2025 Transition Trucking Semi-Finalists Revealed

In a significant recognition of the contributions of veterans to the trucking industry, Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Hiring Our Heroes initiative have unveiled the twelve semi-finalists for the 2025 Transition Trucking “Driving for Excellence” award. This prestigious program, launched in 2016, celebrates veterans making the transition into successful careers within the trucking sector. This year's nominees showcase a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences, representing various branches of the U.S. military, including the National Guard and Reserve.

Meet the Semi-Finalists

The semi-finalists embody the spirit of dedication and perseverance that defines military service. Here are the distinguished nominees for this year:

• Kathleen (Kat) Carreto, U.S. Army National Guard (E-5), Roehl Transport
• Bradley Lecky, U.S. Army (E-4), Crawford Electric, a Sonepar USA Company
• Federico Hudson, U.S. Air Force (E-7), Van Wyk, Inc.
• Gaylon Hensley, U.S. Army (E-7), Melton Truck Lines
• Daniel Hemphill, U.S. Army (E-4), Wayne R. West Trucking
• Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport
• Joseph Barotti, U.S. Air Force (E-6), U.S. Marine Corps, Werner Enterprises
• Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army (E-5) and Army Reserve, Werner Enterprises
• Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines
• Ryan Gordon, U.S. Army (E-5), Prime, Inc.
• Precious Cannon-Scott, Air National Guard (E-4), Prime, Inc.
• Charles Jones, Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Grand Prize: The Kenworth T680

The highlight of the “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” program is the grand prize—a state-of-the-art Kenworth T680. This exceptional truck features a spacious 76-inch sleeper and is equipped with the advanced PACCAR Powertrain, ensuring both comfort and performance. The T680 will be showcased at the Fort Campbell Career Summit in Tennessee on August 6, where attendees can admire its impressive specifications.

Key features of the Kenworth T680 include:

• GT703 ultraleather seats for enhanced comfort
• Designated spaces for a microwave and TV, promoting convenience
• A factory-installed refrigerator for long hauls
• A rotating worktable, facilitating productivity
• Driver assistance technology, including Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors
• Adaptive Cruise Control for safer driving

Upcoming Events Celebrating the Semi-Finalists

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Transition Trucking program, and as part of the celebrations, each semi-finalist will participate in a special ceremony at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, on September 18. This event will honor the dedication of these veterans and their contributions to the industry.

Following the ceremony, the nominees will tour the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant, where the finalists will be revealed. This behind-the-scenes look at one of the industry’s leading manufacturers will provide valuable insights into the world of trucking.

The public will also play a crucial role in determining the award winner. Voting will be open from November 1 through Veterans Day, allowing supporters to choose their favorite semi-finalist. The winner will be announced during a special ceremony on December 12, coinciding with a week of events dedicated to honoring veterans.

Recognizing Veteran Contributions in Trucking

The Transition Trucking program is not just about awarding a truck; it’s about acknowledging the significant impact that veterans have on the trucking industry. “This year’s semi-finalists exemplify the dedication and leadership that military veterans bring to the trucking industry,” stated Kyle Kimball, Kenworth's director of marketing. The program serves as a platform to highlight the skills and experiences these individuals bring from their military service into their new careers.

Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The Transition Trucking award campaign highlights the impact veterans are making in the transportation industry. We’re proud to honor these individuals whose legacy will inspire future veteran drivers.”

Additionally, Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, noted, “This campaign awards a Kenworth truck to a deserving veteran, proving our industry’s future is in capable hands.” This sentiment reflects the broader commitment to supporting veterans as they transition into civilian roles, ensuring that their expertise continues to benefit the economy.

As the trucking industry faces various challenges, the inclusion of veterans provides not only skilled labor but also a strong work ethic and leadership qualities that are essential for success. Their resilience and adaptability are invaluable assets in a field that is constantly evolving.

For a closer look at the stories of these remarkable veterans and their journeys into trucking, check out this video that features insights from the award program:

The Transition Trucking initiative is a powerful reminder of the potential that lies in the intersection of military service and civilian careers. By recognizing and supporting veterans in trucking, the industry not only honors their sacrifices but also strengthens its own future.

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