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Get to know Judd

• Appearances at NTDC: 9
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 Million
• Reason for Competing: “It’s good practice for everyday driving.” Ever since Judd decided to give the competition a shot, he’s seen it as a way to stay sharp, challenge himself and connect with others who take pride in doing the job right.
• Career Motivation: “There’s a difference between a truck driver and a professional driver.” With over 35 years on the road, Judd takes pride in being professional – keeping himself and everyone around him safe. Of the different careers he’s tried, nothing compares to being a truck driver – or as Judd would call it – a “freight relocation specialist.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: Judd has a two-part approach to safety: “1. Stay relaxed and calm behind the wheel, and 2. Always pay attention 360 degrees.”

Get to know John

• Appearances at NTDC: 6
• Reason for Competing: John first got involved in 2010 after a few coworkers encouraged him to give it a try. He placed near the bottom that first year, but instead of getting discouraged, he connected with experienced mentors – including his friend Rich Sweeney – who pushed him to keep practicing. The NTDC community quickly began to feel like family: “They don’t frown on mistakes – they support you and help you learn from them.”
• Career Motivation: "I’m proud to be part of an industry that keeps the country moving, and I’m always thinking of the people who sat in the seat before me.” John treats his equipment and freight with respect, knowing the next person in the supply chain will have to handle it. 
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be 100% aware of your surroundings.” John emphasizes defensive driving and maintaining 360-degree awareness at all times. He takes the pre-trip exam seriously, because it’s his responsibility to know the vehicle and communicate clearly with a mechanic if necessary. 

Get to know Ernie

• Appearances at NTDC: 14
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 2 million
• Reason for Competing: Ernie was first encouraged to compete by a safety manager who saw his potential – and it paid off. Now in his 14th year, Ernie knows a thing or two about the competition. One thing’s for sure: “Nationals is nothing like states.” That next level of challenge is exactly what keeps him coming back, determined to rise to it every time.
• Career Motivation: “I was always fascinated by watching people maneuver trucks, and I like the sound of the engine.” It seems only right that Ernie considers truck driving to be such a comfortable fit. Appreciating the independence, he says the cab of the truck is his ideal “office.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be a driver, not a steering wheel holder.” Ernie carries out this motto with his three-part approach: “You have to be patient, self-disciplined and considerate of others.”  

Get to know Ina

• Appearances at NTDC: 18
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 3 million
• Accolades: America’s Road Team Captain
• Reason for Competing: Ina first got involved when the NTDC was still called the Trucking Rodeo. “My safety manager asked if I wanted to compete. I didn’t even know what it was, but I figured, why not?” That first year, she earned Rookie of the Year. Fueled by a competitive spirit and a drive to be the best truck driver she could be, Ina started training more seriously – and started winning consistently. “It’s the shared camaraderie between competitors across the nation and across companies. That’s what keeps us all going back.”
• Career Motivation: Ina grew up around trucks – her dad was a driver, and she was always proud of that. “I’ve always believed being a truck driver is cool – and now, I get to represent drivers in a positive way.” She loves being out in nature, seeing the sights, meeting people and escaping the monotony of an office job. “It’s the classic freedom of the road.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be patient and leave space in front of you. Those two things will do more to keep you out of an accident than anything else.” 

Get to know Nick

• Appearances at NTDC: 5
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Accolades: Minnesota State Grand Champion
• Reason for Competing: Nick got involved with the competition early on thanks to a fellow driver at his service center. His drive to win was fueled by his desire to join the Minnesota Trucking Association, where he eventually served as president. To Nick, practicing with Team Minnesota and being part of that community is part of what makes the NTDC “a lot of fun” and what keeps him coming back.
• Career Motivation: As a second-generation driver under his dad, Nick takes pride in "keeping it going.” But it’s not just family tradition that Nick is keeping alive – with every safe delivery, he plays a vital role in keeping the economy moving.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Give yourself an out – leave a cushion around you on the road.”

Get to know Paul

• Appearances at NTDC: 1
• Reason for competing: Paul hadn’t considered competing until last year, when a fellow driver encouraged him to give it a shot. Now that he knows what to expect, he’s looking forward to a shot at redemption. “I don’t think I did as well as I could have, so this time I’m going to be more prepared.” With a mini course set up at his service center and advice from veteran competitors, Paul is ready to bring his best to Nationals.
• Career Motivation: Paul’s been passionate about driving for as long as he can remember. What drives him today is simple: “I do my job safely and I get it done on time.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Keep your eyes moving and plan for the worst.”  

