WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Army veteran and Stevens Transport driver Cory Troxell claimed the top prize in the 2024 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence program, taking home a brand-new Kenworth T680 for his outstanding service transition. The award, presented at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, marks the ninth consecutive year that Kenworth has partnered with industry groups to highlight the success of military veterans moving into professional driving roles.
Troxell’s path to the driver’s seat follows a two-decade military career that began in 2004. His service record includes a Purple Heart awarded after he sustained severe injuries in 2009. By joining Stevens Transport, he continued a family tradition of service and professional trucking, blending his military discipline with the demands of the modern freight industry. The program serves as a primary recognition platform for veterans who prove that the skills honed in the military—reliability, focus, and adaptability—are directly transferable to the road.
The competition remains one of the most competitive honors for those seeking truck driver jobs after leaving the service. Fastport, which manages the program alongside Hiring Our Heroes and Kenworth, reported record-breaking participation from the trucking community during the voting process. Runners-up in the competition were also recognized for their dedication; Navy veteran Douglas Couch of Roehl Transport, Inc. received a $10,000 prize, while Marine Corps veteran Shawn Haley of Veriha Trucking LLC and Coast Guard veteran Billy Taylor of Werner Enterprises each received $5,000 for their achievements.
What This Means for Drivers
The success of veterans like Troxell highlights why major trucking companies are hiring former military personnel to fill critical OTR truck driver positions. Employers often prioritize these recruits because they bring a proven track record of following FMCSA regulations and maintaining strict safety standards on the road. For any CDL-A driver currently navigating a career change, programs like this demonstrate that the industry values military experience as a foundation for long-term success. Veterans looking to enter the trade or move into an owner-operator role should leverage these transition partnerships to secure better equipment and support networks.
Industry Reaction
Brad Bentley, President of Fastport, emphasized that these finalists represent the future of the American supply chain. By showcasing these individuals, the industry aims to bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment. The program serves as a reminder that the trucking industry remains one of the most effective sectors for veterans seeking meaningful, stable, and high-growth career paths in the current economy.
Key Points
- Cory Troxell served 20 years in the U.S. Army before transitioning to his current role at Stevens Transport.
- The award includes a fully equipped Kenworth T680, provided by Kenworth to support veteran integration.
- Four finalists were honored at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, representing a collective commitment to veteran employment.
- Fastport and Hiring Our Heroes collaborated to coordinate the voter-driven selection process for the 2024 class.
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