Stevens Transport is proud to announce that two of its drivers have been named semifinalists in the prestigious Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, earning a coveted place among the program’s Elite 11.
Command Sergeant Major Gary Williams and Staff Sergeant Michael Bivens represent the very best of what happens when military discipline meets a career on the road. Both veterans have channeled the grit, leadership, and commitment to service they developed in uniform into rewarding new careers as professional truck drivers. Their excellence has now been recognized on a national stage.
Gary Williams: 31 Years of Service, a New Road Ahead
After serving 31 years in the U.S. Army and retiring as a Command Sergeant Major, Gary W. Williams entered the trucking industry looking for a new challenge and a meaningful second career. During his decades of service, he built exceptional leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills while serving as a leader, medic, and mentor to countless soldiers.
Today, Gary brings those same values to the road. With a stellar safety record, he embraces the independence and responsibility that professional driving offers. Off the clock, he remains deeply committed to his fellow veterans, regularly participating in walks, marches, hikes, and events with organizations such as the Travis Manion Foundation.
For Gary, service never really ends. He believes that simply showing up and standing beside others can make a meaningful difference, and that offering guidance, encouragement, and support is one of the most powerful ways he can continue serving his country.
Michael Bivens: Carrying On a Family Legacy
After 13 years in the Marine Corps, Michael R. Bivens lives out his professional driving career by a simple but powerful creed: be safe, be on time, be courteous, and love your country. His military service instilled in him the importance of preparation, accountability, and perseverance.
Inspired by his father’s own trucking career, Michael entered the transportation industry determined to become a safe and dependable professional driver. He takes pride in supporting his family, serving his community through his work, and upholding the high standards and work ethic he learned in the Marine Corps.
For Michael, safety always comes first. As an over-the-road driver, he understands that his actions affect not only his own safety, but the safety of everyone sharing the road with him. He looks forward to what the future holds at Stevens Transport.
About the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award
The Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award is one of the trucking industry’s premier recognition programs, honoring military veterans who have successfully transitioned into professional truck driving. The program celebrates veterans whose military experience, professionalism, and commitment to safety have helped them excel behind the wheel.
As part of the 11th annual award, Kenworth is donating a T680 truck, a masterpiece of innovation featuring a stamped aluminum cab and integral sleeper. More than a prize, the truck stands as a symbol of recognition for the hard work and dedication veterans bring to the industry.
The award serves as a catalyst for transformation, celebrating not only the veterans themselves but also the employers and CDL institutions that help shape their success stories.
Proud to Serve Those Who Served
Stevens Transport congratulates Gary Williams and Michael Bivens on this outstanding achievement. Their journeys are a testament to the discipline, dedication, and heart that veterans bring to the road every day. We’re honored to have them at Stevens Transport.
Reminder: Voting begins November 1st, 2026