COLUMBUS, Ohio — Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program have officially narrowed the field to 17 semi-finalists for the 2026 “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” award. This year’s search for the top military veteran entering the transportation industry saw a record-breaking number of nominations, highlighting the ongoing effort to recruit disciplined personnel into professional trucking companies hiring across the country.
The program, which launched in 2016, serves as a bridge for service members moving from military duty to the civilian workforce. The current list of semi-finalists includes veterans from every branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserve, representing carriers such as Melton Truck Lines, Roehl Transport, NFI Industries, and Prime Inc. These drivers are competing for a high-spec Kenworth T680 Signature Edition truck, built with a Paccar MX-13 engine capable of 455 horsepower and a 76-inch sleeper cab designed for long-haul comfort.
The selection process moves to Columbus, Ohio, on September 21 for a formal ceremony at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. The following day, the group will tour the Kenworth manufacturing facility in Chillicothe before the list of finalists is cut down at the MHC Road Ready Center. A public voting period will open on November 1 and run through Veterans Day, giving the industry a voice in the final decision made by the award’s Selection Committee.
What This Means for Drivers
For the average CDL-A driver, this program underscores the high value placed on military experience and the potential for rapid career advancement within the industry. Veterans often bring a unique level of adherence to FMCSA regulations and safety standards that fleets prioritize when staffing their ranks. An OTR truck driver who successfully makes the transition from service to the highway can leverage these programs to secure better equipment and more stable career paths.
Industry Reaction
The collaboration between major manufacturers and veterans' advocacy groups signals a continued focus on solving the professional driver shortage through targeted recruitment. By highlighting the success of these 17 drivers, the industry aims to showcase the long-term career viability of professional driving. As the economy demands more freight capacity, the focus remains on attracting disciplined, safety-conscious individuals who treat trucking as a career rather than just a job.
Key Points
- The prize is a Kenworth T680 Signature Edition featuring a 76-inch sleeper and Paccar powertrain.
- Public online voting to help influence the final selection begins November 1.
- The ultimate winner will be announced on December 16 during a dedicated veterans' recognition week.
- Semi-finalists represent a wide cross-section of the industry, including drivers from Ryder, Werner Enterprises, and Schneider.
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