The American Truck Historical Society plans to award a pair of VIP NASCAR Cup Series tickets during its Awards Banquet on June 5 as part of a fundraising raffle held throughout the organization’s National Convention and Truck Show.

The winner will receive two VIP tickets to the Sept. 27 NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway. Raffle tickets are available for $5 each, with proceeds supporting ATHS’s Building Maintenance Campaign.

For anyone attending the convention and still considering entering, time is running short. The drawing takes place Friday evening.

A Busy Week in Springfield

The convention opened earlier this week at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds and continues through June 6, bringing together truck owners, drivers, collectors, and industry enthusiasts from across the country.

Rows of restored classics, rare trucks, and historic working equipment have filled the grounds as attendees spend the week exploring exhibits, demonstrations, vendor displays, and trucking memorabilia. The event also includes an evening light show that has become a popular attraction for visitors.

This year’s gathering carries added significance because Route 66 is celebrating its centennial in 2026. Springfield’s deep connection to the historic highway helped make it a natural choice for this year’s event.

ATHS noted that the city provides a fitting backdrop for a convention focused on preserving and celebrating trucking’s history.

More Than A NASCAR Prize

While the raffle winner will walk away with a NASCAR experience, the fundraiser itself supports a larger effort.

According to ATHS, proceeds will help preserve the society’s headquarters and support its mission for future generations. The organization has spent decades documenting trucking history and highlighting the people, equipment, and milestones that helped shape the industry.

The raffle gives attendees an opportunity to support that mission while also taking a shot at a trip to Kansas Speedway later this year.

Advance registration for the convention has already closed, but on-site registration remains available. Daily spectator admission costs $15 for ATHS members and $20 for non-members. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free.

More details about the schedule of events can be found 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 drivers can use.

Last updated: June 4, 2026

Source: Land Line Media

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ATHS said raffle proceeds will go toward the organization’s Building Maintenance Campaign, which helps support the upkeep of the society’s headquarters and its long-running historical preservation work tied to the trucking industry. The winning raffle entry will receive two VIP NASCAR Cup Series tickets for the Kansas Speedway event.

Raffle Tickets Available Through ATHS Events and Headquarters

Raffle tickets are priced at $5 each. Tickets can be purchased at the ATHS headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, as well as during the ATHS National Convention and Truck Show taking place at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, Missouri. The winning ticket is scheduled to be drawn on June 5 during the ATHS Awards Banquet.

ATHS has spent decades preserving trucking history through antique truck preservation, historical archives, industry events, and educational efforts connected to the trucking industry’s past.

Truck And Racing Culture Continue Crossing Paths

The fundraiser also highlights the connection that has long existed between trucking culture and motorsports.

ATHS encouraged fans to check out a recent appearance on Eric Estepp’s NASCAR podcast featuring ATHS member Tom Logano alongside NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano discussing their interest in trucking.

Events tied to ATHS regularly attract antique truck enthusiasts, owner operators, collectors, former drivers, and industry supporters who share an interest in preserving trucking history while celebrating the culture surrounding the industry.

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: May 28, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: ATHS, The Trucker

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Rather than centering the event around a single theme, the meeting is structured to break down the specific challenges affecting temperature-controlled freight and give carriers a chance to compare how they are handling them.

Where Operations Are Feeling the Most Strain

Refrigerated freight demands precision, and that expectation has only increased. Carriers are being pushed to deliver tighter temperature control while managing rising costs and more complex compliance requirements.

“What makes the TCA Refrigerated Meeting so vital is the balance of high-level education and grassroots peer-to-peer learning,” said Luke Subler, chairman of TCA’s Refrigerated Division and president of Classic Carriers.

That balance comes from combining formal programming with direct discussion among carriers dealing with the same issues.

“There is immense value in sitting down at a roundtable with someone who faces the same detention issues or technology hurdles as you do,” Subler said. “By combining that shared experience with top-tier industry programming, we’re able to drive performance and innovation across the entire division.”

“It’s about learning from the best so we can all be better champions for our teams and our customers,” Subler said.

Breaking Down the Issues Carriers Are Dealing With

Security remains a concern, which is why one panel is focused on safeguarding refrigerated operations from cyber-enabled freight fraud. At the same time, a separate roundtable will examine the AI rules of engagement and how refrigerated operations can be scaled without scaling headcount.

