Each year, Heavy Duty Trucking honors a handful of the country’s most forward-thinking fleet executives with the title of “HDT Truck Fleet Innovator.” Read how this year's winners are using the power of collaboration to spec the best trucks and operate more efficiently — and profitably.

The 2014 HDT Truck Fleet Innovators

• Bill Bliem: Innovation in the Details

• Shelby Green: Reinventing the Beverage Fleet

• David Hoover: Supercenter Fleet Super at Collaboration

• Mike O’Connell: Performance With a Purpose

This year’s Innovators operate vehicles ranging from cargo vans through Class 8. They are all heavily focused on sustainability and fuel efficiency, including higher mpg and alternative powertrains such as electric and natural gas. They know the value of taking the long view in spec’ing and maintaining vehicles, rather than focusing simply on up-front acquisition costs.

The winners are chosen by HDT’s editors from nominations from the industry, which are submitted by suppliers, fellow fleet executives, associations, drivers and others.

An award presentation will be held during the Mid-America Trucking Show Fleet Forum on March 26 in Louisville, Ky., followed by a panel discussion moderated by HDT Equipment Editor Jim Park.