National Tank Truck Carriers announced the eight professional tank truck drivers who have been selected as this year's Champion Finalists for the Tank Truck Driver of the Year Award. The Grand Champion will be revealed at NTTC’s upcoming Annual Conference in Las Vegas NV, which will be held April 23-25.
“Each year we continue to be amazed by the unbelievable talent which continues to rise as our Champion Finalists," said NTTC Chairman John Whittington of Grammer Industries. "This year is no exception, as these Champion Finalists display an incredible commitment to safety and are a shining example for all of transportation. These drivers make me so proud to be a part of the tank truck industry.”
NTTC President Daniel R Furth, added: “Congratulations are due this fine group of professional drivers who represent the best of the best in our challenging industry. Our industry’s well-deserved reputation for excellence simply would not exist without the safety commitment of these finalists, as well as all of our DOY applicants in this contest year. I’d like to thank Great West Casualty, our new sponsor of the DOY program, whose considerable support allows us to focus on the most important group in our industry. I’d also like to thank our judges for their diligence in a very difficult process where truly all of the applicants are deserving of recognition and respect.”
The 2018-19 Champion Finalists:
- Ronald Baird, Hoffman Transportation/G&D Trucking, Channahon IL
- Mark A Dorrance, Dixon Bros Inc, Newcastle WY
- James Ellis Sr, Grammer Industries Inc, Columbus IN
- Tony T Stinnett, Usher Transport, Louisville KY
- Barbara Herman, K-Limited Carriers LTD, Toledo OH
- Tim Howerton, Groendyke Transport Inc, Enid OK
- Michael Hunter, Atlas Oil Company, Taylor MI
- William McNamee, Carbon Express, Wharton NJ
The eight Champion Finalists will now advance to the final round of the selection process at NTTC's headquarters in Arlington VA. A panel of industry officials will judge the contestants on their knowledge of the tank truck industry, dedication to safety, ability to communicate the industry’s messages, overall safe driving record, and their positive community efforts outside of their driving responsibilities.
During the Grand Champion’s one-year term, he or she will serve as an NTTC spokesperson for the industry and attend NTTC safety-focused events throughout the year.