The announcement came during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky. The event highlights women who continue raising the bar across trucking through consistency, professionalism, and long-term impact.

A Career Built Over Decades

Brown’s career spans 46 years, covering everything from running as an independent owner-operator to managing operations for a specialized refrigerated fleet. She currently serves as operations manager at Blackjack Express LLC while still spending time behind the wheel hauling heavy, oversize, and refrigerated freight.

Her background includes launching Rollin’ B LLC and steadily building a reputation rooted in safety, reliability, and leadership. Over time, that consistency has turned into a legacy recognized across the industry.

She has also earned multiple honors throughout her career, including the National Association of Small Trucking Companies Woman Driver of the Year Award, the TA Petro Citizen Driver Award, and recognition as an inaugural inductee at the Mid-America Trucking Show Wall of Fame.

Leadership Beyond the Driver’s Seat

Brown has been involved with the Women In Trucking Association since 2007 as a charter member. She is now serving her second term on the board of directors and works as a liaison to the Women In Trucking Foundation board.

Her influence goes beyond titles. She has contributed as a safety collaborator with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and has spent years mentoring other drivers while staying active in her community.

Her story also includes personal resilience, having survived melanoma cancer three times while continuing to stay engaged in the industry.

Recognition From Industry Leaders

Her selection for Driver of the Year reflects how peers and leadership view her impact.

“We are proud to recognize Ingrid, whose tireless commitment to excellence, safety, and empowering women in this industry sets a standard that inspires us all,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, WIT president and CEO.

That same respect is echoed by others who have worked alongside her.

“Ingrid consistently operates with the highest standards of safety, reliability, and integrity, understanding that her actions reflect not only on her company, but on the trucking industry as a whole,” said Kristy Knichel, president of Knichel Logistics. “Through her actions, attitude, and dedication, she elevates the profession and inspires those around her.”

What the Award Represents

The Driver of the Year Award, presented with support from Walmart, focuses on individuals who consistently prioritize safety while helping shape how the public views trucking.

“Walmart is proud to sponsor the Driver of the Year award because it reflects our commitment to safety, excellence, and a culture of belonging across transportation,” said Ryan McDaniel, Walmart senior vice president, transportation. “Ingrid Brown embodies what this recognition stands for: a seasoned professional whose leadership, safety advocacy, and dedication to the industry have made a meaningful impact. Congrats to Ingrid for being named Driver of the Year.”

Finalists Recognized Alongside Brown

Brown was selected from a strong group of finalists, each bringing their own contributions to the profession:

Fabiola Campos-Buenavista, professional driver and driver development instructor, FedEx Freight
Gina Jones, company driver, Werner
KellyLynn McLaughlin, national transportation driver, dump and roll off, Clean Harbors Environmental Services

Why This Recognition Matters

Awards like this highlight what many already know. Long careers built on safety, consistency, and mentorship don’t just move freight. They shape the future of trucking.

Brown’s story reflects what’s possible when experience meets leadership and when drivers stay committed to doing the job right year after year.

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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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“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.

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