Congratulations 2024 Stevens Transport Drivers of the Year
Stevens Transport, a leading multi-modal, temperature-controlled truckload carrier in North America, takes great pride in acknowledging the outstanding recipients of the 2024 Driver of the Year awards. These individuals, recognized with top honors this year, have demonstrated exceptional commitment to going above and beyond.
The distinctive demands of delivering time-sensitive truckload shipments necessitate the utmost performance from our dedicated driving force and contribute to Stevens Transport being a logistics leader in the supply chain marketplace. Stevens Transport is proud to showcase these drivers for their dedication and exemplary service, and in addition to these top honors, also honor the fifty-eight individuals recognized in 2024, and their recognition in the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame.
Alberto Garcia
1st Place Company Driver of the Year
Congratulations Alberto Garcia – Stevens Transport Company Driver of the Year! Alberto joined Stevens Transport in March 2014 after receiving his CDL from the Truck Driving Institute. Many accolades and milestones have been achieved over his 10-year career as a solo driver at Stevens. Alberto has driven a total of one million, two hundred fifty-eight thousand miles (1,258,428) and is an esteemed member of the Million Mile Haul of Fame. Alberto has demonstrated what it takes to be the BEST of the BEST from his professional attitude to an impressive service record and exemplary safety record. WE are incredibly proud to have Alberto representing Stevens Transport on and off the road.
From an early age, Alberto knew he wanted to be a professional truck driver, and his passion for being a driver remains as strong as ever. He appreciates the open road, enjoying the stunning landscapes of the country, with his favorite being the winter beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Off the road, Alberto cherishes time spent with his family, enjoying fishing trips, the outdoors and creating lasting memories with his granddaughter.
Congratulations, Alberto on your incredible year!
Ranferi Briones
Runner Up Company Driver of the Year
We are pleased to announce Ranferi Briones as the 2024 Company Driver of the Year Runner-Up! Ranferi came to Stevens Transport in March 2008, after earning his CDL from the CDL School in Miami. He chose Stevens Transport for its outstanding reputation and the flexibility it offers in scheduling and time management. Ranferi believes being a careful planner is important to the success of each trip. By staying organized, he maintains steady progress, exercise patience, and remains alert while on the road. He values the support provided to drivers, the high quality of the trucks, and the exceptional service he receives from Paragon Leasing.
Originally from Guatemala, Ranferi views his time on the road as an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of America. Ranferi closed 2024 with an incredible one million, three hundred ninety-seven thousand, sixty-four (1,397,064) career miles! He wants new drivers to embrace the importance of balancing success on the road with maintaining a strong connection to home life. He enjoys traveling for leisure, spending time at the beach, and creating memorable moments with his family.
Congratulations, Ranferi on this well-deserved recognition!
Richard Hackl
1st Place Independent Contractor of the Year
Congratulations Richard Hackl, the 2024 Independent Contractor of the Year! Richard earned his CDL with Stevens Driving Academy and joined Stevens Transport in January 2015 and soon after, transitioned to the contractor division. In June 2022, Richard was celebrated as a 1 Million Miler and inducted into the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame! He continues to make impacts, reaching over 125k miles in 2024 making his end of year career miles one million, three hundred forty-two thousand, one hundred eighty-one (1, 342,181).
After a successful career in the private security sector, Richard was seeking a career change, one that would give him an opportunity to achieve greater financial success and work as his own boss. Becoming a professional driver with Stevens Transport offered him the perfect path to achieving his goal. He credits the support from the contractor division, helping him become a true professional in the business. Outside of work, Richard enjoys watching sports and spending quality time with his family.
Congratulations, Richard on a job well done!
Hassan Assani Bisilongo
Runner-Up Independent Contractor of the Year
We are pleased to announce Hassan Assani Bisilongo is our Independent Contractor of the Year Runner-Up! Hassan joined Stevens Transport in 2016 after receiving his CDL from Truck Driving Institute and came into the transportation industry with a career goal of becoming an owner-operator. After transitioning to the Contractor Division, he took the next steps of entrepreneurship to owning his first truck and becoming an Owner-Operator. It remains one of his greatest accomplishments in life! He is humbled by all the recognitions and opportunities along his journey.
Hassan is appreciative of the clear and attainable path to ownership that Stevens Transport offers, providing opportunities for individuals, like himself, who are committed to hard work and defining success. He encourages drivers new to the industry to pay attention to the possibilities. When off the road, Hassan enjoys relaxing and exploring new restaurants, making the most of his time off.
Congratulations, Hassan on a great year!
Morris “Mo” Davis
1st Place Company Trainer of the Year
Congratulations to Company driver and Million Mile Haul of Famer, Morris “Mo” Davis, the 2024 Company Trainer of the Year! Mo earned his CDL from Roadmaster in Jacksonville, Florida, and joined the Stevens Transport team in March 2011. Mo’s decision to join Stevens Transport was influenced by the company’s culture, modern equipment, and the opportunities available to drivers.
He is deeply grateful for the loyalty and support Stevens has shown him throughout his career. He appreciates having deep-rooted relationships and a close-knit community as a driver and trainer for Stevens and is grateful and filled with excitement for the recognition. His passion for training over the last decade is evident, as he continuously strives to improve and inspire his students. Typically, on the road for five to six months at a time, he embraces every moment of it. “I’m in it to win it,” he says. Mo describes work as his hobby because of his love of driving his 2024 Kenworth truck. He is determined to become a 2 Million Miler in 2025, and ending 2024 with one million, eight hundred fifty-four thousand, five hundred thirty-one miles (1,854,531), he is well on his way to achieving his goal!
Congratulations, Mo on your remarkable achievements!
Garry Smith
Runner-Up Company Trainer of the Year
We are proud to announce the Company Trainer of the Year is Million Mile Haul of Famer, Garry Smith! Garry came to Stevens Transport in 2009 after receiving his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy, he has been a trainer for 13 years, and was inducted into the Haul of Fame in 2018! Garry’s journey into transportation began with a desire to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a driver. He began training new drivers in 2011 and has trained over 80 trainees. His goal in training is to pass along the knowledge and skills he has acquired, helping students become confident drivers. His time as a trainer is often filled with proud moments when seeing his students succeed in their own careers.
Garry attributes his success as a trainer to his attention to detail, his deep understanding of the trucking industry, and his ability to adapt to the evolving changes within it. Closing 2024 with one million, eight hundred twenty-three thousand, two hundred sixty-nine miles (1,823,269), compliments his dedication to training. Outside of his work, Garry enjoys spending time with his family and special moments with his kids, brothers, and mother, and loves traveling.
Congratulations, Garry!
William “Mike” Hagan
Independent Contractor Trainer of The Year
Congratulations to William “Mike” Hagan, the 2024 Independent Contractor Trainer of the Year! With over two decades of experience as a professional driver and 19 years as a trainer, Mike has become a cornerstone of Stevens Transport’s driving force.
Mike was driven by a desire for change and becoming a professional driver not only gave him the change he was seeking but also a successful and rewarding career. Originally from Orlando, FL, Mike earned his CDL from Key Power in Orlando and joined Stevens Transport in 2002. He is a 4 Million Miler in the Haul of Fame, has trained hundreds of drivers, and is regarded as one of the top trainers in the industry. Mike closed 2024 with an incredible four million, two hundred ninety-six thousand, nine hundred ninety-one (4,296,991) career miles! His dedication to the craft and his impact on the next generation of drivers makes him an invaluable asset to Stevens Transport. Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and grandchildren.
Congratulations, Mike on your impactful year!
Goran Blagojevic
Runner-Up Independent Contractor Trainer of The Year
Please join us in Congratulating Goran Blagojevic, the Independent Contractor Trainer of the Year Runner-Up! Receiving his CDL from Careers Worldwide in Colorado, Goran has been a key member of the Stevens Transport team since February 2019. After researching various companies online, Goran was drawn to Stevens Transport for its strong emphasis on safety.
Goran prioritizes teaching his trainees the fundamentals, starting with key principles like the “6-second rule” and the importance of repetition. He focuses on instilling good pre-planning habits and preparing for every aspect of being a driver. He also delves into more detailed aspects of driving, always aiming to get his trainees into their own trucks as confident and safe drivers.
