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 Truckload Carriers Association has named Christopher Bishop, a professional driver for Hi Pro Inc., as a recipient of the TCA Highway Angel Award for his actions following a hit-and-run crash involving a motorcyclist in Wichita, Kansas.

Early Morning Emergency in Wichita

The incident happened in the early morning hours of Dec. 13 at approximately 2:15 a.m. CST. Bishop had just left his terminal and was heading to load at the Wichita USPS Processing and Distribution Center when he came upon a disturbing scene on a city roadway.

A motorcycle was lying in a ditch, and its rider was severely injured and positioned in the middle of the road.

“He was just lying in the middle of the road,” Bishop said. “I stopped, and the first thing that ran through my mind was that he was dead.”

Based on what Bishop observed and later camera footage, the motorcyclist appeared to have been struck by a sedan that fled the scene without stopping.

Protecting the Scene and the Victim

Without hesitation, Bishop activated his truck’s flashers and positioned his vehicle to block traffic, creating a barrier between the injured rider and oncoming vehicles. After checking the rider, Bishop realized the man was still alive.

Bishop immediately called 911 and stayed with the victim, keeping him conscious and monitoring his breathing while emergency responders were on the way.

“I kept him talking as much as I could,” Bishop said. “Not long after that, an ambulance and police showed up.”

Emergency crews arrived roughly seven minutes later.

Critical Actions in Dangerous Conditions

Bishop’s actions were especially important given the cold December temperatures and the risks associated with a dark roadway in the early morning hours. By blocking traffic and staying with the injured motorcyclist, Bishop helped prevent further injuries, exposure to the cold, or the possibility of another vehicle striking the victim.

“Sometimes you have to actively be the change you want to see in the world,” he said.

Bishop later expressed disbelief that the driver responsible for the crash failed to stop.

“They didn’t stop; I couldn’t imagine doing that to someone and not stopping to check on him — that’s crazy,” he said.

Recognition From the Truckload Carriers Association

The TCA Highway Angel Award recognizes professional truck drivers who demonstrate extraordinary kindness, courage, and professionalism while on the road. Since the program began in August 1997, nearly 1,500 drivers have been honored for actions that go beyond the job description.

The Highway Angel program is made possible through the support of presenting sponsor EpicVue and supporting sponsors DriverFacts and Northland Insurance.

More information about the TCA Highway Angel program and nomination details is available at the TCA Highway Angel website.

Source: Truckers News

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The announcement was made in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, where industry leaders gathered to celebrate drivers who represent the highest standards of the profession. Klingson was selected from a pool of monthly honorees who stood out throughout the year for their driving records, industry involvement, and commitment to safety.

A career built on safety and reliability

Klingson’s selection reflects more than longevity. Over 40 years behind the wheel, he has accumulated more than 6 million safe driving miles, a milestone few drivers ever reach. Minnesota Trucking Association leaders said that level of performance is especially notable given the daily challenges drivers face, including congestion, distracted motorists, and harsh winter driving conditions.

“This award is a great way to honor the best in our industry,” said John Hausladen, MTA president. “Driving safely is no easy task—especially with daily challenges like congestion, driver distractions, and Minnesota winters. Gary’s achievement of more than 6 million safe driving miles over 40 years is truly outstanding, and we’re proud to recognize him for this accomplishment.”

How the Driver of the Year is selected

The Minnesota Driver of the Year honor follows a yearlong process. Throughout 2025, trucking companies across the state nominated exceptional drivers to be considered for Driver of the Month. Those drivers were evaluated based on strict criteria, including driving and work history, contributions to highway safety, industry involvement, and community engagement.

From the twelve monthly honorees, one driver was selected as Driver of the Year by a judging panel that included representatives from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and the Minnesota State Patrol.

Recognition from Koch Trucking leadership

Koch Trucking leaders said Klingson’s recognition reflects the standards the company expects from its professional drivers.

“For four decades, Gary has shown up to work, day after day, with a strong work ethic and a commitment to doing things right,” said Rick Lueck, senior director of flatbed and oversized, Koch. “Gary truly represents the best of the best, recently accomplishing 6 million safe driving miles, a remarkable milestone that reflects his unwavering dedication to safety throughout his career.”

Why the recognition matters

Industry stakeholders say awards like Minnesota Driver of the Year highlight the role experienced drivers play in keeping freight moving safely. As fleets face ongoing challenges related to safety, retention, and public perception, honoring drivers who consistently perform at a high level reinforces the importance of professionalism behind the wheel.

For fellow drivers, Klingson’s recognition serves as a reminder that steady performance, attention to safety, and long-term commitment are still valued and celebrated within the industry.

Source: The Trucker

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The Marysville, Kansas based manufacturer is donating a 53 foot Landoll 440 Series traveling axle trailer to benefit the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum. The donated unit represents trailer number 40,000 built by Landoll, marking a significant moment in the company’s history.

A milestone tied to industry recognition

Landoll founder and president Don Landoll said the company chose to honor the milestone by supporting an organization that recognizes the people and work behind towing and recovery.

“Reaching our 40,000th trailer is a proud moment for Landoll, and we can think of no better way to commemorate it than by supporting an organization that honors service, sacrifice and excellence within the towing and recovery industry,” said Don Landoll, founder, president of Landoll Company.

Don Landoll was inducted into the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame in 1997, adding a personal connection to the donation.

Supporting preservation and remembrance

The trailer will be used as part of the Hall of Fame’s 40th anniversary activities, highlighting the legacy and contributions of individuals who have shaped the towing and recovery industry.

Proceeds generated from the trailer will help fund the museum’s ongoing work, including preservation of exhibits such as the Wall of the Fallen. The memorial honors towing professionals who lost their lives while serving in the line of duty.

Trailer to be auctioned later this year

The custom Landoll 440 Series trailer is scheduled to be auctioned on Oct. 16, with all proceeds benefiting the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum.

“The auction is expected to draw strong interest from across the transportation and towing industries due to the trailer’s historic significance, premium craftsmanship and limited-edition status,” Landoll said.

According to the company, the donation reflects Landoll’s long-standing commitment to supporting organizations that preserve industry history while contributing to its future.

The milestone trailer and upcoming auction underscore how equipment manufacturers continue to play a role beyond production, helping support recognition, remembrance, and advancement across the transportation sector.

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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Four drivers were recently named TCA Highway Angels for their actions while on the road: Phil Damme of Online Transport, Owen Lewis of Sharp Transportation Inc., Marco Medel Morga of AAA Cooper Transportation, and John Bradley of James River Carriers.

Each was recognized for helping fellow motorists and drivers during emergencies, often before first responders arrived.

Recognizing professionalism beyond the wheel

As part of the honor, each Highway Angel receives a certificate, lapel pin, patches, and truck decals. Their employers are also presented with a certificate recognizing their driver’s actions.

Since the Highway Angels program began in 1997, nearly 1,400 professional drivers have been honored for acts of kindness, courage, and professionalism displayed while doing their jobs. The program is supported by presenting sponsor EpicVue, along with DriverFacts and Northland Insurance.

Drivers can be nominated for the program, and more information on current and past Highway Angel recipients is available at highwayangel.org.

Phil Damme steps in after a rollover

Shortly before 11 p.m. on October 5, 2025, Phil Damme was driving on Interstate 68 in Maryland when he noticed flickering headlights and sparks ahead near Ellicott City. As he slowed, he discovered an overturned semi blocking the roadway.

“He actually turned the whole thing over,” he said, referring to the driver of the crashed truck. “He ended up in the median.”

Damme was one of the first to arrive at the scene. He helped remove the shattered windshield to reach the injured driver trapped inside the cab. Seeing heavy bleeding from the man’s arm, Damme used his own belt as a tourniquet while waiting for emergency responders.

“He was bleeding pretty bad,” Damme said. “I put my belt up above his elbow and tightened it really, really tight to slow down the bleeding.”

Damme later said he believed he was in the right place at the right time and credited his faith for guiding his actions.

Owen Lewis stops to help after an early morning crash

On November 9, 2025, at around 6 a.m., Owen Lewis was traveling westbound on Interstate 80 near Harlan, Iowa, when he witnessed a car crash in the eastbound lanes. He pulled over immediately.

“When I got there, the car was about 100 feet or so off the side of the highway, down in an irrigation ditch,” he said.

Lewis found a young woman who had exited the vehicle. She was not injured but was cold. After contacting emergency services and her parents, she waited in Lewis’ truck to stay warm until the Iowa State Patrol arrived.

Her family later shared their appreciation with Lewis’ employer.

“We are very grateful for his kindness and how he kept her safe and warm until the state trooper got to the scene. Owen is a model employee who your company is lucky to have on board. We appreciate what he did for our daughter yesterday!” wrote Emily Truitt and Toby Knoop.

