program.

Click here to cast your vote and support the drivers making a difference every day.

Source: The Trucker

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Sponsored by DMC Insurance, the award highlights a single professional driver whose career reflects consistent safety, responsibility, and long-term leadership behind the wheel. ATA explained that the finalists come from a group of state-level Drivers of the Year submitted by their affiliated state trucking associations. “Each candidate’s qualifications and achievements are examined by a group of professional industry judges who narrow down the nominees to a group of finalists,” ATA said.

For drivers out on the road, these finalists represent the kind of steady professionalism and clean records that everyone in the cab can appreciate.

The 2025 Finalists

Steve Brand
With 36 years on the road and 29 of them at FedEx Freight, Brand has stacked up more than 4.8 million accident-free miles. He’s active with America’s Road Team, the FedEx Freight Road Team, and serves as an Ambassador for Truckers Against Trafficking. He was also named the 2024 Ohio Driver of the Year.

Don Carpenter
Carpenter’s career spans 45 years, including the past 11 with Old Dominion Freight Line. He has logged more than 4.5 million accident-free miles. An Army veteran and frequent Truck Driving Championships competitor, he earned the title of 2024 Oklahoma Driver of the Year.

Kevin Flick
Flick has 37 years of experience, 22 of them with Buchheit Logistics. He has collected over 6.1 million accident-free miles. His list of accomplishments includes 11 years in the Missouri Trucking Association’s Chairman’s Safe Driver Club, seven Driver of the Month awards, and being named the 2024 Missouri Driver of the Year.

Williams Jones
Jones brings 51 years of driving experience and 29 years with Walmart Transportation. He has accumulated more than seven million accident-free miles. He was the 2006 Walmart Driver of the Year and continues to train and mentor new drivers. He was also named the 2025 Kansas Driver of the Year.

Duane Staveness
With 33 years in trucking and 25 with FedEx Freight, Staveness has achieved more than 2.55 million accident-free miles. He serves on the Wisconsin Road Team, is a longtime member of the Master Presidents Club for safe driving, and won the 2018 NTDC 5-Axle National Championship. He is the 2025 Wisconsin Driver of the Year.

What Happens Next

The Safety Management Council Awards & Recognition Committee reviews each finalist’s video submission before selecting the winner. The official announcement will be made during ATA’s Safety, Security, and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition in Oklahoma City from April 1 through April 3, 2026.

Source: The Trucker

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ISAAC Instruments hosts the annual awards to spotlight fleets and drivers who set the standard for safety, compliance, and driver satisfaction. This year’s program, sponsored by Optimal Dynamics, added two new categories focused on eco-efficiency and driver performance.

According to ISAAC, “For the fourth consecutive year, the Awards have recognized fleets with outstanding performance in safety and compliance, as well as driver happiness. This year’s edition, sponsored by Optimal Dynamics, included two new categories: one for fleets excelling in eco-efficiency and another for drivers with exemplary performance behind the wheel.”

The awards are open to fleets using the ISAAC platform that were fully deployed before June 2024.

A Lifetime Behind the Wheel

Taking home the Driver of the Year Award, Joseph Bayards has been a professional driver for nearly four decades, spending 36 of those years with Tandet Group. In all that time, he’s maintained a spotless record with zero accidents.

“Drivers are at the heart of fleet performance, and ISAAC is happy to highlight their contribution to fleet success and road safety,” the company shared.

Bayards said the recognition hit home after so many years of dedication. “This means a lot to me. Back when I began my career, paper logs didn’t even exist, things have changed dramatically since then! I was always a safe driver, but with the ISAAC Coach it’s easier. It’s user-friendly, and I’m glad I learned how to use it to my advantage.”

Tandet’s Senior Vice President of Innovation, Corey Cox, praised Bayards as the kind of driver every fleet hopes for. “I would think that Joe Bayards is an excellent example of this process in practice,” he said. “Joe has been driving with an incredible ISAAC Coach score of 100% for over 2 years.”

Driving Toward a Greener Future

Tandet Group also took home the Eco-Efficiency Award, marking the first time the fleet has received this recognition. The award highlights fleets that prioritize fuel efficiency and sustainability while using ISAAC’s technology to support safer, cleaner operations.

“Our goal has been and continues to be: have the best-performing, safest drivers on the road,” Cox said. “Our efforts are magnified by every individual in our organization. Being recognized in this way is a validation of these efforts and an example of the dedication of our drivers. There were a lot of fist-pumps when our teams got the news of the award.”

