Celebrating the Next Generation of Drivers

Lindsey Trent, president and founder of NGTA, praised the nominees and winners for setting a high standard in a demanding field.

“I am in awe of the participation by fleets who took the time to nominate and celebrate such a vital cohort of their workforce — those younger than 30 who are diligently pursuing the fantastic, rewarding careers that trucking offers in professional truck driving jobs and as diesel technicians,” Trent said.

The recognition program focuses on individuals who show safety, dedication, and a drive to make a positive impact within their companies and communities.

Grand Champion CDL Driver: Isaiah Hicks-Dixon

This year’s Grand Champion CDL Driver title went to Isaiah Hicks-Dixon of Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL).

Hicks-Dixon began with ODFL in 2019 as a dock worker and quickly made it known that his goal was to become a driver. His hard work earned him a place in the ODTDT program, where he excelled as both a switcher and combo driver. By January 2022, he had advanced into a linehaul driving role and has been setting an example ever since.

NGTA highlighted his ongoing commitment: taking extra weekend pickups, coaching fellow employees, and always putting customers first. His attitude and performance have made him a role model within ODFL.

“Known for his calm under pressure, impeccable safety record, and outstanding customer service, Hicks-Dixon is frequently praised by customers who specifically request him for their deliveries,” NGTA noted. “He is a professional in every sense—his dress, demeanor, and respect for coworkers make him someone others want to work with. His ‘winning attitude’ is infectious, lifting morale and setting a high bar for everyone around him.”

Honoring a Wide Pool of Talent

Alongside Hicks-Dixon, 56 other young drivers and technicians were named 2025 NEXT Top Talent finalists. Each honoree was recognized for their reliability, growth mindset, and dedication to their teams.

NGTA explained that every finalist would be given a custom banner and commemorative plaque to proudly display at their workplace.

“Each one was selected for their reliability, growth mindset, and contributions to their teams, customers, and communities,” NGTA said.

The CDL driver award winners included professionals from companies such as Gordon Food Service, Cal Valley Trucking, Waste Management, FedEx Freight, Melton Truck Lines, Averitt, Garner Trucking, Koch Trucking, Smith Ready Mix, Ralph Moyle, Inc., Alaska West Express, and more. Old Dominion itself had several honorees in addition to Hicks-Dixon, further showcasing its investment in young talent.

Industry Support Behind the Program

The NEXT Top Talent Award is backed by sponsors Fullbay and Project 61, two organizations focused on advancing careers in trucking and maintenance. Their partnership with NGTA ensures continued support for young professionals entering the field.

The launch of this award underscores the importance of nurturing the next generation in trucking. With drivers like Hicks-Dixon and dozens of other rising stars being recognized, the industry is sending a clear message: the future of trucking is in capable, motivated hands.

Source: Next Generation in Trucking, Truckers News
Source: Truckers News

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“There are some impressive female trailblazers who have made significant contributions to the trucking industry,” shares Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, President and CEO of the Women in Trucking Association (WIT).

Source: Women in Trucking

The trucking industry holds a rich history of extraordinary women who defied expectations and left lasting legacies. Here are just a few of the inspiring pioneers who revolutionized the field.

Bertha Benz (1849–1944)

Although not directly tied to trucking, Bertha Benz’s influence on motorized transportation is indisputable. She played a crucial role in the evolution of motor vehicles, financially backing her husband Karl Benz’s automotive invention. Bertha’s bold decision to take an unprecedented test drive in 1888 highlighted the potential of motorized vehicles to reshape travel and logistics, ultimately laying the groundwork for the modern trucking industry.

Marie Luhring (1899–1970)

Marie Luhring shattered gender norms as one of America’s first female truck designers. Overcoming the odds, she became the first female associate of the American Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) in 1920. Her groundbreaking work at the International Motor Company opened doors for women in the field of automotive and truck engineering, inspiring numerous generations of female designers to follow her lead.

Lillie Elizabeth Drennan (1897–1974)

Lillie Drennan holds the distinction of being the first licensed female truck driver in the United States. Co-founding Drennan Truck Line in 1929, she managed her Texas-based trucking company for over 24 years despite facing significant prejudice. Drennan’s unwavering determination and business acumen showed that talent and skill—not outdated notions of gender—define success in trucking.

Luella Bates (1897–1985)

When World War I left gaps in the workforce, Luella Bates rose to the challenge. Initially serving as a truck mechanic, Bates soon became the first woman officially hired as a truck driver by the Four Wheel Drive Auto Co. in Wisconsin. She excelled as both a test and commercial driver, proving that women could master demanding roles within the industry. Post-war, Bates championed women in trucking, urging them to enter and thrive in the field.

Women Driving Progress Today

Modern leaders are taking the torch from past pioneers, spearheading innovation and pushing for inclusivity within the trucking industry. The Women in Trucking Association recognizes these forward-thinking professionals through honors like the Influential Women in Trucking and Distinguished Woman in Logistics awards.

Tracy Rushing – RE Garrison Trucking

Tracy Rushing stands out as a key voice in trucking safety and workforce equality. Serving as Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting at RE Garrison Trucking, Rushing has integrated advanced safety measures and driven initiatives to increase women’s participation in the field. Her efforts have been widely recognized, including her 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking award from WIT. A member of organizations like the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) and the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), Rushing exemplifies the balance of innovation and inclusivity needed for the industry’s future.

Shelley Simpson – J.B. Hunt Transport

Shelley Simpson’s career at J.B. Hunt Transport reflects consistent leadership excellence. Starting as a customer service representative in 1994, Simpson rose through the ranks to become President and CEO. She’s played a pivotal role in transforming the company’s business operations and technology innovations, including the development of J.B. Hunt 360°, a proprietary platform aimed at increasing freight efficiency. Her career path demonstrates how understanding every level of a business can lead to impactful, forward-thinking leadership.

Honoring Women’s Contributions to Trucking

Women have had—and continue to have—a profound impact on the trucking industry. From historic pioneers like Luella Bates and Lillie Drennan to modern change-makers like Tracy Rushing and Shelley Simpson, these women are challenging stereotypes, driving innovation, and reshaping the industry landscape for future generations.

Their stories remind us that success depends on talent and perseverance, not gender. To explore more about influential women shaping the trucking industry, visit resources provided by the Women in Trucking Association.

Source: Women in Trucking

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