ATA Honors Professional Drivers During Weeklong Celebration
Published: September 21, 2024
At an event near the U.S. Capitol in conjunction with National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, professional truck drivers highlighted their essential contributions to public safety and economic stability across the nation. American Trucking Associations honored four members of its Road Team for their dedication to safety and professionalism, noting how truckers help sustain commerce in both urban and rural settings.
Drivers like April Coolidge from Walmart Transportation shared personal sacrifices, indicating the challenges of being away from family for significant events like birthdays and sports. This sentiment was echoed by Emily Plummer from Prime Inc., who emphasized the importance of acknowledging the work truck drivers do.
The week-long recognition is designed to raise awareness about the economic impact of truck driving, with drivers urging the public to recognize their daily contributions and professionalism. Wayne Crowder, a seasoned driver from FedEx Freight, remarked on how this acknowledgment translates into respect from the community.
This year's observance ran from September 15-21, with bipartisan support from Senators John Boozman and Mark Kelly, who co-sponsored a resolution recognizing the week for its value to the economy and community connectivity.
Experts emphasize that appreciation events like National Truck Driver Appreciation Week can significantly impact the morale of truck drivers and the perception of the profession within the public sphere. Recognizing that truckers are crucial for everyday goods access, the industry can benefit from initiatives that foster a stronger respect and understanding for their essential work, ultimately encouraging new drivers to enter the field and addressing ongoing labor shortages in transportation.