Arlington, VA — The American Trucking Associations (ATA) officially opened the nomination period for the 2026–2027 America’s Road Team, seeking the safest and most experienced professional drivers to serve as industry ambassadors. This elite group, established in 1986, functions as the primary voice for the trucking industry, tasked with promoting highway safety and educating the public on the essential nature of freight movement.
Becoming a captain for America’s Road Team requires more than just a clean driving record. The ATA looks for individuals who possess a deep commitment to the profession and the ability to articulate the industry’s value to policymakers, students, and the general public. During their two-year tenure, these drivers represent the millions of men and women who keep the supply chain moving, often traveling in the Interstate One Image Truck—a custom Volvo VNL 860 equipped with a mobile classroom and driving simulator.
Chris Spear, president and CEO of the ATA, noted that the organization seeks candidates who demonstrate excellence behind the wheel while maintaining a genuine passion for storytelling. The program serves as a bridge between the industry and the public, with captains attending various community events, policy forums, and educational sessions. Drivers selected for this honor must have the full support of their employers, as the role requires significant time away from their standard routes to fulfill public outreach duties.
What This Means for Drivers
For a veteran CDL-A driver, this program offers a unique platform to influence public perception and advocate for the interests of those behind the wheel. Serving as a captain provides professional development opportunities that go beyond the cab, including media training and networking with high-level industry stakeholders. While the commitment is rigorous, it is widely considered the highest honor a professional driver can achieve in the United States. Many drivers looking for better trucking jobs view this as the pinnacle of a long, safe career in the transport sector.
Industry Reaction
The trucking industry continues to grapple with public misconceptions regarding safety and the role of heavy-duty vehicles on the road. By deploying ambassadors who have spent millions of miles on the highway without incident, the ATA aims to humanize the profession and promote a culture of safety. Industry leaders emphasize that the visibility provided by the Road Team is critical for lobbying efforts and for encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in trucking. Companies that support their drivers in this endeavor often report higher morale and a stronger commitment to safety across their entire fleet.
Key Points
- Nominations are now open for the 2026–2027 class of America’s Road Team captains.
- The program has served as the industry's gold standard for safety and professionalism since 1986.
- Captains travel in the Interstate One Image Truck, a Volvo VNL 860 featuring a mobile classroom.
- Selected ambassadors participate in school visits, industry gatherings, and policy meetings across the nation.
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