LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Class of 2026 Wall of Fame inductees will be honored for their lasting contributions to trucking during the opening reception at the Mid America Trucking Show (MATS) on Thursday, March 26, at 6 p.m. The reception, sponsored by Triumph, will begin at 6 p.m. in the South Wing Lobby A at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
Each year, the MATS Wall of Fame recognizes leaders, innovators, and advocates who have shaped the industry through dedication, creativity, and service.
According to a statement from MATS, the Wall of Fame induction is one of the most meaningful traditions at the annual event, recognizing individuals whose contributions have shaped the trucking industry’s culture, professionalism and sense of community.
The opening reception, which takes place at the close of the first day of the show, is free to all badged MATS attendees. For more information, visit truckingshow.com/opening-reception.
The 2026 Wall of Fame inductees include:
Bette Garber
Bette Garber is being recognized for her four decades as a photographer who helped shape the visual identity of the trucking industry and elevated the professional driver. According to a statement released by MATS, Garber’s enduring visual legacy, long-time support for MATS and active involvement in charitable efforts have made a lasting impact on the industry.
Bill Foose
A veteran of the trucking industry, Bill Foose founded Foose Transport in 1967 and built a lasting legacy defined by excellence, integrity and a passion for mentoring the next generation of drivers. He was chosen because of his lifelong dedication as a professional driver and business owner, his role as a mentor and advocate for professionalism, and his long-time contribution to the industry’s spirit of camaraderie and charitable efforts benefiting drivers and their families.
Bill Weaver
Bill Weaver, known as “The Trucking Troubadour,” was a beloved professional driver who used his music and storytelling to capture the spirit of life on the road and foster relationships in the trucking community. He is honored for his enduring musical and visual legacy that resonated with drivers, his role in uniting the community through his performances and storytelling, and his commitment to charitable initiatives like the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, which exemplified his belief in mutual support within the industry.
During the MATS opening reception, musical artist Tony Justice will perform a special tribute to Weaver.
Linda Garner-Bunch has been with The Trucker since 2020, picking up the reins as managing editor in 2022. Linda has nearly 40 years of experience in the publishing industry, covering topics from the trucking and automotive industry to employment, real estate, home decor, crafts, cooking, weddings, high school sports — you name it, she’s written about it. She is also an experienced photographer, designer and copy editor who has a heartfelt love for the trucking industry, from the driver’s seat to the C-suite.
