WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Army veteran and Stevens Transport driver Cory Troxell has been named the winner of the 2024 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence award. The announcement, held at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, saw Troxell awarded the keys to a new Kenworth T680, a donation that highlights the industry's ongoing commitment to recruiting former service members.
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 following injuries sustained in 2009, and his transition to the road was heavily influenced by a family history in the transportation sector. He joins a growing list of veterans who have found long-term stability and professional growth through truck driver jobs after leaving active duty.
Fastport, which partners with Hiring Our Heroes and Kenworth, managed the selection process for this year’s program. The runner-up, Navy veteran Douglas Couch of Roehl Transport, Inc., walked away with a $10,000 cash prize. Finalists Shawn Haley of Veriha Trucking LLC and Billy Taylor of Werner Enterprises were also recognized for their performance, each receiving $5,000 for their achievements as a CDL-A driver.
What This Means for Drivers
Veterans entering the workforce often find that the technical skills learned in the military translate well to the demands of an OTR truck driver. Carriers are increasingly prioritizing military-friendly hiring practices to fill seats, recognizing that former service members are disciplined and accustomed to the unique lifestyle of long-haul logistics. Many trucking companies are hiring specifically for these roles, offering accelerated training programs that help veterans navigate FMCSA regulations and safety standards quickly.
Industry Reaction
Brad Bentley, President of Fastport, noted that the high voter turnout for this year’s award reflects broad public support for veterans entering the freight sector. The program continues to serve as a benchmark for how private industry can support the transition from military service to civilian life. By providing tangible rewards like new equipment and cash bonuses, the trucking industry is actively competing to attract experienced, reliable personnel who possess the grit required for life on the road.
Key Points
- Cory Troxell served 20 years in the U.S. Army and is a Purple Heart recipient.
- The grand prize for the winner is a fully equipped Kenworth T680 tractor.
- This marks the ninth consecutive year that Kenworth has supported the Transition Trucking program.
- Four finalists were selected from a competitive pool of veterans currently working for major carriers.
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