“Each year, the Mike Russell Award highlights the creativity and dedication of those who work tirelessly to share our industry’s story,” said Nikki Thomas, vice president of industry affairs at ATA. “This year’s recipients have gone above and beyond in showcasing the essential role trucking plays in our daily lives and the pride that drives our workforce.”

What the Award Means

Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award recognizes motor carriers, individuals, and trucking organizations that demonstrate professionalism, dedication to safety, and leadership in promoting a positive image of the industry.

“Great West Casualty Company is proud to sponsor the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award, which celebrates those who promote a deeper understanding of the trucking industry,” said Steve Ponder, senior vice president at Great West. “Thanks to the ongoing efforts of past and future recipients, the public’s perception of trucking continues to grow more positive each year.”

Meet the 2025 Honorees

This year’s winners highlight how everyday actions and community involvement can make a real difference.

Trucking Association of New York (TANY)

Through TANY’s Community Supervision initiative, more than 55 individuals have earned their Commercial Driver’s Licenses since 2023. “This isn’t just workforce development – it’s life-changing,” ATA noted. Beyond licensing support, TANY funds and supports the Transportation Club at the Charter School for Applied Technologies High School in Buffalo. What started small has grown into a hub where students explore transportation careers, gain hands-on experience, and connect with mentors in the trucking industry.

Antoine Sadler, Professional Truck Driver, Walmart Transportation

A second-generation driver, Sadler has logged over 2.7 million safe driving miles across a 29-year career. He serves on North Carolina’s Road Team, Walmart’s Road Team, and America’s Road Team, and has competed in multiple truck driving championships. Since 2021, Sadler has served on the TAT board, helped launch the TAT Man to Man campaign, and contributed to the TAT Freedom Drivers Project trailer. He also volunteers with organizations like the Special Olympics, National Night Out, and Samaritan’s Feet, showing that dedication to trucking goes hand in hand with giving back to the community.

“These individuals have seamlessly woven positivity into their everyday lives, creating a ripple effect that touches countless others,” said Dan Horvath, COO of ATA. “Today, we’re proud to expand that list to 66, with two new recipients. These recipients embody ATA’s commitment to promoting a positive image of trucking. Their applications stood out as powerful examples of how storytelling, leadership, and innovation can shape public perception and inspire meaningful change.”

Image Source: ATA

Other Source: The Trucker

The post ATA Recognizes Drivers and Organizations with 2025 Mike Russell Trucking Image Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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!

The post TDUSA President Lori Furnell Named One of Women In Trucking’s Top Women to Watch in 2025 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Testament to Driver Excellence

Darrel Wilson, founder and CEO of Wilson Logistics, expressed his pride in achieving this honor, saying, “(I am) especially proud of this award because it recognizes positive results obtained by our drivers, supported by our non-driving staff, with the ultimate goal of safely picking up and delivering all freight on time and damage-free. It’s encouraging to see the TCA gaining credibility with new programs like the Elite Fleet that utilize actual data without subjectivity to certify carriers as being the best. Thank you to all of our drivers for all of your hard work and dedication.”

This achievement underscores the company’s dedication to safety and performance, reflecting the hard work of both its drivers and support teams.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Innovation

Wilson Logistics, a family-owned and operated business, began its journey in 1980 with a single truck. Since then, the company has expanded into a forward-thinking leader in the trucking industry, known for its unwavering focus on driver development and safety. Wilson Logistics fosters an environment where drivers choose career paths tailored to their individual preferences and needs.

Additionally, the company offers comprehensive resources, including a CDL training program, leasing options, and a broad range of carrier services, ensuring drivers are equipped for success.

About the TCA Elite Fleet Program

The TCA Elite Fleet Program identifies carriers based on measurable criteria, including safety, operational performance, driver compensation, benefits, technology, and quality of life. The certification is rooted in data and feedback, incorporating surveys from drivers and independent contractors for true validation.

