The annual recognition program is sponsored by Cummins Inc. and Love’s Travel Stops.

“We’re incredibly proud to see these drivers receive such an esteemed honor,” said Todd Wilson, vice president of Sales at Love’s Travel Stops. Their consistent commitment, integrity, and work ethic set a powerful example each day. They represent the values we stand for at Love’s, and we’re honored to champion their continued influence within the trucking industry.”

José Samperio, vice president and general manager of North America On-Highway at Cummins Inc., also expressed pride in the event: “It’s a privilege to help recognize these outstanding professionals who play a vital role in keeping our industry moving forward. Their dedication to high standards on the road and meaningful contributions to their communities make a significant and enduring difference.”

The five honorees represent a range of fleets and backgrounds, but each shares a track record of safety, leadership, and long-term commitment to the profession.

A Career Built on Service and Mentorship – Marcia Luchenbill

Marcia Luchenbill, a company driver with Knight Transportation’s El Paso terminal for six years, has accumulated nearly 650,000 career miles, including more than 193,000 accident-free miles in the past two years. A military veteran and mother of three, she has also mentored 22 female drivers in two and a half years as a trainer.

“Trucking is really a good fit for me,” says the married mother of three teens.

Her record reflects consistent safety performance and a steady presence on demanding routes. Luchenbill’s professionalism earned her selection as a Knight Fleet of Heroes driver, one of the company’s highest honors. She also continues her lifelong commitment to service through veteran-focused initiatives, including three Wreaths Across America Arlington convoys.

Millions of Miles Without a Preventable Accident – Nick Barboza

Nick Barboza has spent 27 years with Covenant Logistics Group, Inc., logging more than 3.5 million miles and earning membership in the company’s 120 Club, equivalent to circling the globe 120 times without a preventable accident. In addition to maintaining that record, he has trained new drivers throughout his career.

“Through the years I’ve learned that not everybody learns the same way,” Barboza said. “I look for the easiest way for the new drivers to learn — when they start to get it, and you can see it on their face, I love that.”

Off the road, he and his wife have fostered more than 30 children and adopted four, quietly serving their community through acts of generosity and faith.

Four Decades in Specialized Hauling – Tommy Cash

Tommy Cash, a driver with CAST Specialty Transportation, has spent 22 years supporting the U.S. Department of Energy’s WIPP program, hauling legacy nuclear waste as part of a small group of drivers nationwide entrusted with this critical assignment. His career spans more than four decades and an estimated 3.675 million miles.

“One of the highlights of my career has been training new drivers. It makes me feel good helping somebody start a new career and do it the right way.”

Beyond his driving record, Cash plays a key role in training and evaluating new hires, shaping CAST Specialty’s hiring and training practices, and mentoring other drivers across the fleet.

A Veteran’s Approach to the Highway – Richard Fertig

Richard Fertig, a 23-year Army veteran with Smith Transport, has driven over three million safe miles. Known for reliability, preparation, and quiet leadership, Fertig approaches every trip as a learning opportunity.

“My life is the highway,” Fertig said. “In my 28 years driving, it’s just been a joy to get out there and meet a lot of people.”

“I’ve had people call me at all hours of the day and night,” he said. “Every day out here, I learn something different.”

Building Community Through Training – Jesus Acevedo-Soto

Jesus Acevedo-Soto, affectionately known as “Avocado,” is a driver for Swift Transportation. Known for vigilance, skill, and respect on the road, he has also trained multiple generations of drivers who stay connected as a peer support network called the “Guac Squad.”

“The Guac Squad just kind of happened naturally,” said Soto, a married father of three. “It became a community of drivers that helped and supported each other. We use this to get camaraderie back in the business.”

He later added, “There are no two days alike in this industry. I love it — it’s truly a passion.”

Soto became the company’s youngest Million Mile Driver at age 28 and has earned multiple Diamond Driver distinctions for maintaining elite safety, fuel efficiency, and mileage standards for 36 consecutive months. Beyond driving, he participates in Children’s Miracle Network fundraising, blood donations, and youth coaching.

