Five Good Things: Industry goodwill shines through driver support, education funding, and volunteer efforts

St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund raises more than $10,000 at MidAmerica Trucking Show

The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF) raised more than $10,000 during the 2026 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) through its annual Silent Auction and donations collected at its booth throughout the show, including a donation back to SCF of 50/50 winnings from professional driver Steve Jones.

“This year’s response from the industry was incredible,” Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF, said. “From auction donors and bidders to those who stopped by our booth to contribute and our corporate partners, the level of generosity we saw at MATS speaks volumes about how deeply this community cares for its drivers. Every dollar raised helps us provide critical support to truckers and their families during some of the most challenging times in their lives.”

In addition to the auction, SCF collected donations from attendees and exhibitors at its booth throughout the three-day show, including a prize wheel donated by Konexial and Progressive Insurance. Corporate partners and sponsors also made additional donations.

“Professional drivers are essential to keeping our country running, yet many lack a safety net when unexpected health issues arise,” Norita Taylor, SCF board president and communications strategist at OOIDA, said. “The success of this year’s fundraising efforts at MATS shows what’s possible when our industry rallies together to support those who keep America moving. We’d also like to thank the organizers of the Mid-American Trucking Show for their support.”

TCA Scholarship Fund awards $182,000 to 64 students for the 2026–2027 academic year

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) recently revealed the recipients of its 2026–2027 TCA Scholarship Fund. This year marks a historic milestone, with a record-breaking $182,000 awarded to 64 students nationwide.

Since its founding in 1973, the TCA Scholarship Fund has supported the educational goals of students connected to the trucking industry. Eligible recipients are students in good standing who are enrolled in two- or four-year colleges or universities and are affiliated with TCA member companies.

“This is an incredibly exciting moment for all of us,” Mark Walker, TCA Scholarship Fund chairman of TransLand, said. “We are honored to raise the bar once again in supporting students and investing in their future. The volume and caliber of applications this year were outstanding, and it’s truly inspiring to see so many talented, driven individuals pursuing their goals. We are proud to play a part in their journeys and look forward to seeing the impact they will have on our industry and beyond.”

You can view this year’s scholarship recipients here. 

Valvoline volunteers plant trees and support Habitat for Humanity homes in Lexington, Kentucky

Valvoline celebrated Earth Day through a day of community service in Lexington, Kentucky. Valvoline volunteers planted trees and laid sod at Habitat for Humanity homes in the final stages of construction in partnership with Trees Lexington and Habitat for Humanity of Lexington.

“Earth Day is a reminder that small actions can lead to a lasting impact,” Ashley Scott, ESG manager at Valvoline, said. “Through partnerships with organizations like Trees Lexington and Habitat for Humanity, we’re able to support both environmental sustainability and the strength of our communities—especially right here in the Lexington community we’re proud to call home to our headquarters. We’re grateful to come together as a team to give back in a way that helps families and neighborhoods thrive.”

Valvoline’s community efforts are part of its Happy to Help platform, which focuses on supporting causes tied to children’s health and mental well-being. Through this program, the company invests in initiatives that strengthen the communities it serves and create lasting impact.

Kenworth introduces limited-edition TourAmerica paint scheme, donates T680 to Freedom 250 Museum Tour

Kenworth recently launched a special‑edition paint scheme created in celebration of the Freedom 250 initiative, a nationwide effort honoring the nation’s 250th birthday and highlighting the spirit of American trucking. The new design pays tribute to the iconic mid‑1990s TourAmerica T600 paint scheme, reimagined and refined for modern production while preserving its heritage.

The commemorative paint scheme is now available to order on the Kenworth T680, W900L, W990, and T880 models equipped with sleepers. Developed in collaboration with Kenworth’s design and engineering teams, the look blends classic styling with contemporary finishes, offering customers a way to celebrate trucking history while supporting a national milestone.

“This paint scheme is a nod to an important era in Kenworth’s legacy,” Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant GM for sales and marketing, said. “The original TourAmerica T600 represented innovation and pride for drivers across the country. Bringing that design forward for today’s models allows us to honor that history as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday.”

As part of its commitment to the Freedom 250 Tour, Kenworth donated a T680 with a 76-inch integral sleeper to support the event’s fleet of Mobile Museums, known as “Freedom Trucks,” which will travel throughout the U.S. in 2026. These trailers deliver interactive and inspiring educational content to students, families, and communities nationwide.

Aurélie Doucette named 2026 Distinguished Woman in Logistics

The Women In Trucking Association (WIT), Truck Parking Club, and Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) recently revealed that Aurélie Doucette, VP of dedicated contract carriage operations at Penske Logistics, has been named the 2026 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award (DWLA) recipient.

Doucette was selected for her contributions to operational excellence and her commitment to mentoring and advancing women in the industry. Finalists for the award included Eileen Dabrowski, founder and CEO of Apex Tide Consulting, and Erin Mitchell, COO of YMX Logistics.

“With more than two decades of experience, Aurélie exemplifies the leadership and dedication this award was created to recognize,” Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT, said. “Her commitment to developing people, improving operations, and advancing opportunities for women makes her an outstanding ambassador for the industry.”

Doucette began her career with Transfreight and continued her leadership growth following its acquisition by Penske Logistics. In her current role, she works with her team to accelerate supply chain performance for customers spanning several industry verticals. She values the mentorship she provides and the customer relationships she nurtures in this role.

In addition to her operational leadership, Doucette serves as executive champion of Penske Logistics’ Women’s Business Resource Group, where she supports mentorship, professional development, and inclusion initiatives. She is also a two-time recipient of the company’s President’s Award.