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.

Meyers, who served as a Gunnery Sergeant specializing in motor transport, discovered his passion for trucking during his military career. Channeling his expertise, he pursued a CDL license through “Troops in Transportation,” a program dedicated to helping service members transition into civilian careers.

“What started as a passion of seeing countries around the world and in the United States from behind the wheel can be turned into providing for my family,” Meyers shared. “I am so grateful to this program for allowing me to get my fleet and career started.”

Progressive’s Keys to Progress initiative is dedicated to supporting veterans like Meyers, providing them with essential resources to transition into business ownership. The semi-truck giveaway specifically aims to reduce the financial barriers for veterans aspiring to become owner-operators.

Karen Bailo, President of Progressive Commercial Lines, remarked, “We are celebrating the 12th year of our Keys to Progress program in November and our third semi-truck giveaway – and our impact only continues to grow. We are committed to giving back to our veterans who have given so much to our country. This program not only helps to shape the lives of veterans but also gives them the tools and ability to grow their small businesses. We are proud to be a part of an initiative that is critical to accelerating their journey.”

Among the notable past recipients are James Rogers and Lt. Colonel James “JC” Rose, both of whom have expanded their businesses with additional fleet vehicles through the program.

This impactful event was made possible with the collaboration of several organizations:

• SelecTrucks of Houston: A comprehensive Freightliner/Western Star dealership providing new and pre-owned commercial trucks, parts, and services.

• 1-800-Charity Cars: Facilitates vehicle donations, along with titling and registration for recipients.

• Veracity Research Co. Investigations: A veteran-owned firm assisting in the annual recipient selection process.

Together, these partners help transform the lives of veterans, paving the way for brighter futures in the trucking industry.

Source: Truckers News

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