Safety and Compliance Standouts

In the Safety and Compliance Improvement Award for fleets of up to 100 trucks, the winner was Trans-Frt McNamara, a C.A.T. company.

Executive Vice President Karine Goyette credited the entire operation. “Every day, they dedicate themselves to each other and the company. Their strong work ethics and ‘we can always do better’ approach have earned them this award. Showing us that it has been noticed just confirms that this award won’t be our last!”

She added that the company’s safety culture encourages drivers to take ownership of their performance. Many now actively request their safety numbers and feedback, proof that accountability and teamwork are paying off.

For fleets with over 100 trucks, Challenger Motor Freight earned the top safety award.

Safety Manager Nick Sampogna said their success comes down to putting people first. “Winning an award like this is always a powerful reminder that when you lead with care and conviction, you protect what truly matters, our people,” he said. “Not long ago, we stopped a driver for having an expired permit during our routine gate check. Although initially frustrated, he came back and thanked our safety team for catching it later that day after being pulled in for an inspection. It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but it means everything when your drivers know you’re on their side.”

He also credited ISAAC Instruments for tools that have helped strengthen safety, from live HOS tracking and AI video programs to re-torque monitoring and critical event alerts.

Keeping Drivers Happy

The Driver Happiness Award went to Rio Valley Biofuel Transport.

President Jed Smith said the recognition validated their focus on supporting drivers beyond the wheel. “This achievement feels really good,” Smith said. “After so much hard work, it’s incredibly rewarding to see improvement in our workflow, driver retention, and overall morale. I remember the day I knew we’d made the right choice by switching to ISAAC. One of our newer drivers, Eddy—who had come from a big carrier—walked up to my truck and thanked me, saying how much he loved our E-log system.”

Smith added that the new system has eased stress across the board. “Overall, our drivers have reported fewer paperwork headaches that used to affect their bonuses, and greater peace of mind with the visibility of their daily trip flow and site-specific delivery details.”

Technology That Works for Drivers

ISAAC CEO and co-founder Jacques DeLarochelliere said the company takes pride in helping fleets and drivers succeed together.

“The Awards are a highlight for our entire team at our user conference,” he said. “The accomplishments that Award nominees share with us in the process are concrete proof that our platform helps them drive results and positively impacts the day-to-day of their team. And that makes us happy.”

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Honoring the Drivers Who Go the Extra Mile

After sifting through thousands of entries, Pilot selected two standout drivers who embody professionalism, safety, and service. In addition to Batiste, Bobby Peeker, a Marine Corps veteran, also earned recognition for his exceptional contributions to the trucking and veteran communities. Peeker will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with a $25,000 charitable donation made by Pilot to a veterans-focused organization of his choice.

“We received thousands of entries celebrating the efforts of drivers who go the extra mile each and every day,” said Jordan Spradling, senior vice president of transportation and midstream assets at Pilot Company. “Stacy’s and Bobby’s hard work, dedication to the profession, commitment to safety and service stood out. We are honored to welcome them to the Road Warrior winner’s circle. They both are prime examples of the positive impact professional drivers have on and off the road.”

Pilot’s Road Warrior contest is its way of recognizing the drivers who keep North America moving, day in and day out.

Stacy Batiste: 33 Years of Dedication

Batiste was awarded the largest prize in contest history: a custom Kenworth truck built by the Diesel Brothers and a $50,000 cash prize. With over 33 years behind the wheel and more than 5.1 million accident-free miles, Batiste views trucking not just as a career, but as a calling.

A Marine Corps veteran, he has consistently prioritized road safety and has earned a reputation as a mentor for younger drivers. Beyond trucking, Batiste is an active member of his local community, always finding ways to give back.

On October 21, Pilot surprised Batiste while he was on the road at a Flying J in Baytown, Texas, presenting the keys to his custom Kenworth and the $50,000 check. His family joined the celebration, hidden in the travel center to share the moment. Batiste began his driving career hauling sugar cane in South Louisiana, and now, as an owner-operator, the new truck supports his ongoing passion for safe, community-focused driving.

Bobby Peeker: Veteran and Community Advocate

Peeker has logged more than 1 million accident-free miles and continues to give back to the military community after his service in the Marine Corps. He regularly volunteers his time and resources to help fellow servicemen and women and participates in truck shows supporting the Special Olympics.

His passion for trucking was shaped early on by his family, and particularly by his grandfather, who helped remove rubble after the 9/11 attacks using his truck.

Celebrating Trucking Excellence

For over a decade, Pilot has honored professional drivers through the Road Warrior contest, highlighting more than 30 drivers whose dedication and safety-first approach set the standard for the industry.