Risk management is addressed through a masterclass on contract collaboration and risk mitigation. Another panel looks at how trade cycles, data, and market conditions are influencing the future of refrigerated assets and the decisions carriers are making around equipment.

Technology use is split into two separate conversations. One roundtable focuses on insights tied to maximizing currently owned tech and what comes next, while another looks specifically at managing software, vendor, and the data handshake across systems.

Operational delays and added costs are also part of the discussion. A roundtable will focus on detention times and lumper fees, both of which continue to affect productivity and profitability.

The program also includes a regulatory update from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Leadership Perspective From the Keynote Speaker

The keynote speaker is Christopher J. Cassidy, a combat-proven leader whose career spans elite SEAL Team operations and the frontiers of space. As NASA’s 15th Chief Astronaut and a veteran of three spaceflights, Cassidy has spent 377 days in orbit and led teams through high-stakes environments.

Beyond his military and space achievements, he is a dedicated civic leader currently spearheading the National Medal of Honor Museum. With his signature wit and masterful storytelling, Cassidy will share actionable insights on building a culture of trust, thriving in clutch moments, and cultivating the never-quit mindset necessary to achieve monumental goals while lifting others along the way.

Additional speakers include Avery Vise, who will provide an economic update, and Paul Bailey, owner of Charles Bailey Trucking, who will provide industry insights.

Time Set Aside for Industry Connection

Along with the sessions, the meeting includes meals, receptions, and scheduled activities. A TopGolf outing is planned, and attendees can also take part in a Grand Ole Opry tour, which is limited to 70 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.

The event is structured to give carriers and suppliers time to exchange ideas, compare approaches, and connect while working through the demands of refrigerated freight.

More information and registration details are available at tcarefrigerated.com.

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: May 8, 2026

Source: The Trucker

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The fourth annual event is scheduled for June 5 through June 8 in Bend, Oregon, where selected participants will take part in an all-expenses-paid program built around hands-on challenges and team-based competition.

Operator Competition Shifts Toward Precision and Execution

The 2026 event introduces a head-to-head operator showdown designed to highlight precision, control, and decision-making in real working conditions.

Participants will move through off-road scenarios and technical challenges that reflect the demands drivers face on the job, putting a clear focus on execution rather than presentation.

“The people and the equipment working together are what make this industry great,” said Alex Martin-Banzer. “Star Nation celebrates the operators who take pride in their work, push their trucks further than anyone else, and show what trucking is really about — keeping the world moving.”

Experienced Drivers Lead Team-Based Challenges

Two returning participants will serve as team captains for the 2026 event.

Ronald Byrd, a Texas-based operator with 18 years in oilfield operations and a 2025 participant, will lead one team. Jarett Dorman, based in British Columbia with nearly two decades in crane operations and a 2023 participant, will lead the second.

Both will mentor participants through hands-on challenges designed to reflect real operating conditions.

Program Expansion Extends Beyond the Competition

Western Star is continuing its partnership with American Truck Simulator to connect with younger audiences and introduce them to trucking.

Dealer participation is also expanding for 2026, with two dealers attending alongside selected customers, reinforcing the role dealers play in helping drivers spec and maintain equipment.

Applications for the 2026 Star Nation Experience are open through May 1, with selected participants to be notified by May 8. The program is open to CDL Class A holders and members of the American Truck Simulator community in the United States and Canada who are at least 21 years old.

To enter, visit Western Star’s official Star Nation page here.

The expanded format reflects a broader effort to highlight the level of skill required behind the wheel while strengthening connections across the trucking industry.

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: May 1, 2026

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

Image Source: Western Star

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That turnout is not just a number. It directly connects to how much funding the event generates each year.

How the event funds are used

The convoy serves as the primary fundraising source for Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley. About 75 percent of the wishes granted each year are tied to this single event, which keeps participation and fundraising closely linked.

Organizers have set a $575,000 goal for 2026. Hitting that mark depends on both driver turnout and fundraising leading into the convoy.

“The funds raised through the Convoy are essential to making wishes come true for children with critical illnesses in the Susquehanna Valley,” Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley said. “Your participation not only supports an inspiring community tradition but also plays a crucial role in bringing hope, strength, and joy to local children.”

