National Carriers Inc. — National Carriers Inc. (NCI) announced three new finalists for its 2025 Driver of the Year competition on September 9, 2026, expanding the field to include Rafael Murillo, Willie Grady III, and Bernard Talimeliyor.

With a history of recognizing excellence, NCI’s Driver of the Year program honors those who demonstrate outstanding safety, customer service and reliability across the company’s elite fleet. Director of media Ed Kentner praised the finalists, noting their “exceptional safety record and focus on public well‑being” as the cornerstone of the award.

Each of the new finalists earned the Driver of the Month title for May, June and July respectively, and received a $1,000 bonus for their performance. The competition culminates with a $10,000 prize presented in March 2026, a reward that underscores the company’s commitment to rewarding top talent.

Rafael Murillo, a Liberal, Kansas owner‑operator, has been hauling freight in NCI’s national refrigerated fleet for years. Murillo began as a student driver, advanced to a company truck role, and eventually became an owner‑operator, earning a reputation for exceptional customer service and a spotless safety record.

Willie Grady III and Bernard Talimeliyor, both respected CDL‑A drivers, joined the elite roster after securing Driver of the Month honors in June and July. Their consistent performance highlights the high standards NCI sets for its fleet, which includes both company trucks and owner‑operator units.

What This Means for Drivers

The expansion of NCI’s finalist pool signals a renewed emphasis on safety and customer service across the industry. CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators now have a clearer path to recognition that can translate into higher pay, better routes and increased job stability. For OTR truck drivers, the award underscores the importance of FMCSA regulations compliance and disciplined driving habits. Trucking companies hiring may look to NCI’s model as a benchmark for talent development and retention.

Industry Reaction

Carriers across the country applaud NCI’s commitment to celebrating safe driving. Many trucking companies hiring today are already implementing internal awards to mirror the recognition NCI offers, believing that it boosts morale and encourages adherence to FMCSA regulations. The move also highlights the growing trend of carriers investing in driver development programs to attract and keep top talent.

Key Points

• NCI added three finalists—Murillo, Grady III, and Talimeliyor—to the 2025 Driver of the Year race.
• Each finalist earned Driver of the Month honors for May, June, and July, along with a $1,000 bonus.
• The competition culminates with a $10,000 award presented in March 2026.
• Recognition focuses on safety, service, and reliability across NCI’s elite fleet.

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