The annual event, organized by the Nebraska Trucking Association, brought together professional drivers from across the state to compete in written testing, pre-trip inspections, driving skills, and vehicle class competitions. The championships also determine which drivers will represent Nebraska at the American Trucking Associations National Truck Driving Championships later this summer.

FedEx Freight and Walmart Transportation Drivers Earn Top Awards

In addition to Badgett’s Grand Champion title, several competitors received special awards recognizing outstanding performance throughout the event.

Logan Booker of Walmart Transportation, LLC earned Rookie of the Year honors after posting the highest overall score among first-time competitors.

Todd Gimpel of FedEx Freight claimed the Professional Excellence Award for the second consecutive year. The award is presented to the driver with the highest score on the written examination.

Garet Poland of Walmart Transportation received the Bucky Buchholtz Top Driver Award for achieving the highest score on the driving course. The award is named in honor of the late Bucky Buchholtz, a former Nebraska State Patrol trooper and longtime championships committee member.

Booker also earned the Kurt Everett Vehicle Condition Award for recording the highest score during the pre-trip inspection portion of the competition.

Joseph Busch of ABF Freight Systems, Inc. received the Jerry Wessel Award, which recognizes professionalism, industry knowledge, and attitude demonstrated throughout the championships. The award is open to drivers and volunteers who have participated in the event for at least five years.

Class Champions Secure Spots at National Competition

Nine class champions earned the opportunity to represent Nebraska at the National Truck Driving Championships scheduled for August 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.

Class winners included:

• Straight Truck: Clinton Rast of Omaha, Nebraska, ABF Freight Systems, Inc.
• Three Axle: Garet Poland of Kenesaw, Nebraska, Walmart Transportation
• Four Axle: Todd Gimpel of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Five Axle: Tom Canning of Bellevue, Nebraska, Old Dominion Freight Line
• Five Axle Sleeper: John Putney of Blanchard, Oklahoma, Greater Omaha Express
• Tank Truck: Tim Dean of Griswold, Iowa, Werner Enterprises
• Flatbed: George Chaney of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Twin Trailer: Paul Badgett of Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight
• Mixer Truck: Jacob Friederich of Papillion, Nebraska, Lyman-Richey Corporation
• Step Van: Korey Clifton of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, FedEx Express

Old Dominion Freight Line earned the team championship.

Friederich will also advance to the National Mixer Driver Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Nashville this October.

Inspector Competition Held Alongside Driver Championships

The Nebraska State Patrol Inspector Championships were conducted alongside the truck driving competition.

Inspectors competed in a series of evaluations that included personal interviews, hazardous materials exercises, and hands-on inspection challenges designed to test professional knowledge and technical skills.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Nebraska Trucking Association

The post Paul Badgett Earns Grand Champion Title at Nebraska Truck Driving Championships appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The award follows his selection as Driver of the Month in March 2025.

Driving record and recognition

Segebart’s career includes 4.5 million safe miles over 45 years. The Kansas Motor Carriers Association highlighted that record in its announcement, noting “Not one shortcut.”

That phrasing reflects how the association described his approach to driving.

Role as a trainer and mentor

In addition to his time on the road, Segebart serves as a mentor and a certified trainer. These roles place him in direct contact with other drivers as part of training and development.

Next step at the national level

The recognition also positions Segebart as Kansas’s entry for the national Driver of the Year award through the American Trucking Associations.

“Nearly five decades behind the wheel, a driver mentor, a certified trainer, and now Kansas’s entry for the ATA National Driver of the Year,” said the association. “Tom, the entire Kansas trucking industry is proud of you. This one’s well-earned.”

What this recognition reflects

The award recognizes long-term performance, safety, and involvement in training within the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who named the 2025 Kansas Driver of the Year?
The Kansas Motor Carriers Association.

What company does Tom Segebart drive for?
Walmart Transportation.

What milestone is highlighted in his career?
4.5 million safe miles over 45 years.

What roles does he hold beyond driving?
He is a mentor and a certified trainer.

Is he eligible for a national award?
Yes. He is Kansas’s entry for the ATA National Driver of the Year.

Recognition at the state level reflects a driving record built over time and acknowledged by industry organizations.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: April 28, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post Kansas Driver Logs 4.5 Million Safe Miles and Earns Statewide Recognition appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The award, sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, highlights individuals, companies, and organizations that elevate the trucking industry’s image through safety, professionalism, and community involvement.

Antoine Sadler: A Career of Commitment and Miles

Antoine Sadler is a second-generation truck driver with a career spanning 29 years and more than 2.7 million safe driving miles. His dedication goes beyond the cab: Sadler participates in North Carolina’s Road Team, Walmart’s Road Team, and America’s Road Team.