Participation requirements and registration

With that in mind, the event remains open to a wide range of drivers. The convoy runs the day before Mother’s Day, and trucks with a gross vehicle weight of at least 26,001 pounds are eligible. Drivers can register in advance online here or wait until the day of the event.

Route and safety updates for 2026

As participation continues to grow, organizers have introduced a new route for 2026. The change is intended to improve safety for drivers, wish families, and the surrounding community while also reducing the impact on traffic.

Industry presence at the event

In addition to driver turnout, industry support will also be visible on site. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association will be present, with Marty Ellis attending alongside the Association’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker.

Why drivers participate

Taken together, these elements show why the convoy continues to draw consistent participation. The connection is direct. Driver involvement supports funding for wishes in the same region where the event takes place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the convoy?
It serves as the primary fundraising source for Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley.

How much is the event aiming to raise in 2026?
$575,000.

Who can participate?
Drivers operating trucks with a gross vehicle weight of at least 26,001 pounds.

Can drivers still register close to the event?
Yes. Registration remains open through the day of the convoy.

What impacts how much is raised each year?
Driver turnout and fundraising before the event.

The Mother’s Day Truck Convoy continues to connect driver participation with measurable support for children and families across the region.

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: April 27, 2026

Source: Land Line Media

Image Source: Wish.org

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When the votes were counted, one truck stood out from the crowd.

Alfalfa Cruiser Takes People’s Choice

Jason Flores earned the People’s Choice award with his truck known as “Alfalfa Cruiser,” a 2018 Peterbilt 389 paired with 2018 XL double flatbeds. The award is decided by fellow participants and attendees, making it one of the most talked-about wins of the show.

The combination of detail, presentation, and overall presence helped it rise above a packed field of competitors.

Big Rig Build Off Draws Top Builders

Another highlight of the event was the Big Rig Build Off, where top builders go head-to-head under time pressure to create a standout show truck.

This year’s title went to Randy Menkel of Never Satisfied Builds and J and L Contracting with a 1985 Peterbilt 359. The competition also featured returning competitor Luke Rethwisch of Rethwisch Transport and James Stegall of Stegall’s Truck Shop.

Best of Show Standouts

Several trucks across limited mileage categories made a strong impression:

Limited Mileage Bobtail with Miles

• Best of Show: Darryl Beger with “Mint Condition,” a 2019 Peterbilt 389
• Second: Bryant Mann with “Ribbon Runner,” a 1998 Peterbilt 379
• Third: Josh and Jayson Loyer with “Tax Exempt,” a 1989 Mack Superliner

Limited Mileage Bobtail with No Miles

• Best of Show: CJ Nairn with a 2025 Kenworth W900L
• Second: Jared Nelson with “Curb Appeal,” a 2022 Peterbilt 389
• Third: Eddie Homfeld with “Crown Jewel,” a 2024 Peterbilt 389

Limited Mileage Combo

• Best of Show: Chad and Brad Sand with “Asphalt Outlaw,” a 2016 Peterbilt 389 and 2018 Mac trailer
• Second: Jason Flores with “Alfalfa Cruiser,” a 2018 Peterbilt 389 and 2018 XL double flatbeds
• Third: Jerry Mies with “Mooving Violation,” a 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2022 Walker

Working Trucks That Still Shine

The working truck categories continue to prove that daily-use equipment can compete at a high level.

Working Truck Bobtail

• Best of Show: Phillip Couch with “New Testament,” a 1999 Freightliner Classic XL
• Second: Austin Badders with “Fine Wine,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Third: Ashton Kaley with a 1995 Kenworth W900

Working Truck Combo

• Best of Show: Blake Ray with a 2020 Peterbilt 389 and 2026 Mac trailer
• Second: Tucker Jacob with a 2024 Peterbilt 389 and a 2024 Eby
• Third: John Treadway with “Teal Appeal,” a 1998 Peterbilt 379 and 2017 Great Dane

Antique Iron Still Turns Heads

Classic trucks had a strong showing across multiple categories, highlighting the continued appreciation for older equipment kept in top condition.

