The induction begins at 6 p.m., where attendees can join in recognizing the careers and accomplishments of these Wall of Fame honorees. As part of the evening, musician Tony Justice will pay tribute to Bill Weaver, highlighting his contributions to the trucking community.

Alongside the ceremony, guests can enjoy craft beer and bourbon tastings, and a selection of complimentary drinks. A silent auction will also take place, benefiting the St. Christopher Trucker Relief Fund, which supports truckers and their families in need.

MATS 2026 runs from March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The show features product displays, fleet technology exhibits, educational sessions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow drivers, fleet managers, and industry professionals.

The Wall of Fame induction celebrates individuals whose dedication, expertise, and leadership have made lasting impacts on trucking. Attendees are invited to honor these leaders and reflect on the achievements that continue to shape the industry today.

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The event will take place March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, where thousands of drivers, carriers, and industry professionals gather each year for one of trucking’s largest annual events.

A Night That Brings the Industry Together

The Silent Auction will be held during the MATS Opening Night Reception. The event brings together attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders for an evening of networking, food, and entertainment as the show officially gets underway.

Auction items are donated by industry partners, and attendees can place bids throughout the reception. All proceeds from the auction go directly toward supporting SCF and its work assisting truck drivers and their families during times of illness or injury.

“Last year’s Silent Auction was an incredible example of what happens when our industry comes together for drivers in need,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “The generosity we saw — from donated items to competitive bidding — directly translated into meaningful support for truckers and their families. We’re excited to bring that same energy back to MATS this year.”

According to SCF, last year’s auction raised more than $13,500 for the nonprofit, with participation from donors, bidders, and volunteers across the trucking industry.

Why the Fund Matters to Drivers

For many professional drivers, especially owner-operators, time away from the road due to medical issues can quickly create financial strain. The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides short-term assistance for Class A over-the-road drivers who have been forced out of work because of illness or injury within the last 365 days.

The organization also offers health and wellness initiatives aimed at helping drivers prevent long-term health problems and stay on the road.

“Owner-operators and professional drivers are the backbone of our nation’s supply chain, but they often don’t have a safety net when unexpected health issues arise,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at OOIDA. “The Silent Auction at MATS is a powerful reminder that this industry stands behind its drivers. Every bid placed, and every item donated, helps ensure that professional drivers have somewhere to turn when illness or injury takes them off the road.”

Opening Night Reception Sponsor

This year’s Opening Night Reception is sponsored by Triumph, a company focused on modernizing and simplifying freight transactions through financial and technology services designed for the trucking industry.

A Major Gathering for the Trucking Industry

Now in its more than 50-year history, the Mid-America Trucking Show continues to be the largest annual gathering in trucking. Each year, the event draws thousands of drivers, fleet representatives, manufacturers, and service providers from across North America.

The Silent Auction remains one of the show’s community-focused events, giving the industry a way to support drivers facing difficult circumstances.

SCF encourages MATS exhibitors and industry partners to donate items for the auction and invites attendees to participate in bidding during the Opening Night Reception.

More information about the Silent Auction and how to donate items can be found here. Drivers or industry partners interested in supporting the organization can also contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at diane@truckersfund.org.

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Organizers of MATS have confirmed that the MAC Trailer Winter Nationals Championship Truck Pull will once again be part of the show’s lineup, bringing competitive pulling back to Freedom Hall during the final day of the event.

When and where the truck pull takes place

The Winter Nationals Truck Pull is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, beginning at 5 p.m. The event will be held in Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky, immediately following Saturday’s MATS show activities.

The Mid-America Trucking Show itself will run March 26, 27, and 28.

What fans can expect from the competition

The championship pull will feature competitors across multiple pulling classes, continuing a format familiar to longtime fans of the event. Organizers say the lineup will again include hot rod semis, pro stock tractors, light modified tractors, and super stock diesel trucks.

The truck pull has become a staple of the MATS experience, drawing both pulling enthusiasts and trucking professionals who attend the show for equipment, education, and networking.

A staple event alongside the show floor

The Winter Nationals Truck Pull is positioned as part of MATS’s broader effort to balance industry-focused programming with live entertainment. While the show is known for its exhibit halls, educational sessions, and business connections, the truck pull provides an opportunity for attendees to see performance engineering and competition on display in a live arena setting.

For many attendees, the event serves as a capstone to the final day of the show, bringing together drivers, exhibitors, and fans in a shared experience centered on power, precision, and competition.

Ticket alerts and additional details

Additional details about the MAC Trailer Winter Nationals Championship Truck Pull, including ticket availability, can be found through the official MATS website. Those interested can sign up to receive an alert when tickets become available by visiting
https://truckingshow.com/truck-pull/

The return of the Winter Nationals Truck Pull adds another major draw to the 2026 Mid-America Trucking Show schedule, continuing a tradition that blends trucking culture with live motorsports entertainment.

Source: Truckers News

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Walmart sponsors the award and is open to recognizing women whose work reflects a commitment not only to moving freight safely, but also to supporting the people and communities connected to trucking.

“Women are shaping the future of trucking,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president, CEO. “This award celebrates the drivers who go above and beyond in their profession and who uplift others in the industry.”

Why the award matters to the industry

Women make up about 9.5 percent of all professional truck drivers, according to the most recent WIT Index, which tracks the presence of women across trucking roles. While that number has grown over time, WIT says visibility and recognition remain critical to long-term progress.

