That shift was part of the focus behind the 2026 Career Catalyst Awards announced by the Next Generation in Trucking Association.

Presented in partnership with The National Transportation Institute and Engine, the awards recognize carriers, private fleets, logistics companies, and training organizations supporting workforce development through mentorship, apprenticeships, school partnerships, leadership development, CDL training support, and employee growth opportunities.

Instead of focusing only on hiring numbers, the awards highlight companies investing in long-term career pathways throughout trucking and transportation.

Why Driver Development Is Becoming a Bigger Industry Conversation

For many new drivers, the hardest part of trucking starts after CDL school ends.

Adjusting to schedules, trip planning, backing, customer expectations, weather, dispatch communication, and life away from home can push drivers out of the industry quickly if support systems are weak during those first months on the road.

That reality is one reason mentorship and onboarding programs are becoming larger talking points throughout trucking.

Association President and Co-Founder Lindsey Trent said the awards were created to recognize companies working to strengthen those career pathways.

“We created the Career Catalyst Awards because there are companies across this industry doing incredible work to invest in people, but many of those efforts are not always seen or recognized,” Trent said. “These awards were designed to spotlight organizations that are building real career pathways, partnering with schools, creating opportunities for young people, and helping position trucking and transportation as a first-choice career field for the next generation workforce.”

Carriers And Transportation Companies Recognized This Year

This year’s Career Catalyst Award recipients included a mix of trucking companies, private fleets, logistics providers, and workforce development organizations across different parts of the industry.

Companies recognized included:

• Advantage Truck Group
• Ancora Training
• Averitt
• Ben E. Keith Foods
• Boyle Transportation
• Covenant Logistics
• Crawford Trucking
• DrivexIQ
• Fastenal
• Fastport
• FedEx Freight
• Garner Trucking Inc.
• Gordon Food Service
• Grand Island Express
• Houff Corporation
• Horizon Freight Lines Inc.
• Ippolito Transportation Inc.
• Kenan Advantage Group
• Keller Trucking
• KL Harring Transportation
• Kohl Wholesale
• Logisticize LTD
• Old Dominion Freight Line Inc.
• Performance Foodservice
• Ralph Moyle, Inc.
• Roehl Transport, Inc.
• Ruan Transportation Management Systems
• TALKE USA Inc.
• Werner Enterprises Inc.
• Xcelente Trucking & Logistics Training Center
• YMX Logistics

As more fleets compete for younger workers entering trucking, programs tied to mentorship, training, and career development are continuing to become a larger part of how companies market themselves to future drivers.

Source: Truckers News

Image source: NGT, Truckers News

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 2, 2026

The post Career Catalyst Awards Recognize Trucking Companies Investing in New Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Always Striving to Be the Best

Being the best isn’t about chasing titles or boasting numbers. For Crete, Shaffer, and Hunt, it means setting a higher standard for what it means to be a professional in trucking. Every detail matters, from safe equipment and reliable service to transparent communication and consistent performance.

These companies invest in their people and their tools. Drivers receive ongoing training and support, and the fleets are kept up to date with modern, well-maintained equipment. Dispatchers and operations teams work with the same level of accountability and pride. Together, that mindset builds long-term trust with customers and strengthens every part of the business.

Drivers know that excellence is expected, but it’s also recognized. Milestone awards, career growth opportunities, and clear communication make it easier to stay motivated and proud of the work being done. For these companies, being the best means being dependable, honest, and committed to continuous improvement.

Working Hard and Having Fun Along the Way

Trucking is a demanding career, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyable. Crete, Shaffer, and Hunt believe that when people enjoy what they do, they perform better and stay longer. That’s why the principle of having fun is more than a motto; it’s part of everyday life on and off the road.

Drivers are celebrated for their achievements, whether it’s safe miles, years of service, or a job well done. Team gatherings, appreciation events, and family-friendly celebrations create a strong sense of community. Even on tough days, that camaraderie makes a difference.

Fun also shows up in small, meaningful ways: supportive dispatchers, management that listens, and an environment where drivers feel respected and valued. It’s about creating a culture that recognizes hard work but doesn’t forget the importance of enjoying the ride.

Why These Values Matter

In an industry where demands are high and time is tight, the combination of excellence and enjoyment helps keep everything in balance. By focusing on doing things right and keeping morale strong, Crete Carrier, Shaffer Trucking, and Hunt Transportation continue to set an example for what a driver-focused company should look like.

They’ve built a place where safety, performance, and appreciation go hand in hand, and where success is measured not just in miles driven but in the satisfaction of the people who drive them.

If you’re looking for a company that values excellence, respect, and genuine teamwork, explore driving opportunities with the Crete Carrier family of companies here.

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