Nashville, TN — The American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) officially recognized five industry professionals with the Silver Spark Plug award during the 2025 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition on March 10. This honor represents the highest level of recognition within the council, reserved for individuals who demonstrate consistent leadership, innovation, and a long-term commitment to improving commercial vehicle maintenance standards.
Maintenance remains the backbone of the heavy-duty sector, and the Silver Spark Plug serves as a benchmark for those who go beyond daily shop operations to influence national technical standards. To be considered, candidates must maintain active membership in TMC and provide at least five years of documented service to the council. The selection committee evaluates nominees based on their peer reputation, technical contributions, and their ability to solve complex problems within the S-series study groups that dictate much of the equipment technology used by the average CDL-A driver today.
The 2025 recipients include Jack Vander Giessen of Cummins-Meritor, who joined TMC in 1985 and spent decades leading task forces on electric vehicle towing and brake systems. Andrew Krum from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute earned his award for his work with the S.4 Cab and Controls Study Group, particularly regarding collision avoidance technology. Bryan Lewis of ASE, a two-time TMCSuperTech Grand Champion, was honored for his long-standing work as a judge and industry diplomat. Joey Young, representing Publix Supermarkets, received the award for his five-year term as chairman of the S.6 Chassis and Brake Systems Study Group. These professionals represent the technical expertise that keeps equipment safe on the road.
What This Means for Drivers
When these industry veterans lead study groups, the technical standards they develop eventually influence the equipment every OTR truck driver uses on the highway. Innovations in collision avoidance and brake systems discussed at these meetings often become the industry standard for fleet safety and maintenance requirements. For an owner-operator, understanding these advancements is crucial for maintaining compliance with evolving FMCSA regulations and ensuring equipment longevity. Improved maintenance protocols translate directly into less downtime and fewer roadside violations for those behind the wheel.
Industry Reaction
TMC General Chairman Amanda Schuier emphasized that the Silver Spark Plug is not granted lightly, noting that the selection process is rigorous and relies heavily on the nominee's impact on the broader maintenance community. The council views these individuals as the primary ambassadors for the next generation of technicians and maintenance managers. As the industry moves toward more complex electronic integration, the role of these leaders becomes increasingly vital in bridging the gap between manufacturer innovation and practical shop-floor application.
Key Points
- Jack Vander Giessen was recognized for his 40-year contribution to chassis and brake system innovation.
- Andrew Krum previously received the Study Group Secretary Award in 2020 for his work on cab and controls.
- Bryan Lewis served as the judge chairman for the TMCSuperTech National Technician Skills Competition.
- Joey Young led the S.6 Chassis and Brake Systems Study Group from 2019 through 2024.
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