For more information about the Road Warrior contest, including past winners and how drivers can be recognized, visit Pilot’s website.

Image Source: Pilot

Other Source: The Trucker

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NASTC President David Owen kicked off the Thursday, October 23, program by recognizing the 2025 “America’s Best Drivers” team, which consists of twenty outstanding professional truck drivers nominated by NASTC member companies. Together, these drivers represent an incredible 585 years of combined over-the-road experience and an astonishing 51,442,500 accident-free miles.

Owen also presented this year’s Best Broker award to S-2 (Solutions Source), a long-standing member of NASTC’s Best Brokers group. “No NASTC member has ever lost a dime working with one of our Best Brokers,” Owen said, reflecting on the program’s strong reputation since its creation in 1991.

Honoring the New NASTC Transportation Ambassadors

In a new initiative for 2025, NASTC introduced three Transportation Ambassadors, individuals who’ve gone above and beyond to represent trucking in a positive light. The inaugural honorees included Tony Justice, Ingrid Brown, and Lindsay Lawler, all known for using their platforms to champion professional drivers and tell the real story of life behind the wheel.

“We have a real problem in trucking. We’re politically incorrect,” Owen said during the ceremony. “The only people who appreciate us are the people inside this industry, and one of the challenges we have is trying to create a realistic view of big trucks. The people we’re recognizing tonight are people who’ve really helped do that, giving of themselves 100 different ways to help us show what you guys are all about.”

While longtime advocate and driver Ingrid Brown was unable to attend due to health reasons, Owen paid tribute to her years of leadership and public advocacy for truckers. “I’ve known her for probably 25 years,” he said. “She’s been a voice for truck drivers and a bridge to the public, showing what trucking really means.”

Music, Radio, and Trucking Come Together

Both Lindsay Lawler and Tony Justice attended the Nashville event in person. “This award brings together my professional lives, which are music, radio, and trucking,” Lawler said. “I agree wholeheartedly with you, Dave, that I think we do a really great job telling each other how great trucking is, but we need to get the outside world to see it, too.”

Justice, who spent years on the road before turning to music, echoed that sentiment. “My heroes have always been truck drivers,” he said. “My dad was one. I don’t remember a time in my life when both [music and trucking] weren’t a part of my life.” He thanked the small fleet owners and pro drivers in attendance, adding, “You guys are the ones that don’t wait around for people to pat you on the back. This country can’t survive without you.”

America’s Best Drivers: The 2025 Honorees

Each of the 20 drivers honored this year represents the very best in safety, professionalism, and long-term commitment to trucking. Their accident-free mileage numbers speak volumes about their dedication:

• Travis Lauer, Alpha Drivers Transportation – 16 years, 1.4M miles
• Aaron Hayes, Black Diamond Transport – 24 years, 3.08M miles
• Brian Pregler, Capela Transport – 16 years, 1.7M miles
• Jack Rensing, Circle R Xpress – 49 years, 4M miles
• Roger Zima, Foltz Trucking – 42 years, 5M miles
• Baldo Reyes, Four Star Greenhouse Sales & Trans – 25 years, 2.21M miles
• Richard Johnson, Gold Standard Transportation – 54 years, 1.6M miles
• Mike Adcock, Hahn & Phillips Grease Company – 47 years, 4.8M miles
• Violet Holmes, Kisatchie Midnight Express – 38 years, 400K miles
• Jerry Ballo, Long Haul Trucking – 18 years, 2.2M miles
• William Edgin, Millwood Trucking – 25 years, 3M miles
• Christopher Lanning, Naeve Inc. – 20 years, 2M miles
• Charles Yahnke, Ohio Eastern Express – 25 years, 3.5M miles
• Justin Baldwin, Pleasant Valley Transport – 17 years, 1.5M miles
• Ken Schulz, QLF Transportation – 30 years, 3.2M miles
• Billy Ross, Southern Illinois Motor Xpress – 22 years, 2M miles
• Doug Hartman, Spoerl Trucking – 41 years, 2M miles
• Calvin Dean, TAC Transport – 25 years, 3.75M miles
• Jonathan Rejman, Venice Enterprise – 26 years, 1M miles
• Dan Stilp, Waletich Transportation – 29 years, 3.1M miles

Each of these drivers represents what’s best about small trucking — independence, resilience, and a shared commitment to keeping America’s freight moving safely and efficiently.

NASTC also confirmed that its 2026 Annual Conference will return to Nashville next year, running October 29–31.

Source: Overdrive

Image: Overdrive

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