WASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has officially named its 2026-2027 class of America’s Road Team Captains, selecting twenty professional drivers to serve as the public face of the industry. These individuals were chosen following a rigorous three-day evaluation process at ATA headquarters, where they were judged on their safety records, communication skills, and ability to advocate for the trucking profession before the public and policymakers.

Established in 1986, the program serves as a bridge between the trucking industry and the motoring public. These drivers spend two years traveling the country in the Interstate One image truck, a Volvo VNL 860 paired with a specialized trailer that houses a mobile classroom and a state-of-the-art simulator. By visiting schools, community events, and legislative offices, the captains work to demystify the life of a professional driver and promote safety standards that go beyond basic FMCSA regulations.

This year’s roster represents 13 states and includes a mix of talent from both large national carriers and smaller independent operations. The group boasts a collective 51 million miles of accident-free driving, a testament to the high standards expected of those seeking a career in the industry. The selection panel, comprised of industry executives and trade media, focused on finding candidates who can articulate the nuances of the job, from the realities of the supply chain to the daily challenges faced by every CDL-A driver on the road today.

What This Means for Drivers

For the average OTR truck driver, these captains provide a platform to address public misconceptions regarding highway safety and professional conduct. The program highlights the necessity of maintaining a clean driving record, which remains the single most important factor for those looking to secure top-tier truck driver jobs. By showcasing these veteran drivers, the ATA reinforces the idea that safety, professionalism, and consistent performance are the primary drivers of career longevity in the modern logistics environment.

Industry Reaction

Volvo Trucks North America continues to back the initiative, marking 25 years of sponsorship this fall. Company leadership views this partnership as a critical way to bridge the gap between heavy-duty equipment manufacturing and the human element of transportation. For many trucking companies hiring today, the visibility provided by the Road Team is a vital tool in recruiting the next generation of talent and maintaining a positive public image for the profession.

Key Points

• The 2026-2027 class includes four military veterans and one independent owner-operator.
• The program has accumulated 51 million miles of safe driving experience across its new captain cohort.
• Captains are tasked with conducting public outreach, including speaking to schools and government officials.
• The selection process concluded in Washington, D.C., evaluating candidates on communication and industry knowledge.

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