Congratulations 2025 Stevens Transport Drivers of the Year
Stevens Transport, a premier multi-modal, temperature-controlled truckload carrier, proudly celebrates the exceptional recipients of its 2025 Driver of the Year awards. These top honorees exemplify a strong commitment to excellence, consistently going above and beyond in their roles.
Meeting the unique challenges of time-sensitive freight requires the highest level of performance from our drivers, an effort that helps position Stevens Transport as a leader in the supply chain industry. In addition to recognizing these standout individuals, Stevens Transport also honors all drivers inducted into the 2025 Haul of Fame for their dedication and outstanding service.
Robert Belford
1st Place Company Driver of the Year
Recognizing Four Million-Mile Haul of Famer and U.S. Army Veteran, Robert Belford as the 2025 Stevens Transport Company Driver of the Year. Robert joined Stevens Transport in July 1995 after completing CDL training at the Stevens Driving Academy. He has built an extraordinary career, accumulating four million safe driving miles while maintaining a flawless service record. Robert’s discipline, professionalism, and commitment have defined his three decades with Stevens Transport. Throughout his tenure, Robert has consistently demonstrated excellence behind the wheel. He was named 2020 Driver of the Year, has earned multiple Driver of the Month honors, and now joins an elite group as one of only ten Stevens drivers to achieve 4 million safe miles.
Robert attributes his longevity and success to a strong work ethic and always tells new drivers to find joy in the journey.
When he is not driving, Robert enjoys gaming and spending quality time with his family.
Thank you, Robert, for your service to our country and for your dedication to Stevens Transport.
Congratulations on this incredible milestone!
Ravene Cavitt
Runner Up Company Driver of the Year
Recognizing Ravene Cavitt as the 2025 Stevens Transport Company Driver of the Year Runner-Up. Ravene joined Stevens Transport in June 2023 after earning her CDL from Lone Star College, and has quickly established herself as a dedicated and dependable professional. In a short time, she has logged an impressive 269,763 miles while maintaining a perfect safety record.
What Ravene appreciates most about Stevens Transport is the company’s supportive culture, where there is always someone willing to lend a helping hand. As a driver who is always wanting to pay it forward, one of her most memorable experiences took place at a truck stop in Wyoming, where she helped a fellow Stevens driver regain confidence after a frightening encounter with high winds. Ravene says her favorite part of being a professional driver is the patience and professionalism she has developed over time, all qualities that have grown significantly since the start of her career.
When she’s not working, Ravene enjoys exploring somewhere new, since traveling is a big part of her lifestyle. On quieter days, she enjoys settling in with a book and taking a break from the everyday rush.
Congratulations, Ravene, and thank you for your hard work and dedication.
Larez Bagley
1st Place Independent Contractor of the Year
Recognizing Larez Bagley as the 2025 Stevens Transport Independent Contractor of the Year. Larez earned his CDL through the Stevens Driving Academy and began his journey with Stevens Transport in April 2024. In a relatively short time, he has accumulated an impressive 160,335 career miles while maintaining a flawless service record, reflecting his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Drawn to the transportation industry in pursuit of financial independence, long-term career stability, and the freedom of life on the open road, Larez has quickly distinguished himself as a professional who takes pride in his craft. He credits his success to a dedication to safety, a continuous drive for improvement, and a genuine passion for excellence behind the wheel.
When asked what he values most about Stevens Transport, Larez says that Stevens truly supports new drivers, with clear communication, reliable equipment, and respect for your time both on and off the road. When he is off the road, Larez enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends.
Congratulations, Larez. Your hard work and dedication is truly appreciated!
Benjamin Mahar
Runner-Up Independent Contractor of the Year
Recognizing Benjamin Mahar as the 2025 Stevens Transport Independent Contractor of the Year Runner-Up. Benjamin earned his CDL from HDS Truck Driving School in Tucson, Arizona, and joined Stevens Transport in August 2023. Since then, he has logged an impressive 240,896 career miles quickly establishing himself as a dependable and driven professional. Previously working at a highway diesel school in Phoenix, Benjamin was inspired to return to the road after attending a recruiting presentation by Sterling, one of our field recruiters. At that moment, his passion for trucking was reignited and led him to build a successful career with Stevens. Benjamin attributes his success to strong communication with his driver managers and the outstanding support he receives from Stevens Transport.
