WINNIPEG, Man. — The Manitoba Trucking Association (MTA), in partnership with Custom Truck Sales and Kenworth, has recognized seven professional drivers for their contributions to the industry.

The seven drivers – Wayne Septon (Agri-Tel Transport), Ben Sawatzky (Arnold Bros. Transport), Brian Smith (Arnold Bros. Transport), Gary Barbour (Arnold Bros. Transport), Eddy Dueck (Big Freight Systems), Randy Steingart (Bison Transport), and Craig Dzamon (Northern Deck) – were recognized during a ceremony May 10.

Septon has been involved in the “Where’s Wayne” project with a local elementary school, while Sawatzky, Smith, Barbour, and Dueck are all long-time industry members with excellent driving records, according to officials. Steingart is a long-combination vehicle driver who recently achieved two million safe miles. Dzamon, also a long-time industry member, took charge of an accident scene until emergency responders were able to arrive on site.

“Each of these drivers demonstrates that our industry is a better place to work,” says Jim Clark of Custom Truck Sales. “We wanted to recognize those drivers who, day in and day out, go about their jobs in a safe, professional manner. This award looks at the commitments drivers make to our industry, whether it’s safety or customer service. We also recognize those drivers who go above and beyond what is expected of them when they are on the road as well. These drivers are the best of our industry, and as a company, we are proud to be able to take a moment and let them know we appreciate the work that they do.”

“The driver is the face of our industry. They are the people who deal face-to-face with customers, who manoeuvre their way through traffic on a daily basis, who sacrifice time at home with their families and friends to ensure that the freight in this country moves,” said MTA president Norm Blagden. “The drivers play a huge role in keeping the economy moving, and we sometimes forget how big their role is in what we do. This is one way that we can thank them for their contributions.”

Recipients of Industry Excellence Award, an annual award open to all companies, receive a jacket, plaque and cheque. For more information on the award, visit www.trucking.mb.ca.