It’s that time of year again, time to give some recognition to the best owner/operator you know. For the 16th year in a row, Truck News and Truck West will be presenting our annual Owner/Operator of the Year Award, sponsored by Goodyear, Castrol and Freightliner. As in past years, this year’s award presentation will take place at the Fergus Truck Show.
The winner will receive: a diamond ring fit for a champion; $3,000 cash; and a trip for two valued at up to $2,500. They’ll also receive a trip to the Fergus Truck Show, including accommodations and a celebratory dinner with the Truck News gang (that’s the real highlight, as past winners may – or may not – attest)!
The nomination process is simple. Check out the ad in any recent issue of Truck News or Truck West. We’re looking for an owner/operator who exemplifies professionalism, boasts a safe driving record and is involved in industry or community causes. Acts of heroism or environmental stewardship are also considered.
Nominations are due June 1.
Personally, I can honestly say that presenting this award is the highlight of my job. Every year it’s humbling to pore through the dozens of worthy nominations and it’s always a challenge to narrow the field to just one winner. This exercise serves as a great reminder that owner/operators are the backbone of this industry and they continue to make outstanding contributions to the trucking biz – often with little thanks.
This is our chance to give a little something back. In its 16-year history, the Truck News Owner/Operator of the Year award has become one of the most prestigious awards a Canadian owner/operator can receive. I’m reminded of this each year at Fergus as past winners stop by the Truck News booth to catch up, reminisce about that infamous dinner and proudly display their ring. So far, 15 men and women from across Canada have won the award.
I encourage all fleet managers to take the time to nominate your very best owner/operator for the award. But the nomination process isn’t open exclusively to fleet managers. Co-workers, relatives, safety inspectors – anyone at all can nominate a candidate they feel is a deserving owner/operator. But don’t wait too long – the deadline is fast approaching!