“Supporting the nation’s truck drivers by recognizing their hard work and dedication is part of our mission at Trucker Path and for all NTDAS sponsors,” said Chris Oliver, CMO of Trucker Path. “The National Truck Driver Appreciation Sweepstakes is our way of thanking them for their continuing contributions with prizes that provide comfort and convenience on the road. We are pleased to present this program for the fourth year in a row.”

Whaley, who grew up in Citra, Fla., earned his CDL through Prime Inc. in December 2021 and has been driving as a lease operator ever since. He says the win was a complete surprise.

“I’ve never come close to winning anything like this,” Whaley said. “I just can’t believe it. I’m so appreciative.”

Chosen from hundreds of entries across the country, Whaley’s prize haul tops $10,000 and includes items designed to make life on the road more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.

NTDAS Sponsors Go Big for Drivers

Trucker Path highlighted the generosity of this year’s sponsors:

Title Sponsors:
• Sheetz
• Double Coin Tires
• Exxon Mobil
• Trucker Path

Supporting Sponsors:
• La Quinta
• Red Roof Inn
• Rokform
• The Trucker Media Group

2025 NTDAS Prize Package

The prize package is packed with items to help drivers relax, recharge, and enjoy their downtime:

•  SHEETZ: $3,000 gift card plus a $500 merchandise bundle
•  DOUBLE COIN TIRES: $4,000 American Express gift card
•  EXXON MOBIL: $500 gift card
•  RED ROOF INN: 25 vouchers worth $100 each for hotel stays
•  ROKFORM: $500 gift card
•  TRUCKER PATH: 1-year SiriusXM subscription ($275 value)
•  WYNDHAM HOTELS (La Quinta): 10 certificates worth 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points each ($1,950 value)

This sweepstakes not only celebrates truckers’ hard work but also provides them with tools and perks to make life on the road smoother and more enjoyable.

Sources: Trucker Path and The Trucker

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Additional award recipients

Several other drivers were also recognized for their exceptional skills and contributions during the event.

• Rookie of the Year: Daniel Skidmore, Prime Inc.
• Professional Excellence Award: Robert Hussey, Walmart Transportation
• Written Exam Award: Jamie Ingram, FedEx Express
• Pre-Trip Inspection Award: Audrey Lewis, DHL
• Team Champion: FedEx Freight

Class winners

The winners across various competition classes were as follows:

• Sleeper Berth: Bob Bramwell, ABF Freight Inc.
• Twin Trailers: Robert Leach, Old Dominion Freight Lines
• Tank Truck: Eric Carpenter, Walmart Transportation
• 3-Axle: Robbie Roth, FedEx Express
• 4-Axle: Joshua Price, Old Dominion Freight Line
• 5-Axle: Jamie Raines, Walmart Transportation
• Flatbed: Ron Hoover, Prime Inc.
• Straight Truck: Mark Carver, FedEx Freight
• Step Van: Courtney Husser, Walmart Transportation

Image Source: Missouri Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News

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Celebrating 25 Years of Dedication and Excellence

Over his 25-year tenure with Missouri-based Prime Inc., Miller has exemplified what it means to be a professional driver. He has amassed an incredible 3.5 million accident-free miles while driving for Prime and 3.8 million accident-free miles throughout his career.

Miller’s commitment to safety and professionalism has earned him numerous accolades over the years. These include the MOTA Professional Excellence Award in 2019, selection as the Missouri Trucking Association Driver of the Year in both 2016 and 2023, and serving as a member of ATA America’s Road Team Captains.

Sharing their excitement on Facebook, Prime Inc. wrote, “Thomas, your commitment to safety, professionalism, and excellence on the road inspires us all. Congratulations once again on this incredible honor!”

Other Driver of the Year Finalists

Thomas Miller wasn’t the only standout professional celebrated at this event. Other finalists recognized for their achievements in safety and service included:

• Jay Williams (TWCV Inc.)
• Rollie Fugate (Walmart)
• Michael Bortz (Sorenson Transport)
• Danny Tankersly (WEL Companies)

Recognizing Excellence Throughout the Industry

The conference also celebrated fleets and industry leaders significantly contributing to both roadway and workplace safety. ATA President and CEO Chris Spear underscored the importance of these efforts, remarking, “For trucking, safety isn’t just a box to check — it’s at the heart of what we do. These professionals lead by example, showing what real dedication and attention to detail look like day in and day out. Congratulations to the recipients of this award as well as to every nominee. They reflect the high standards and integrity that define our industry.”

Highlights of the Awards

President’s Trophy – Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company

• Over 100 Million Miles – Roehl Transport, Marshfield, Wisconsin
• Between 25–100 Million Miles – Bulkmatic, LLC, Griffith, Indiana
• Under 25 Million Miles – Talon Logistics, Harmony, Pennsylvania

2024 National Safety Director – Sponsored by DMC Insurance

• Ronnie Holland, TCW, Inc.

