Category: Press Releases

Averitt Honored with Military Friendly Awards

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

For Immediate Release 

Contact: 

media@averitt.com 

For additional media resources, visit Averitt.com/media.

 

Averitt Honored with Military Friendly Awards

 

Averitt has been recognized as a 2024 Top Ten Military Friendly® Employer and Military Friendly® Spouse Employer by VIQTORY, a veteran-owned organization dedicated to supporting military service members’ transition to civilian life. This is the fifth time Averitt has been selected as a Military Friendly company. The Military Friendly designation is a testament to Averitt’s commitment to the military community and its efforts in providing sustainable and meaningful benefits to veterans and military personnel.

 

“Organizations earning the Military Friendly Employer designation have wholeheartedly invested in comprehensive and impactful initiatives that bring about positive, life-changing results for our valued service members, dedicated military spouses, and esteemed veterans within their ranks,” said Kayla Lopez, senior director of Military Partnerships at Military Friendly. “We salute these exemplary employers who raise the bar and understand that hiring military personnel is not merely an act of goodwill but a testament to a standard that truly embodies sound business wisdom. Their steadfast commitment to integrating military personnel into their workforce not only reflects their compassion but also underscores their business acumen.”

 

Military Friendly is widely regarded as the industry standard for measuring an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. The 2024 Military Friendly survey evaluated over a thousand companies, with Averitt among the top 10 organizations in our revenue bracket recognized for their outstanding support and dedication to military service members. With about 15% of Averitt associates being veterans, this recognition is a significant achievement for Averitt.

 

“We are thankful for all of those who would serve our country and we want to do all we can to thank them for that service,” said Gary Sasser, Averitt chairman and chief executive officer, who served in the Marine Corps Reserves. “We strongly believe in being a company that service members can call home and providing a place where veterans are valued for their service.”

 

The assessment included a rigorous analysis of public data and a proprietary survey, with VIQTORY and the Military Friendly® Advisory Council meticulously establishing methodology, criteria, and weightings. Employers were evaluated across six key categories: Recruiting and sourcing, Policies and compliance, Support and retention, Culture and commitment, Opportunity and advancement, and Hiring and onboarding.

 

For more information about Averitt and its commitment to the military community, please visit AverittSalutesYou.com. Averitt will be showcased in the 2024 Military Friendly ® Employers in the Winter issue of G.I. Jobs ® magazine and on MilitaryFriendly.com.

 

About Averitt

Serving shippers for over 50 years, Averitt is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management solutions with an international reach of over 100 countries. Averitt’s “Power of One” service structure provides shippers access to LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated services that cover every link in the supply chain. Averitt’s team has been awarded the highest honors in the industry in the past year, including five Quest for Quality Awards, numerous customer awards, and a No. 1 overall ranking in MASTIO & Company’s shipper survey. Averitt’s 9,000+ associates are dedicated to delivering the most reliable services within the industry and promoting a company culture centered around people, communities, sustainability, and giving back. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT (283-7488) or visit Averitt.com.

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2023 Fall Conference Recap

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

This past week, safety was the topic at hand in Knoxville at TTA’s Fall Conference on October 26th and 27th. The conference kicked off with a networking event the evening before at Maple Hall Bowling. Attendees mingled, shared experiences, and set the tone for the two-day conference that was to follow.

 

 

 

 

The following day was packed with a full day of 30-minute sessions from industry experts. From discussions on critical topics such as Truck Parking with the Road Team Captains to Driver Safety, Fleet Management, and updates from FMCSA. It was a great combination of education and serious discussions about regulations, what’s working in the industry, and what can be re-evaluated. 

While all the presentations provided a great resource, one person who’s words echoed throughout the first day was that of the keynote speaker, Tim Richardson, who gave an inspiring talk on “The Power of the Pause: How a Reset Brings Sanity to the Workplace.” In our busy industry, it’s so easy to keep pushing forward, but he reminded attendees of the importance of maintaining balance amidst our busy lives. While the fall conference was a full-day event, we like to think that the door prizes, evening banquet, and poker night helped attendees “pause” before diving into the final day of learning.  

 

 

 

 

Day two of the conference started on a high note with a session by Jason Johnson from Project K-9 Hero. It was a great opportunity to witness the loyalty and intelligence of the K-9. Being able to see the work that’s done to give a new life to the service dogs that once served our community was incredible. After project K-9 the rest of the day was filled with a great variety of speakers before closing out the Fall conference for the afternoon with a few closing door prizes. 

