WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Army veteran Cory Troxell has been named the recipient of the 2024 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence award, securing a brand-new Kenworth T680 for his successful move into the civilian workforce as a driver for Stevens Transport.

Troxell’s path to the trucking industry follows a 20-year military career that began in 2004. A Purple Heart recipient injured in the line of duty in 2009, he comes from a long line of service members, including his father and grandfather. His transition into a career behind the wheel mirrors a family history deeply rooted in the transportation trade, proving that the discipline learned in the service translates directly to the demands of the road.

The award ceremony, held at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, marked the ninth year of Kenworth’s partnership with the program. Runner-up Douglas Couch, a Navy veteran driving for Roehl Transport, Inc., took home a $10,000 cash prize. Other finalists, including Marine Corps veteran Shawn Haley of Veriha Trucking LLC and Coast Guard veteran Billy Taylor of Werner Enterprises, were awarded $5,000 each for their contributions to the industry.

What This Means for Drivers

The success of veterans like Troxell highlights the growing demand for military-trained personnel in trucking companies hiring across the country. Transitioning service members bring a unique set of skills, including logistical discipline and the ability to manage complex schedules under pressure, which are essential for any OTR truck driver. Carriers are increasingly looking at these programs to fill seats with reliable, safety-conscious professionals who understand the importance of following strict FMCSA regulations while maintaining high levels of operational efficiency.

Industry Reaction

Fastport and its partners, including Hiring Our Heroes, emphasized the record-breaking voter turnout for this year's award cycle. Industry leaders noted that these veterans serve as a benchmark for the next generation of logistics professionals, demonstrating how a military background facilitates a seamless move into the trucking workforce. By recognizing these drivers, the industry continues to push for better integration of veterans into the civilian workforce where they can thrive as professional operators.

Key Points

• Cory Troxell served 20 years in the U.S. Army before joining Stevens Transport.
• The award winner received a fully equipped Kenworth T680 truck.
• Four total veterans were honored during the ceremony in Washington, D.C.
• The Transition Trucking award program is now in its ninth year of operation.

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