Antique Original Bobtail

• First: Ethan Tipton with “Wildcard,” a 1972 Brockway 457
• Second: Thomas Menges with “Sweet, Smooth & Sassy,” a 1986 Mack Superliner
• Third: Earl Chapman with “Pearl,” a 1966 Peterbilt 352

Antique Custom Bobtail

• First: Jaden Warner with a 1988 Peterbilt 362
• Second: Brian Sweet with a 1979 Kenworth W900A
• Third: Casey Field with “Curley,” a 1969 Peterbilt 359

Additional Category Winners

Several other categories highlighted everything from paint and lighting to interiors and new equipment:

• New Truck: Douglas Prier with a 2026 Kenworth W900
• Wrecker: Jacob Ripley with “Wreckless Behavior,” a 2025 Kenworth W900B
• Troy “The Legend” Huddleston Award: Tyler LaMontagne with “Nelly Bell,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Rockwood Running Late Award: Paul Brookhart with “Pendleton,” a 2001 Peterbilt 379
• Bette Garber Memorial Award: Austin Badders with “Sexual Chocolate,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Bennett Louisville Invite Winner: Tucker Jacob with a 2024 Peterbilt 389 and 2024 Eby

What This Year’s Show Delivered

From fully restored classics to modern working trucks built for both function and presentation, this year’s PKY Championship showed how much pride goes into every detail. Whether it’s chrome, paint, fabrication, or upkeep, the level of effort behind each entry was on full display.

With nearly 200 trucks competing, earning a spot at the top in any category says a lot about the build and the people behind it.

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The tree will make its way to Washington, D.C., where it will stand in front of the U.S. Capitol as the official Capitol Christmas Tree. For drivers and fleets, the haul itself is what makes this tradition stand out.

A Load That Brings the Industry Into the Spotlight

The Capitol Christmas Tree isn’t just about the destination. The cross-country trip has become a yearly highlight for the trucking industry, putting a spotlight on the role drivers play in connecting communities.

Each year, a single carrier is selected to handle the move, with a specially wrapped truck leading the way. The Truckload Carriers Association has long supported the effort, and Kenworth provides the custom truck used to haul the tree across the country.

Along the route, the truck makes multiple stops, giving communities a chance to see the tree up close before it reaches the Capitol.

Idaho Takes Center Stage in 2026

This year marks the first time the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests will supply the Capitol Christmas Tree. The forest spans more than 4 million acres, covering rugged terrain that includes mountains, rivers, and deep canyons.

“Idaho couldn’t be prouder to see one of our own trees chosen as the Nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree,” said Idaho Governor Brad Little. “This is a great honor and a reminder of the natural beauty we’re blessed with here at home. We’re excited to share some Idaho spirit with families across the country next Christmas season.”

The selection kicks off a full year of events tied to the tree, highlighting local communities, forestry partners, and the history of the region.

A Nationwide Effort Behind the Scenes

Moving a load like this takes coordination well beyond the driver’s seat. Multiple partners are involved, including the Society of American Foresters, which continues to support the program as a national partner.

“2026 marks the celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary. SAF is proud to continue our support of The People’s Tree as it makes its way across the country,” said SAF CEO Terry Baker. “This public/private partnership exemplifies what we can accomplish when we come together from varied backgrounds and interests with a common goal.”

The U.S. Forest Service has worked alongside the Architect of the Capitol for more than five decades to make this annual delivery happen. Each year, a tree is selected from one of the country’s national forests and transported to Washington following a multi-stop tour.

More Than Just a Delivery

For those in trucking, this run represents something different from the usual day-to-day freight. It’s a chance to be part of a tradition that reaches beyond the industry and into communities nationwide.

Jon Word, forest supervisor for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, emphasized the significance of the moment.

“It is a great honor to provide the 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, the ‘People’s Tree’, from the Nez Perce-Clearwater. We look forward to working closely with the Nez Perce Tribe, the Society of American Foresters, and all our partners and communities.”

As the year moves forward, more details will come out about the tree selection and the route it will take. For drivers and fleets, it’s one of those rare hauls that reminds everyone just how visible and important trucking can be.

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The event will take place March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, where thousands of drivers, carriers, and industry professionals gather each year for one of trucking’s largest annual events.

A Night That Brings the Industry Together

The Silent Auction will be held during the MATS Opening Night Reception. The event brings together attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders for an evening of networking, food, and entertainment as the show officially gets underway.

Auction items are donated by industry partners, and attendees can place bids throughout the reception. All proceeds from the auction go directly toward supporting SCF and its work assisting truck drivers and their families during times of illness or injury.

“Last year’s Silent Auction was an incredible example of what happens when our industry comes together for drivers in need,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “The generosity we saw — from donated items to competitive bidding — directly translated into meaningful support for truckers and their families. We’re excited to bring that same energy back to MATS this year.”

According to SCF, last year’s auction raised more than $13,500 for the nonprofit, with participation from donors, bidders, and volunteers across the trucking industry.

Why the Fund Matters to Drivers

For many professional drivers, especially owner-operators, time away from the road due to medical issues can quickly create financial strain. The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides short-term assistance for Class A over-the-road drivers who have been forced out of work because of illness or injury within the last 365 days.

The organization also offers health and wellness initiatives aimed at helping drivers prevent long-term health problems and stay on the road.

“Owner-operators and professional drivers are the backbone of our nation’s supply chain, but they often don’t have a safety net when unexpected health issues arise,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at OOIDA. “The Silent Auction at MATS is a powerful reminder that this industry stands behind its drivers. Every bid placed, and every item donated, helps ensure that professional drivers have somewhere to turn when illness or injury takes them off the road.”

Opening Night Reception Sponsor

This year’s Opening Night Reception is sponsored by Triumph, a company focused on modernizing and simplifying freight transactions through financial and technology services designed for the trucking industry.

A Major Gathering for the Trucking Industry

Now in its more than 50-year history, the Mid-America Trucking Show continues to be the largest annual gathering in trucking. Each year, the event draws thousands of drivers, fleet representatives, manufacturers, and service providers from across North America.

The Silent Auction remains one of the show’s community-focused events, giving the industry a way to support drivers facing difficult circumstances.

SCF encourages MATS exhibitors and industry partners to donate items for the auction and invites attendees to participate in bidding during the Opening Night Reception.

More information about the Silent Auction and how to donate items can be found here. Drivers or industry partners interested in supporting the organization can also contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at diane@truckersfund.org.

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Over the next two years, these drivers will represent the trucking industry across the country. Their work includes attending industry events, engaging with communities, visiting schools, and speaking with policymakers to promote safe driving while sharing firsthand insight into trucking as a career.

“This group of professional drivers have earned their place at the top through years of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to safety on the road,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “They represent a vital segment of the American workforce, one whose impact is felt by nearly every person in the country. As these Captains take to the road with a new mission and an important message, we are incredibly proud of their achievements and confident the nation will gain valuable insights from their leadership and the example they set for our industry.”

A Longstanding Program Focused on Safety

America’s Road Team was established in 1986 to recognize professional truck drivers who have demonstrated exceptional safety records and a commitment to representing the industry with integrity. With the support of their companies, Captains volunteer their time to participate in public outreach efforts that help explain the role trucking plays in everyday life.

The 2026 2027 class represents 13 states and includes four military veterans, one independent contractor, and drivers from both small fleets and large national carriers. Together, the group brings 51 million miles of safe driving experience to the program.

Volvo Trucks Celebrates 25 Years Supporting America’s Road Team

Volvo Trucks remains the program’s sponsor and will mark 25 years of partnership with America’s Road Team this October. During their two-year term, the Captains will travel the country in ATA’s Interstate One Image Truck, a Volvo VNL 860 pulling an American flag themed trailer. The trailer features a mobile classroom and a state of the art truck driving simulator used for education and outreach.

“Volvo Trucks is honored to continue our long-standing sponsorship of America’s Road Team and to take part in this week’s selection of the 2026–2027 Captains,” said Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve. “This year at MCE marks 25 years of Volvo’s proud support of America’s Road Team, a milestone that reflects our deep respect for professional drivers and our commitment to safety, professionalism, and leadership across the trucking industry. America’s Road Team is one of the most visible groups of professional truck drivers in the country, and we believe their hard work and dedication pays.”