When asked about being an Independent Contractor, Benjamin says that being his own boss gives him the flexibility he needs. What Benjamin values most about Stevens Transport is the quality equipment, dependable freight, and consistent driver support. Outside of work, Benjamin enjoys spending time with his family and relaxing with his dog.
Congratulations, Benjamin! We’re proud to have you on the Stevens team!
Ellis Relyveld
1st Place Company Trainer of the Year
Recognizing Ellis Relyveld as the 2025 Company Trainer of the Year. Since joining Stevens Transport in November 2023, Ellis has demonstrated exceptional dedication to safety, professionalism, and driver development. He has logged 221,684 career miles while making a meaningful impact as a Company Driver Trainer. A graduate of Coastal Truck Driving School in Harvey, Louisiana, Ellis was drawn to Stevens through a personal recommendation and quickly found value in the company’s thorough training, consistent freight, and strong support system. Ellis takes a well-rounded approach when training, blending company policy with real-world experience. Drawing from his own trainers, family members in trucking, and prior experience as a driver with UPS, he emphasizes safety, sound decision-making, mental health, work-life balance, and healthy habits on the road.
Ellis attributes his success to strong mentorship, family support, and a foundation built on safety-first principles. His advice to new drivers is to slow down, observe, and make thoughtful decisions without rushing. Ellis enjoy the peace and independence being on the road provides, but off the road, he enjoys basketball, video games, and loves relaxing with movies and television. His true joy comes from spending time with friends and family.
Congratulations, Ellis!
Patrick Murray
Runner-Up Company Trainer of the Year
Recognizing Patrick Murray as the Stevens Transport Company Trainer of the Year Runner-Up! A graduate of the Stevens Driving Academy, Patrick joined us in November 2023. He has logged 218,940 career miles and his training approach emphasizes on preparing drivers for the realities of trucking, while helping them succeed both professionally and personally. He values helping his students grow, seeing them pass their exams, and staying connected with them as they advance in their careers.
Patrick believes that mentoring new drivers is one of the most rewarding parts of the job, and he takes pride in knowing his guidance helps them return home safely to their families. He encourages drivers to apply what they’ve learned and adapt on the road.
For Patrick, the best part of Stevens Transport is the opportunity to build a career while having a meaningful impact and his trainees, supported by a company that invests in its drivers. Outside of work, he enjoys working out, running, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends, all of which help him to stay balanced and focused. His dedication to teaching and commitment to excellence make him a respected trainer and role model throughout the Stevens Transport community.
Congratulations, Patrick, and thank you for your hard work and dedication!
Mario Williams
Independent Contractor Trainer of The Year
Recognizing Mario Williams as the 2025 Stevens Transport Independent Contractor Trainer of the Year. Mario has been a valued member of the Stevens Transport team since February 2005 and is a graduate of the Georgia Driving Academy. A proud Four Million-Miler Haul of Famer, Mario has accumulated an impressive 4,045,856 career miles, reflecting his consistency, discipline, and long-standing commitment to excellence. Widely regarded as one of Stevens Transport’s most dependable contractors, Mario is known for his intelligence, steady demeanor, and goal oriented mindset. As a driver trainer, Mario has shared invaluable driving expertise and business knowledge with more than 215 trainees, earning the respect and trust of customers, fellow drivers, and the entire Stevens Transport family.
For Mario, driving is more than a profession, it is an opportunity for continuous growth and success. Guided by clear goals and a disciplined approach, he believes that purposeful planning leads to meaningful results. This philosophy shapes his daily routine, from maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road to consistently pursuing personal and professional excellence. We are deeply grateful for Mario’s dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on our team.
Congratulations, Mario, on this well-earned honor!
Shawn Kirkland
Runner-Up Independent Contractor Trainer of The Year
Recognizing Shawn Kirkland as the 2025 Stevens Transport Independent Contractor Trainer of the Year Runner-Up. Shawn joined Stevens Transport in September 2019 after earning his CDL through Georgia Driving Academy. Since then, he has logged an impressive 891,068 career miles, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence, safety, and mentorship. As a trainer, Shawn plays a critical role in shaping the next generation of professional drivers. He is known for leading by example, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and clear communication while helping trainees build confidence behind the wheel. His ability to balance productivity with patient instruction has made a lasting impact on those he trains and has helped set a high-standard within the training program. His Driver Manager, Owen Eckblad, says that Shawn is a truly amazing trainer and his communication and dedication to Stevens and the training program are always a priority, as he loves to run the miles and consistently advises us when he’s running early, allowing both him and his trainee to keep rolling efficiently.
