Every September, our industry takes time to recognize the people who keep North America’s supply chains moving. In the United States, that recognition comes through National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW), while in Canada we celebrate National Trucking Week. While the names may differ, the purpose is the same: to acknowledge the professional drivers and transportation professionals whose dedication makes modern commerce possible.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week has become an important tradition because it shines a spotlight on a profession that is essential to our economy yet often goes unnoticed. Canada's National Trucking Week shares that same spirit while also recognizing the broader transportation community, including all those that support our fabulous industry, beyond just those that drive.
This year’s celebrations come at a time when our industry continues to face significant challenges. It always has, always will and always endures. Carriers across North America are operating in a complex business environment while navigating evolving regulations, rising customer expectations, inflation and ongoing workforce pressures. At the same time, finding properly trained and qualified drivers, retaining experienced professionals, and attracting the next generation of talent remain among the most important issues facing our industry.
As both a carrier executive and industry advocate, I believe our people are our greatest strength. Today’s professional drivers operate increasingly sophisticated equipment, comply with evolving regulations, and maintain the highest standards of safety and professionalism. The responsibilities placed on drivers have never been greater, making recruitment and retention more important than ever.
Professional drivers and those that support them want what every professional wants. They want to be treated with respect. They want to know their time is valued. They want efficient treatment at shipping and receiving facilities, open communication, safe working environments, and opportunities for training and professional growth. In many cases, those factors play just as important a role in retention as pay and benefits.
That is why NTDAW and National Trucking Week matter. They remind us that trucking is, first and foremost, a people business. Equipment, technology, and infrastructure are all critical tools, but it is people who make our industry successful.
At the same time, appreciation cannot be limited to a single week on the calendar. The most successful carriers understand that recognition must be part of their culture throughout the year. Whether it is celebrating safety milestones, acknowledging years of service, recognizing professional achievements, or simply taking the time to say thank you, meaningful appreciation strengthens both individuals and organizations.
The same principle applies to our industry. Every day, transportation professionals facilitate the delivery of food on our shelves, the products in our stores, the medical supplies in our hospitals, and the materials that keep businesses operating. Their contributions touch virtually every aspect of our daily lives.
As we celebrate the National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and National Trucking Week this September, let us remember that gratitude is most meaningful when it is demonstrated through action. A cookout, appreciation event, company gathering, or social media post during NTDAW is a wonderful gesture. But true appreciation is reflected in how we treat drivers and transportation professionals every day of the year.
By creating workplaces built on respect, professionalism, fairness, and opportunity, we strengthen our ability to attract and retain the talented people our industry depends upon.
Because the people who keep freight moving deserve to know they are valued, not just during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week or National Trucking Week, but every single day of the year.
Thank you.