He has competed in numerous truck driving championships, demonstrating both skill and pride in his craft. Outside of driving, Sadler has been active in the Trucking Association of Tennessee, serving on the board since 2021, helping launch the Man to Man campaign, and maintaining the TAT Freedom Drivers Project trailer. His volunteer work includes supporting Special Olympics, National Night Out, and Samaritan’s Feet.

Trucking Association of New York: Building the Next Generation of Drivers

The Trucking Association of New York (TANY) has been making a real difference through its Community Supervision initiative, helping more than 55 people earn their commercial driver’s licenses since 2023. By connecting individuals with stable, well-paying careers, TANY strengthens both the lives of participants and the trucking workforce with trained, motivated drivers.

Since 2018, TANY has also supported the Transportation Club at the Charter School for Applied Technologies High School in Buffalo. What started as a small program has grown into a thriving hub where students gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to transportation careers.

“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, VP of Industry Affairs for 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.”

Why This Matters for Drivers

For truckers on the road, awards like this reinforce the value of professionalism, safe driving, and community engagement. From mentoring the next generation to volunteering locally, both Sadler and TANY exemplify how truck drivers can make a lasting impact beyond the cab.

Image Source: ATA

Source: Truckers News

The post Walmart Driver and Trucking Association of New York Honored for Promoting Trucking Excellence appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Remarkable Victory for Old Dominion Freight Lines

Mike Markham, from Belpre, Ohio, and representing Old Dominion Freight Lines, emerged as the Grand Champion of this year’s competition. His outstanding performance also earned him a first-place victory in the Tank Truck category, cementing his reputation as one of the best in the field. Notably, this is not Markham’s first time in the spotlight; he previously won the Grand Champion title in 2023, showcasing consistent excellence.

Honoring the Best in the Industry

This year’s event also paid tribute to other remarkable individuals whose commitment to safety and professionalism continues to elevate the trucking industry.

• Nick Backes, a resident of Hurricane, West Virginia, and a driver for Pitt Ohio, was honored with the prestigious title of West Virginia Professional Driver of the Year.

• Jeremy Gray, another Old Dominion Freight Lines driver based in Williamstown, West Virginia, received the West Virginia Public Service Commission Driver of the Year Award.

• Mike Roberts, from Eleanor, West Virginia, and a dedicated XPO driver, claimed the Pre-Trip Inspection Award, showcasing his attention to detail.

• The Rookie of the Year title was awarded to David Roberts, representing Walmart Transportation and hailing from St. Albans, West Virginia.

Team Effort Shines

Beyond individual accolades, teamwork was celebrated as Pitt Ohio earned the Team Champion Award for their collective efforts and standout performance during the competition.

Highlights of Category Wins

Here’s a closer look at all the category champions who stood out with their extraordinary abilities in their respective fields:

• Straight Truck – Alexander Atkins, St. Albans, West Virginia, Pitt Ohio

• 3-Axle Tractor Semi-Trailer – Mike Roberts, Eleanor, West Virginia, XPO

• 4-Axle Tractor Semi-Trailer – Cole Miltenberger, Ridgeley, West Virginia, Pitt Ohio

• 5-Axle Van – Steve Looney, St. Albans, West Virginia, ABF Freight

• Tank Truck – Mike Markham, Belpre, Ohio, Old Dominion Freight Lines

• Flatbed – Justin Moody, Beckley, West Virginia, Walmart Transportation

• Twin Trailers – Vince May, Sitka, Kentucky, FedEx Freight

• Sleeper Berth – David Roberts, St. Albans, West Virginia, Walmart Transportation

• Step Van – Brandon Wuletich, Caldwell, Ohio, FedEx Freight

Eyes on the National Stage

Each first-place champion from the event will go on to represent West Virginia at the American Trucking Association’s National Truck Driving Championship in Minneapolis. Scheduled for August 20–23, the national competition provides an even larger platform for these skilled drivers to showcase their expertise and bring pride to their teams and communities.

Image Source: WVT
Source: Truckers News

The post Celebrating Excellence at the West Virginia Trucking Championships appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Jeff Cochran, representing FedEx Freight, delivered another outstanding performance, making headlines as he earned his second Grand Championship trophy. On top of securing the overall win, Cochran also came out on top in the competitive three-axle division, solidifying his reputation as one of the Arkansas Truck Driving Championship’s most remarkable competitors.