Nominations for the 2027 TCA Professional Drivers of the Year will open this fall. For more information, visit www.TCAProfessionalDriversoftheYear.com.

The post Truckload Carriers Association Names 2026 Professional Drivers of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Listen to the full episode here or watch it on YouTube.

The post The Oakley Podcast: From the Archives – How a Father and His Son Share a Love of Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“The Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) Elevate Young Leadership Program is designed to educate, engage, and connect the next generation of truckload leaders,” TCA said. “Participants gain access to meaningful peer interaction, industry insight, and leadership-focused programming aimed at preparing them for long-term success.”

The program gives young professionals in trucking hands-on opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow through mentorship, skill-building sessions, and industry networking. Participants join a mix of in-person meetings at TCA events and virtual sessions throughout the year, getting practical insights and connections that drive career growth.

According to TCA, nominating a young leader sends a strong message about investing in their future and preparing your fleet for long-term success.

Applications for the 2025 class close December 10, so don’t wait. Learn more and nominate a young leader today to give the next generation of trucking professionals the tools and support they need to succeed.

Source: The Trucker

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The event is designed to spark interest among girls and women in the wide variety of career paths available in trucking, logistics, and transportation. Open to the public, the program will include interactive learning, equipment displays, and opportunities to connect directly with professionals working in the field.

A Platform for Hands-On Learning

Attendees will be able to step inside trucks, buses, and heavy machinery while hearing from experts about how the supply chain keeps America moving.

“This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity in Wyoming to experience the transportation industry up close and connect with women who are thriving in the field,” said Ed Kimes, EWC CDL program director. “No other event in the region offers this level of hands-on learning and mentorship.”

Special guest U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, Wyoming’s representative in the U.S. House, will also be present to show support for women pursuing careers in transportation.

Spotlight on Industry Leaders

The featured speaker, Dakota Muniz, Fulfillment Manager at Refractories West Inc. in Pueblo, Colo., brings personal experience to the stage. As a third-generation leader in her family’s logistics and distribution business, she worked her way up from safety coordinator and sales associate to managing fulfillment and logistics, all while earning her associate degree in business management.

“I fell in love with the logistics industry early on,” Muniz said. “It’s fast-paced, rewarding, and offers endless opportunities for women who want to make an impact.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Girl Scouts attending the event can earn the official Women In Trucking patch, which introduces girls to the trucking industry through interactive activities. The patch emphasizes the essential role trucks play in everyday life while encouraging future career exploration.

Founded in 2007, WIT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women in trucking, celebrating their contributions, and breaking down barriers in the industry.

“Trucks Are For Girls” is free and open to all ages, offering a rare chance for young women to picture themselves in trucking and related fields.

Image Source: Eastern Wyoming College, Truckers News
Source: Truckers News

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Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, President and CEO of WIT, emphasized the significance of this honor: “This award is more than just a recognition – it’s a celebration of the bold, forward-thinking women who are shaping the future of transportation. We are thrilled to once again spotlight their accomplishments and elevate the voices of women who are making a difference across our industry.”

Celebrating 15 years, this award highlights women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and influence within trucking, transportation, logistics, or supply chain sectors. Nominees must have a proven track record of visionary leadership, mentorship, and serve as inspiring role models for others, especially women.

Jill Quinn, President of Centerline Drivers, shared, “By amplifying the incredible stories of women in trucking, we aim to inspire more women to explore rewarding careers in an industry that keeps America moving. We are honored to support the 2025 Influential Women in Trucking Award as part of Centerline’s ongoing commitment to fueling progress and advancing opportunities for women in trucking.”

Nominations are being accepted now through September 18. Those interested can submit their nominations here.

