Awards like this are not just recognition. They point to the people influencing how companies run and how drivers experience the work behind the wheel.

What the award recognizes across trucking and logistics

The Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award is presented by the Women In Trucking Association, along with the Truck Parking Club and the Transportation Intermediaries Association. It highlights professionals who improve performance while also developing people within their organizations.

“With more than two decades of experience, Aurélie exemplifies the leadership and dedication this award was created to recognize,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT. “Her commitment to developing people, improving operations, and advancing opportunities for women makes her an outstanding ambassador for the industry.”

Doucette was selected from a group of finalists that included Eileen Dabrowski of Apex Tide Consulting and Erin Mitchell of YMX Logistics.

How her role connects to day-to-day trucking operations

Doucette leads dedicated contract carriage operations at Penske Logistics. That type of role is tied directly to how freight moves for specific customers, including planning, performance, and execution.

Work at this level affects how loads are scheduled, how equipment is used, and how consistent operations are across accounts. For drivers, that shows up in how steady the work is and how well things are coordinated.

She began her career with Transfreight and continued in leadership after it became part of Penske Logistics, building experience across operations before moving into her current role.

Why mentorship still plays a role in how companies run

In addition to operations, Doucette has been recognized for mentoring and developing others. She serves as executive champion of Penske Logistics’ Women’s Business Resource Group, supporting professional development and internal growth.

Mentorship at the company level can shape training, communication, and how opportunities are presented across teams. That influence does not stay at the top. It works its way into how companies operate over time.

She is also a two-time recipient of the company’s President’s Award, reflecting performance and leadership within the organization.

Industry backing behind the recognition.

The award is supported by multiple organizations across trucking and logistics, each pointing to the role leadership plays in strengthening the industry.

“TIA is proud to support recognition of leaders who strengthen and innovate the logistics industry. Aurélie embodies what this award stands for from her operational excellence, a mentor’s mindset, and a clear commitment to opening doors for women across the supply chain,” said Chris Burroughs, president and CEO of TIA.

“Truck Parking Club proudly partners with and recognizes Women in Trucking for its unwavering commitment to advancing and empowering women across the logistics marketplace, exemplified through the Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award,” said Brent Hutto, chief relationship officer at Truck Parking Club.

What this means for drivers on the road

Leadership decisions affect more than office operations. They shape how freight is planned, how problems are handled, and how consistent work feels week to week.

When leadership focuses on performance and people, it tends to show up in better coordination and clearer expectations. That can lead to fewer surprises on the road and more predictable work.

Drivers may not see these roles directly, but they feel the results in how the job runs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award?
It is an industry award that recognizes leadership, operational performance, and contributions to developing people in logistics and transportation.

Who is Aurélie Doucette?
She is a vice president at Penske Logistics who leads dedicated contract carriage operations and has been recognized for her leadership and mentorship.

Why was Aurélie Doucette selected for this award?
She was selected for improving operations and for her commitment to mentoring and advancing others in the industry.

Who presents the Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award?
The award is presented by the Women In Trucking Association in partnership with Truck Parking Club and the Transportation Intermediaries Association.

How does leadership like this affect truck drivers?
It influences how freight is managed, how consistent operations are, and how well drivers are supported across a company.

Recognition like this reflects where the industry is placing its focus. For drivers, the real impact comes from how that leadership shows up in daily operations, communication, and long-term stability.

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 24, 2026

Source: Truckers News

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Brad Bentley, Fastport president, emphasized the importance of the program: “The trucking industry continues to demonstrate its commitment to those who have served by recognizing the leadership, discipline, and focus veterans bring to the workforce. Returning to the Mid-America Trucking Show with the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award and this year’s Kenworth T680 grand prize allows us to celebrate that commitment on one of the industry’s biggest stages. It’s an incredible opportunity to spotlight veterans who are excelling behind the wheel and to encourage more service members to see trucking as a pathway to long-term success.”

The Grand Prize Kenworth T680

The 2026 award winner will receive a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. This flagship model will be on display at the Mid-America Trucking Show, March 26–28, at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville, in the Fastport booth, #39501.