This year’s Fall Conference was a testament to the industry’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation and we’re grateful to everyone who made it happen. Each year is only possible because of the sponsors, speakers, attendees, and staff who make this event a success. Your support made this conference not only possible but also a memorable one. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this exceptional event. 

With the conclusion of this year’s conference, we are already looking forward to next year. We hope to see you all again and continue to provide a platform for learning, networking, and celebrating the industry we all love. 

 

Thanks again for your support. Click here to see all photos from the Fall Conference 

 

Thank You Fall Conference Sponsors! 

Be Pro Be Proud

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

Thursday, October 12, 2023, marked the launch of the Be Pro Be Proud initiative in Tennessee, which aims to highlight the role skilled trades play in our workforce and build a new generation of professionals. Initially kickstarted in Arkansas, the BeProBeProud initiative now spans Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Each BeProBeProud trailer is outfitted with interactive simulation experiences, enabling students to try out different trades and find a field that aligns with their interests.

This event reflects a more comprehensive narrative —the growing demand for skilled trades professionals. With over 3.5 million truck drivers in operation, moving 10.5 billion tons of freight annually, the trucking industry is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. However, a pressing need remains in the industry.

In a proactive response, Governor Bill Lee and the TN General Assembly recognized this upward trend and allocated $1.5 million in appropriations on May 12, 2022, to kickstart the project. The initiative was then spearheaded by Sarah Burnett with the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce, alongside countless volunteers and sponsors who rallied together to make this possible.

McGriff Tire Company, Inc., Titan Transfer, Inc., McKee Foods Transportation, LLC, and Rush Truck Center make up the sponsors from the trucking industry along with Jill Sito from McKee Foods who donated her skills to design the Tennessee Be Pro Be Proud Trailer. To everyone involved we say thank you for making this possible. 

While the kickoff event is now behind us, the opportunity to join this program is still open. To learn more, book the trailer, or join the mission, visit BeProBeProudTn.com. 

 

Watch the WKRN video report on this event below: 

 

 

 

New Waverly Transportation Presented a Platinum award by Great West Casualty Company

Posted on by TTA Account

 

For Immediate Release: Pictured above: L to R -Vince Dove –Operations Manager, Dave Jachimski Safety/Compliance Manager, Kevin Sherritze VP Joe Morten & Son, Inc.

South Sioux City, Nebraska–New Waverly Transportation was recently presented a Platinum award by Great West Casualty Company as part of the 2022 National Safety Awards Program. These awards recognize motor carriers who have achieved stringent year-end crash results and have demonstrated a commitment to promoting safe driving practices and workplace safety within their company. The Platinum award is the highest bestowed by Great West Casualty Co. & this marks the 2nd year in a row New Waverly Transportation has earned this honor.

A subsidiary of LP Building Solutions, New Waverly Transportation is a 100% owner-operator carrier headquartered in Nashville, TN. New Waverly operates terminals in Alabama, North Carolina & Texas.

“Without companies like New Waverly Transportation and others in the trucking industry, our country would come to a virtual standstill,” said Randall Oligmueller, President of Joe Morten & Son, Inc. “More than 20 million trucks are traveling down the road daily. With this award, New Waverly sets the standard for other trucking companies to follow.” Joe Morten & Son, Inc. has been partnering with trucking companies for more than eighty years. Joe Morten & Son,Inc. is the only agency owned by Great West Casualty Company, the premier provider of insurance products and services for truckers.

 

For more information contact: Kevin Sherritze Vice President Joe Morten & Son, Inc. 800.493.7451

 

Download Press Release

 

Scaling up to Safety: Join Us for TTA’s Final Roadside Scale Events of 2023

Posted on by TTA Account

 

The Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) is excited to announce the dates for its final Roadside Scale events, continuing a long-standing tradition of promoting safety and education within the trucking industry. These pivotal events are scheduled for October 5th in Manchester Roadside, October 17th in Giles County, and October 19th at the Brownsville County Roadside Scales.

A Legacy of Success
For years, TTA has been hosting these educational roadside-scale events. These events have become an integral part of the association’s efforts to ensure safety protocols at roadside scales are well-understood and effectively implemented.