The winner will be revealed at the 2025 Accelerate! Conference & Expo, scheduled for November 9–12 in Dallas, Texas. Finalists will also join a panel discussion on November 11, sharing their leadership journeys, philosophies, and advice for the next generation of industry talent.

Past winners include some of the most notable figures in trucking leadership:

• 2024: Tracy Rushing, Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting, RE Garrison Trucking, Inc.
• 2023: Shelley Simpson, President, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
• 2022: Trina Norman, Southern California Feeder Operations Manager, UPS.
• 2021: Lily Ley, VP & CIO, PACCAR.
• 2020: Kristy Knichel, President, Knichel Logistics, and Jodie Teuton, Co-Founder, Kenworth of Louisiana.

For a full list of recipients, click here.

WIT encourages peers, companies, and stakeholders to nominate women who have made a lasting impact on the trucking industry. This is a powerful opportunity to recognize leadership and inspire more women to join this vital field.

Source: The Trucker
Source: Women In Trucking

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Captivated by a Semi-Truck

For Chris Clardy, the trucking dream began when he was just 12 years old. Visiting the Mt. Comfort Air Show with his family, his attention wasn’t on the soaring planes as one might expect. Instead, he was drawn to one exhibit — a semi-truck that stood as a symbol of strength and connection. The polished machine mesmerized young Chris, sparking an early desire to one day become a part of the trucking world.

It was also at the air show where he first came across C1 Truck Driver Training, the school that would later be instrumental in fulfilling his aspirations. Although the seeds of a dream were planted that day, life had a more complex road in store for him.

A Life-Changing Gesture

Not long after the air show, Chris was dealt a challenging hand. He faced severe medical hardships that put his young life on pause and left him hospitalized. For a child brimming with dreams, such obstacles were daunting.

But during these difficult times, a small but profoundly impactful gesture instilled hope in Chris. Chris Welch, the owner of C1 Truck Driver Training, sent him a heartfelt note. Included in the letter were words of encouragement and a promise that stayed with Chris for years. Welch assured him, saying, “Once you’re well enough, you’ll be treated to a ride in a semi-truck at our school.”

This promise wasn’t just about a truck ride; it symbolized belief in Chris’s potential and gave him a goal to hold on to.

Coming Back to a Dream

Fast forward nearly two decades. Despite life’s twists and turns, Chris never forgot the promise that had meant so much to him. When the time was right, he returned to C1 Truck Driver Training, determined to finally achieve the dream he had nurtured since childhood.

Chris arrived prepared, with his CDL (Commercial Driver License) permit and DOT (Department of Transportation) physical certification already in place. He wasn’t just chasing a dream — he was committed to making it reality.

With laser focus and tireless determination, Chris excelled during his training. He graduated as the top student in his class and passed his CDL test on the first attempt. His hard work earned him his first professional trucking role at PAM Transport, marking the successful completion of his first major milestone. But the story didn’t end there.

From Employee to Business Owner

For many, achieving childhood dreams offers a satisfying conclusion. But for Chris Clardy, it was the beginning of a greater mission. Driven by ambition, he continued to expand his horizons within the trucking industry.

Today, Chris not only drives trucks — he owns a fleet of them. Transitioning from employee to employer, he built a successful business that now provides opportunities for other aspiring drivers. His experience and insights make him a mentor to others, proof that success in trucking goes far beyond hauling freight.

Chris’s story exemplifies the ripple effect of quality education, resilience, and the right support system. Thanks to the foundational training he received at C1 Truck Driver Training and the mentorship that guided him, he is making a lasting impact in the trucking community.

Through programs offered by CVTA’s extensive member network, countless individuals like Chris Clardy are able to turn aspirations into achievements.

Image Source: CVTA
Source: The Trucker

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Wearing Two Hats: Army Reserve and NFI Trucker

Kacy’s journey into transportation began soon after high school when she made the bold decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2019. The discipline she learned during Basic Combat Training shaped her approach to every challenge, whether she’s in uniform or behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler.