“I’ve always felt like if something happens, I need to stop and make sure everything is OK,” Lewis said.

Marco Medel Morga rescues passengers from a burning vehicle

Around 12:30 p.m. on July 15, 2025, Marco Medel Morga was traveling east on Interstate 88 near Kaneville, Illinois, when he witnessed a serious crash just ahead of him.

“I was so close to hitting them — but I got lucky,” he said.

Morga pulled over and ran to the scene, where one of the vehicles had caught fire.

“The car was on fire, and nobody was getting out of it,” Morga said. “I got nervous about the people in the car. I had to go help them.”

He helped one passenger escape from the burning vehicle. The other occupant was also able to exit safely before emergency crews arrived.

John Bradley prevents a medical emergency from escalating

On the morning of September 15, 2025, John Bradley was at a customer location in Richmond when he noticed another driver preparing to pull away after incorrectly hooking up to a trailer. After helping correct the issue, Bradley noticed the driver slump over the steering wheel as the truck began to roll forward.

“I called 911,” said Bradley. “I couldn’t leave him because I knew something was wrong.”

Bradley blocked traffic, climbed into the truck, and brought it to a stop. He stayed with the driver until emergency responders arrived and later learned the driver had experienced a blood sugar emergency.

“I’m glad he was all right,” Bradley said. “I stayed with him until the ambulance came.”

A reminder of what defines the profession

The Highway Angels program highlights moments that reflect the responsibility and character carried by professional drivers every day. These actions often go unseen, but they leave a lasting impact on the people involved.

This story originally appeared in the January February 2026 edition of Truckload Authority, the official publication of the Truckload Carriers Association.

Source: The Trucker

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Walmart sponsors the award and is open to recognizing women whose work reflects a commitment not only to moving freight safely, but also to supporting the people and communities connected to trucking.

“Women are shaping the future of trucking,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president, CEO. “This award celebrates the drivers who go above and beyond in their profession and who uplift others in the industry.”

Why the award matters to the industry

Women make up about 9.5 percent of all professional truck drivers, according to the most recent WIT Index, which tracks the presence of women across trucking roles. While that number has grown over time, WIT says visibility and recognition remain critical to long-term progress.

By spotlighting experienced and dedicated drivers, the association aims to reinforce that professionalism, safety, and leadership are not limited by gender and that the industry benefits when those qualities are recognized publicly.

“Women in trucking aren’t just moving freight, they’re moving the industry forward,” said Ryan McDaniel, senior vice president, Walmart Transportation. “Walmart is honored to continue sponsoring Women In Trucking’s Driver of the Year award and recognize the extraordinary female drivers who lead with professionalism and excellence.”

What the award recognizes

The Driver of the Year honor focuses on more than safe miles alone. Nominees are evaluated based on safety performance, leadership, community involvement, and their overall contribution to improving the image of trucking. WIT emphasizes drivers who act as role models both inside and outside the cab.

Finalists and the winner will be recognized during the 2026 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky, scheduled for March 27. The winner will also receive a commemorative award package that includes a plaque, a custom ring, and additional recognition.

Hearing from the most recent winner

Last year’s honoree, Kathy Blaies, said the recognition carried meaning beyond the stage.

“Every day I get behind the wheel of my car hauler, rain or shine, and do what I love,” Blaies said. “Standing on that stage to receive this award was validation — not just for me, but for every woman who has ever been told ‘this is a man’s world.’ Progress has sometimes felt slow, but seeing more women in this profession proves that change is happening.”

Her comments reflect why the award resonates with many drivers across the industry, especially those who have built long careers through consistency and dedication.

How to submit a nomination

WIT is accepting nominations through January 29, 2026. Drivers can be nominated by employers, coworkers, industry peers, or members of the public who want to recognize a professional driver making a positive impact.

To nominate a driver, click here.

Source: The Trucker

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Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes, emphasized the leadership veterans bring to trucking:
“Veterans bring mission focus, adaptability, and leadership to every role they take on, including careers behind the wheel. These finalists show how military experience translates into excellence in the trucking industry, and we’re proud to honor their service and celebrate the vital role veterans play in keeping America moving.”

The program is a joint effort by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport. Each year, the initiative recognizes rookie veteran truck drivers who exemplify professionalism, safety, and service. After nominations, review, and the announcement of four finalists, the final step will be a nationwide public vote.

Celebrating Veterans in Trucking

Twelve semi-finalists were recently honored at a reception hosted at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. The following day, finalists were revealed during an event at Kenworth’s Chillicothe manufacturing facility. Attendees enjoyed live broadcasts with Jimmy Mac and Lindsay Lawler of Road Gang Radio, along with exclusive plant tours offering a behind-the-scenes look at Kenworth’s flagship production site.

Meet the 2025 Finalists

Nicholas Baughan, Werner Enterprises
Baughan, from Nunica, Michigan, has served in the U.S. Army since 2004 and continues in the Army Reserve until his upcoming retirement in 2026. His career began in military police before moving into infantry. He has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, earning several commendations, including the Purple Heart. His military journey has taken him across Europe and South Korea, holding leadership roles from team leader to senior intelligence sergeant.

Charles Jones Jr., Roehl Transport
Sergeant First Class Charles C. Jones Jr. (Ret.) entered the Army through the Delayed Entry Program after high school in 2004. Over his 20-year service, he worked as an unmanned aircraft systems operator, instructor, standards operator, and platoon sergeant. His career included three combat tours in Iraq and two assignments in South Korea. After graduating from Georgia Driving Academy in late 2024, Jones began his civilian driving career with Roehl Transport in 2025. He and his wife, Katrina, raise two children, Alvin and Monica.

Macy Mattice, Melton Truck Lines
From 2010 to 2018, Mattice served in the Army as an 88M motor transport operator, specializing in moving heavy equipment. Today, she drives a flatbed for Melton Truck Lines, bringing the discipline of her service years into her trucking career. Originally from Winter Springs, Florida, she now lives near Jacksonville with her son, Rusty. Known for her adventurous spirit, she enjoys animals, travel, and taking on new challenges.

Mark Scriven, Stevens Transport
Scriven, a former Army staff sergeant, spent nine years as a patriot missile operator and maintainer. His service earned him multiple achievement medals, along with recognition as a combat lifesaver. Now, he applies his leadership skills and discipline as both a driver and trainer with Stevens Transport. A father of three, he welcomed a newborn daughter this past August.

The Prize Package

Kenworth will once again provide the grand prize truck for the program’s winner—a tradition that has lasted ten consecutive years. This year, the champion will be handed the keys to a brand-new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and PACCAR Powertrain, featuring the MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission, and DX-40 tandem rear axles.

Kyle Kimball, director of marketing for Kenworth, shared the company’s pride in supporting the program:
“Kenworth is proud to partner with Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for the tenth year to honor and recognize the distinguished semi-finalist drivers who exemplify excellence behind the wheel. Celebrating the accomplishments of this elite group is a special honor each year, and we look forward to awarding the keys to the grand prize Kenworth T680 truck to this year’s winner in Washington, D.C.”

The T680 comes with Kenworth’s Diamond VIT interior in slate gray and madrona trim, Ultraleather heated and cooled seating, a rotating worktable, a factory-installed refrigerator, and space for a microwave and TV. The truck also boasts cutting-edge safety features, including Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with torque-assisted steering.

Beyond the grand prize, all finalists will be recognized. The runner-up will receive $10,000, while the two remaining finalists will take home $5,000 each.

Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, underscored the significance of these drivers:
“Our four finalists represent three military branches and continue to serve their country in a critical industry. Each of them is also committed to delivering loads on time for veteran-ready employers and sharing the roads safely with the motoring public.”

What Comes Next

Public voting for the 2025 Transition Trucking Award opens November 1 and will continue through Veterans Day on November 11. The winner will be revealed during a December 12 ceremony at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters in Washington, D.C.

This program continues to spotlight how military skills translate into trucking excellence, offering veterans meaningful second careers while ensuring the industry benefits from their leadership and commitment.

Image Source: Kenworth
Source: The Trucker

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The company noted that these drivers have demonstrated “industry-leading safety records, exceptional skills and consistency throughout their careers.”

Drivers recognized for their achievements include:

Three Million Miles of Safe Driving

• Daniel Ronca
• Todd Miller

Two Million Miles of Safe Driving

• Richard Burkhart
• Richard Hunt
• Dennis Desrosiers
• John Basile
• William Jones
• Richard Wright
• Paul Waite Jr.

One Million Miles of Safe Driving

• David Adams
• Samuel Kinyanjui
• Gerardo Lopez III
• Walter Baumert
• Keith Carknard
• Charles Krumm
• Juan Ramos
• Robert Kaduck
• Joshua Cartier
• James Mooney
• John Davis
• Michael Oktavec
• Anthony Bowen
• Francis Hess
• John Arnold
• Michael Boyer
• William Ort
• Brian Eslinger

Source: A. Duie Pyle
Source: Truckers News

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After serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1978 to 1984, Carter started his post-military career working at a box plant for furniture. He quickly realized that factory work was not for him.