Celebrating Standout Drivers

The list of winners this year tells the story of resilience, mastery, and teamwork in the Arkansas trucking community. Chaunce Umfleet, also from FedEx, earned the runner-up spot overall and was recognized for his outstanding attitude and professionalism with the event’s Sportsmanship Award.

FedEx Freight’s Ronnie Mahan nabbed the top pre-trip inspection score, earning respect for his attention to detail: a vital trait for safety on the road. Dave Hall from ABF Freight proved his expertise on paper as well, taking the top spot in the written portion of the competition.

For newcomers, the Arkansas Truck Driving Championship was an opportunity to shine. Chandler Compton, another FedEx driver, received accolades as this year’s Rookie of the Year, an honor that points to a promising future in the industry.

Team Achievements and Category Champions

In addition to outstanding individuals, team efforts were honored as well. ABF Freight took home the Small Team Award, while FedEx Freight’s group stood out among large teams, reflecting both determination and collective skill.

Drivers also competed across a range of vehicle classes. Those earning top positions not only brought pride to their employers but have also qualified to represent Arkansas at the national competition in Minneapolis this August. Here are this year’s category winners:

• 3 Axle: Jeff Cochran, FedEx Freight

• 4 Axle: Chaunce Umfleet, FedEx Corp.

• 5 Axle: Nathan Evans, Tyson Foods

• Flatbed: Phillip Thurner, Tyson Foods

• Sleeper: Gary Mars, Walmart Transportation

• Step Van: Eric Brockette, FedEx Freight

• Straight Truck: Jessie King, FedEx Freight

• Tanker: Marcus Rush, Walmart Transportation

• Twins: Dave Hall, ABF Freight

Looking Ahead: National Competition Bound

Each winner from the Arkansas Truck Driving Championship has now earned the privilege to advance to the highly anticipated national competition, scheduled for August 21-23 in Minneapolis. This next event puts state champions on the national stage, where they’ll compete with the best and further elevate the profile of Arkansas’s trucking professionals.

Image Source: Arkansas Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

The post Arkansas Truck Driving Championship: Jeff Cochran Claims Second Grand Championship appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Farness and the other class champions have now qualified to compete in the prestigious National Truck Driving Championships, scheduled to take place from August 20–23 in Minneapolis.

The competition saw over 80 skilled drivers showcasing their expertise across various challenges. Participants were required to:

• Complete a written test assessing their knowledge of federal regulations.
• Perform a meticulous pre-trip inspection to identify hidden mechanical defects.
• Navigate a demanding obstacle course, designed to test their precision driving skills under pressure.

“This competition highlights the extraordinary talent and dedication of Minnesota’s professional truck drivers,” said John Hausladen, President of the Minnesota Trucking Association. “These men and women deliver for our communities every day with an unwavering commitment to safety. The Truck Driving Championships allow us to recognize and celebrate that excellence.”

2025 Class Champions

Here are the first-place winners from each competition class:

• Five-Axle: Gideon Slabaugh, UNFI
• Flatbed: Thomas Gummo, Walmart Transportation
• Four-Axle: Anthony Zvorak, FedEx Freight
• Sleeper Berth: Calvin Logan, UPS
• Step Van: Lindy Jackson, FedEx Corporation
• Straight Truck: Nathan Wick, FedEx Corporation
• Tank: Michael Hager, Wayne Transports
• Three-Axle: Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight
• Twin Trailer (and Grand Champion): Nicholas Farness, XPO

The Minnesota Trucking Association’s annual event not only celebrates exceptional skill but also underscores the commitment to safety and professionalism upheld by truck drivers across the state. Congratulations to all participants and winners!

Image Source: Minnesota Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

The post XPO Driver Nicholas Farness Crowned Grand Champion at Minnesota Trucking Championships appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Organized by the Nebraska Trucking Association, the two-day event showcased the exceptional skills of professional truck drivers across multiple categories.

Milestones and Awards

Joe McDonnell from XPO Logistics and Garrett Campbell from FedEx earned the prestigious Rookie of the Year title, awarded to first-time participants achieving the highest overall scores across all competition segments.

The Professional Excellence Award, recognizing excellence in the written test, was awarded to Todd Gimpel of FedEx Freight.

Jacob Friederich, representing Lyman-Richey Corporation, stood out in multiple facets. He won the Bucky Buchholtz Top Driver Award for achieving the top score on the driving course. Additionally, Friederich triumphed in the mixer truck category, a competition held in collaboration with the Nebraska Concrete & Aggregates Association.

Clinton Rast of ABF Freight System, Inc. took home the Everett Vehicle Condition Award for his standout performance during the pre-trip inspection segment. Meanwhile, the Jerry Wessel Award, honoring professionalism and industry expertise, went to Thomas Canning of Old Dominion Freight Line.