“I joined right out of high school,” Kacy remembers. Her schedule is a balancing act between drill weekends and long drives, but Kacy says she’s adapted well: “Sometimes it’s hard to balance, but I feel like I’m so used to it because I joined (the Army) at such an early age. It’s just part of me now.”

Her dual life as an Army Reservist and a professional truck driver with NFI shows how the skills from military service translate seamlessly to civilian life, especially within the logistics industry.

Discovering Life on the Road

It was a friend in the trucking industry who first introduced Kacy to the idea of driving big rigs. “He would bring me to work with him, and I was always fascinated with how it works,” she says. Watching the ins and outs of trucking sparked her interest in pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The transition wasn’t without nerves. “I was a little bit scared at first, because I’m a small female,” Kacy shares. “But I went through basic training and made it through — and I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I was like, ‘Well, I’m going to try.’ And now, here I am!”

That determination powered her through CDL training. She started as a yard jockey, spent time with another trucking company, and then, thanks to a recommendation from a friend, officially joined NFI—as well as the SheDrives NFI community, a dedicated space for women in trucking.

Empowerment Through SheDrives NFI

Now, with over two years as a full-time professional truck driver, Kacy has found a supportive workplace culture through SheDrives. “In my previous trucking job, there were only three women, including me,” she points out. NFI’s commitment to female drivers has made a big difference, creating more opportunities for women in trucking and mentorship within the industry.

“They’re friendly. I can talk to anybody in the office,” she says, highlighting the approachable and supportive team environment at NFI.

Kacy beams with pride when she talks about life on the road: “It feels great to be a truck driver,” she says. “I show up to the stores (in my rig) and a lot of people look at me like, ‘Are YOU a truck driver? Oh my gosh, you’re doing this!” Her presence in the field serves as a visual reminder that women belong in every part of the logistics industry.

Overcoming Roadblocks

Like many professional drivers, Kacy deals with challenges that go beyond the basics of driving. Navigating heavy vehicles requires a unique skill set and a great deal of patience, not just for the truck but also for other motorists. “They don’t understand (a truck’s) stopping distance and how (much space we need) to make turns,” she explains, pointing to frequent misunderstandings from drivers of smaller vehicles.

Kacy’s experiences behind the wheel underscore the importance of good training and a level-headed approach—qualities she now brings to new female truck drivers through mentorship and example.

Guidance for Women Entering Trucking

What advice does Kacy have for other women interested in joining the world of trucking? Her answer is clear: be patient and open-minded. “Listen to all the advice other truck drivers have to give. Don’t rush. Don’t let fear take over,” she says. She also cautions new drivers not to compare themselves to others. “Also, don’t compare yourself to other truck drivers; do what works for you.”

Kacy’s journey is proof that with the right attitude, determination, and community, women can excel in careers traditionally dominated by men.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Kacy H. sets a shining example for both her fellow Reservists and for the next generation of women eager to become truck drivers. She’s made it clear that support networks like SheDrives NFI, strong mentors, and a belief in your goals are crucial for success in the world of logistics.

Want to know more about the SheDrives NFI program and how it supports female truck drivers? Visit NFI online or connect with them on social platforms to join the conversation.

Image Source: NFI
Source: The Trucker

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Lori’s Impact on the Trucking Industry

Lori’s career has spanned roles in recruiting, strategic planning, corporate development, branding, sales, and operations. She has worked with both for-hire and private fleets, including a Fortune 100 company, and led business development for the largest recruitment marketing agency in the industry. Today, she leads a top driver lead generation company that is female-owned and boasts an 80% female workforce.

Beyond business success, Lori is deeply committed to improving the image of drivers and the industry. Her passion for trucking extends beyond her company, making her a standout nominee for this prestigious recognition.