Goran is thankful for the people at Stevens who are always ready to assist at any moment, the Paragon Team, and that safety is the cornerstone of the company. Outside of work, Goran enjoys working with computers, staying connected with his children in Europe, and reading or listening to history audiobooks.
Congratulations, Goran!
Jacob Riley
New Driver of The Year
Congratulations Jacob Riley, Stevens Transport’s 2024 New Driver of the Year! Jacob joined Stevens in February 2024 after graduating from KLLM Driving Academy. Jacob is U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and came to Stevens with over a decade of driving experience. He quickly set his sights on becoming a driver trainer to help guide the next generation of drivers and this recognition as New Driver of the Year is a testament to his hard work and commitment.
Jacob finds great fulfillment in training and mentoring others, ensuring they leave his truck equipped with the knowledge and professionalism needed for a successful career. As an independent contractor, Jacob enjoys the business flexibility it offers while continuing to learn and grow professionally. He credits his success to his wife, whose support keeps him focused and motivated. Jacob appreciates the support he receives from Stevens, highlighting the strong teamwork from individuals like his driver manager, Chris Nelson, and business advisor, Michael Sommer. Outside of work, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family, including regular trips to England to visit his wife and children.
Thank you for your service and congratulations, Jacob, on this well-deserved recognition!
Derik Robinson
Runner-Up New Driver of The Year
We are pleased to announce the 2024 New Driver of the Year Runner-Up is Derik Robinson! Derik joined Stevens in January 2024, after graduating from First Choice CDL Academy in Houston. Derik is a proud cancer survivor and was motivated to pursue his long-time interest in driving and become great in all the opportunities possible. Derik also became a Trainer in 2024, a role he greatly enjoys and takes pride in helping other drivers succeed and create a great future. He enjoys the relationships created and receiving calls from past students, learning about their accomplishments.
Derik transitioned to the Contractor Division, and credits much of his success to the dedicated team behind the scenes at Stevens Transport. Derik appreciates the support, kindness, and strong communication from the team. His most memorable moment so far has been graduating and receiving the keys to his first truck. Outside of work, Derik is an avid motorcycle enthusiast and a certified Harley-Davidson mechanic. He enjoys any outdoor activity that keeps him active and engaged.
Congratulations, Derik on your outstanding achievements!
Lloyd Thomas
Owner Operator of The Year
Congratulations to Two Million Mile Haul of Famer, Lloyd Thomas, the 2024 Owner-Operator of the Year!
Lloyd joined Stevens Transport in June 2007 after completing his CDL training at Stevens Driving Academy. He credits much of his success to the training he received at Stevens, stating, “I wouldn’t be half the driver I am today if it weren’t for the training I received from Stevens.”
Lloyd closed 2024 with two million, six hundred thousand, seven hundred fifty-three miles (2,600,753), with over 166K miles in 2024! He has set his sights on reaching the next milestone, three-million-miles in the coming years! Lloyd is focused, detailed oriented, and a proud businessman. Outside of his professional achievements, he enjoys spending time with his family and watching football.
Thank you, Lloyd, for your outstanding contributions and dedication to Stevens Transport!
Owen Smith
Runner-Up Owner Operator of The Year
Congratulations to Owen Smith, the 2024 Owner-Operator of the Year Runner-Up! Owen has been an integral part of Stevens Transport since February 1996 after earning his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy. His dedication and hard work for nearly 3 decades, has positioned him among the top Owner-Operators and earning multiple well-deserved recognitions.
Throughout his impressive 29-year career with Stevens Transport, Owen has driven over 3.2 million accident-free miles and is in the Haul of Fame as a Three Million Miler. His success and business acumen is further demonstrated by his ability to successfully navigate truck leases, grow his fleet, and consistently reach key industry milestones. Humbly, Owen is proud to own the largest private fleet contracted with Stevens Transport Contractor Division. His exceptional commitment to his craft is driven by his family, passion for spending quality time with them, and enjoying the outdoors.