Get to know Tom

• Appearances at NTDC: 8
• Reason for competing: Since first getting started at the competitions, Tom has continued to fight for his spot to compete. “I get to represent XPO, and I have fun doing it.” He credits strong mentors for getting him started and enjoys paying it forward: “They taught me a lot, and now I try to pass it on to the new guys.”
• Career Motivation: Driving is what Tom enjoys most, and it’s what he’s wanted to do since he was a kid. “I liked to drive anything – even the lawnmower.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Just pay attention – not just to yourself, but to others.” 

Get to know Jeff

• Appearances at NTDC: 14
• Accolades: America’s Road Team Captain
• Reason for Competing: “I have always thought competition was fun – especially when it involves driving.” Naturally, Jeff took the opportunity to compete for XPO. Over the years, he’s realized how valuable the TDCs are for learning more about the industry and equipment, and he credits it with helping him become a better driver.
• Career Motivation: Jeff loves knowing that as a pickup and delivery (P&D) driver, he can make a real difference in someone’s day. “When you roll up and there are people waiting for you — that gives me goosebumps just thinking about it.” He values the trust people place in drivers and takes pride in easing their stress.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Practice patience and self-discipline. No one’s driving your vehicle for you — you have to do it.” As someone who serves on a safety review board, Jeff knows exactly where mistakes happen most, and he emphasizes that staying calm and focused behind the wheel is everything. 

Get to know Joe

• Appearances at NTDC: 11
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Accolades: Rhode Island State Grand Champion
• Reason for Competing: For Joe, it’s all about the challenge. “I heard the word ‘competition’ and said, sign me up.” He thrives on the opportunity to prove himself and continues to refine his approach each year. While his core training routine stays consistent, he always tries to add something new based on what he learned the year before.
• Career Motivation: “There’s nothing without trucking.” Joe is proud of the role truckers play in keeping the economy moving, and with that sense of purpose driving him, the job feels natural. “I enjoy my job, so it’s easy for me to keep doing it.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “The most important thing is to stay off your phone.” Joe also follows the same routine for his pre-trip inspections, ensuring nothing gets missed. 

Get to know Heath

• Appearances at NTDC: 3
• Reason for Competing: “They’d been trying to get me to compete for years.” It’s a good thing he finally caved, because from that moment on, Heath was hooked. His competition mindset is simple: “You practice every day on the job, and when competition day comes, you either do it or you don’t.”
• Career Motivation: As a third-generation driver, trucking runs in Heath’s family – and after 33 years in the industry, driving feels natural to him. “I like traveling,” he says, and the job’s daily challenges continue to make it rewarding.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Always be aware of your surroundings, especially with how many people are on their cell phones.” 

Get to know Dan

• Appearances at NTDC: 8
• Accolades: Idaho State Grand Champion
• Reason for Competing: From his first set of car keys to the big rig, Dan has always understood the importance of safe driving. Competing gives him a chance to showcase the habits he practices every day and put his skills to the test. “I’ve always been a competitive person – I like to challenge myself in everything I do.” For Dan, NTDC isn’t just a competition; it’s an opportunity to learn, meet new people and be part of a larger community of professional drivers.
• Career Motivation: “Driving is all I’ve ever done – it’s where my heart is.” Dan is proud of his driving skills and his accident-free record. “I’ve never had a preventable accident. And that’s something to be proud of, because nobody did it but me.” He takes safety seriously and sees his spotless record as a personal achievement.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Give yourself an out – leave room. You have to be a defensive driver.” Dan, who’s served on safety committees in the past, believes it all starts with paying attention and making safety a habit. “Train your brain. Basic procedures like buckling your seatbelt should be muscle memory.” 

Get to know Jeff

• Appearances at NTDC: 12
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 2 million
• Reason for Competing: “Back when the company held its own competition, I figured the state TDC would be good practice for that.” After getting to know the people and feeling the energy of the event, Jeff “got it in his blood” to keep competing. He stays competition–ready by putting conscious thought into his daily habits and setting up practice courses with teammates like Jeremy Steger.
• Career Motivation: Growing up on a dairy farm, Jeff was always behind the wheel of a tractor or other heavy equipment – naturally, he gravitated toward trucking. “I’m glad I found my niche – I can’t see myself doing anything else.” He takes pride in being part of the supply chain. “I’m just one piece of the puzzle, but I keep America moving, and I’m doing it as safely as possible.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be aware of your surroundings – you never know what can happen. And if something does happen, you can leave yourself an out by constantly checking your mirrors and looking far enough ahead.” 

