Each week, trucknews.com lists notable events, promotions and awards in the trucking industry.

This week, John Culp received TCA’s Chairman’s Choice Award, while McLeod Software president Tom McLeod was recognized with TCA’s Past Chairman Award. PMTC joined the Canadian Blood Services’ Partners for Life program.

PMTC calls on industry to support Canadian Blood Services

The Private Motor Truck Council of Canada (PMTC) announced it has joined the Canadian Blood Services (CBS) Partners for Life program to encourage members of the trucking industry to donate blood and support patients across the country.

Partners for Life teams collectively contribute more than 225,000 donations annually, helping maintain Canada’s blood supply.

“We are delighted to welcome the PMTC into Canada’s Lifeline as a Partner For Life,” said Rayna Porter, Community Development Manager at CBS, in a news release. “PMTC joins thousands of others in creating meaningful, measurable impact—one pledge at a time.”

The program was introduced to PMTC after the association’s January board meeting was hosted at a Canadian Blood Services facility in Ottawa. PMTC president Mike Millian said the initiative has already inspired participation, adding he booked his first blood donation for March 12 and plans to become a regular donor.

PMTC is encouraging members and industry participants to register with its team or donate at any Canadian Blood Services location across the country.

John Culp receives TCA Chairman’s Choice Award

John Culp of Maverick Transportation received the eighth annual Chairman’s Choice Award from the Truckload Carriers Association during its annual convention in Orlando, Fla.

The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate strong leadership and active involvement in advancing the association and the trucking industry.

Karen Smerchek, now TCA’s immediate past chairwoman, presented Culp with the award.

“Narrowing this down to one person was not easy, but this year’s recipient truly embodies the spirit of TCA,” she said. “I met him in 2018, and I immediately saw his passion for the industry. What impressed me even more was his humility; someone with his knowledge and experience never seeks the spotlight, never boasts and is always willing to step in and help.”

Smerchek also said Culp has helped ensure TCA programs and key initiatives receive strong backing through his company’s involvement and consistent communication. She also noted his personal commitment to advancing major efforts such as the association’s Elite Fleet program and its advocacy surrounding the gallon-based user fee (GBUF), including multiple trips to Washington to meet with policymakers.

“He also stepped up in a big way when I delayed my chairmanship for a year … and doing all of this, while serving a two-year term as the chairman of the Arkansas Trucking Association,” she added.

McLeod recognized with TCA Past Chairman’s Award

At the same convention, TCA has named McLeod Software president and CEO Tom McLeod as the recipient of the Past Chairman’s Award.

Despite its name, the recipient does not have to be a former past chairman of the association. The award — one of the highest distinctions presented by TCA — is selected through nominations from former TCA board chairmen and a vote by active past chairmen.

“He truly embodies what TCA membership is all about. He’s widely regarded as a longtime thought leader in the transportation industry, and his commitment to TCA has never been simply about sponsorship or participation — it’s been about partnership,” said John Culp, who presented the award to McLeod at the event. “Through his company’s active involvement, his personal engagement in events and meetings, and his willingness to invest both time and resources, he’s consistently helped strengthen this association.”

Accepting the honor, McLeod said he was surprised by the recognition. “I’d just like to say thanks so much to an industry that’s been so good to be in my family and our company,” he said. “It’s been a fabulous industry to be a part of.”