What to Expect
Participants will have the unique opportunity to work alongside State Troopers in conducting Level I, II, and III inspections. These hands-on experiences are designed to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of what prompts a vehicle to be pulled in for inspection, the criteria determining the level of inspection to be performed, and what is expected when paperwork and equipment are checked.

Thank you to all participants, State Troopers, and sponsors for each of our events.  You play a big role in promoting safety in the trucking industry. 

Event Details
The events are free of charge, and lunch will be provided for all participants. The activities begin at 8:00 a.m. local time and conclude around 2:30 pm or 3:00 pm. 

 

Click here to register for the October 17th event at Giles County Roadside
Click here to register for the October 19th event at Brownsville Roadside Scales

TCW Receives Grand Champion Award for Safety

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

The Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) is proud to spotlight one of our esteemed members, TCW, for their exceptional achievements in safety performance during 2022. At TTA’s 2023 Annual Convention, TCW secured 1st Place in the 3 to 7 million miles category and also received the prestigious Grand Champion Award of Safety. Here’s a message from TCW team, celebrating their accomplishments and thanking those who made it possible:

 

…Our 2022 safety performance in Tennessee earned us 1st Place in the 3 to 7 million miles category. We also received the prestigious Grand Champion Award of Safety for our continued efforts to make our industry and communities safer. Accepting the award on behalf of all our employees, owners, and owner-operators was the person responsible for creating the safety culture at TCW, Scott George. It’s truly an honor to be part of the TCW legacy. Thank you to everyone for your efforts to make TCW a leader in our industry.

A special thanks to the drivers who went above and beyond to serve as Tennessee Road Team Captains over the years:

Scott Andrews 2008
Dale Davidson 2009
William Spivy 2013
Kyle Beach 2014
Brad Coffey 2015
Darrell Hall 2015
Charles Starks 2015
Christy McClain 2016
John Anderson 2017
John Henderson 2018

Thank you to the following employees/owners for your commitment to the TCW Unified Team:

Cliff Tarbox, 4 years
Gene Casey, 2 years”

The Tennessee Trucking Association congratulates TCW for its outstanding achievements in safety.  Thank you, TCW for exemplifying what can be achieved through a commitment to safety and community.

Be Pro Be Proud Launch, October 12th

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

The highly anticipated Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee Launch is just around the corner, and we’re thrilled to invite you to be a part of it!

When and Where?

Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 12th. The event will take place at Volunteer State Community College. The exhibits will open their doors at 9:00 am, and the main program will kick off at 10:00 am.

Why Should You Attend?

This launch event is more than just a gathering; it’s an opportunity to be part of a movement that aims to elevate our industry. The aim of this program is to bring a new generation of pride, progress, and professionalism to Tennessee’s skilled workforce. 

How to Register?

Ready to join us? Simply register online here, and you’re all set!

See you on October 12th!

 

TEL Supports Veterans with September 11 Donation to Wounded Warrior Project

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

CHATTANOOGA, TN, Sept. 11, 2023 – U.S. veterans launched the Wounded Warrior Project in the aftermath of terrorist attacks against the nation on September 11, 2001, and military actions that followed. Their goal: is to honor and empower wounded military personnel. In preparation for September 11 remembrances this year, Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) has donated $6,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project to support the charity’s important work, said CEO Doug Carmichael.

An Army veteran, Carmichael added that a number of TEL employees and trucking customers are former military personnel, some of whom sustained injuries as a result of their service.

“Having served in South Korea in the 1970s and later as an Army drill instructor and teacher, I have some understanding of the ins and outs of serving our country. I cannot imagine the added burden of bearing the scars of battle and war,” he said. “To our brothers and sisters who served and came home with the scars of war, the least we can do is to donate a portion of the favor that the good Lord has bestowed upon us and our company.”

 

Wounded Warrior Project provides extensive services to assist veterans who served on or after 9/11/2001 and sustained a physical or mental injury or illness. These services include mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care programs, as well as advocacy efforts on behalf of veterans.

The charity invested $247 million last year in programs, and more than 220,000 warriors, family members and caregivers were registered with Wounded Warrior Project as of September 30, 2022. “The need is great and growing. Every month in 2022, more than 1,780 warriors and family members registered with Wounded Warrior Project to receive our free programs and services,” the group website noted.