Kenworth’s T680 features the Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents, full heated and cooled GT703 Ultraleather seats, and a sleeper that includes a microwave, TV, factory-installed fridge, and rotating work table. Driver assistance technologies include DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing, highlighted the program’s significance: “The Mid-America Trucking Show brings together the very best of the trucking community, making it an ideal venue to highlight the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award. For the 11th consecutive year, Kenworth is proud to support this transformative program and to once again present our flagship T680 to an outstanding veteran who represents the future of our industry.”

Supporting Veterans in Trucking

Eric Eversole, U.S. Chamber of Commerce vice president and president of Hiring Our Heroes, added: “For many veterans, trucking offers a way to continue serving with purpose, responsibility, and pride. Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence recognizes veterans who are thriving in an industry that keeps our economy moving and offers durable, long‑term careers with real opportunity. We’re honored to work alongside Fastport and Kenworth to elevate these success stories for the 11th year.”

Eligibility and Timeline

Candidates are evaluated by a panel of industry experts. To qualify, drivers must:

• Be a U.S. resident and a military veteran, National Guard, or Reserves member.
• Graduate from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.
• Be employed by a for-hire carrier or private fleet that hires veterans and started driving after January 1, 2025.

Nominations open March 28, with a submission deadline of June 30. Semi-finalists will be announced on August 5, followed by a tour of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant. Public voting on finalists occurs November 1–11. The final award will be announced in mid-December, with the winner taking home the Kenworth T680.

Full criteria and nomination forms are available on the official Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence website.

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At its 2026 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition in Nashville, the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), part of the American Trucking Associations, presented its prestigious Silver Spark Plug award to four individuals whose work continues to influence fleet performance across the country.

Recognizing Excellence Behind the Scenes

The Silver Spark Plug is considered TMC’s highest individual honor, awarded to professionals who have made lasting contributions to commercial vehicle maintenance and technology.

“The Silver Spark Plug is given to individuals who demonstrate professional excellence in commercial vehicle maintenance as our industry’s highest honor,” said TMC Executive Director Robert Braswell. “Our winners this year represent the highest level of expertise and ability in our industry. We are pleased to recognize them with this award.”

2026 Silver Spark Plug Recipients

This year’s award winners represent a cross-section of the industry, from fleet management to diagnostics and association leadership:

• Scott Bartlein, Truck Fleet Management
• Taki Darakos, PITT OHIO
• Mark Zachos, DG Technologies
• Jack Legler, TMC/ATA

For drivers and fleet operators, these are the kinds of professionals working behind the curtain to keep equipment reliable, compliant, and moving efficiently.

Why This Matters to Drivers and Fleets

While drivers are the face of the industry, maintenance teams, engineers, and technical leaders are what keep trucks on the road. The work recognized by TMC directly impacts uptime, safety, and operating costs across fleets of all sizes.

ATA President and CEO Chris Spear highlighted how critical these roles are to the broader supply chain:

“TMC’s members keep our industry moving, and these four individuals represent the highest level of professional excellence the council strives for,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear.

“More than half of the 8.4 million people employed by the trucking industry do something other than drive a truck, and without them, our nation’s goods would not be delivered to our stores, hospitals, and factories,” Spear continued. “These individuals are examples to all of us in this industry, and we are proud to honor them with this award.”

A Standard for the Industry

Leadership within TMC also emphasized that the award reflects more than just technical skill. It represents a long-term commitment to improving how the industry operates.

Radu Mihai, TMC’s 2025–26 general chairman, praised the recipients for their continued impact:

“The Silver Spark Plug honors TMC members who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to improving our industry,” Mihai said. “I congratulate all these winners for their achievement and commitment to the ideals of TMC.”

Looking Ahead

As trucking continues to evolve with new technology, tighter regulations, and increased demand for efficiency, the role of maintenance and technical expertise is only becoming more important.

Awards like the Silver Spark Plug highlight the individuals pushing those standards forward—ensuring fleets stay safe, compliant, and ready for whatever comes next on the road.

