The company announced that a grand opening celebration is scheduled for July 29 at 1 p.m. at the new facility, located about 20 miles east of downtown Columbus.

Ohio Peterbilt said Heavy D and Diesel Dave from the television series Diesel Brothers will appear during the event. The company also said select customers will have an opportunity to win a meet and greet with the pair by entering here.

“Our Etna location is more than just a new dealership, it’s a destination,” said Mike Crawford, vice president of Ohio Peterbilt.

The New Etna Facility Adds Expanded Service Capacity

According to the company, the new Etna dealership covers 82,000 square feet and includes 25 service bays, a central parts distribution center, expanded office and retail space, and maintenance operations designed to support fleets and owner operators moving freight throughout central Ohio and the Midwest.

The facility also includes direct access near Interstate 70, one of the region’s busiest freight corridors.

Ohio Peterbilt described the Etna project as a major investment intended to expand service capacity and improve support for customers operating throughout the area.

Grand Opening Event Will Feature Diesel Brothers Guests

“We’re excited to officially open our doors and celebrate with our customers, partners, and the community,” Crawford said. “Having Heavy D and Diesel Dave join us makes this event even more special, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to see what this facility has to offer.”

The company said the dealership was built to provide expanded truck service, maintenance, and parts support for drivers and fleets operating across the Midwest.

For more information about the Etna dealership and the July grand opening celebration, Ohio Peterbilt said customers can visit the company website.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: May 20, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Ohio Peterbilt

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Honoring the Drivers Who Go the Extra Mile

After sifting through thousands of entries, Pilot selected two standout drivers who embody professionalism, safety, and service. In addition to Batiste, Bobby Peeker, a Marine Corps veteran, also earned recognition for his exceptional contributions to the trucking and veteran communities. Peeker will receive a $10,000 cash prize, along with a $25,000 charitable donation made by Pilot to a veterans-focused organization of his choice.

“We received thousands of entries celebrating the efforts of drivers who go the extra mile each and every day,” said Jordan Spradling, senior vice president of transportation and midstream assets at Pilot Company. “Stacy’s and Bobby’s hard work, dedication to the profession, commitment to safety and service stood out. We are honored to welcome them to the Road Warrior winner’s circle. They both are prime examples of the positive impact professional drivers have on and off the road.”

Pilot’s Road Warrior contest is its way of recognizing the drivers who keep North America moving, day in and day out.

Stacy Batiste: 33 Years of Dedication

Batiste was awarded the largest prize in contest history: a custom Kenworth truck built by the Diesel Brothers and a $50,000 cash prize. With over 33 years behind the wheel and more than 5.1 million accident-free miles, Batiste views trucking not just as a career, but as a calling.

A Marine Corps veteran, he has consistently prioritized road safety and has earned a reputation as a mentor for younger drivers. Beyond trucking, Batiste is an active member of his local community, always finding ways to give back.

On October 21, Pilot surprised Batiste while he was on the road at a Flying J in Baytown, Texas, presenting the keys to his custom Kenworth and the $50,000 check. His family joined the celebration, hidden in the travel center to share the moment. Batiste began his driving career hauling sugar cane in South Louisiana, and now, as an owner-operator, the new truck supports his ongoing passion for safe, community-focused driving.

Bobby Peeker: Veteran and Community Advocate

Peeker has logged more than 1 million accident-free miles and continues to give back to the military community after his service in the Marine Corps. He regularly volunteers his time and resources to help fellow servicemen and women and participates in truck shows supporting the Special Olympics.

His passion for trucking was shaped early on by his family, and particularly by his grandfather, who helped remove rubble after the 9/11 attacks using his truck.

Celebrating Trucking Excellence

For over a decade, Pilot has honored professional drivers through the Road Warrior contest, highlighting more than 30 drivers whose dedication and safety-first approach set the standard for the industry.

For more information about the Road Warrior contest, including past winners and how drivers can be recognized, visit Pilot’s website.

Image Source: Pilot

Other Source: The Trucker

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“At every turn, professional drivers bring their grit and dedication to deliver the goods that keep our economy moving,” said Jordan Spradling, vice president of transportation and logistics at Pilot. “We owe professional drivers our gratitude for their hard work. Driver Appreciation Month is an opportunity for us to say ‘thanks for the drive’ and show drivers how much they matter by recognizing and rewarding them for going the extra mile.”

Honoring Drivers with the Road Warrior Contest

Each year, Pilot’s Road Warrior program highlights the incredible commitment of professional drivers across the country, from exceptional safety records to meaningful service in their communities. In 2025, the spotlight is shining brighter than ever thanks to the partnership with the Diesel Brothers.

The reality TV and YouTube stars are building the ultimate custom Kenworth for this year’s Road Warrior champion. Fans can follow the transformation of the big rig on the Diesel Brothers’ channel, @SparksMotorsCo on YouTube, as the team overhauls it for the winner.

Drivers, families, and friends can submit nominations for deserving professional drivers from September 2 through September 19, 2025. The grand prize winner will officially be revealed in October.

Exclusive Perks for Professional Drivers

Beyond the contest, Pilot is also offering special deals throughout September to honor drivers nationwide at participating Pilot, Flying J, and One9 travel centers. These include:

• Three free drinks each week on select cooler brands
• Extra savings on popular snacks and Pilot’s signature food items
• 10% off food and beverages for military and veteran drivers verified through ID.me

These limited-time offers are available in the Pilot app and are designed to provide everyday rewards during Truck Driver Appreciation Month.

How to Get Involved

Professional drivers or their supporters can submit nominations and find contest details at pilotcompany.com/road-warrior. Additional information on Pilot’s Driver Appreciation Month celebrations is available at pilotcompany.com/driver-appreciation-month.

Source: Truckers News

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