Congratulations, Shawn! We greatly appreciate you and are proud to have you represent both the company and the trucking industry.
Barry Chatman
New Driver of The Year
Recognizing Barry Chatman as the 2025 Stevens Transport New Driver of the Year! Barry began his journey with Stevens in January 2025 after earning his CDL from Diesel Driving Academy. In just his first year, he has already logged an impressive 117,879 career miles, which is a testament to his dedication, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. Before transitioning to over-the-road trucking, Barry spent two years driving a school bus in Gray, Louisiana. Ready for new opportunities and a brighter future, he chose Stevens Transport for its strong reputation and long-term career potential. Barry’s long-term goal is to become a Driver Trainer, giving back to the next generation of drivers just as his trainers supported him.
Barry says that as a driver it pays off if you’re committed. Barry loves waking up in a different city every other day, even though it’s bittersweet being away from home, but he’s working for his family’s future and well-being.
Outside of work, Barry enjoys watching documentaries, reading, and learning about different cultures.
Congratulations, Barry! We’re proud to have you representing Stevens Transport.
Michael Pirnie
Runner-Up New Driver of The Year
Recognizing Michael Pirnie as the Stevens Transports 2025 New Driver of the Year Runner-Up. After earning his CDL at the Tennessee Truck Driving School, Michael joined us in March 2025. Already logging 78,469 career miles as an Independent Contractor, he has made an immediate impact on the road. Following in his father’s footsteps, who has spent over 32 years in trucking, Michael sought a strong start in the industry and found Stevens Transport to be the perfect fit.
He attributes his success to the mentorship of his driver trainer, Darrell Becknar, and the guidance of his DM, Greg Brown, who helped him navigate the early challenges of life on the road. Michael tells new drivers to listen carefully, follow instructions, and remain patient. One of his most memorable experiences came around Thanksgiving when Stevens Transport helped him resolve an issue with his license, allowing him to get back on the road after a stressful situation, demonstrating the company’s support for it’s drivers. Michael’s favorite part of driving is the freedom of the open road, which allows him to see new places and doing a job he genuinely enjoys.
Outside of trucking, Michael is a passionate game developer, spending his free time designing and creating video games.
Congratulations, Michael!
Rodney Carr
Owner Operator of The Year
Recognizing Two Million-Mile Haul of Famer, Rodney Carr as the 2025 Stevens Transport Owner-Operator of the Year. Rodney began his journey with Stevens Transport in November 2010 after a successful career in the construction industry, where he first became interested in Class 8 trucks. Ready for a career change, he earned his CDL at Georgia Driving Academy and joined Stevens Transport to take the next step on his professional path. Since joining us, Rodney has logged an impressive 2,356,537 career miles, ranking him among Stevens Transport’s top Owner-Operators, reflecting his commitment to safety, professionalism, and excellence.
Rodney chose Stevens Transport for its comprehensive training programs and the opportunities available to Independent Contractors. His dedication paid off when he became an independent contractor in August 2011, marking a major milestone in his career. Passionate about sharing his knowledge, Rodney spent eight years as a Driver Trainer, mentoring GRAD drivers and helping them build the skills necessary for longterm success. As a Two Million-Mile Haul of Famer, Rodney’s expertise, leadership, and professionalism continue to be invaluable to Stevens Transport and the drivers he supports.
Congratulations, Rodney, on this well-deserved recognition!
Jeff Nerjuste
Runner-Up Owner Operator of The Year
Recognizing Jeff Nerjuste as the 2025 Stevens Transport Owner- Operator of the Year Runner-Up. Jeff joined Stevens Transport in October 2021 after earning his CDL from Georgia Driving Academy. Since joining the company, Jeff has logged 337,904 miles, each one representing steady progress, lessons learned, and a commitment to building something meaningful. Driven by responsibility, focus, and the desire to create lasting stability for himself and his family.
Before entering the trucking industry, Jeff was delivering packages for Amazon while living in Miami, where he navigated long days with limited opportunities. As life shifted, especially with a baby on the way, Jeff knew it was time to pursue something more sustainable and rewarding. That decision led him to Stevens Transport, where he found not only opportunity, but a system that rewards patience and effort for those willing to understand it. Jeff is now an Owner-Operator, and with his truck nearly paid off, he feels it to be an unrealistic goal that has now become a reality. Jeff has spent four years as a Driver Trainer, helping and encouraging new drivers. He encourages new drivers to stay patient and committed through challenges. Off the road, Jeff enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
Congratulations, Jeff!
