Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative have announced 12 semi-finalists for the 2025 “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” award, which recognizes veterans who have successfully transitioned into trucking careers.

The semi-finalists represent multiple branches of the U.S. military, including the National Guard and Reserve, and were nominated based on performance and commitment in their new roles as professional drivers.

2025 Semi-Finalists

• Kathleen Carreto, U.S. Army National Guard, Roehl Transport

• Bradley Lecky, U.S. Army, Crawford Electric (Trained by Troops Into Transportation)

• Federico Hudson, U.S. Air Force, Van Wyk, Inc. (Trained by The CDL School)

• Gaylon Hensley, U.S. Army, Melton Truck Lines (Trained by Central Tech)

• Daniel Hemphill, U.S. Army, Wayne R. West Trucking (Trained by Del Mar College)

• Mark Scriven, U.S. Army, Stevens Transport (Trained by HDS Truck Driving School)

• Joseph Barotti, U.S. Air Force/U.S. Marine Corps, Werner Enterprises

• Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army/Army Reserve, Werner Enterprises

• Macy Mattice, U.S. Army, Melton Truck Lines

• Ryan Gordon, U.S. Army, Prime, Inc.

• Precious Cannon-Scott, Air National Guard, Prime, Inc.

• Charles Jones, Jr., U.S. Army, Roehl Transport

Grand Prize: Kenworth T680

The winner will receive a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and PACCAR Powertrain. The truck includes a PACCAR MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission, and DX-40 tandem rear axles. It will be on display at the Fort Campbell Career Summit on August 6 in Tennessee.

Interior features include heated/cooled ultraleather seats, a rotating worktable, factory-installed fridge, and space for a microwave and TV. The T680 is equipped with digital driver assistance systems, including DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist.

Recognition Events

All semi-finalists will attend a recognition event on Sept. 18 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. A plant tour at Kenworth’s Chillicothe facility will follow on Sept. 19, when finalists will be announced.

Quotes from Program Leaders

“These semi-finalists show the dedication and leadership that veterans bring to trucking,” said Kyle Kimball, director of marketing at Kenworth.

“We’re proud to celebrate these drivers who continue to serve their country behind the wheel,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes.

“This year’s group is one of the most diverse we’ve seen, and many are part of Registered Apprenticeship Programs,” added Brad Bentley, president of Fastport.

Public Voting and Award Ceremony

Public voting for the award will take place online from Nov. 1 through Veterans Day. Finalists will participate in a veteran-focused event in December, with the winner announced on Dec. 12.