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The induction begins at 6 p.m., where attendees can join in recognizing the careers and accomplishments of these Wall of Fame honorees. As part of the evening, musician Tony Justice will pay tribute to Bill Weaver, highlighting his contributions to the trucking community.

Alongside the ceremony, guests can enjoy craft beer and bourbon tastings, and a selection of complimentary drinks. A silent auction will also take place, benefiting the St. Christopher Trucker Relief Fund, which supports truckers and their families in need.

MATS 2026 runs from March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The show features product displays, fleet technology exhibits, educational sessions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow drivers, fleet managers, and industry professionals.

The Wall of Fame induction celebrates individuals whose dedication, expertise, and leadership have made lasting impacts on trucking. Attendees are invited to honor these leaders and reflect on the achievements that continue to shape the industry today.

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The winner will be announced during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event on March 27 at the Mid America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky.

Each of the finalists brings a unique background to the industry, with careers that include safety leadership, driver mentoring, and outreach efforts that highlight the importance of professional drivers across the country.

Ingrid Brown

Ingrid Brown of Boone, North Carolina, has spent more than four decades building a career in trucking centered on safety and leadership. Over her 46-year career, she has worked as both a driver and an industry advocate while continuing to stay active behind the wheel.

Brown operates as an independent owner-operator through Rollin’ B LLC while also serving as operations manager for a refrigerated fleet. She continues hauling freight for Blackjack Express LLC, including oversize, heavy haul, and refrigerated loads.

Her safety advocacy reaches beyond her day-to-day work. Brown serves as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Voice of Safety for the Our Roads, Our Safety campaign and has appeared in national public service announcements, billboards, radio programming on SiriusXM, and social media outreach efforts.

Her previous honors include the 2015 NASTC America’s Road Team and Woman Driver of the Year recognition, the 2025 NASTC Ambassador of the Year award, and the 2018 TA Petro Citizen Driver Award.

Brown has also been involved with the Women In Trucking Association since 2007 as one of its charter members and currently serves on the organization’s board of directors. After surviving melanoma, she has also focused on raising awareness about the disease while mentoring new drivers entering the industry.

Fabiola Campos-Buenavista

Fabiola Campos Buenavista built her trucking career through determination and a strong commitment to learning the craft. When she joined FedEx Freight, she had limited driving experience, but by age 22, she was already operating a tractor-trailer and beginning a career focused on safety and driver development.

In 2014, she became the first female driver development instructor at FedEx Freight. Since then, she has trained more than 40 drivers, helping new operators build the skills and confidence needed to handle commercial equipment safely.

Campos Buenavista is known for taking a hands-on approach when working with trainees and takes pride in helping new drivers find success in the industry.

Beyond the cab, she serves as a FedEx Road Team Captain and participates in outreach efforts that include school safety education programs and disaster relief initiatives.

Gina Jones

Gina Jones entered trucking after a long career in retail management and chose to pursue a commercial driver’s license at age 50 so she could join her husband Steve on the road.

Since then, she has built an impressive safety record that includes more than 1.5 million accident-free miles.

Her driving career has earned several recognitions, including the 2024 TA Citizen Driver Award, the Werner Safe Driver Award, and membership in the NTA President’s Safe Driver Club.

Jones also became active in industry advocacy. In 2025, she was invited to speak at the White House about the real-world impacts of electric vehicle mandates on trucking operations.

She previously served as an ATA America’s Road Team Captain from 2022 through 2023 and has remained involved in mentoring future drivers through school visits and recruitment efforts.

Jones and her husband also participate in Werner’s Operation Freedom Fleet program, driving a specially wrapped truck while supporting the 50 Mile March. When she is not on the road, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and riding her Harley.

Kellylynn McLaughlin

Kellylynn McLaughlin brings more than a decade of professional driving experience across multiple sectors of the industry. Her background includes dry van operations, driver training, equine transportation, and over-the-road hazardous materials hauling with Clean Harbors Environmental Services.

Earlier in her career, she served as the first Driver Ambassador for Women In Trucking. In that role, she traveled across the country speaking about the role drivers play in the economy and encouraging more people to consider trucking careers.

Before entering the industry, McLaughlin earned a degree from Oklahoma State University, served in the Peace Corps, and worked internationally for a nonprofit organization.

She continues to advocate for professional drivers by sharing industry perspectives through speaking engagements, interviews, and advisory work.

Her involvement includes participation in several industry groups, such as the FMCSA Women of Trucking Advisory Board, the TAT Advisory Council, and the Travel Centers of America Women’s Safety Advisory Panel.

The 2026 Driver of the Year announcement later this month will highlight one of these four finalists whose work behind the wheel and within the industry continues to shape the future of trucking.

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The award celebrates individuals whose driving careers stand out for consistent safety performance, strong compliance practices, and a long record of responsible operation behind the wheel.

Recognizing Exceptional Safety Records

Candidates considered for the International Driver Excellence Award must represent the highest standards of the profession. The recognition focuses on individuals who have consistently gone beyond the basic responsibilities of operating a commercial vehicle.

According to the award guidelines, nominees should have demonstrated outstanding performance over many years while maintaining a reputation for safety, professionalism, and reliability.

Eligibility Requirements

Those nominated for the honor must meet several strict qualifications designed to highlight a long-term commitment to safe driving practices. Requirements include:

• At least 25 cumulative years of crash-free commercial motor vehicle driving
• A clean driving record for the previous three years
• No felony convictions
• No safety-related driving suspensions within the last three years
• No driver violations during the previous three years, excluding form and manner violations

The program is open to the entire commercial motor vehicle industry, and nominees do not need to belong to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance in order to be considered.

Recognition at the Annual CVSA Conference

The individual selected for the 2026 International Driver Excellence Award will be recognized later this year during the CVSA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Orlando, Florida.

As part of the recognition, the recipient and one guest will receive a complimentary economy flight to Orlando International Airport along with a two-night stay at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. The award presentation will take place during the conference awards luncheon on Sept. 23.

The winner will also receive a $5,000 cash prize and a crystal trophy commemorating the achievement.

How Nominations Are Reviewed

Submissions for the award are completed through the alliance’s online nomination form, which allows applicants to upload supporting documentation that verifies a candidate’s driving record and professional accomplishments.

Once submitted, the nominations are reviewed by the IDEA Program judges, who authenticate the information and recommend a final selection to the CVSA Executive Committee.

The recipient will be announced publicly through a news release, the organization’s website, and social media channels. A feature profile highlighting the winning driver will also appear in the quarterly magazine Guardian.

Nomination Deadline

Nominations for the 2026 International Driver Excellence Award must be submitted by Friday, May 8.

Source: Truckers News

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Those fleets were recently recognized in the 2026 Best Fleets to Drive For program, an annual initiative that highlights for-hire trucking companies across North America that deliver strong workplace experiences for both company drivers and independent contractors.

Now in its 18th year, the program once again shows that clarity, consistency, and everyday follow-through matter just as much as pay and equipment when it comes to building fleets people want to stay with.

Strong Cultures in a Tough Operating Year

According to the announcement accompanying the 2026 results, this year’s recognized fleets stood out by maintaining operational focus despite a difficult environment.

“Demonstrating that operational clarity, consistency, and practical engagement strategies remain critical to sustaining strong fleet cultures.”

That theme carried through the entire list of honorees, many of whom navigated cost pressures while still prioritizing communication, professional development, and work-life balance.

“This was a demanding year for fleets across the industry,” said CarriersEdge CEO Jane Jazrawy in a news release.

“The fleets recognized in the 2026 Best Fleets programs distinguish themselves not by avoiding challenges, but by responding thoughtfully to them.

“Through clear communication and cost-conscious, driver-focused approaches, this year’s Top 20 and Hall of Fame fleets showed that strong cultures can be sustained even in difficult conditions.”

What Fleets Are Measured On

Participation in the Best Fleets program starts with a nomination from someone currently working with the company. To be eligible, for-hire operations must run at least 10 tractor-trailers.

From there, fleets are evaluated across multiple categories, including:

• Compensation and benefits
• Human resources strategies
• Professional development opportunities
• Day-to-day operations
• Work-life balance practices

Driver and contractor surveys also play a major role, providing direct feedback that helps shape final rankings.

New Faces and Returning Standouts in 2026

This year’s results brought noticeable movement. Four fleets entered the Top 20 for the first time, and one new operation reached Hall of Fame status. At the same time, eight Hall of Fame fleets successfully requalified, continuing their long-term track records.

2026 Top 20 Best Fleets to Drive For

• America’s Service Line – Green Bay, Wisconsin
• American Central Transport – Kansas City, Missouri
• Brenny Specialized – St. Joseph, Minnesota
• Chief Carriers – Grand Island, Nebraska
• Continental Express – Sidney, Ohio
• Crawford Trucking – Des Moines, Iowa
• Decker Truck Line – Fort Dodge, Iowa
• Fortigo Freight Services – Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
• Fremont Contract Carriers – Fremont, Nebraska
• Ippolito Transportation – Burlington, Ontario, Canada
• Joseph Transportation Group – Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada
• K&J Trucking – Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• Kriska Holdings Limited – Prescott, Ontario, Canada
• Leonard’s Express – Farmington, New York
• Peninsula Truck Lines – Federal Way, Washington
• PGT Trucking – Aliquippa, Pennsylvania
• S&H Express – York, Pennsylvania
• Thomas E. Keller Trucking – Defiance, Ohio
• TransLand – Strafford, Missouri
• Williams Dedicated – Michigan City, Indiana

Hall of Fame Continues to Grow

Introduced in 2022, the Hall of Fame recognizes fleets that deliver sustained excellence over time. Qualification requires either 10 consecutive years as a Best Fleet or seven total years with at least one overall award. All Hall of Fame fleets must requalify annually.

A new fleet joined the Hall of Fame in 2026:

• Challenger Motor Freight – Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

Returning Hall of Fame fleets include:

• Bison Transport – Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
• Boyle Transportation, a UPS Healthcare Company – Billerica, Massachusetts
• FTC Transportation – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Garner Trucking – Findley, Ohio
• Halvor Lines – Superior, Wisconsin
• Nussbaum Transportation Services – Hudson, Illinois
• Prime Inc. – Springfield, Missouri
• TransPro Freight Systems Limited – Milton, Ontario, Canada

Fleets to Watch

In addition to the Top 20 and Hall of Fame, five operations earned “Fleets to Watch” recognition for strong performance and potential:

• Arlo G. Lott Trucking – Jerome, Idaho
• Erb Transport Limited – New Hamburg, Ontario, Canada
• GP Transco – Joliet, Illinois
• Quality Carriers Inc. – Tampa, Florida
• USXL – Foristell, Missouri

Overall Winners Coming in March

From the Top 20 list, two overall winners will be announced in March, recognizing large and small fleet categories. The announcements will take place during the Best Fleets Education & Awards Conference on March 16–17, 2026, at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The event will also feature the presentation of the Stratosphere Award, honoring the highest-scoring Hall of Fame fleet, along with a detailed breakdown of data gathered during this year’s program. Attendees can expect insights into retention trends, operational practices, and programs that are working across today’s fleets.

As conditions remain challenging across trucking, the 2026 Best Fleets list highlights a consistent takeaway: when leadership stays focused on communication, structure, and respect for the job, strong fleet cultures can hold steady even in uncertain times.

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The annual program highlights fleets that demonstrate consistency, transparency, and meaningful driver engagement, even as carriers navigate rising costs, shifting freight volumes, and ongoing workforce pressures.

“This year’s Best Fleets winners stood out in a challenging operating environment, demonstrating that operational clarity, consistency, and practical engagement strategies remain critical to sustaining strong fleet cultures,” CarriersEdge said.

Fleets Recognized for Driver-Focused Operations

The Best Fleets to Drive For award honors trucking companies operating 10 or more tractor-trailers that are nominated by a current company driver or owner-operator. Once nominated, fleets are evaluated across multiple operational and workplace categories, including compensation, benefits, human resources practices, professional development, operations, and work-life balance.

Driver and independent contractor surveys are also used as part of the evaluation process, giving working drivers a direct voice in how fleets are assessed.

Industry Challenges Shaped the 2026 Results

CarriersEdge said the 2026 program reflected a year of change across the trucking industry, with new fleets entering the Top 20 and others maintaining long-term recognition.

Four fleets earned Top 20 status for the first time, while one carrier was newly inducted into the Hall of Fame. Eight fleets that previously achieved Hall of Fame status successfully re-qualified in 2026.

“This was a demanding year for fleets across the industry,” said Jane Jazrawy, CarriersEdge CEO. “The fleets recognized in the 2026 Best Fleets programs distinguish themselves not by avoiding challenges, but by responding thoughtfully to them. Through clear communication and cost-conscious, driver-focused approaches, this year’s Top 20 and Hall of Fame fleets showed that strong cultures can be sustained even in difficult conditions.”

Hall of Fame Criteria Remains Selective

The Best Fleets Hall of Fame was introduced in 2022 to recognize carriers that demonstrate sustained excellence over time. To qualify, fleets must be named a Best Fleet for 10 consecutive years, or for seven years with at least one overall award. Hall of Fame fleets must re-qualify each year to maintain their status.

For 2026, Challenger Motor Freight Inc. of Cambridge, Ontario, was named as a new Hall of Fame fleet.

Returning Hall of Fame fleets include:

• Bison Transport Inc., Winnipeg, Manitoba
• Boyle Transportation, a UPS Healthcare Company, Billerica, Mass.
• FTC Transportation Inc., Oklahoma City, Okla.
• Garner Trucking Inc., Findlay, Ohio
• Halvor Lines Inc., Superior, Wis.
• Nussbaum Transportation Services Inc., Hudson, Ill.
• Prime Inc., Springfield, Mo.
• TransPro Freight Systems Limited, Milton, Ontario

2026 Best Fleets to Drive For Top 20

The following fleets were named to the 2026 Best Fleets to Drive For Top 20 list:

• America’s Service Line, Green Bay, Wis.
• American Central Transport, Kansas City, Mo.
• Brenny Specialized Inc., St. Joseph, Minn.
• Chief Carriers Inc., Grand Island, Neb.
• Continental Express Inc., Sidney, Ohio
• Crawford Trucking, Des Moines, Iowa
• Decker Truck Line Inc., Fort Dodge, Iowa
• Fortigo Freight Services Inc., Etobicoke, Ontario
• Fremont Contract Carriers, Fremont, Neb.
• Ippolito Transportation Inc., Burlington, Ontario
• Joseph Transportation Group, Stoney Creek, Ontario
• K&J Trucking Inc., Sioux Falls, S.D.
• Kriska Holdings Limited, Prescott, Ontario
• Leonard’s Express Inc., Farmington, N.Y.
• Peninsula Truck Lines Inc., Federal Way, Wash.
• PGT Trucking Inc., Aliquippa, Penn.
• S&H Express Inc., York, Penn.
• Thomas E. Keller Trucking Inc., Defiance, Ohio
• TransLand, Strafford, Mo.
• Williams Dedicated LLC, Michigan City, Ind.

Fleets to Watch Named in 2026

In addition to the Top 20, five fleets were recognized as Fleets to Watch in 2026:

• Arlo G. Lott Trucking Inc., Jerome, Idaho
• Erb Transport Limited, New Hamburg, Ontario
• GP Transco, Joliet, Ill.
• Quality Carriers Inc., Tampa, Fla.
• USXL, Foristell, Mo.

Awards Conference Scheduled for March

Two overall winners, one large fleet and one small fleet, will be announced at the Best Fleets Education & Awards Conference, scheduled for March 16 and 17 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina.

CarriersEdge will also present the Stratosphere Award, which recognizes the highest-scoring fleet within the Hall of Fame category.

The conference will include a detailed breakdown of program data, trends, and operational practices identified during the 2026 evaluation process. Sponsors for the event include TruckRight, Netradyne, and ISAAC.

The Best Fleets to Drive For program continues to serve as a benchmark for carriers focused on long-term driver satisfaction, operational discipline, and sustainable fleet culture.

Source: The Trucker

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“Our ability to provide the best service for our customers reflects the dedication and contributions of our team members,” said Kevin Holmes, ATG president, CEO. “It is an honor to recognize team members who go beyond expectations, and whose efforts and attitude, like Pete’s, elevate the quality of service across our network and make a positive impact on the people around them.”

What the award recognizes

According to Advantage Truck Group, the Pete DePina Legacy Award is the highest recognition an employee can receive within the company. It is awarded annually to one team member at each ATG location who best reflects the values associated with Napoleon “Pete” DePina.

“The highest recognition an ATG team member can receive, this award is given annually to one team member at each ATG location who most embodies the values and qualities employee Napoleon “Pete” DePina was known for, including integrity and a quiet leadership grounded in humility, generosity and selfless service to others,” ATG said.

ATG team members are nominated by their peers. Winners receive a monetary award that they continue to receive as part of their profit-sharing bonus each year throughout their employment with the company.

2025 Pete DePina Legacy Award winners

The 2025 recipients are:

• Jeff Normand, Inside Parts Sales Associate, ATG Lancaster
• Jim Rice, Inside Parts Sales Associate, ATG Lebanon
• Kyle Quinn, Service Advisor, ATG Manchester
• Cody Santos, Shop Foreman, ATG Raynham
• John Turner, Diesel Technician, ATG Seabrook
• Dan Maranda, Engine Shop Foreman, ATG Shrewsbury
• Nick McIntire, Warranty Administrator, ATG Westfield
• Michele O’Brien, Facilities Support, ATG Westminster

“I am especially proud of the team members we are recognizing with this award. They make a positive impact on everyone around them and make ATG a special place to work,” Holmes said.

Source: The Trucker

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The Elite Fleet designation focuses on for-hire truckload operations across North America that demonstrate measurable commitment to driver satisfaction, safety, compensation, and overall quality of life on the road. The 2026 class reflects a broad mix of fleets that met the program’s detailed evaluation standards.

What the TCA Elite Fleet Program Recognizes

The Elite Fleet program was created to move beyond surface-level claims and instead evaluate how carriers actually operate day to day. According to TCA, the certification highlights carriers that build driver-focused environments through competitive pay, consistent safety practices, and operational systems designed to support long term careers behind the wheel.

The program was developed in partnership with the University of Denver’s Transportation and Supply Chain Institute. That collaboration helps ensure the criteria and scoring process are grounded in research and industry data rather than marketing claims.

How Carriers Are Evaluated

Carriers seeking Elite Fleet certification go through a comprehensive review process. The evaluation examines multiple performance areas that directly affect driver experience, including safety outcomes, compensation and benefits, turnover, equipment quality, operational efficiency, and overall job satisfaction.

To validate carrier submissions, surveys of both company drivers and independent contractors are used as part of the process. This added layer is intended to provide transparency and ensure the results reflect real-world experiences rather than internal reporting alone.

Why the Program Matters to Drivers and the Industry

Programs like Elite Fleet give drivers and industry stakeholders another data point when evaluating fleets. Instead of relying solely on pay ads or recruiting claims, the certification highlights carriers that meet defined standards tied to retention, safety culture, and driver engagement.

TCA President Jim Ward said the program is becoming a meaningful benchmark within the industry.

“Following a successful first year, the TCA Elite Fleet program has quickly become a meaningful benchmark for excellence in our industry,” Ward said. The carriers recognized in 2026 have demonstrated a strong commitment to investing in their drivers and fostering environments where professionals can thrive. We commend these fleets for raising the bar and helping move our industry forward, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements at our upcoming event.”

Recognition at TCA’s Annual Convention

The 2026 Elite Fleet carriers will be formally recognized during TCA’s Annual Convention in Orlando. A dedicated awards program is scheduled for Monday, March 2, where participating carriers will be acknowledged for meeting the certification standards.

As the program enters its second year, TCA has positioned Elite Fleet as an ongoing effort to define and promote best practices across the truckload sector, with an emphasis on transparency, driver input, and measurable performance.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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