Class Winners at the 2025 Championships

Nine drivers across various categories earned the opportunity to represent Nebraska at the American Trucking Association’s National Truck Driving Championships in Minneapolis from August 20-23. The mixer truck winner will head to the National Mixer Driver Championship in Orlando, Florida, on October 11.

Here are the top finishers in each class:

• Straight Truck Class

1) Sam Wilson, XPO Logistics

2) Clinton Rast, ABF Freight System, Inc.

3) Michael Lemay, Greater Omaha Express

• Three-Axle Class

1) Mark Cole, Old Dominion Freight Line

2) Joseph Busch, ABF Freight System, Inc.

3) Tim Hallsted, Walmart Transportation, LLC

• Four-Axle Class

1) Paul Badgett, FedEx Freight, Inc.

2) James Dotson, FedEx Freight, Inc.

3) Derek Ward, XPO Logistics

• Five-Axle Class

1) Carolina Gallegos, Hill Brothers Transportation

2) Joe McDonnell, XPO Logistics

3) Thomas Rott, Grand Island Express, Inc.

• Five-Axle Sleeper Class

1) Blair Smith, Walmart Transportation, LLC

2) John Putney, Greater Omaha Express

3) Robert Elder, Schulz Transportation

• Tank Truck Class

1) Pat Crumb, Fremont Contract Carriers, Inc.

2) Cassandra Wright, Wynne Transportation Services

3) Craig Daniels, Crete Carrier Corporation

• Flatbed Class

1) George Chaney, FedEx Freight, Inc.

2) Christopher Corbett, Old Dominion Freight Line

3) Scott Deering, Chief Carriers, Inc.

• Twin-Trailer Class

1) Todd Gimpel, FedEx Freight, Inc.

2) Richard Boyd, Crete Carrier Corporation

3) Paul Smith, ABF Freight System, Inc.

• Mixer Truck Class

1) Jacob Friederich, Lyman-Richey Corporation

2) Gregory Burroughs, Husker Ready Mixed Concrete

3) Randy Walters, Lyman-Richey Corporation

• Step Van Class

1) Garrett Campbell, FedEx

2) Korey Clifton, FedEx

3) Charles Tockey, Grand Island Express, Inc.

Special Recognitions and Insights

The Nebraska State Patrol Inspector Championships were held alongside the NTDC event. Sergeant Matt Ramsey from Omaha claimed first place, with Investigator Kris Hunzeker from Nebraska City taking runner-up honors. Ramsey will represent Nebraska at the North American Inspector Championships, hosted concurrently with the ATA’s National Truck Driving Championships.

Additionally, teams from XPO Logistics, FedEx Freight, and Walmart Transportation received accolades in group categories.

The Nebraska Truck Driving Championships continues to celebrate and spotlight the incredible professionalism, skill, and dedication of commercial drivers while fostering a sense of community across the transportation industry.

Image Source: Nebraska Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

The post Old Dominion Freight Line Driver Crowned Champion at Nebraska Truck Driving Event appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Additional award recipients

Several other drivers were also recognized for their exceptional skills and contributions during the event.

• Rookie of the Year: Daniel Skidmore, Prime Inc.
• Professional Excellence Award: Robert Hussey, Walmart Transportation
• Written Exam Award: Jamie Ingram, FedEx Express
• Pre-Trip Inspection Award: Audrey Lewis, DHL
• Team Champion: FedEx Freight

Class winners

The winners across various competition classes were as follows:

• Sleeper Berth: Bob Bramwell, ABF Freight Inc.
• Twin Trailers: Robert Leach, Old Dominion Freight Lines
• Tank Truck: Eric Carpenter, Walmart Transportation
• 3-Axle: Robbie Roth, FedEx Express
• 4-Axle: Joshua Price, Old Dominion Freight Line
• 5-Axle: Jamie Raines, Walmart Transportation
• Flatbed: Ron Hoover, Prime Inc.
• Straight Truck: Mark Carver, FedEx Freight
• Step Van: Courtney Husser, Walmart Transportation

Image Source: Missouri Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

The post Missouri Trucking Association names Robbie Roth as grand champion. appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The competition drew participation from drivers representing leading organizations, including FedEx Freight, Walmart Transportation, and HEB, the San Antonio-based grocery chain with over 440 stores across Texas and Mexico. HEB drivers notably secured wins in six different vehicle classes, demonstrating their dominance in this year’s event.

