TravelCenters of America announced the 13th annual Citizen Driver Award honorees at the Mid-America Trucking Show on March 27: Steven Brand and Bruce Jones.
The award was created to recognize professional drivers who demonstrate a high level of respect for the truck driving profession through leadership, good citizenship, safety, health and wellness, and community involvement.
“Professional drivers are the heartbeat of our business and this country,” said TA CEO Jason Nordin. “Nearly every product on a shelf, every piece of equipment on a job site, every essential item delivered to a home -- drivers make it possible. At TA, our mission is to show up for them with the respect, care, and support they deserve. The Citizen Driver program reflects the very best of this industry, honoring drivers whose character, service, and commitment make a meaningful impact far beyond the miles they drive.”
TA will make a $5,000 donation to TAT (formerly known as Truckers Against Trafficking) on behalf of Brand and Jones. Site dedication ceremonies will take place later this year, one of the Citizen Driver Award's ultimately results: Brand selected TA London, Ohio, and Jones selected Petro Wilmington, Illinois, to be dedicated in their names.
Since its inception in 2013, TA has recognized 40 professional drivers who represent the best of the industry. Among past honorees are leading voices around trucking, and some close to home in past Overdrive Truckers of the Year, contributors, and others featured in these pages.
For newly awarded Steven Brand, trucking wasn’t just a career choice; it was a calling. With 36 years behind the wheel and 4.8 million accident-free miles, he has built a reputation as one of trucking's most trusted and respected professionals.
After nearly three decades with FedEx Freight, Brand's widely regarded as a mentor, coach, and trusted resource for fellow drivers. He plays an active role in helping the next generation, coaching participants in the Ohio Truck Driving Championships and providing hands-on guidance to those entering the profession.
His commitment to safety is unwavering, reflected in a career free of DOT-chargeable accidents and grounded in discipline, patience, and preparation. Brand approaches every mile with a deep sense of responsibility for himself and everyone on the road. Beyond professional achievements, he's committed to his community, supporting youth programs and safety initiatives, and helping others through everyday acts of service.
He consistently demonstrates leadership extends beyond the wheel.
Bruce Jones is a third-generation truck driver and U.S. Marine Corps veteran whose career reflects discipline, service, and leadership. With more than 28 years of professional driving and 4 million accident- and ticket-free miles, he sets a high bar for safety and professionalism.
With Hoffman Transportation currently, Jones achieved more than 1 million safe miles in tanker operations and has earned national recognition, including being named a 2024 Grand Champion Elite Eight Finalist and 2024 Illinois Driver of the Year.
Jones is a dedicated mentor and leader within the trucking community, regularly supporting other drivers through guidance, training, and encouragement. He also serves on his company’s Driver Advisory Board, helping shape safety initiatives and driver-focused improvements.
His commitment to service extends beyond the road. Jones is actively involved in youth programs, safety education, and veteran organizations, using his platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
[Related: TA names three new Citizen Drivers, Overdrive's 2023 Trucker of the Year among them]