Darren Crain & Shawn Wille
1st Place Team of the Year
Recognizing Darren Crain and Shawn Wille as the 2025 Stevens Transport Team of the Year. Darren joined Stevens in July 2022 after graduating from Stevens Driving Academy, and Shawn followed in February 2023 after earning her CDL from Diesel Driving Academy. Together, they have become one of the company’s top performing teams, with Darren logging 459,218 career miles and Shawn reaching 409,748 career miles. Darren came to Stevens seeking a better career after working in warehouse operations, and Shawn transitioned from a school bus driver to forming a partnership built on trust and a shared drive to succeed. As Independent Contractors, they credit their success to a strong work ethic, maturity, and the support of their management team.
Darren and Shawn believe the keys to long term success lie in emphasizing communication, punctuality, patience, and the willingness to “pay your dues”. For them, Stevens provides a culture of safety, stability, and genuine care. Darren will never forget when, as a new driver, the company moved mountains to get him home after his mother passed away, which was an act of compassion that cemented his loyalty. Shawn values the positivity of the people at Stevens and the dedicated teams that run alongside them. They truly appreciate the freedom of the road and the opportunity to build a better life through trucking.
Congratulations, Darren and Shawn!
Steven Slater & William “Bill” Bryan Jr.
Runner-Up Team of the Year
Recognizing One Million-Mile Haul of Famer Steven Slater and Two Million-Mile Haul of Famer William “Bill” Bryan Jr. as the 2025 Stevens Transport Team Drivers of the Year Runner- Up. This exceptional team continues to set the standard for excellence, professionalism, and dedication on the road. Steven began his career with Stevens Transport in September 2020 after earning his CDL through the Stevens Driving Academy. William joined Stevens in September 2010 after earning his CDL from the Stevens Driving Academy, as well.
Together, Steven and William have built a strong and successful driving partnership founded on trust, shared goals, and a mutual commitment to excellence. They both attribute their success to staying on the road consistently, minimizing downtime and fuel costs, learning freight patterns throughout the year, and continually adapting to industry changes, so he always knows where to run and what to avoid. In his free time, Steven enjoys reading, cooking, and relaxing at home, while William enjoys relaxing, watching a good TV show or a movie.
Congratulations, Steven and Bill!
Carlos Kerchner
Dedicated Driver of the Year
Recognizing Carlos Kerchner as the 2025 Stevens Transport Dedicated Driver of the Year. A proud 8-year U.S. Marine Veteran and 4-year U.S. Navy Veteran, Carlos has continued his legacy of service and discipline into his professional driving career. He joined Stevens Transport in October 2020 after earning his CDL through Tennessee Truck Driving School. By January 2021, he advanced to become an Independent Contractor, embracing the opportunity to be his own boss and operate with focus and independence.
Based in Knoxville, Carlos is a dedicated Owner-Operator who has logged an impressive 436,401 career miles. Known for his efficiency and strong work ethic, Carlos maximizes every driving hour and approaches each load with professionalism and pride. Carlos values Stevens Transport for its strong infrastructure and dependable support system, knowing that assistance and freight are always available when needed.
When he’s not behind the wheel, Carlos enjoys reading and gaming.
Congratulations, Carlos!
Amondine Boutot
Runner-Up Dedicated Driver of the Year
Recognizing Amondine Boutot as the Stevens 2025 Transport Dedicated Driver of the Year Runner-Up. This well-earned honor reflects her exceptional performance, commitment to safety, and professionalism on the road. Amondine has been a valued member of the Stevens Transport driving team since November 2020, after earning her CDL from New England Tractor Trailer Training School. Since then, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in every aspect of her role, logging 621,102 career miles.
When asked to share advice for new drivers, Amondine emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety, saying what she loves most about Stevens is the emphasis on safety first. She says Stevens truly cares about the well-being of the team and has provided the best training to set her up for success. She is proud to have been named Dedicated Driver of the Month and knows she made the right choice in joining this company.
Outside of work, Amondine enjoys reading and spending quality time with friends and family.
Congratulations, Amondine, and thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and for being an outstanding representative of Stevens Transport!
Congratulations, drivers!
Interested in joining the Stevens Transport family? Check out the great truck driving job opportunities currently available: