LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Women In Trucking Association has officially announced the four finalists for its 2026 Driver of the Year award, a prestigious honor sponsored by Walmart that recognizes female operators for their commitment to safety and industry advocacy. The final winner will be crowned on March 27 at the upcoming Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event, held during the Mid-America Trucking Show.

These finalists represent the standard for professional trucking, selected for their ability to maintain impeccable safety records while actively improving the public perception of the industry. The group includes veterans like Ingrid Brown, an owner-operator with 46 years of experience who currently hauls refrigerated and heavy-haul freight through Rollin’ B LLC. Brown’s resume spans decades of safety work, including her role as the FMCSA’s Voice of Safety for the national Our Roads, Our Safety campaign. Alongside her, finalists like Fabiola Campos-Buenavista of FedEx Freight highlight the importance of internal development, having trained over 40 drivers since becoming the company’s first female driver development instructor in 2014.

Competition for the title is rigorous, as each nominee has demonstrated a career path characterized by mentorship, disaster relief participation, and consistent professional growth. By elevating these drivers, the association aims to demonstrate that long-term success in the cab is attainable for anyone dedicated to mastering the craft. Whether serving as a Road Team Captain or operating as an independent owner-operator, these women serve as vital ambassadors for the profession.

What This Means for Drivers

This recognition highlights the tangible career progression available for any CDL-A driver who prioritizes safety and professional development. For those currently searching through trucking companies hiring, these finalists prove that specialized roles in training and safety advocacy offer a viable path beyond traditional OTR truck driver positions. Operators looking to advance their own careers should note that these finalists built their reputations through consistent community outreach and rigorous adherence to industry standards, which remain the most reliable ways to secure long-term stability in the freight market.

Industry Reaction

The industry continues to place a high premium on veterans who can effectively mentor the next generation of professional drivers. As the supply chain navigates shifting demands, the focus on driver retention and safety leadership has become a primary objective for major fleets. By spotlighting these individuals, organizations like Women In Trucking are reinforcing the essential role that experienced operators play in maintaining highway safety and fostering a positive workplace culture for all who pursue truck driver jobs.

Key Points

• Ingrid Brown has 46 years of experience and serves as an FMCSA Voice of Safety.
• Fabiola Campos-Buenavista became the first female driver development instructor at FedEx Freight in 2014.
• The award winner will be announced at the March 2026 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event in Louisville.
• Finalists are judged on safety records, industry mentorship, and their ability to improve the public image of trucking.

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