Florida Trucking Association Announces New Florida Road Team Members (2025-2028)
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— The Florida Trucking Association (FTA) has appointed outstanding truck drivers from around the state to join the 2025-2028 Florida Road Team after a thorough selection process.
“Our Road Team continues to significantly influence students statewide, thanks to collaborative planning with educational institutions and governmental organizations, as well as support from our member companies,” stated Alix Miller, president and CEO of FTA. “These companies dedicate their drivers’ time and resources for events, emphasizing the importance of the industry’s image and the safety messages conveyed.”
About the Florida Road Team
Members of the Florida Road Team act as ambassadors for the trucking sector and embody the professionalism of truck drivers. Since its establishment in 1996, the team has educated around 150,000 students on safe driving practices and how to coexist safely with trucks on the road. Nominees, put forth by member companies, are chosen based on their experience, skills, and ability to represent the industry’s best standards.
Selection Criteria for Road Team
To qualify for Road Team membership, drivers must possess at least 10 years of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) experience, have worked for their current firm for a minimum of five years, and maintain excellent driving records. Additionally, nominees are assessed on their capacity to communicate their dedication to safety and courtesy effectively.
Introducing the New Florida Road Team Captains
“The 2025-2028 Florida Road Team Captains bring expertise in educating and engaging in community events,” said Elizabeth Emmanuel, vice president of public affairs. “They are selected based on various criteria, including their driving history, community engagement, regulatory knowledge, and public speaking abilities. These Captains undergo additional testing and training to tailor their presentations for diverse age groups.”
New Team Members
The new members of the Florida Road Team include:
- Matthew Chidester, Walmart Transportation, Palm Bay – A professional driver for 30 years, he is a Certified Driver Trainer with a stellar safety record and has coached youth sports.
- Christopher Grandshaw, Walmart Transportation, Brooksville – With 25 years of experience and over 2.3 million miles driven, he is involved in community events and hurricane relief efforts.
- Demetrius ‘Dee’ Hastings, UPS, Jacksonville – A driver since 2000, he has driven 2 million safe miles and actively volunteers with various organizations.
- Larry Johnson, Walmart Transportation, Alachua – With 25 years of experience, he mentors fellow drivers and coaches youth sports.
- Michael Lightfoot, Walmart Transportation, Alachua – A truck driver for 23 years, he serves as a Certified Driver Trainer and has logged 361,000 miles.
- Russell ‘Rusty’ Roberts, Walmart Transportation, MacClenny – With 29 years in the profession, he participates in food distribution and disaster relief activities.
- Miguel Sanchez, UPS, Jacksonville – He has driven 1.5 million safe miles and won multiple awards, alongside volunteering for community groups.
Current Road Team Members
The new members will join these existing Road Team members:
- Scott Brown, FedEx, Tampa.
- Michael Cherry, Walmart Transportation, Palm Coast.
- Mihaly Ramirez, FedEx, Orlando.
- Omar Stebbins, XPO Logistics, Pompano Beach.
- Anthony Tirone, Walmart Transportation, Fort Pierce.
- Chevelle Walker, Werner Enterprises, Lake City.
Get In Touch
If you’re interested in scheduling a presentation by the Florida Road Team for your students or community event, please reach out to FTA at [email protected] or call (850) 222-9900. For further information, click here.