Significant Accomplishments in the Past 12-18 Months

Over the past year and a half, Lori has achieved remarkable milestones that underscore her vision for the industry:

• Built an online community of over one million followers, with a reach of up to 50 million people in a single month.
• Partnered with the NFI SheDrives initiative to amplify content that supports and elevates women in trucking.
• Launched Driver.jobs, a platform and community designed to connect and support final-mile drivers.
• Created the Haul of Fame, a space dedicated to celebrating trucking’s unsung heroes, including Drivers of the Month and Carriers of the Year.
• Developed an innovative technology-driven platform that matches drivers with companies based on their individual needs and preferences.

These achievements reflect her forward-thinking approach and unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact on drivers and the companies that support them.

How Lori Exemplifies WIT’s Mission

Lori fully embodies the mission of Women In Trucking—encouraging the employment of women in the industry, promoting their accomplishments, and minimizing the obstacles they face. She has mentored drivers and industry professionals, fostering growth and paving the way for future leaders.

Her efforts to enhance the perception of drivers go beyond recognition; she actively works to ensure their voices are heard and their contributions celebrated. Lori’s influence extends beyond drivers to the broader industry, where she continues to break down barriers for women and push for a more inclusive and supportive environment. Her advocacy, leadership, and dedication to the industry make her a true champion for positive change.

Women In Trucking’s 2025 Top Women to Watch

Lori joins an impressive group of 74 women recognized for their significant career accomplishments. These professionals come from a diverse range of roles, including operations, corporate management, sales, marketing, strategic initiatives, human resources, engineering, and technology. The full list of honorees includes:

• Vanessa Angulo, Senior Director, Talent Acquisition, Sysco
• Pamela Baker, Chief Executive Officer, Core Four Productions
• Tamsin Bencivengo, Director, Employer Brand, Penske Transportation Solutions
• Nicole Boyd, Driver Safety Trainer, Air Products
• Lina Castaneda, Chief Customer Officer, Tai Software
• Marcela Castano, Principal Applied Researcher, Bridgestone Americas
• Joanna Cooper, General Manager, Mount Holly Truck Manufacturing Plant, Daimler Truck North America
• Theresa Davinroy, Marketing Director, Tri-National, Inc.
• Jessica Dotson, Director of Business Development, Multi Service Fuel Card
• Janice Doyon, Director of Logistics, Performance Food Group
• Abbie Dunaway, BI Services Manager, McLeod Software
• Amanda Ellis, Lead, Dealer Operations – Digital Solutions, Bridgestone Americas
• Ashley Ellison, Vice President, Dedicated Operations, U.S. Xpress
• Sarah Falcon, Site Supervisor, Air Products
• Kathie Falcone, National Sales Director of Fleet Services, PACCAR Parts
• Kimberly Fisk, President, Triumph Factoring
• Angie Freeman, Chief Human Resources Officer, C.H. Robinson
• Karen Fuller, Executive Director of Maintenance, R.E. Garrison Trucking
• Lori Furnell, President, Truck Drivers USA
• Kameel Gaines, Chief Executive Officer, Rig On Wheels
• Sara Graf, Vice President, Sustainability, Culture and Communications, Estes Express Lines
• Laura Granados, Controller, May Trucking Company
• Kat Guerrero, Corporate Procurement Manager, Rihm Family Companies
• Candy June Hackworth, Manufacturing Operations Manager, International Motors
• Heather Hines, Director of Product Management, Arrive Logistics
• Betsy Hone, Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition, Old Dominion Freight Line
• Tracy Hughes, Vice President, Compliance, Benefits and Spend Management, Estes Express Lines
• Carrie Johnstone, Vice President, Customer Experience and Innovation, Estes Express Lines
• Katie Justman, Director of Operations, Schneider
• Kristine Kennedy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Highway Heavy Hauling
• Anita Kim, Director, Government Affairs and Policy, Torc Robotics
• Jennifer King, Field Sales Manager, Penske Truck Leasing
• Judith Knudsen, Chief Executive Officer, eTruck Transportation, LLC
• Becky Kraemer, Director, Cargo Claims, Saia LTL Freight
• Jackie Lawrence, Senior Director – People Relations, J.B. Hunt Transport Services
• Trisha Leckow, Vice President of Product Technology, Echo Global Logistics
• Kelly Lee, Operating Center Manager, May Trucking Company
• Elizabeth Lopez, Chief Financial Officer, Dealer Operations, Sun State International Trucks LLC
• Jenny Lovering, General Transportation Manager, Walmart
• Brenda Mejia, Head of Operations, Gatik
• Erin Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer, YMX Logistics
• Laura Muir, Chief Human Resources Officer, Polaris Transport
• Annette Munger, Engagement Manager, R.E. Garrison Trucking
• Kandice Nadeau, Vice President, Dedicated Contract Carriage Solutions, Penske Logistics
• Zeliha Ozgul-Mamishi, Lead Project Manager, International Motors
• Kait Parker, Vice President, Operations, RXO
  … (List continues with all nominees) …

