Columbus, Ohio — Four seasoned military veterans have secured their spots as finalists for the 2025 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, a national program designed to highlight former service members who successfully pivot to commercial driving after hanging up the uniform. Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes, noted that the core traits developed during active duty—including rigorous adaptability and disciplined leadership—translate directly into top-tier performance on the highway.

This initiative represents a collaborative effort between the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport. Twelve semi-finalists initially gathered at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, before the final four contenders were revealed at Kenworth's Chillicothe manufacturing plant. The campaign aims to showcase how truck driving serves as a viable, high-paying second career for departing service members holding a CDL-A.

The four finalists hauling loads across America include Nicholas Baughan representing Werner Enterprises, Charles Jones Jr. driving for Roehl Transport, Macy Mattice hauling flatbed freight for Melton Truck Lines, and Mark Scriven operating and training with Stevens Transport. Baughan continues his service in the Army Reserve alongside his civilian career, while Jones brings two decades of military logistics experience to his new route. Mattice utilizes her background as a heavy equipment transport operator, and Scriven applies his extensive maintenance and operational discipline to daily fleet runs.

What This Means for Drivers

Programs like the Transition Trucking Award highlight the direct pipeline between military logistics and civilian freight hauling, proving that commercial trucking companies hiring veterans gain reliable, safety-conscious operators. For CDL-A holders and drivers currently navigating life after the military, these success stories underline the strong earning potential and stability available behind the wheel. Fleets across the nation increasingly rely on experienced OTR truck drivers who understand schedule discipline, load security, and compliance with federal standards.

Industry Reaction

Trucking fleets and advocacy groups continue to emphasize the urgent need for structured recruitment pathways that help former service members transition smoothly into commercial transportation. Industry leaders point out that veterans possess the exact resilience and mechanical aptitude required to manage long-haul routes and overcome modern supply chain challenges. Recognizing rookie drivers who excel in safety and professionalism sets a high operational benchmark for the entire freight sector.

Key Points

• Four military veterans were named finalists for the 2025 Transition Trucking Award.
• The program is a partnership involving Hiring Our Heroes, Kenworth, and Fastport.
• Finalists represent major carriers including Werner, Roehl, Melton, and Stevens Transport.
• The nationwide initiative honors rookie drivers who demonstrate exceptional safety and service.

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