Five good things that happened in trucking this week – Sept. 18

Often, the work week can be stressful – full of meetings, projects and deadlines. Then add a global pandemic, natural disasters and more on top of that, and suddenly we’re living in a whole new world. To break through that fog and keep us looking to a brighter weekend, here are five good things that happened in trucking this week.

Industry celebrates National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

This week, the trucking industry recognized its truck drivers with special events, giving out prizes and awards as a part of its recognition. Using the hashtag, #NTDAW2020 and #NTDAW, companies took to social media to spread the word about this week’s events. Thank you to all professional drivers who never falter in their duty to supporting the nation's economy and its communities.

ATA opens nominations for Annual Image Awards

The American Trucking Associations have opened nominations for the 2020 Mike Russell Trucking Image Award – recognizing individuals and organizations that have gone the extra mile to promote the image and reputation of the industry.

“As the country faced unprecedented obstacles due to the spread of COVID-19, Americans witnessed firsthand the steadfast efforts and importance of the trucking industry,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “As an industry, we collectively came together and told our story. When the world needed us, we proudly reassured families that ‘a truck is on the way’ and that the industry is fully committed to doing its part in the national effort to ensure America makes it through the coronavirus pandemic.”

First awarded in 2007, the Mike Russell Trucking Image Award is given to an individual, motor carrier, trucking organization and industry supplier who each demonstrate excellence in illustrating the industry’s essentiality, professionalism, and commitment to safety on and off the highways.

“Over the last six years we have seen a drastic improvement in the way the American public perceives the trucking industry. This change is due to our industry making incredible efforts to deliver our message and show people the positive impact we have,” said Elisabeth Barna, ATA EVP of industry affairs. “National polling has found that the more an individual knows someone in trucking, the better perception they have of the whole industry. These positive views lead to tangible grassroots and advocacy victories and the advancement of trucking’s priorities, while improving our ability to recruit and attract new talent who want to begin a career our industry.”

All nominations are being accepted until Oct. 5.

FedEx driver supports ‘small’ business

While we’re past the dog days of summer, temperatures are still heating up around the country. Luckily, kids like Aiden are thinking ahead.

With his 75-cent lemonade stand, Aiden was able to serve refreshments to a local FedEx driver. Keep up the great work, Aiden!

Truckers receive support from TravelCenters of America

TravelCenters of America Inc. (TA) has launched its first point-of-sale fundraising campaign to help professional drivers who may be out of work due to an illness or injury. At participating locations, customers shopping in the travel stores will have the option to round up their order to the nearest dollar, and 100% of the donated amount will benefit the St. Christopher’s Trucker Relief Fund (SCF).

“We’re committed to giving back to the millions of professional drivers who call us their home away from home,” said Barry Richards, president of TA. “These men and women sacrifice so much for our country, including their own physical health. This point-of-sale campaign provides an easy way for fellow drivers, our other customers and our employees to help those in need.”

While the promotion is not applicable in Mississippi or South Carolina, it will run through Nov. 30.

“We’re honored and humbled by the support we receive from TravelCenters of America,” said Donna Kennedy, director of SCF. “Professional drivers always support each other and we’re confident when they see the point-of-sale fundraiser at TA registers across the country, they’ll be compelled to help. This campaign will have an immense impact for those in need.”