“From our mental health programs like Soldier Ride and Project Odyssey to our employment and VA claims programs, these are all totally free to participating warriors,” said Sal Gonzalez, a Wounded Warrior Project spokesperson in Nashville. Tennessee offices for the national organization are based in Nashville and also serve parts of Alabama, Kentucky, and neighboring states.

To learn more about the Wounded Warrior Project and donate, please visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

 

About Transport Enterprise Leasing LLC

Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) is a leading national provider of commercial truck and trailer leasing, sales and remarketing. We help hardworking professionals build profitable businesses by providing and financing new and like-new transport equipment from top brands, including Peterbilt, Freightliner, Volvo, Kenworth, Hyundai, Wabash, Utility and Fontaine. We specialize in Class 8 sleepers and day cabs, dry vans, reefers and flatbeds. We also are known for our comprehensive support programs, such as fleet support and maintenance advisory.

Founded in 2004, our headquarters is located in Chattanooga, TN, with additional facility operations right off I-70 in the east Indianapolis metro area (Greenfield, IN).

For more information on TEL, please visit www.tel360.com.

Volunteers Needed: Become a Guest Speaker at McGavock High School

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

The Tennessee Trucking Association and YPC support McGavock High School’s Transportation Academy throughout the school year. The Transportation Academy currently provides a curriculum for over 150 students interested in pursuing a career in a transportation-related field, and unfortunately, they recently lost their primary instructor. 

As a result the Program Director, Asa Bradley, reached out seeking volunteers to help fill their academic schedule as “guest speakers” on transportation-related topics. The time commitment is a half-day or less (it can be as little as 1 period).

Volunteers can be from any background in transportation (drivers, mechanics, brokers, safety, sales, insurance, finance, etc.)… they are just grateful for any help we can provide! Please volunteer or share this with others who may be interested in helping.

     How to Get Started 

If you are interested in volunteering, it is easiest to fill out the PENCIL Background check to become a PENCIL partner. 

Background Checks – PENCIL (pencilforschools.org)

 

PENCIL’s work is to engage groups of volunteers that support initiatives within Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS). As part of this work, they facilitate the background checks for all volunteers who fill certain roles within. 

Volunteer Opportunities : 

10th grade: Guest Speakers, Industry Tour ( field trips to locations) OSHA -10 / Safety Topics

11th grade: Guest Speakers, Job Shadows. Need help with Multi-Meter instruction.

12th grade: Guest Speaker, Internships, Post Secondary Opportunities, On the Job training ( Work Based Learning).  Precision Measurement Instrument Instruction.

Automotive Classes meet A-Day ( 1A,2A, &4A) B-Day ( 1B, 2B, 3B) 

 

You can use the Excel sheet to sign up. Feel free to use the  A/B schedule and the Bell Schedule to find a time that works for you.  For any questions regarding this program please reach out to Asa Bradley, Ed.D. McGavock High School asa.bradley@mnps.org 615-784-5083 Ext.532210.

 

 

 

 

2023 DMC Driver of the Year – Charles Smith of FirstFleet, Inc.

Posted on by TTA Account
“DMC Driver of the Year Charles Smith and John Cole, Nominator and Director of Safety at FirstFleet.”

 

DMC Insurance has selected Charles Smith of FirstFleet, Inc. as the 2023 Driver of the Year. All insureds were given the opportunity to nominate up to three drivers for this recognition. Charles was deservedly selected as the winning driver by the judging committee, comprised of external and internal trucking industry experts. The award and accompanying prize package was presented to Charles during an appreciation event that DMC held at his home terminal in Cleveland, TN.

“Pictured from left to right: John Cole, Nominator and Director of Safety at FirstFleet; Phil Thompson, Risk Engineer at DMC; Charles Smith, Driver of the Year; Vikas Shah, EVP of Marketing & Analytics at DMC; Heather Halmi, Director of Marketing at DMC; Joe Zinn, Terminal Manager at FirstFleet”

 

While all of the candidates were impressive, Charles’ long driving history and dedication to teaching others in the profession set him apart. Charles served our country for 20 years in the U.S. Army and was a driver trainer and instructor for the majority of that time. Additionally, he has been a driver trainer at FirstFleet for 22 years, educating drivers about safe driving practices and customer service.

 

“The FirstFleet team celebrates Charles with a round of applause.”