The full list of honorees will be featured in WIT’s Redefining the Road magazine and online at Women In Trucking. Congratulations to Lori and all the exceptional women making a difference in transportation!

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At the Truckload Carriers Association’s annual meeting in Phoenix, a panel of young industry leaders tackled this issue head-on, offering insights on what makes Gen Z tick and how companies can better appeal to this new wave of workers. Commercial Carrier Journal covered the discussion, highlighting key takeaways that can help trucking adapt to the future.

Breaking Industry Stereotypes

Samantha Bodnar, president of D.M. Bowman Inc. and executive officer at The Bowman Group, admitted that despite her family’s deep roots in trucking, she initially wasn’t drawn to the industry. But after giving it a shot, she found it more exciting than expected. “Anything else after this would be boring,” she said, reflecting on how trucking’s dynamic nature changed her perspective.

Jason Douglass, Vice President of Operations & Recruiting at James H. Clark and Son, believes the industry struggles to communicate its value to younger generations. “Drivers can make $100,000 a year,” he pointed out. As a former driver himself, he understands how life-changing that earning potential can be. Yet, many young people don’t see trucking as a viable path, largely due to outdated perceptions.

However, Gen Z isn’t solely motivated by money. Ryan Whelan, Fleet Sales Representative at Volvo Trucks Canada, emphasized, “The new generation doesn’t see their job as just a paycheck.”

What Matters More Than a Big Salary

For Gen Z, work-life balance and a positive workplace culture often outrank high earnings. Douglass put it plainly: “We’re looking for a culture of respect and a home-life balance. Employees want to be heard, and they want to be validated.” He added, “We saw our parents get laid off from jobs, so we don’t feel that loyalty back. We want to work our asses off, get respected for the work we do, and we want time at home.”

This shift in priorities means that trucking companies relying on old-school management styles will struggle to retain young talent. Instead, businesses need to foster an environment where workers feel valued, respected, and supported.

Expanding Awareness Beyond the Driver’s Seat

One major barrier preventing more Gen Z workers from considering trucking is the misconception that the industry only offers driving jobs. Whelan pointed out that many university graduates overlook trucking because they don’t realize how many different career paths exist within it.

To change that perception, trucking companies must actively promote the industry’s diverse opportunities. Engaging with schools, leveraging social media, and sharing real-life success stories can all help reposition trucking as a dynamic and rewarding career field.

Culture-Focused Hiring Pays Off

In recent years, the leadership team’s average age has dropped by more than a decade at D.M. Bowman Inc. Bodnar explained that this wasn’t a calculated strategy but rather a natural result of hiring employees who fit the company’s culture.

“If we hire someone that has the culture we want, they just enjoy work more,” she said. Though this approach may take longer, it leads to a stronger, more engaged workforce. “You want to enjoy going to work every day.”

Douglass echoed this sentiment, urging companies to be intentional about hiring. “If somebody is not a right fit for your company, move on to the next applicant.” He believes the so-called “driver shortage” stems from mismatches between drivers and employers. “The driver shortage is because the wrong drivers are with the wrong company.”