“I got tired of looking at four walls all of the time,” Carter said.

The solution was to carry on a family legacy.

“My dad was a truck driver, and he suggested that I give it a shot,” Carter said.

The first step was to go to trucking school, he said, adding that he was trained at Isothermal Community College in Forest City, North Carolina, which was affiliated with New Jersey-based Coretta Trucking.

“They had a satellite terminal right across the street from the terminal, and that’s where my dad worked, at Coretta Trucking,” Carter said.

Once he completed training, he drove the team with his dad for about eight months, allowing the two to spend time together while Carter gained real-world experience.

“Then Dad had to do something else — and my wife didn’t like for me to be gone three weeks out of the month,” he said. The search was on for a job that would allow him to drive and still spend quality time with his family.

“Sometimes you’ve got to get a little experience so you can move on to something else,” Carter said. “I had to find my way until I found the right trucking company for me, which was Cargo Transporters.”

Twenty-four years later, he’s still driving for the same company — and working to make the trucking industry better.

“I’m out for a week. I’m home every weekend,” he said. “I can count on one hand the times I’ve been out on a weekend. That’s good. Not a lot of companies try to make that a priority.”

Carter counts being able to see new places and travel around the country as his favorite part of being a trucker.

“It’s never the same scenery. That’s what I like about it,” he explained. “You get to meet all kinds of people from all over the country. I always say I have an office with a view.

“If you’re not learning something every day in truck driving, there’s something wrong,” he continued.

Of the many challenges faced by professional drivers, Carter says a shortage of safe truck parking and traffic congestion are the ones that affect him the most, particularly in larger metropolitan areas.

“If I take my time in the big cities and just mind the space around my truck, before you know it — 10, 15 minutes, maybe 20 minutes — I’m through it without any kind of hassle,” he said of urban traffic.

“But you’re always keeping your head on a swivel around you with the traffic around the big trucks. It’s just that the general public doesn’t realize what it takes for a truck to maneuver in traffic,” he continued. “They’re trying to get from Point A to Point B, just like we are, and they don’t want to be behind the truck. That’s why they’re always zooming around.”

A consummate professional both on and off the road, Carter has been recognized with several accolades, including being named a 2025 Professional Driver of the Year by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), a 2024-2025 Road Team for the American Trucking Associations (ATA), and Cargo Transporters’ November 2024 Driver of the Month.

Most recently, Carter was honored as the 2025 DMC Insurance Driver of the Year. He is the only Cargo Transport driver to win both the TCA and DMC awards.

“Perry exemplifies what it means to be a professional driver, a servant leader, and an industry ambassador,” said Matthew Sheffield, marketing and public relations coordinator at Cargo Transporters. “He has the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and community service, and is a powerful voice for veteran causes and a dedicated advocate within the trucking community.”

According to TCA, with 2.8 million accident-free miles and decades of experience, Carter sets the standard for safety, humility, and service.

Carter is humble when speaking about all that he has achieved in his career, but all the same, he is very aware of the honors he’s earned, particularly the TCA driver of the year award and being named a captain for ATA’s road team.

“I was driving through Tennessee one morning and listening to the Dave Nemo Show, and they announced my name over the radio,” he recalled. “I thought, ‘Man, that was awesome!’” Carter said.

For Carter, earning all the accolades he has received has been both exciting and overwhelming. He credits his family, mentors, and his faith in helping him achieve his dreams. Outside of work, Carter enjoys taking his wife Carolyn out to dinner and playing golf.

“Perry is deeply committed to supporting fellow veterans through efforts like Wreaths Across America and organizations such as Purple Heart Homes and American Warriors of Liberty,” a statement from TCA reads.

“He proudly represented Cargo Transporters as a Ride of Pride driver in both 2018 and 2023. Beyond his professional achievements, Perry also demonstrates remarkable devotion to his family,” the statement continues. “He has rearranged his work schedule to be there for his wife, Carolyn, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and cares for his disabled brother who lives with them.”

Through his service, advocacy, and compassion, Perry Carter continues to inspire others.

This story originally appeared in the September/October 2025 edition of Truckload Authority, the official publication of the Truckload Carriers Association.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Cargo Transporters

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