He is meticulous in his approach to his work and was recently selected as a 2023-2024 Tennessee Road Team Captain, through which he has begun to teach the next generation of truck drivers. His 40+ years in the industry, mentorship to FirstFleet’s driver base, and continuous service to his country and community represent exactly the type of candidate we aim to honor through this award.

More details about Charles and the DMC Driver of the Year Award program can be found in the attached press release and at www.dmcinsurance.com/2023-dmc-driver-of-the-year-award-ceremony

Averitt Named 2023 Top 100 3PL Provider

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

Averitt Express has been named a 2023 Top 100 3PL Provider by Inbound Logistics magazine. The list serves as an assessment of service providers the publication’s editorial team feels are best equipped to meet and surpass its audience’s evolving outsourcing needs.

 

Each year, the team examines submitted data, conducts personal interviews and online research, and aligns this information with supply chain and logistics challenges faced by readers before choosing the best providers.

 

“World-class 3PLs offer innovative and efficient ways to wring every ounce of productivity from enterprise operations,” said Felecia Stratton, editor of Inbound Logistics. “Inbound Logistics is pleased to recognize Averitt Express as a 2023 Top 100 3PL Provider for making the investment in the solutions and expertise that empowered transportation excellence for customers in 2023.”

 

“Being recognized by one of the foremost leaders in transportation and logistics news is a true honor,” said Averitt President and Chief Operating Officer Barry Blakely. “Our associates’ commitment to excellence makes it possible to help shippers overcome their challenges and meet their goals.”

 

Averitt continues to uphold its dedication to provide customers with the advantages of a people-first culture rooted in quality service combined with innovative approaches to transportation and supply chain solutions. From its new dynamic pricing tool, ExactRate, to its ongoing focus on sustainability initiatives, Averitt strives to deliver exceptional value in an ever-evolving industry.

 

Additional recent recognitions Averitt has earned include: 

  • Five 2023 Quest for Quality Awards (Logistics Management) 
  • 2023 Green Supply Chain Partner (Inbound Logistics) 
  • Top LTL Carrier for Service Quality (Mastio & Company)

About Averitt Express 

Serving shippers for over 50 years, Averitt is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management solutions with an international reach to 100+ countries. Averitt’s LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated services provide shippers access to a wide array of services and customized solutions that cover every link in the supply chain. Together, these services and technology offerings provide “The Power of One” to shippers, allowing them access to multiple transportation solutions from a single provider. Averitt’s 9,000+ associates are dedicated to delivering the most reliable services within the industry, and to promoting a company culture that is centered around people, communities and giving back. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT (283-7488) or visit Averitt.com.

6 Tips to Avoid Road Rage for Truck Drivers

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

 

Professional truck drivers spend much more time on the road than the public. As a result, they are more likely to be confronted with aggressive situations involving other drivers. Here are six tips for avoiding or managing road rage.

  1. Managing road rage starts with a calm and relaxed attitude. Give yourself as much time as possible to make your trip and remember that you’re going to get there anyway, so make the trip safe. Be resilient and don’t overreact to other drivers’ mistakes.
  2. If someone makes an inappropriate gesture, cuts you off, or tries to pull you into some kind of action, don’t react. If necessary, slow down or change your route to avoid the other driver’s anger. You have no control over their behavior. However, you can manage your reaction.
  3. If you notice the another driver starting to show signs of aggression, leave space between your vehicles and avoid eye contact. Don’t engage in the exchange of hand signs or profanity.
  4. Lead by example and show courtesy and politeness on the road. Let your intentions be known. Use turn signals, don’t follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of you, don’t hang around too much in the passing lane, don’t hog the lane, and drive at a steady speed.
  5. A driver who has not had enough sleep will be more irritable and may get carried away more easily. Hunger also has a negative effect on mood, ever been ‘Hangry”? Good rest and good nutrition help you stay calm in the face of bad situations on the road.
  6. If there is a conflict and it seems it may get out of hand, call 911 immediately. Be sure to lock your doors and close your windows. Never get out of your vehicle to try to calm the person who is angry with you. Just wait for the police to arrive. Write down the vehicle’s license plate number, make, type, and color. This will greatly assist the police if the suspect leaves the scene before they arrive.

Behind the wheel – ANGER is one letter away from DANGER.
 
Marty Pollock, Director of Safety

Tennessee Trucking Association