CHILLICOTHE, OH – Four military veterans turned professional truck drivers have been announced as finalists for the 10th annual Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, a national program honoring service members who have successfully transitioned into the trucking industry.
The award is presented by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, Kenworth Truck Company, and Fastport. This year’s winner will drive away in a state-of-the-art Kenworth T680 truck, equipped with a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and the latest driver-assist technology.
Last week, twelve semi-finalists were honored at a reception at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, followed by a special announcement event and factory tour at the Kenworth plant in Chillicothe.
2025 Finalists:
- Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army & Army Reserve (E-5), Werner Enterprises – A decorated veteran with multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, Baughan is preparing to retire from the U.S. Army Reserve in 2026.
- Charles Jones Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport – With more than 20 years of service, including three combat deployments, Jones began his trucking career in 2025.
- Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines – A former heavy equipment operator, Mattice now drives flatbed trucks and lives in Florida with her son.
- Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport – A nine-year Army veteran and former staff sergeant, Scriven is now a professional driver and trainer.
While the grand prize winner will take home the Kenworth T680, the runner-up will receive $10,000, and the two remaining finalists will each be awarded $5,000.
“Veterans bring mission focus, adaptability, and leadership to every role they take on, including careers behind the wheel,” said Eric Eversole, Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and President of Hiring Our Heroes. “These finalists show how military experience translates into excellence in the trucking industry.”
Public voting for the Transition Trucking award will be held November 1–11, Veterans Day, with the winner announced December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.