By spotlighting experienced and dedicated drivers, the association aims to reinforce that professionalism, safety, and leadership are not limited by gender and that the industry benefits when those qualities are recognized publicly.

“Women in trucking aren’t just moving freight, they’re moving the industry forward,” said Ryan McDaniel, senior vice president, Walmart Transportation. “Walmart is honored to continue sponsoring Women In Trucking’s Driver of the Year award and recognize the extraordinary female drivers who lead with professionalism and excellence.”

What the award recognizes

The Driver of the Year honor focuses on more than safe miles alone. Nominees are evaluated based on safety performance, leadership, community involvement, and their overall contribution to improving the image of trucking. WIT emphasizes drivers who act as role models both inside and outside the cab.

Finalists and the winner will be recognized during the 2026 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky, scheduled for March 27. The winner will also receive a commemorative award package that includes a plaque, a custom ring, and additional recognition.

Hearing from the most recent winner

Last year’s honoree, Kathy Blaies, said the recognition carried meaning beyond the stage.

“Every day I get behind the wheel of my car hauler, rain or shine, and do what I love,” Blaies said. “Standing on that stage to receive this award was validation — not just for me, but for every woman who has ever been told ‘this is a man’s world.’ Progress has sometimes felt slow, but seeing more women in this profession proves that change is happening.”

Her comments reflect why the award resonates with many drivers across the industry, especially those who have built long careers through consistency and dedication.

How to submit a nomination

WIT is accepting nominations through January 29, 2026. Drivers can be nominated by employers, coworkers, industry peers, or members of the public who want to recognize a professional driver making a positive impact.

To nominate a driver, click here.

Source: The Trucker

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The show runs March 26 through 28 in Louisville, Kentucky, and the Build Off is set to be one of its biggest attractions once again.

“The Big Rig Build-Off is one of the most exciting events at MATS because it represents the very best of trucking innovation and artistry,” said Toby Young, MATS President. “We’re thrilled to welcome back this fan-favorite competition and showcase the passion and dedication of these outstanding builders.”

Four Builders, One Grand Prize

Just like delivery drivers take pride in a clean ride and a well-organized vehicle, these builders pour everything into designing machines that blend beauty and performance. The 2026 lineup features four well-known names in the custom truck world.

Luke Rethwisch, Rethwisch Transport LLC – The reigning Big Rig Build Off champion from Tomah, Wisconsin, Rethwisch continues his family’s tradition of truck building. His builds combine classic design with today’s technology, proving that skill and pride never go out of style.

James Stegall, Stegall’s Truck Shop – Working out of Perryville, Missouri, Stegall is recognized for his clean, detailed craftsmanship. After earning praise for his award-winning “Afternoon Delight” at a previous MATS show, he’s back to compete with another high-standard build that shows what patience and precision can do.

Randy Menkel, Never Satisfied Builds/J&L Contracting LLC – As Project Manager at Never Satisfied Builds, Menkel leads a team known for transforming heavy haul trucks into stunning showpieces. Their flawless fabrication and attention to perfection have earned them a reputation for pushing boundaries, and this competition is another chance to prove it.

Andrew Ditz, Stickerbilt Customs LLC – Founder of Stickerbilt Customs and a former builder with Chrome Shop Mafia, Ditz is all about hidden precision and sleek design. Every detail matters, and it shows in his reputation for spotless finishes and craftsmanship that goes beyond what’s visible.

Where to See the Builds

If you’re heading to MATS, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship Lot in front of the West Wing is where you’ll want to be. Attendees can check out each truck up close, meet the builders, and see the kind of care and pride that goes into each machine.

Just like the perfect route plan or a spotless vehicle makes a difference in last-mile work, these custom rigs reflect the same dedication to doing things right.

A panel of expert judges will evaluate each truck on creativity, attention to detail, and overall execution. The winner will be revealed at the PKY Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 28, at 10 a.m.

Whether you’re hauling freight or delivering packages, something is inspiring about watching people who take their craft seriously. These builders remind every driver, long haul or last mile, that pride in your ride always shows.

Image Source: MATS

Other Source: Overdrive

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According to MATS organizers, the Pro Talks stage is a place where companies and professionals can connect directly with drivers and help address real needs across the industry. It is meant for those who have practical experience and can offer advice that makes a difference on the job.

“The trucking industry is looking for answers, and MATS is the place they come to find them,” said Toby Young, President of MATS. “We are looking for experts who can provide not just information, but real-world solutions that our attendees can use to improve their businesses immediately. This is an opportunity to move beyond the exhibit hall and become a vital resource for the entire industry.”

Anyone interested in speaking can submit a proposal on the official MATS Call for Speakers page. The priority deadline for submissions is January 1, though proposals will still be accepted afterward with fewer available time slots.

To shape the 2026 program, MATS surveyed more than 50,000 trucking professionals, including owner-operators, fleet leaders, and maintenance specialists. The survey results showed that drivers want more sessions covering equipment, maintenance, government regulations, business management, technology, and safety. These areas remain top of mind for drivers working to stay efficient and profitable in a changing market.

Drivers can review the full findings in the MATS Education Survey Report to see what topics their peers said matter most heading into 2026.

Image Source: Mid America Trucking Show

Other Source: Truckers News 

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