TOPEKA, KS — The Kansas Motor Carriers Association has officially appointed six professional drivers as Road Team Captains for the 2026–2028 term, restoring the program to its full operational strength for the first time since 2018. These individuals were chosen based on their exceptional safety records and their commitment to public outreach, a move designed to improve the public perception of the trucking industry.
This initiative places working professionals in front of schools and community groups to demonstrate the realities of the job. By showcasing drivers who maintain clean logs and accident-free histories, the association aims to bridge the gap between the public and the trucking industry. These captains remain active in their freight-hauling roles while serving as the public face of the Kansas trucking community.
The newly appointed team brings a combined wealth of experience to the table. Mark Carver of FedEx Freight, the 2025 National Truck Driving Championships straight truck champion, leads the group with 2.75 million accident-free miles. He is joined by Joe Ortiz of Frito-Lay Transportation, a driver trainer with 885,000 safe miles, and Christopher Noble of Walmart Transportation, who brings 32 years of experience and 3.8 million accident-free miles to the program. The roster is rounded out by FedEx Freight’s Richard Johnson, Old Dominion Freight Line’s Josue Rivera, and Frito-Lay’s Scott Reich, each of whom has demonstrated consistent excellence in state-level driving competitions and daily safety standards.
What This Means for Drivers
For the average CDL-A driver, the return of a full Road Team roster provides a necessary voice in regional public forums. These captains are tasked with explaining the complexities of the road, including the realities of FMCSA regulations and the daily challenges faced by those behind the wheel. When qualified, experienced drivers represent the industry, it helps counteract the negative stereotypes often pushed by mainstream media. Owner-operator professionals and company drivers alike benefit when the industry proactively manages its own image through these outreach efforts.
Industry Reaction
The Kansas Motor Carriers Association emphasized that these six men represent more than just driving talent; they carry the reputation of the entire freight sector. By recognizing outgoing captains Brian Baldwin and Stephen Caudill for their years of service, the association highlighted the long-term nature of these roles. This transition period ensures that the institutional knowledge and safety advocacy practiced by these veteran drivers continue to influence the next generation of logistics professionals.
Key Points
- The 2026–2028 Kansas Road Team is at full capacity for the first time since 2018.
- Selection criteria focused heavily on safety records, with several members boasting multi-million-mile accident-free careers.
- Captains are expected to maintain their regular freight duties while fulfilling public speaking and safety outreach requirements.
- The program serves as a direct link between professional carriers and the public, helping to improve industry standing and visibility.
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