Class Winners of the 2025 Texas Truck Driving Championship:

• State Grand Champion: Christopher Flippin, FedEx Freight
• Flatbed: Juan Martinez, HEB
• Step Van: Matthew Logan Montandon, FedEx Ground
• Sleeper Berth: Robert Svoboda, Walmart Transportation
• Straight Truck: Jason Salazar, HEB
• Tank Truck: David Sanchez, HEB
• Twin Trailers: Christopher Flippin, FedEx Freight
• 5-Axle Van: Christopher Pieper, HEB
• 4-Axle Van: Ruben Cortez, HEB
• 3-Axle Van: David Urrea IV, HEB

The competition brought together regional winners from Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, where drivers were evaluated on their ability to handle challenging maneuvering and control tests in various vehicle classes. The first-place winners in each category will now represent Texas at the American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) National Truck Driving Championship, held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, later this summer.

Recognizing Excellence in Maintenance

Beyond celebrating driver expertise, the event was also named the winner of the 2025 Technician of the Year Contest. After demonstrating exemplary written and technical skills, Corey Tegeler of Old Dominion Freight Line claimed victory. Tegeler will next compete in the ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council’s National Technician Skills Competition in Raleigh, North Carolina, this September.

Honoring the Professionals Behind the Wheel

“These championships highlight the exceptional skill and precision it takes to operate and maintain commercial trucks on our roads safely,” said John D. Esparza, President and CEO of the Texas Trucking Association (TXTA). “We’re proud to recognize these dedicated professionals who keep our economy moving each and every day.”

The championships are preceded by three regional contests held in the spring, where drivers secure their place in the state championship by finishing in the top three. National qualifiers, including these top drivers, will gather in Minneapolis this August to showcase their skills on the national stage.

The 2025 Texas Truck Driving Championship was a testament to the expertise and dedication of professional truck drivers and technicians, celebrating the individuals who play a crucial role in keeping the economy moving safely and efficiently.

Image & Source: Truckers News

The post Christopher Flippin of FedEx Freight Wins Texas Driving Championship appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“Kathy was selected for her remarkable contributions to the trucking industry, her unwavering commitment to safety, and her dedication to mentorship, particularly of women in the trucking industry,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president and CEO.

Recognizing Industry Leaders

Blaies stood out among four highly accomplished finalists, including:

• Ericka Norfleet, owner-operator, R.E. Garrison Trucking Inc.
• Gina Jones, company driver, Werner
• Sandy Winters, company driver, Leonard’s Express

While all the nominees demonstrated excellence in trucking, Blaies’ exceptional career and dedication to lifting others in the industry made her the top choice for this honor.

A Trailblazer in Car Hauling

Blaies’ journey in trucking has been defined by perseverance and skill. As a car hauler, she entered a challenging sector where many doubted her ability to thrive. She not only proved them wrong but became a respected leader, known for her expertise and willingness to guide new drivers, particularly women navigating their way into trucking.

Her impressive safety record is a testament to her professionalism, with over one million accident-free miles to her name. She has been recognized multiple times by United Road, earning the Gold Elite Award four times and the Damage-Free Elite Award twice.

United Road’s president and CEO, Mark Anderson, praised her dedication, saying, “Kathy’s outstanding performance reflects her personal drive to achieve excellence and the positive impact she has on our operations. She is a standout driver whose dedication, skill, and leadership make her truly deserving of this prestigious recognition.”

Honoring Women in Trucking

The announcement was made during WIT’s annual Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, Kentucky. This celebration highlights the contributions of female truck drivers to the industry.

Sponsored by Walmart, the Driver of the Year Award honors women who exemplify safety, professionalism, and leadership in the trucking industry. Walmart’s Senior Vice President of Transportation, Ryan McDaniel, emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating, “Walmart is proud to sponsor the Driver of the Year award because it aligns with our commitment to excellence and creating a culture of belonging. Kathy Blaies is more than a driver – she is a leader, mentor, and role model. We’re extremely proud to recognize her as this year’s Driver of the Year.”

A Prestigious Panel of Judges

A distinguished panel evaluated the nominees, including:

• Lisa Dilibero, General Transportation Manager, Walmart
• Lori Taylor, Director of Financial Operations, C.H. Robinson
• Ellen Voie, Founder, Women in Trucking

Kathy Blaise’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and a passion for empowering others in the trucking industry. Her recognition as WIT’s 2025 Driver of the Year reinforces the impact of mentorship, diversity, and safety in shaping the future of trucking.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: (WIT) WIT Driver of the Year: Kathy Blaies celebrates her award presented during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel at the Mid-America Trucking Show.

The post Kathy Blaies Named WIT 2025 Driver of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.