Get to know Adam

• Appearances at NTDC: 1
• Reason for Competing: Adam entered the competition for one reason: he was looking for a challenge. With guidance from an 11-time state champ and an audio version of the rulebook playing on the road, he dove in headfirst and hasn’t looked back.
• Career Motivation: After exploring different paths, Adam found that life in the cab suited him best. “You feel like you accomplish something by the end of the day.” While it may be tiring at times, it’s always rewarding – and that’s what makes the job worth it.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Leave plenty of room in front of you and get your sleep.”  

Get to know Scott

• Appearances at NTDC: 5
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 3 million
• Reason for Competing: Scott believes every driver should have the opportunity to compete. “The competition gives you a chance to practice, hone your skills, and stay up to date on rules and regulations.” For him, it’s all about staying sharp and supporting his teammates – challenging each other to improve, both on the course and on the road.
• Career Motivation: A fourth-generation driver, Scott grew up in the industry and has even passed the torch to his son. “I can’t believe I get paid to do this – I work for a great company, and I love what I’m doing.” With a strong support system at home, Scott feels grateful to be doing what he enjoys every day.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Do not tailgate. Stay back so you can see what’s in front of you. Behind the wheel is not the place to be in a hurry.” 

Get to know Dave

• Appearances at NTDC: 14
• Accolades: America’s Road Team Captain
• Reason for Competing: Dave became interested in NTDC after the safety team encouraged drivers to compete. He was drawn to the challenge. “I liked the idea of testing my skills, evaluating them and learning from others. You learn from the best competitors out there, and the competition forces you to raise your standards — it keeps you in check.” This year, he’s connecting with drivers from other companies to prep together. “It’s a friendly competition, but it’s still intense.”
• Career Motivation: Ever since he started driving trucks in the Army, Dave says “It felt like a natural fit.” Since then, he’s found enjoyment in the challenges each day brings. “I don’t like repetition. Every day, it’s a new place, new road, new person. I never get bored.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Space buys you time, and time saves you from accidents.”  

Get to know Shaun

• Appearances at NTDC: 1
• Reason for Competing: “It’s fun, and I like showing off what I can do.” After learning about the competition from veteran drivers, Shaun decided to give it a shot himself. Now that he will be taking on Nationals for the first time, Shaun’s grateful to have friends who have competed in the past and are willing to share some tips.
• Career Motivation: “When you’re driving down the road and little kids – or even adults – want you to honk the horn… seeing their smiles makes my day.” For Shaun, it’s about freedom, never sitting still and making people happy along the way.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Take it slow – nothing’s a race. It’s all about getting home safe.” And if you ask Shaun, it also doesn’t hurt to have iced coffee on deck! 

Get to know Curt

• Appearances at NTDC: 5
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Reason for Competing: Curt was first encouraged to compete in 1995 by his safety manager – and he’s been hooked ever since. “I love the camaraderie of NTDC, reconnecting with other drivers and the constant challenge of improving my skills. Competing helps me to stay sharp all year long – every day you’re working to get back to your family and back to the NTDC!”
• Career Motivation: "I’m proud of the company I work for, and the fact that I get home safely to my family each night.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Always expect the unexpected. Just when you think it won’t happen, it will.” Staying mentally prepared, he says, is key to staying safe — because you never know what others on the road are thinking. 

Get to know Brandon

• Appearances at NTDC: 1
• Reason for Competing: “It’s the chance to go out there and do my best.” While he does put in some extra practice before the competition, he believes his job as a professional driver is the groundwork for success. “By doing the job naturally, you’re already training throughout the day.” 
• Career Motivation: “I get to do my thing – I’ve been doing this for 13 years, and I still love it.” The freedom of being on the road and the variety of vehicles he gets to drive keep the job, in Brandon’s words, “fun!”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be proactive and look out for everybody.” 

Get to know Brad

• Appearances at NTDC: 10
• Reason for Competing: A coworker once invited Brad to “the dance,” telling him it would make him a better driver and could even be fun – “especially if you win.” After the first few competitions, Brad discovered that NTDC is 50% about the competition, 50% about the family reunion. “You find that the same people return year after year.”
• Career Motivation: Brad sees trucking as a privilege and a purpose: “The nation’s success hinges on the ability to deliver goods where they need to go.” As a driver, he takes pride in being an active part in making America work. He adds, “Anything worth doing is worth doing well,” and still can’t remember a day he wasn’t excited to go to work.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Do your looking while you’re hooking, so you’re knowing what you’re towing.” This catchy slogan is a reminder to always complete a thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspection. 

Get to know Scott

• Appearances at NTDC: 4
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Reason for Competing: Scott got into the competition after hearing about it from another driver. What started as curiosity quickly turned into a lasting passion. “It’s a fun thing to do – nerve-racking sometimes, but it’s great to be around other people who enjoy it.” He’s been coming back ever since.
• Career Motivation: Scott enjoys the challenge of the job and the people he gets to work with. “I like what I do – it’s challenging, it’s fun, and I make a good living doing it.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be aware of what’s around you. Don’t put yourself in serious situations.”

Get to know Bob

• Appearances at NTDC: 2
• Reason for Competing: “I’m doing the same thing to prepare now that I did when I first started.” After a break from competition, Bob’s back – and sticking to what worked before: setting up practice courses at his service center, getting together with co-workers and taking practice written exams on the ATA website. In the time since his last NTDC, Bob became a driver instructor, which he says keeps his own skills sharp.
• Career Motivation: Bob says what makes him a good driver is being committed to safety and enjoying what he does. He’s proud that he gets home to his family every night, and he’s especially proud to go to Nationals this year. “It’s not easy – just getting there is an accomplishment.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Don’t get caught in a construction zone with other trucks. If it’s tight, hug that center lane so nobody tries to squeeze beside you.” His overall reminder is to keep it simple and pay attention – “There’s no reason to change up your basic procedures.” 

Get to know Tom

• Appearances at NTDC: 3
• Reason for Competing: Tom’s interest in TDC sparked during his driver training, where his instructor set up practice courses and encouraged him to give the competition a try. He started competing the first year he was eligible, going straight to states and nationals as a "rookie rookie.” Now, going on year three, Tom says the competition is less stressful and a rewarding way to test the skills he’s built over time.
• Career Motivation: “My kids. They see what I do, and they like to know about it and hear stories.” Tom says they even enjoy practicing with him at home.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Keep your eyes on the road and know your surroundings.” 

Get to know Tony

• Appearances at NTDC: 5
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million 
  Reason for Competing: Tony got started in TDC when a friend encouraged him to try it. “He made it sound like it wasn’t a very difficult competition, so I wasn’t prepared and didn’t perform as well as I could have.” But his competitive spirit kicked in, and he was able to make a game plan for the next year – including tips from veteran drivers and “burying his head in the manual.” After a 10-year break from competing to pursue music, Tony came back because he “loves the competition and the people.” 
• Career Motivation: Tony takes pride in mastering a skill many people overlook: “It’s a very large vehicle and it’s hard to maneuver. Not everyone can do it.” Reaching a million accident-free miles was a major milestone: “That was something I set out to do from the very beginning, so it means a lot.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be aware of your surroundings.” 

Get to know Chris

• Appearances at NTDC: 9
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 2 million
• Accolades: Washington State Grand Champion
• Reason for Competing: A coworker encouraged Chris to give the competition a try when he first started at XPO. He didn’t know much about it at the time, but after competing once, he says he “got bit by the bug” and has returned year after year. Even better, he gets to train with his cousin and fellow XPO driver, Rob Dean, to keep pushing himself to improve – but, he says “we’ll never compete in the same class, so that we both have a shot at winning.”
• Career Motivation: Chris takes pride in maintaining a strong safety record over many years and miles on the road. As a driving school instructor, he’s especially proud to set a good example for his students and live out the safe-driving habits he teaches every day – “If I preach it, I better practice it.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Stay off the electronics and slow down — there are a lot of people out there who seem to be late for everything. It’s important to relax and stay focused.” 

Get to know Mike

• Appearances at NTDC: 8
• Reason for Competing: Mike’s interest in TDC was initially sparked by the chance to win a cash prize. But his motivation quickly shifted when he realized NTDC was a chance to see his friends from across the U.S. "Now that I compete for West Virginia, I really appreciate the opportunity to see my friends from Colorado and Wyoming where I used to drive.”
• Career Motivation: “It’s the heartbeat of America – moving the supplies people need.” Mike takes pride in knowing other people depend on him to do his job safely and professionally. He also notes that NTDC is a large part of what keeps him driving. “I’ve been enough times that I’ve made some really good friends who I hope to see every year at the competition.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be a courteous driver. Slowing down won’t cost you time, but it will keep people safe.”  

