LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The American Trucking Association’s Safety Management Council has officially named Thomas Miller, a long-term operator for Prime Inc., as its 2024 Driver of the Year. Miller received the industry’s highest safety honor during the ATA’s Safety, Security, and Human Resources National Conference, marking a career milestone defined by consistency and extreme precision behind the wheel.
Miller’s career trajectory serves as a benchmark for any CDL-A driver aiming for longevity in a demanding industry. Over his 25-year tenure with the Missouri-based carrier, he has successfully navigated 3.5 million accident-free miles for Prime Inc. alone, pushing his lifetime total to 3.8 million miles without a single preventable incident. This track record of excellence earned him previous state-level recognition from the Missouri Trucking Association in 2016 and 2023, along with a seat among the elite ATA America’s Road Team Captains.
The selection process for the national award remains rigorous, pitting top-tier professionals against one another based on their safety history and professional contributions. This year’s finalists included Jay Williams of TWCV Inc., Rollie Fugate representing Walmart, Michael Bortz from Sorenson Transport, and Danny Tankersly of WEL Companies. While Miller took the top spot, the competitive field underscores the rising standards expected of every OTR truck driver navigating today’s high-traffic corridors.
What This Means for Drivers
Safety awards of this caliber provide a clear signal to the industry that performance metrics remain the primary currency for professional operators. For an owner-operator or company driver, maintaining a clean MVR is the most effective way to secure high-paying freight and favorable insurance premiums. Top trucking companies are hiring now with a renewed focus on drivers who can demonstrate the same level of risk mitigation Miller has exhibited over his 3.8 million miles.
Industry Reaction
ATA President and CEO Chris Spear addressed the conference, emphasizing that safety is not merely a box to check but the central pillar of the entire supply chain. Industry leaders noted that these accolades reflect the integrity required to uphold FMCSA regulations while keeping the economy moving. Prime Inc. leadership echoed this sentiment on social media, publicly praising Miller for his commitment to excellence and his role as a mentor within the trucking community.
Key Points
- Thomas Miller achieved 3.8 million career accident-free miles over 25 years.
- The award was presented by the ATA Safety Management Council in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Ronnie Holland of TCW, Inc. was named the 2024 National Safety Director.
- Roehl Transport, Bulkmatic, and Talon Logistics were recognized as winners of the President’s Trophy based on fleet mileage.
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