“We are incredibly proud to announce this first class of TCA Elite Fleets,” said Jim Ward, president, TCA. “These carriers went through a comprehensive and detailed application process, had their drivers surveyed for validation, and received top scores for their combination of driver compensation, benefits, engagement, satisfaction, training, support, company equipment, safety and facilities. These forty-seven carriers are truly Elite Fleets, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to them.”

Commitment to Drivers’ Success

Being named a TCA Elite Fleet Certified Carrier cements Wilson Logistics’ standing as a top-tier carrier for professional drivers. This recognition serves as a testament to the company’s longstanding commitment to providing drivers with the tools, support, and opportunities needed to thrive, all while maintaining a steadfast emphasis on safety and innovation.

For more on the TCA Elite Fleet Program or Wilson Logistics, visit their website or social media platforms.

Source: The Trucker

Source: Wilson Logistics

The post Wilson Logistics Earns Prestigious TCA Elite Fleet Certification appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Source: WIT

From Childhood Fascination to Industry Leadership

Christine’s passion for all things motorized began at an early age. Growing up, she was surrounded by the hum of the trucking world. Her father operated a Husqvarna saw shop located behind the iconic Jubitz Truck Stop. Coincidentally, this was just steps away from the Freightliner dealership where Christine has built her career over the past decade.

Reflecting on her early experiences, Christine shared, “The trucking industry was always coming and going in the backyard of my pre-CDL life. I had stars in my eyes pretty early on and eventually went to IITR Trucking Driving School to make it official.”

A Proven Career on the Road to Excellence

Christine kick-started her career in October 2014 at Premier Truck Group, and her impact has resonated across the dealership. She wears many hats, providing top-tier diagnostic support while assisting management, service technicians, service writers, and foremen. Her work spans across new and used sales, collision, and service departments—always ensuring exceptional customer service.

Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Some of her accolades include:

• Being named one of Premier Truck Group’s 2024 Winning Women

• Receiving the Premier Truck Group’s Safety Excellence Coin #056

• Earning an honorable mention at the Jubitz Truck Light Parade

Advice to Women in Trucking

Christine has empowering advice for women already in—or considering entering—the trucking industry.

“Do it. Always trust your intuition, be patient with yourself, believe in your greatness, be bold, and communicate with confidence. Support, don’t compete. Make a great playlist to get through it and get over it.”

Congratulations to Christine Iva Britton, WIT’s Member of the Month!

Source: The Trucker

The post Christine Britton Honored as WIT Member of the Month appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has named Donovan Collins, a truck driver from Deport, Texas, as a Highway Angel. Collins works for Dedicated Transportation Solutions, based in Greenville, South Carolina. His quick thinking and bravery at the scene of a car crash earned him this honorable title.

Source: Donovan Collins

A Rainy Morning Heroic Act

On February 11, around 4:30 a.m., Collins was traveling on Interstate 30 in Dallas amidst rainy conditions. Suddenly, his headlights revealed an overturned and unlit vehicle in the middle of the road.

“I saw him about 30 yards out,” Collins recalls. “I barely scraped past him.”

Reacting instantly, Collins turned on his hazard lights, safely parked his truck, and called 911. Without hesitation, he rushed to the mangled car with a flashlight in hand.

“I ran over with a flashlight to see who was in the car,” said Collins. “A guy was just lying there, not moving.”

Drawing on his Navy training, he freed the man from the wreckage and moved him to safety. Following instructions from the 911 operator, Collins began performing CPR until emergency personnel arrived.

A Personal Motivation to Help

For Collins, stopping to help came naturally. His own experiences with accidents where no one stopped to assist influenced his sense of duty.

“I stopped because I know what it’s like to be in an accident and have no one stop to help,” Collins shared. “Everyone else was driving by like they didn’t have a care in the world.”

This act of courage and empathy has earned Collins much-deserved recognition—not only as a truck driver but as a true Highway Angel.

Source: Truckers News

The post Dedicated Transportation Solutions Driver Honored as TCA Highway Angel appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This award shines a spotlight on outstanding female drivers who set the bar high with impeccable safety records, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to advancing the trucking industry. But this recognition is more than just about skill—it’s about celebrating women who inspire, mentor, and lead by example.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Women currently working as professional drivers in the trucking industry are eligible.

