During the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), Overdrive proudly honored the 2024 Trucker of the Year, Alan Kitzhaber. Kitzhaber was awarded a custom-built 1/42nd scale replica of his iconic 1995 Kenworth T600, which has been central to his remarkable career. The scale model was meticulously crafted by Eston Hoffman of Pennsylvania, symbolizing Kitzhaber’s dedication and over 4 million miles of driving excellence. Additionally, Kitzhaber was presented with a premium new seat courtesy of program sponsor Bostrom.
A Career Built on Dedication and Meticulous Maintenance
Kitzhaber’s connection to his Kenworth T600 began when he drove it as a company driver for Millis Transfer before purchasing it himself several years later. His commitment to meticulously maintaining the truck has been unwavering, often partnering with JR Truck Repair and Fabrication in Wisconsin to ensure it remains roadworthy.
According to Adam Pratt, owner of the Chippewa Falls truck shop that serviced Kitzhaber’s vehicle for years, Kitzhaber’s approach is rooted in a proactive mentality. “His philosophy is it’s cheaper to do it now rather than call in a tow truck and deal with repairs on the road,” Pratt shared. “That can cost double.”
Pratt also noted the sheer thoroughness of Kitzhaber’s maintenance process, with checklists that can take up to six hours to complete. This attention to detail is undoubtedly one of the many reasons Kitzhaber’s T600 has stood the test of time and labor.
A Close-Up Look at a Well-Maintained Legend
If you’re curious about Kitzhaber’s methods and modifications for his T600, stay tuned. Overdrive Video Editor Lawson Rudisill recently toured the truck with Kitzhaber at MATS for a closer look at the efficiency-driven upgrades that have made this vintage aerodynamic rig a standout.
A Reflective Farewell to the Industry
Kitzhaber’s trucking career began in the 1980s when he transitioned from managing a Radio Shack to pursuing life on the open road. “I got into trucking thinking I would just do it for a couple of years to see the country,” Kitzhaber recalled. “Then I would get a real job.”
Decades later, not only did Kitzhaber establish himself as a seasoned professional, but he has also earned top honors in the trucking industry. His final delivery will close this successful chapter with a load for longtime client Menard’s, headquartered in his hometown of Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Source: (Overdrive) Bostrom Seating and Commercial Vehicle Group’s Jason Gray (left) and Kitzhaber pose with the award check and Kitzhaber’s T600 on an extra windy Friday afternoon at the Louisville Convention Center.
The Legacy of a True Professional
Kitzhaber’s achievements go far beyond his miles driven. His exemplary financial management as an owner-operator played a significant role in his recognition as Trucker of the Year. Speaking with Overdrive Radio host Steve Sommers, Kitzhaber shared some wisdom on the owner-operator vs. company driver debate.
“There is some truth that if you’re working as a company driver, you can probably make about the same as an owner-operator without the responsibility,” Kitzhaber explained. “But if you’re a businessman as an owner-operator, you can make more money. It’s more challenging, there’s more risk, but also a lot more reward.”
For Kitzhaber, the secret to success lies in treating trucking like a business. “It was just being a businessman and treating it like a business. Not everyone has that mentality,” he said.
His professionalism, strategic thinking, and attention to detail have left an indelible mark on the industry.
A Legacy of Insights and Expertise
While Kitzhaber is officially retiring from trucking, his wealth of knowledge remains available to benefit others. His insights have been shared in a two-part feature on the Overdrive Extra blog.
Source: Overdrive
Image: Source: (Overdrive) Built by Pennsylvania-based Eston Hoffman, this scale-model replica of Overdrive Trucker of the Year Alan Kitzhaber’s long-running 1995 Kenworth T600 seals the deal for Kitzhaber’s well-deserved win in the TOTY program.