2024 Excellence in Safety – Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company

• Illinois Trucking Association

Jacob Pierce, Executive Director of the Safety Management Council, praised the honorees, saying, “We’re really proud to celebrate this year’s honorees – each one of them is helping shape a stronger, safer culture all across our industry. From motor carriers to state association leaders and the drivers on the road, their efforts are essential to advancing safety, and we’re grateful for their dedication.”

The Legacy of Leaders Like Miller

Thomas Miller’s recognition as the 2024 Driver of the Year is more than just a personal accomplishment; it’s a testament to the exceptional standards upheld by professionals across the trucking industry. Like every honoree and nominee celebrated at the event, his dedication and achievements continue to inspire others and reinforce a culture of safety, professionalism, and integrity.

Source: Truckers News

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The donation came as part of her recognition by the Trucking Cares Foundation, where she was named the 2024 recipient of the John Lex Premier Achievement Award. The award includes a $5,000 grant that the honoree donates to a charity of their choosing.

Speaking about the honor, Sova reflected on the personal and professional significance of the award.

“In October I had the honor of receiving the John Lex Premier Achievement Award. Having known John Lex and the outstanding person, mentor and captain he was on America’s Road Team, I was shocked to hear ATA President & CEO Chris Spear announce me as the winner,” shared Sova. “To be a part of John’s legacy is one of the proudest moments and accomplishments of my trucking career. I’m thankful to everyone who nominated me for this prestigious award.”

Why Harmony House?

Sova explained her decision to support Harmony House, emphasizing their critical role in aiding those affected by domestic violence in Missouri.

“Harmony House was my charity of choice because of the outstanding work that they do in the greater Springfield community and in the State of Missouri. Helping victims of domestic violence, which includes men, women, and children, is vital here. Not only have they provided shelter and a safe haven for these victims, but numerous other services. They’ve partnered with law enforcement and community groups to provide assistance to families in need,” said Sova.

Her connection to the organization runs even deeper due to its long-standing partnership with her employer, Prime Inc.

“I also chose Harmony House because of the long-term partnership they have with Prime Inc. For many years, Prime Inc. has supported this nonprofit through the ICare campaign, bringing awareness to the realities of victims of violence. I’ve always wanted to give back to the organization because they do great work. Thanks to the Trucking Cares Foundation, I was able to give a monetary donation to Harmony House. Doing so filled my heart with joy. It led to me volunteering to feed families during their Thanksgiving dinner. It was awesome,” she added.

Gratitude from Harmony House

Jared Alexander, the executive director of Harmony House, expressed deep appreciation for Sova’s generosity and the support from the Trucking Cares Foundation.

“We are incredibly honored and grateful for this very generous donation from Dee Sova of Prime Inc and the Trucking Cares Foundation; a 501c3 charity established by the American Trucking Associations,” said Alexander. “This generous support makes an enormous impact, allowing us to provide vital resources and services to individuals experiencing domestic violence. Dee’s dedication to uplifting others and John’s commitment to community care truly reflect the power of compassion and collaboration. Together, with supporters like Dee, TCF supporters and organizations like ATA and Prime Inc., we’re able to create safety, hope, and new beginnings for survivors.”

Source: Truckers News

Image: Trucking Cares Foundation

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In October 2024, Dee Sova, a driver with Prime Inc., was honored by the American Trucking Associations’ Trucking Cares Foundation. She received the prestigious 2024 John Lex Premier Achievement Award, acknowledging her efforts to support and uplift women within the trucking sector.

An Advocate for Females in Trucking

Dee Sova stands out not only as a professional driver but as a beacon of support for female truck drivers nationwide. She founded “Trucking Diva’s Rock,” an online community that provides a platform and voice for women in this predominantly male industry. This initiative has expanded to include a YouTube channel, further broadening its reach and impact.

A Multidimensional Role Model

Beyond her role as a driver, Dee serves as a life coach and mentor, particularly to grieving parents and widows. With an impressive record of over three million accident-free miles in her 33-year career, she inspires many with her dedication and commitment. Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO, remarked, “Dee is the real deal – someone whose personal and professional story has been assembled throughout her adult life.”

Recognition and Leadership

Dee’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She previously won Prime’s 2017 Highway Diamond of the Year award and actively contributes to Prime’s Driver Advisory Board. Additionally, she has taken on leadership roles with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, showcasing her commitment to safety and community service.

The Broader Mission of the Trucking Cares Foundation

The Trucking Cares Foundation serves as the charitable branch of the trucking industry, aiming to tackle various societal challenges. Its core missions include providing humanitarian aid, combating human trafficking, nurturing leadership, and fostering stronger ties with law enforcement and military organizations. Dee Sova’s recognition is a testament to her tireless dedication and impact within the trucking community, inspiring countless others to follow in her footsteps.

Source: The Trucker / LinkedIn/ Dee Sova 

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