Recognition and Celebration Awaits

Finalists and the winner will be celebrated at the highly anticipated 2025 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event. Scheduled during the Mid-America Trucking Show on March 28 in Louisville, Kentucky, this celebration is an opportunity to applaud the invaluable contributions of women drivers.

“The remarkable accomplishments of women on our team here at Walmart inspire us daily, and we know their successes are paving the way for more women to join the exciting world of trucking,” said Ryan McDaniel, vice president, Walmart Transportation. “Women in our business are not just driving trucks, they are fueling progress that is making the freight industry better, and we are honored to continue sponsoring Women In Trucking’s prestigious Driver of the Year Award.”

To qualify for the 2025 Driver of the Year Award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Professional Driving Experience: A minimum of two years in the profession.

• Safety and Excellence: A proven track record of safe, skilled, and professional driving.

• Advocacy in Trucking: Active involvement in mentorship or initiatives that support women in the industry.

• Industry Contributions: A history of making significant, positive impacts in the trucking community.

Nominations can be submitted through WIT’s official website (womenintrucking.org) by January 31, 2025.

“Recognizing the accomplishments of female drivers and the value they bring to the trucking profession is a key mission of WIT and we’re pleased to showcase their stories through this award,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president and CEO.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Honor Industry Trailblazers

Do you know a woman driver who exemplifies excellence, leadership, and inspiration? Nominate her today to ensure her efforts and contributions to the trucking industry receive the recognition they deserve.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Women in Trucking

The post Nominate a Trailblazer: 2025 Women in Trucking Driver of the Year Award is Now Open! appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Honoring Porfirio Martinez – October Driver of the Month

Porfirio Martinez began his driving career with NCI in June 2006 as an owner-operator. Originally from Garden City, Kansas, Martinez shared how deeply rooted his connection to trucking is.

“My wife Emma and I have lived in Garden City most of our lives. I worked on a hay farm before earning a Commercial Driver’s License,” Martinez said. “I have five brothers who all have driven for National Carriers. In 2006, I bought my own truck and joined them. I love what I do; I like working with cattle. The most enjoyable thing about my job is the people I work with because we all get along.”

Martinez’s dedication goes beyond his daily responsibilities and doesn’t go unnoticed. Gillermo Torres, a livestock dispatcher at NCI, praised Martinez’s reliability and strong communication skills.

“Co-workers report he has always been someone that is easy to talk to,” Torres explained. “Every time he is asked to help, he never complains and always goes above and beyond for National Carriers. Whether an accident, road construction, traffic jam, or a minimal thing like excessive wind preventing safe travel, Porfirio will communicate through emails or call directly to update us on any situation that will conflict with loading or unloading on time. This allows our staff to update the feed yards or National Beef to let them know he will be running late.”

Recognizing Jason White – November Driver of the Month

Returning to NCI in January 2023, Jason White’s career path reflects an interesting blend of military discipline and trucking passion. After retiring from a 22-year service in the U.S. Marine Corps, White decided to pursue a career in driving.

“Before exiting the armed forces, I was offered the opportunity to earn a CDL license through the military,” White said. “As a youngster, I rode with my cousin, who drove a truck. After that experience, I thought I would enjoy the lifestyle. He is now in management at National Carriers and invited me to join the company once I was qualified. All NCI expects a driver to do is what all drivers are expected to do. In return, they provide current model trucks, keeping repair and breakdowns at a minimum.”

White’s return to the company continues to demonstrate his reliability and skill, making him a standout among his peers.

Rewards and Next Steps

Martinez and White’s well-deserved recognition comes with a $1,000 bonus for each of them. Additionally, both drivers are now finalists for NCI’s prestigious Driver of the Year Award, which includes a grand prize of $10,000.

Source: The Trucker & NCI 

The post NCI Celebrates Top Drivers for October and November appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.