How the 2026 2027 Captains Were Selected

ATA conducted the final round of selections from January 18 through January 20 at its headquarters in Washington, DC. During this process, drivers were evaluated on more than just miles logged or years of experience.

Candidates were judged on their ability to clearly communicate about trucking, safety, and transportation issues, as well as their overall driving records. The selection panel included trucking industry executives and members of the trade press, ensuring the final group reflected both operational excellence and the ability to represent the industry publicly.

Once selected, the new Captains received their signature navy blue America’s Road Team blazers and immediately began their work as ambassadors. Their focus over the next two years will be on improving public understanding of trucking and reinforcing the industry’s commitment to safety and professionalism.

Supporting the Mission of America’s Road Team

Trucking professionals and industry partners can support the work of America’s Road Team by following the Captains throughout their two year term and engaging with them at major industry events, conferences, and community visits. ATA also encourages industry members to follow the team’s journey on Facebook, where updates from the road and event appearances are shared.

“America’s Road Team Captains exemplify the highest standards of safety in our industry, helping to elevate trucking’s image by sharing their experiences and leading by example,” said ATA Chief Operating Officer Dan Horvath. “These respected leaders craft compelling safety messages and demonstrate how the trucking industry offers meaningful, rewarding careers. Through their participation in community events, conferences, and industry engagements, they fulfill the mission of America’s Road Team. We congratulate this new class for their dedication to excellence and for keeping our nation moving safely.”

The 2026- 2027 America’s Road Team Captains

1. Cardell Benfield Jr., Titan Transfer, Mississippi
2. Victor Blackburn, Prime Inc., Florida
3. Antonio Cruz, Groendyke Transport, Florida
4. Jason Damron, Convoy Systems, Kansas
5. Nathan Evans, Tyson Foods, Arkansas
6. Bruce Hoyes, ABF Freight Systems, Missouri
7. Izet Kanarevic, Werner Enterprises, Missouri
8. Matthew McKnew, ABF Freight Systems, California
9. Matt Meadows, ABF Freight Systems, West Virginia
10. Myles Piotrowski, FedEx Freight, Indiana
11. Selvin Ramirez, XPO, Rhode Island
12. Jackie Reed, FedEx Freight, Mississippi
13. Jeffrey Reed, United Parcel Service, New Mexico
14. Miguel Sanchez, United Parcel Service, Florida
15. Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight, Minnesota
16. Omar Stebbin, XPO, Florida
17. David Swierenga, FedEx Freight, Florida
18. Dave Thomas, ABF Freight Systems, Iowa
19. Kenneth Tolliver, Hoffman Transportation, Kentucky
20. Ryan Ybarra, United Parcel Service, California

To learn more about the 2026 2027 America’s Road Team, visit the official America’s Road Team webpage.

Source: American Trucking Associations

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WIT announced the call for nominees as the award enters its second decade. The Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award recognizes women working in logistics roles across North America, including freight brokerage, third-party logistics, supply chain strategy, and operations.

Industry leadership recognition

Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT, said the award reflects the role women play in the logistics sector.

“The Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award exemplifies the power of women’s leadership in a field critical to our economy,” Hedrick said. “We invite industry leaders, peers, and organizations to nominate women whose vision, determination and influence are shaping the next generation of logistics excellence.”

According to WIT, the award highlights leadership, innovation, and impact within the logistics profession.

“The award is an inspiring recognition that celebrates exceptional leadership, innovation and impact by women in the logistics profession across North America,” WIT said.

Focus beyond job titles

WIT said the award focuses not only on professional achievement, but also on broader contributions to the industry.

“The logistics industry is evolving, and the contributions of women leaders are central to that transformation,” WIT said. “The DWLA recognizes not only career accomplishments but also mentorship, advocacy, and community engagement. These attributes inspire others and foster a more inclusive, resilient industry. By elevating these role models, WIT encourages future generations of women to pursue dynamic careers in logistics and trucking.”

How to submit a nomination

Nominations are open now and must be submitted by February 27. There is no nomination fee. Individuals or organizations familiar with a nominee’s work may submit a nomination online.

Award presentation details

The 2026 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award recipient will be honored at the TIA 2026 Capital Ideas Conference, scheduled for April 15 through April 18 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Martha Payne was named the 2025 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award winner.

Source: The Trucker

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