Groendyke driver named tanker driver of the year

Updated May 9, 2014

James Starr, professional driver of Groendyke Transport, Inc., is the recipient of the first National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) Professional Driver of the Year award.  Starr received the William A. Usher Sr. trophy, which was presented during NTTC’s 66th Annual Conference on April 28 in Las Vegas. 

The award recognizes a tank truck driver who serves the industry with the most reliable and safe transportation of liquid and dry bulk commodities. 

The eight finalists were chosen based on accident-free miles, industry and company leadership, communication and public speaking ability and overall industry knowledge. Starr is a petroleum and chemical hauler for Groendyke Transport’s Wichita terminal and has accumulated over 3.5 million accident-free miles during his 29-year career with the company.  He also serves as a certified driving instructor.

The NTTC Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year program is sponsored by Baldwin & Lyons, Inc. (B&L), a specialist in marketing and underwriting insurance for the transportation industry.  Starr will represent the NTTC at this year’s Indy 500 as B&L’s guest, and he will designate a $2,500 charitable gift to the safety organization of his choosing.