For the Driver

One of Many: Trucking for a Cause

May 7, 2016

Mike Manuel, a regular on the show truck circuit, had an especially busy April. For Autism Awareness month, and just in time for the Paul K. Young Truck Beauty Championship at MATS, he rolled out his newest rig, the puzzle piece-themed “One of Many.”

Kevin Jones

A 2015 Peterbilt Model 389/Fitzgerald Glider Kit with a 2017 Mac curtain-sided flatbed trailer, One of Many made the cover of the PKY Championship Report in its first showing. And it’s been on the road since, mixing autism awareness appearances with truck shows, including the parade around Bristol Speedway for the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300.

Manuel, who owns Michael A. Manuel Trucking in Front Royal, VA, was inspired to build the truck by his autistic daughter Kara, who is just “one of many.” He explains the details in the BlingMaster YouTube video below. Along with our photos from MATS, just this week the flatbedder documented the build on the company's Facebook page—so check those out, too.

About the Author

Kevin Jones | Editor

Kevin has served as editor-in-chief of Trailer/Body Builders magazine since 2017—just the third editor in the magazine’s 60 years. He is also editorial director for Endeavor Business Media’s Commercial Vehicle group, which includes FleetOwner, Bulk Transporter, Refrigerated Transporter, American Trucker, and Fleet Maintenance magazines and websites.

Working from Beaufort, S.C., Kevin has covered trucking and manufacturing for nearly 20 years. His writing and commentary about the trucking industry and, previously, business and government, has been recognized with numerous state, regional, and national journalism awards.