Get to know Andy

• Appearances at NTDC: 10
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Reason for Competing: "I was drawn to the challenge.” A few years into his career at XPO, Andy was introduced to the competition and has stuck with it ever since. Since then, he has kept his prep routine consistent – getting together with other drivers to practice, building friendships and having a good time doing it.
• Career Motivation: With a million-mile safety record, Andy takes pride in doing the job right and getting home safely. He always knew trucking was for him – family members were in the industry and he quickly realized he preferred life on the road to life behind a desk.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Always keep a safe following distance.”  

Get to know Kenny

• Appearances at NTDC: 2
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Reason for Competing: Kenny has always enjoyed driving, whether ATVs, bulls or big rigs. The TDC trophies he’s collected over the years are lined up on top of his kitchen cabinets, reminding him to keep his skills sharp and drive safely.
• Career Motivation: Every time I drive, I fasten my seatbelt and say, ‘It’s time to go to work, Dad.’” As the son of a tanker truck driver, Kenny feels connected to his dad every time he gets behind the wheel. And when it comes to the rest of his family – especially his grandkids – Kenny’s goal is simple: to make them proud by doing his job safely and professionally.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Drive defensively – anticipate what others might do.” It’s a skill Kenny applies both on the job and when he’s riding his Harley-Davidson cross-country. 

Get to know Pat

• Appearances at NTDC: 1
• Reason for Competing: Pat was looking to push himself when he signed up for his first TDC. With support from his service center manager, who set up practice tests and a driving course, Pat dove in – also studying the ATA manual on his own and taking the online practice exams to prepare.
• Career Motivation: For Pat, it’s all about providing exceptional customer service. “I’ve got their numbers, and they’ve got mine.” Building strong relationships and resolving issues on the spot is part of what makes the job meaningful. “I’m motivated every day to get home safe and feel like I’m doing the job well.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Do a thorough pre-trip inspection every morning.” Habits like this set the tone for the day and ensure everything is in order before hitting the road. 

Get to know Ben

• Appearances at NTDC: 2
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Reason for Competing: “You don’t get it until you go for the first time.” For Ben, that first trip to Nationals changed everything. It wasn’t until last year that he decided to put in the extra work to advance beyond states – and now that he’s experienced it, making it back to Nationals is the goal every time.
• Career Motivation: “Everything I have in life is due to my job – it's what allows me to do fun things with my family, and my kids love that I drive trucks. Most days, it isn’t work to me – it’s fun.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Avoid distractions and keep your head on a swivel.”  

Get to know Dominic

• Appearances at NTDC: 2
• Reason for Competing: Dominic says it’s the atmosphere of competition that encouraged his return – the challenge, the camaraderie and yes, the bragging rights. "Qualifying for Nationals gives me even more incentive to stay safe throughout the year – I'm always striving to compete.”
• Career Motivation: Dominic has always been drawn to trucks –from playing with toy rigs as a kid to mastering the real thing as an adult. He enjoys the mechanical side of the job and the daily challenge of maneuvering massive vehicles through tight spaces: “It’s like a big obstacle course.” What keeps him grounded is knowing he’s a key player in keeping goods moving across the country.
• Safe-Driving Tip: While the music may be blasting in his own car, Dominic keeps the radio off at work. Quiet helps him focus – and focus is what keeps him safe. “Drive like your family’s on the road. Every move should be a conscious one.” 

Get to know Jeremy

• Appearances at NTDC: 6
• Accolades: Wisconsin State Grand Champion
• Reason for Competing: When his safety manager was looking for more drivers to sign up, Jeremy figured it would be fun to give it a shot. Now, after years of competing, he practices alongside a talented group of XPO drivers in Wisconsin, trading tips and building camaraderie with fellow competitors from across the industry.
• Career Motivation: As a local P&D driver, Jeremy takes pride in delivering goods with care and building strong relationships with customers. “They’re happy to see you, and they trust you every time.” That trust – along with the pressure of time constraints and the sense of autonomy behind the wheel – motivates Jeremy to perform at a high level every day. 
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Always be a defensive driver. Pay attention to the road and keep your hands on the wheel.”  

