Columbus, Ohio — Four decorated military veterans have secured their spots as finalists for the 2025 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, a national program that highlights former service members who successfully transition into commercial driving careers. This year's contenders represent a cross-section of major motor carriers and bring decades of combined military service to the freight sector. The program, developed through a partnership between the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport, shines a light on rookie drivers who demonstrate exceptional safety records and professionalism on the road.
The selection process narrowed down twelve semi-finalists who were recently honored during a reception at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. Following that event, the four finalists were unveiled at Kenworth’s manufacturing plant in Chillicothe, Ohio, where attendees participated in plant tours and media broadcasts. Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes, noted that the discipline and adaptability developed during military service translate directly into high-level performance behind the wheel for CDL-A drivers across the nation.
The four finalists hauling freight for prominent trucking companies include Nicholas Baughan representing Werner Enterprises, Charles Jones Jr. driving for Roehl Transport, Macy Mattice operating for Melton Truck Lines, and Mark Scriven driving and training for Stevens Transport. Baughan continues service in the Army Reserve alongside his civilian career, while Jones brings twenty years of Army experience to his new freight hauling duties. Mattice applies her heavy equipment transport background from the military to flatbed operations, and Scriven utilizes his leadership experience as a driver and trainer after nine years operating patriot missile systems.
What This Means for Drivers
As trucking companies hiring rookie talent continue to seek reliable operators, programs like this demonstrate viable career paths for separating service members earning their commercial driver's licenses. The successful transition of these veterans proves that military skills transfer effectively to long-haul freight operations and regional routes. Fleets actively recruit individuals with strong safety backgrounds, making military veterans prime candidates for competitive OTR truck driver positions.
Industry Reaction
Industry leaders frequently praise veteran drivers for their mission-focused approach to highway safety and equipment maintenance. Major carriers rely on structured hiring initiatives to recruit disciplined operators who can handle complex supply chain demands without compromising on federal compliance or safety standards. This annual recognition highlights the mutual benefit of pairing former military personnel with established transportation enterprises.
Key Points
- Four finalists were selected for the 2025 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award.
- The program is a joint initiative involving Hiring Our Heroes, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport.
- Finalists represent Werner Enterprises, Roehl Transport, Melton Truck Lines, and Stevens Transport.
- A nationwide public vote will determine the ultimate winner of the competition.
Looking for a better trucking job? US Trucker's free job-matching service connects CDL-A drivers, OTR drivers, regional drivers, and owner-operators with 500+ top US carriers. Leave your details in the form on this page and a recruiter will call you within one business day. Trucking companies are hiring now.
Photo by Yeşim Çolak on Pexels