A driver with Foodliner Inc, Paul Emerson accumulated more than two million accident-free miles of driving in his 47-year truck driving career.
A driver with Foodliner Inc, Paul Emerson accumulated more than two million accident-free miles of driving in his 47-year truck driving career.
A driver with Foodliner Inc, Paul Emerson accumulated more than two million accident-free miles of driving in his 47-year truck driving career.
A driver with Foodliner Inc, Paul Emerson accumulated more than two million accident-free miles of driving in his 47-year truck driving career.
A driver with Foodliner Inc, Paul Emerson accumulated more than two million accident-free miles of driving in his 47-year truck driving career.

Paul Emerson named NTTC Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year

June 29, 2018
PAUL Emerson, a driver with Foodliner Inc, was named National Tank Truck Carriers’ 2017-2018 Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year.

PAUL Emerson, a driver with Foodliner Inc, was named National Tank Truck Carriers’ 2017-2018 Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year. The announcement came April 16 during NTTC’s 70th Annual Conference & Exhibits in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

He is the fifth recipient of the William A Usher Sr trophy, which is sponsored by Protective Insurance. His 47-year truck-driving career includes more than two million accident-free miles of driving. 

“Congratulations to Grand Champion Paul Emerson and our seven champion finalists for another great contest year,” said NTTC President Daniel R Furth. “Paul is a true professional and fine individual to represent our unique segment in trucking. I very much look forward to working with him as we spread our safety message across North America.”

Newly-elected NTTC Chairman John Whittington of Grammer Industries, said: “Thanks to our driver group, our judges, and our sponsor on another great contest year. For five straight years, the tank truck industry has been truly fortunate to have a Grand Champion like Paul Emerson who epitomizes safety and service which is the key to success for all of our carrier members.”

Following the presentation, Emerson said: “This honor was a wonderful surprise. There were so many outstanding tank truck drivers nominated for this award and standing on this stage. It will be awhile before it all sinks in.”

In his letter of recommendation, Emerson’s terminal manager Jeff Sisk, wrote: “I have had the privilege of working with Paul since November 2008. During the nine years, I have always found Paul to be honest, dependable, and incredibly hard working. Since beginning his professional driving career by obtaining a commercial driver’s license in 1970, Paul has worked in many aspects of the trucking industry. Paul has not only a vast knowledge as a professional driver but a respect for the roles others have in the industry as well.

“Paul’s demeanor is a throwback to the days when truck drivers were considered ‘Knights of the Road,’ always there to help not only a fellow driver but anyone he may encounter in need of help or assistance. Paul is always there as a mentor and role model for younger or less experienced drivers joining the industry. Paul is the type of individual that makes me proud to be associated with in this industry.”

Emerson is a previous Oklahoma Trucking Association Driver of the Year Runner-up, a three-time Oklahoma Defensive Driving Award recipient, and a Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America. Since beginning his professional truck driving career by obtaining a commercial driver’s license in 1970, he has worked in many aspects of the trucking industry. He has not only a vast knowledge and experience as a professional driver, but also a leading safety advocate for all commercial drivers and the general motoring public.

Jon Stenzel, Foodliner Director of Training, accompanied Emerson to Toronto and added: “Paul consistently outworks drivers half his age. He is passionate about truck driving, safety, and going the distance to serve his internal and external customers. He mentors other drivers even though he’s not a trainer. He avoids shortcuts, guards against complacency, and always wants to be the best. His genuineness, humbleness, and passion to help others will be a great reflection on this industry.”

In addition to Emerson, the 2017-18 Champion Finalists included:

• Dennis Rollins, Florida Rock & Tank Lines Inc, Jacksonville FL. Years as a professional truck driver: 33. Accident-free miles: 2.1 million.

• David Kuehn, Gorski Bulk Transport, Oldcastle ON, Canada. Years as a professional truck driver: 26. Accident-free miles: 4.0 million.

• William Donald McGarity, Grammer Industries Inc, Columbus IN. Years as a professional truck driver: 22. Accident-free miles: 2.1 million.

• William “Scott” Harrison, K-Limited Carrier Ltd, Toledo OH. Years as a professional truck driver: 30. Accident-free miles: 2.5 million

• Ryan Nelson, Quality Carriers Inc, Tampa FL. Years as a professional truck driver: 22. Accident-free miles: 3.0 million.

• Kelly Lien, Solar Transport, Des Moines IA. Years as a professional truck driver: 38. Accident-free miles: 3.1 million.

• Daniel Byars, United Petroleum Transports, Oklahoma City OK. Years as a professional truck driver: 38. Accident-free miles: 5.15 million.