Congratulations, Owen on another remarkable year!
Jacob Franks & Carl Davis
1st Place Team of the Year
Congratulations Jacob Franks and Carl Davis, the Stevens Transport Team of the Year! Both Jacob and Carl earned their CDLs through Stevens Driving Academy, and their collaboration has set a remarkable standard within our organization. Jacob joined Stevens Transport in September 2020 and became an Independent Contractor in November of the same year. Carl, after serving ten years in the United States Army, joined Stevens Transport in September 2022 and transitioned to Independent Contractor in March 2023. Jacob was Carl’s Driver Trainer, and this is how the dynamic duo came to be! Together, they make an incredible team, seamlessly working side by side to achieve success.
Jacob’s key tip for success is to establish a consistent schedule and stick with it, while Carl encourages fellow drivers to never stop asking questions. “My advice for anyone considering a driving career is to understand the industry and recognize the commitment required,” says Carl. Outside of work, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family and attending Rangers games, while Carl relishes family time, golfing, and visiting the shooting range.
Thank you, Carl, for your service and congratulations Jacob and Carl for a great year!
Brayan Molina Castillo & Jose Figueroa Ureta
Runner-Up Team of the Year
Please join us in congratulating Brayan Molina Castillo and Jose Figueroa Ureta, the Stevens Transport Team of the Year Runner-Up! Brayan and Jose both came to Stevens Transport in April 2023, with Brayan graduating from Stevens Driving Academy and Jose completing his training at Tampa Truck Driving School. Brayan previously served as a driver trainer for six months before transitioning to solo driving and later teaming up with Jose. Together, they’ve formed a highly successful partnership, crediting their achievements to strong collaboration and mutual support. Brayan’s advice to new drivers is to drive as much as possible while always prioritizing safety and professionalism.
Jose, who has long aspired to be a truck driver, was drawn to Stevens Transport after researching the company online. He values the responsibility of being a driver and emphasizes the importance of safety, both for himself and the public. His advice for new drivers is to have a genuine passion for the profession and to stay calm and focused. Outside of work, Brayan enjoys spending time with his family and playing the guitar, while Jose enjoys family time, often treating his loved ones to meals out and fun events.
Congratulations, Brayan and Jose on being such a great team!
Jose Alberto
Dedicated Driver of the Year
Congratulations Jose Alberto, the Stevens Transport Dedicated Driver of the Year! Jose joined Stevens Transport in January 2009 after earning his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy. A Contractor Division driver, he has made remarkable contributions over the past 15 years. Throughout his career, Jose has earned numerous accolades including Dedicated Driver of the Month (multiple), shared his knowledge as a driver trainer, and is a 2 Million Miler in the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame!
Jose closed 2024 with two million, four hundred forty-six thousand, three hundred fifty-eight (2,446,358) career miles and appreciates the consistency of his role as a Dedicated Texas Regional Driver, the continued support from Stevens Transport, and the opportunities provided to both drivers and their families. Outside of work, Jose enjoys traveling the world and spending quality time with his family.
Congratulations, Jose, on this well-deserved award!
Timothy Wilkerson
Runner-Up Dedicated Driver of the Year
Congratulations to Million Mile Haul of Famer, Timothy Wilkerson, the 2024 Stevens Transport Dedicated Driver of the Year Runner-Up!
Timothy has been an integral member of the Stevens Transport team since August 2016, after receiving his CDL from Georgia Driving Academy. Known for being a dedicated and detail-oriented driver, and with continued exceptional service records, he was offered the opportunity to join the Comfort Zone Fleet. His loyalty, strong leadership qualities, and exceptional customer service skills have made him an invaluable asset to this division.
A very successful 2024, with over 152K miles, Timothy was also inducted into the Haul of Fame, and closing out 2024 with one million, one thousand, two hundred twenty-six (1,001,226) career miles! He is a great representative of the hard working, driven, and dedicated individuals in the industry! When off the road, Timothy enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends.
Congratulations, Timothy on a very successful year!
Congratulations, drivers!
Interested in joining the Stevens Transport family? Check out the great truck driving job opportunities currently available: