Honoring the Backbone of America’s Supply Chain
The trucking industry came together this September to celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW), marking its 37th year of recognizing the 3.6 million professional truck drivers who keep America’s freight moving.
Each year, NTDAW highlights the dedication and hard work of drivers through events, giveaways, and special tributes hosted by fleets, associations, and partners nationwide.
“Truck drivers pull off a logistical miracle every day,” said Chris Spear, president of the American Trucking Associations (ATA). “Our economy runs on their commitment, and they deserve our full appreciation.”
Nationwide Tributes and Events
Trucker Path, in partnership with Sheetz, Exxon Mobil, Double Coin Tires, and others, held its fourth annual NTDAW sweepstakes. The winner, David Whaley of Citra, Florida, received more than $10,000 in prizes. “I can’t believe it—I’m so grateful,” said Whaley, a lease operator with Prime Inc., one of North America’s top carriers.
Shell Rotella and Love’s Travel Stops also joined forces for a campaign called “Thank-a-Trucker,” which included a heartfelt video tribute featuring messages from attendees of the Mid-America Trucking Show. For every video shared, both companies donated to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, raising nearly $3,000 to help drivers in need.
In Pennsylvania, the Turnpike Commission and the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association treated drivers to pizza, drinks, and raffles at service plazas. “Truckers are essential to our economy and to the Turnpike’s mission,” said Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. PMTA President Rebecca Oyler added that trucking supports one in every 15 jobs in the state, underscoring its economic importance.
Meanwhile, in Alabama, the Alabama Trucking Association took a creative approach by releasing a new country song, “Highway Dreaming,” performed by the Sweet Tea Trio as a tribute to professional drivers.
Industry and Community Support
At the Port of Long Beach, drivers were treated to free meals and port-branded gifts, while leaders from the California Air Resources Board discussed clean transportation initiatives.
In Ohio, Hynes Industries celebrated by handing out care packages with drinks and snacks to drivers picking up loads. “It’s a small gesture, but it shows we appreciate them,” said CEO Rick Organ.
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service also recognized its fleet drivers with banners and thank-you notes, calling them “vital to the mission” of delivering supplies worldwide.
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