Recognition for Congressional Support of Veteran Careers in Trucking
The American Trucking Associations’ Trucking Cares Foundation honored four Congressional leaders whose efforts have aided veterans in launching careers within the trucking sector.
Award Ceremony at the Capitol
During a ceremony held at the U.S. Capitol, Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), along with Representatives Chris Pappas (D-NH) and Chuck Edwards (R-NC), were awarded the TCF’s 2025 Congressional Hero Awards. These awards were in recognition of their advocacy for the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023.
Impact of Legislation on Veterans
TCF Chairman Greg Owen, who also serves as head coach of Ability Tri-Modal, praised the efforts of Senators Fischer and Padilla, along with Representatives Pappas and Edwards. He stated, “The legislation they successfully passed last Congress benefited both servicemen and our supply chain. Thanks to their law, more of our nation’s heroes can receive essential training to secure lucrative jobs in trucking after military service, while the industry gains access to this remarkable talent pool.”
Veterans’ Skills Transition to Trucking
John Lynch, TCF President and Senior VP of Federation Relations at ATA, emphasized that veterans possess skills from their military service, such as familiarity with large vehicles, which make their transition to commercial trucking smoother. He also underscored that trucking firms value traits developed during military service, including discipline and reliability.
Support from ATA Leadership
ATA President & CEO Chris Spear also commended the four honorees for their dedication to creating opportunities for veterans in the trucking field. He remarked, “When these courageous individuals return home, they shouldn’t face bureaucratic hurdles in pursuing the American dream they’ve defended. The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 is a pragmatic measure aimed at enhancing veterans’ access to CDL programs and helping them forge successful careers.”
Legislative Changes Benefiting Veterans
Before the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 was enacted, veterans faced a two-year ban on receiving GI benefits if a trucking school opened a new location. This law has eliminated that restriction, allowing veterans to use their benefits at new branches immediately, as long as the main institution is approved by the VA and State Approving Agencies.
About the Honorees
Senator Deb Fischer, a member of key Senate committees, champions issues relevant to veterans and the trucking industry. Senator Alex Padilla advocates for veterans from his home state of California, which hosts the largest ports in North America. Representative Chris Pappas actively sponsors bills for veterans’ health care and career development, while Representative Chuck Edwards focuses on enhancing mental health services and aiding veteran transitions into new jobs, particularly after Hurricane Helene’s impact on western North Carolina.