Bridging the Generational Gap Through Mentorship

Older truckers take decades of knowledge and experience with them as they retire. Douglass believes mentorship is the key to keeping that wisdom in the industry. “Every carrier has at least one driver who is just chomping at the bit to be a mentor,” he said.

Structured mentorship programs don’t just help preserve industry knowledge; they also create a sense of support for younger employees, making their transition into trucking smoother.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

Image Source: (Commercial Carrier Journal) Brad Klepper, President, Driver’s Legal Plan; Samantha Bodnar, President, D.M. Bowman Inc. and Executive Officer, The Bowman Group; Jason Douglass, Vice President, Operations & Recruiting, James H. Clark and Son; and Ryan Whelan, Fleet Sales Representative, Volvo Trucks Canada

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Meet Lori, a Visionary for Progress

With over 34 years of experience, Lori has dedicated her career to driving innovation in the trucking industry. From working with private and for-hire fleets to her pivotal role in business development within a Fortune 100 company, Lori has done it all. Today, she stands at the helm of a leading female-owned driver-lead generation company with a remarkable 80% female workforce. Her mission is clear—to enhance the trucking industry’s image and advocate for drivers nationwide.

Recent highlights from Lori’s career include building an online trucking community of over one million followers and creating content that reaches up to 50 million people monthly. She launched initiatives like Driver.jobs, which connects drivers with the right opportunities, and the Haul of Fame, which celebrates the unsung heroes of the industry. Lori also partnered with NFI’s SheDrives initiative to empower women in trucking and spearheaded the development of an innovative platform that matches drivers and companies based on tailored needs. Through her unwavering leadership, Lori is paving the way for the next generation of women in trucking.

Katy, the Advocate Every Driver Needs

Katy is all about putting drivers first. Her career began in driver retention, evolved into recruitment marketing, and now focuses on operations at Truck Drivers USA, where she ensures that every initiative, campaign, and message resonates with drivers. She’s instrumental in fostering the company’s driver-centric culture, where the well-being and needs of those on the road are always the top priority.

Katy has delivered significant results during her time at TDUSA, including leading the company’s driver-focused messaging and building critical backend processes for long-term growth. She also developed the company’s streamlined onboarding approach, making it one of the most efficient in the industry. Recently, she launched the Thank a Driver program, which honors the hard work of America’s drivers. Katy also dedicates her time to mentoring new associates, sharing her insight, and helping them grow into leaders in their own right. Her forward-thinking approach and empathy have made her a vital force in the trucking community.

Taylor, Building Bridges That Drive Change

Taylor’s background and family ties in the trucking industry uniquely position her to excel in her role at Truck Drivers USA. Originally trained as a licensed counselor, Taylor’s people-first skills have helped her cultivate meaningful relationships with clients, offering solutions beyond surface-level needs. For her, trucking isn’t just a career; it’s a network of individuals and communities she’s deeply passionate about serving.

Taylor’s commitment is reflected in her impressive track record, which includes earning Top Salesperson honors and holding the company’s highest client retention rate. She has also played a crucial role in connecting Truck Drivers USA with initiatives like Wreaths Across America, strengthening the bond between trucking and veteran communities. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Taylor actively mentors new sales team members, sharing strategies and encouraging growth. Her dedication to drivers, veterans, and women in trucking is evident in all that she does.

Championing Women Who Lead

The dedicated women of Truck Drivers USA are more than just leaders; they are innovative minds and compassionate mentors shaping the future of the trucking industry. Their dedication to drivers, passion for breaking barriers, and relentless pursuit of positive change have made a lasting impact on the industry.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Lori, Katy, Taylor, and all the women transforming the trucking landscape. Together, they’re not just leading today’s trucking workforce but building a future where the industry is more inclusive, innovative, and driver-focused than ever before.

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