Get to know Rich

• Appearances at NTDC: 16
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 2 million
• Reason for Competing: Rich’s journey started before he even had a license. “I went to a truck show and saw the Massachusetts Drivers Association had a table there. They told me about the competition — and I figured I’d give it a try.” Since then, he’s made it a mission to improve. “I started talking to other drivers. I’d ask them: how do you guys always win?”
• Career Motivation: With 2.5 million accident-free miles, Rich takes pride in consistency and safety. “Getting to that point in the city isn’t easy.” It takes many years to hit that career stat when you’re only driving so far. He also credits his love for the job to his roots: “My father owned a trucking company. I’ve always enjoyed trucks, and I enjoy meeting people too.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Always keep your eyes moving. You have to look at everything.” 

Get to know Lenny

• Appearances at NTDC: 9
• Reason for Competing: “I look forward to it because it helps me better myself.” As Lenny returns to nationals for his ninth year, one goal keeps him coming back: breaking into the top five. “It would be awesome to be called out on Saturday morning for the runoff. I’d be ecstatic – over the moon.”
• Career Motivation: “The pride you feel all starts first thing in the morning.” For Lenny, every day on the road brings new challenges, from bad weather delays to navigating a busy delivery schedule. But it’s worth it to see his regular customers, many of whom look forward to Lenny pulling in with the freight they’ve been waiting for. “I want to leave with all my freight, deliver all my freight, make all my pickups – which makes all my customers happy.”
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Play nice with everybody else on the road.  
  As drivers, we all have the same goals: be safe and make it home.” 

Get to know Wilbert

• Appearances at NTDC: 14
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 1 million
• Accolades: New Jersey State Grand Champion
• Reason for Competing: “I went into my first year blind – I didn’t know what was going on or what to expect.” But the idea of improving – and winning – stuck with Wilbert. He started putting in serious time and practice, leaning on the friendships he built along the way to help him grow. 
• Career Motivation: Wilbert is especially proud of the milestones he’s reached – both on paper and on the road. “Being able to learn the book and win Best Written Test, especially with English as my second language – that means a lot.” 
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Be patient and never tap into aggression.” 

Get to know Leroy

• Appearances at NTDC: 15
• Reason for Competing: After watching another driver compete, Leroy decided to give it a try the very next year. “The competition looked fun, and I’m a safe driver anyway.” Now, beginning each March, Leroy uses the weekends to practice and study. He keeps his routine steady and his mindset simple with the ultimate goal of making it to Nationals. 
• Career Motivation: Leroy comes from a family of drivers – his father and older brothers were in trucking too. “The job is great. Fantastic.” What keeps him going now is simple: making the delivery and seeing a smile on the customer’s face.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Keep your eyes on the road at all times.”  

Get to know Sam

• Appearances at NTDC: 4
• Consecutive Miles of Safe Driving: 2 million
• Reason for Competing: Sam first competed in 2006, thanks to two close friends who talked him into giving it a shot. “I did horribly – I had no clue what was going on.” But it didn’t take long for him to fall in love with the experience. “You meet people from other companies, sit and talk – there’s just a lot of respect among drivers. It’s fun, and it’s cool.”
• Career Motivation: For Sam, driving is about more than just getting from point A to B. “I’m doing a tough job – now with cell phones, the road is more dangerous than it used to be.” He takes pride in being more than just a “steering wheel holder.” As the captain of his own ship, Sam is proud to support his family and help keep the country moving, one safe mile at a time.
• Safe-Driving Tip: “Routine, routine, routine – I can’t push it enough. Every morning before you leave, every night when you get back. Don’t rush your pre-trip or post-trip – that’s when the bad stuff happens.” 

Get to know Greg

• Appearances at NTDC: 1
• Reason for Competing: Greg’s first year competing was at the Wisconsin TDC. Now competing in Arizona and headed to nationals for the first time, Greg can’t deny the nerves. “Another driver told me nationals was much more intense.” But competitors from Arizona, he says, will practice a few more times together before heading to Minneapolis.  
• Career Motivation: “It’s the kind of job I wish I found earlier in life.” For Greg, the most rewarding part of the job is building relationships with customers. “Being able to meet the customers and deliver to them – it’s even more meaningful to see the smile on their faces.” 
• Safe-Driving Tip: “GOAL: Get Out And Look. If you’re unsure of your surroundings, it’s always best to reassess the situation.” During pre-trip inspections, he recommends sticking to a routine and starting over if you get distracted.