2018 Transition Trucking Award Announced: Driving Success for One Vet
The professional journey from military to civilian can be filled with unknowns, but thanks to Kenworth Trucking and FASTPORT, Hiring Our Heroes was able to make the dream of becoming an owner-operator in the trucking industry a reality.
U.S. Army veteran, Quinton Ward of Werner Enterprises, was named the 2018 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence award winner on Friday, December 14, 2018, at the U.S. Chamber.
“We are honored to have had a helping hand in helping Quinton continue on the road to success and congratulate him for winning this year’s award,” said Eric Eversole, President of Hiring Our Heroes and Vice President at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
At the close of the event, Ward was presented with keys to a new, fully-loaded Kenworth T680 truck and the opportunity to be an owner-operator.
“I’d like to thank all the companies that are here today, and to all of the companies around the country that are recognizing veterans,” said Quinton Ward. “It’s just been a whirlwind and I am so happy to showcase what veterans can do out here.”
For Ward, the decision to transition into the trucking industry aligned with his commitment to serve. “I chose trucking because it gives me the ability to drive and see the same country I signed and swore an oath to defend,” said Ward.
Ward was born into a military family and proudly served in the U.S. Army for six years as a mechanic, instructor, and career counselor before retiring as a Sergeant in 2010. He now serves as an ambassador on the Operation Freedom Fleet for Werner Enterprises to help other veterans transition into the trucking industry.
Ward was one of four finalists in the running for the 2018 award.
- Mordaunt “Platt” Barber, U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy veteran, TMC Transportation
- Summar Hanks, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Air National Guard veteran, US Xpress
- Quinton Ward, U.S. Army veteran, Werner Enterprises
- Christopher Young, U.S. Army veteran and active U.S. Army Reservist, Stevens Transport
Each of the finalists embodies the skills and attributes taught in the military and have utilized these qualities to be successful in a new career field: the trucking industry. “I’d like to recognize our four finalists. Thank you for your service and dedication for this country and thank you for your perseverance in this program!” – Kurt Swihart Marketing Director, Kenworth Trucking.
The trucking industry is committed to hiring veterans and aiding their transition into civilian employment. “Their [the finalists] command, communication, leadership, and ability to perform in stressful situations are attributes that any employer would want.” – Brad Bentley, President, Fastport.
