On March 3, during the closing banquet at the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) annual convention in Orlando, Florida, TCA honored five drivers as the association’s 2026 Professional Drivers of the Year. The annual award is sponsored by Cummins Inc. and Loves Travel Stops.
Chosen from a competitive group of nominees, these drivers were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the trucking industry, their unwavering commitment to safety and their exceptional leadership both on and off the road. Each driver received $20,000 and was greeted with a standing ovation during the awards ceremony.
The 2026 TCA Professional Drivers of the Year are, in alphabetical order:
- Jesus Acevedo-Soto, Swift Transportation;
- Nick Barboza, Covenant Logistics Group Inc.;
- Tommy Cash, CAST Specialty Transportation;
- Richard Fertig, Smith Transport; and
- Marcia Luchenbill, Knight Transportation.
According to TCA, each of these drivers have made significant impacts within the trucking industry and their communities. Their stories of resilience, dedication to safety and service to their local areas serve as inspiration to others in the profession.
“We’re incredibly proud to see these drivers receive such an esteemed honor,” said Todd Wilson, vice president of sales at Love’s Travel Stops.
“Their consistent commitment, integrity, and work ethic set a powerful example each day,” he continued. “They represent the values we stand for at Love’s, and we’re honored to champion their continued influence within the trucking industry.”
José Samperio, vice president and general manager of North America on-highway at Cummins Inc., also expressed pride in the event.
“It’s a privilege to help recognize these outstanding professionals who play a vital role in keeping our industry moving forward, he said. “Their dedication to high standards on the road and meaningful contributions to their communities make a significant and enduring difference.”
To learn more about the 2026 TCA Professional Drivers of the Year and their individual journeys, visit tcaprofessionaldriversoftheyear.com/2026-winners.
Nominations for the 2027 TCA Professional Drivers of the Year will open this fall. For more information, visit TCAProfessionalDriversoftheYear.com.
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.
