Proudly Recognizing Our Drivers’ Efforts
The Best of the Best For October 2024
Our outstanding service as a premier logistics and transportation solutions provider is backed by the dedication and hard work of our entire team, from back-office support staff to driving professionals. And the best of the best drive for Stevens Transport. The executive team of Stevens Transport is proud to announce and honor the driver award winners for the month of October 2024.
Larry Wheeler
1st Place Company Driver of the Month
Congratulations to Larry Wheeler, the Stevens Transport Company Driver of the Month! Larry joined Stevens Transport in August 2023. He received his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy. In the month of October, Larry ran 12,871 miles! Larry is deeply grateful to his brother, Vance, for encouraging him to pursue a career as a truck driver. Looking back, Larry wishes he had started sooner, and credits much of his success to Vance’s guidance. “He helped me eliminate distractions and provided valuable counseling,” Larry explains. “Failure was never an option once I was determined to reach my goals.” For new drivers, Larry’s advice is simple: “Learn the hours of service, and truly love the job. It’s the key to being successful.” He also emphasizes that mistakes are part of the learning process—”Everyone makes them, but that’s what helps you grow.” One of the aspects Larry values most about driving for Stevens Transport is the opportunity to travel the country and get paid for it. “The support team is exceptional,” he adds. “They’re always there to help when you need it.” Larry’s favorite part of the job is the open road and the chance to experience parts of the country he wouldn’t otherwise see. Outside of work, Larry enjoys cars, attending car shows, and listening to a wide variety of music.
Congratulations, Larry!
Elijah Wallis
Runner Up Company Driver of the Month
Our Company Driver of the Month Runner-Up is Elijah Wallis! Elijah has been a member of the Stevens Transport driving force since December 2021. He graduated from Diesel Driving Academy with his CDL. Over the month of October, Elijah was able to run 12,464 miles. Elijah was drawn to Stevens Transport after leaving his previous jobs in security and working at a sugar plant in New Orleans. A former co-worker suggested he consider becoming a truck driver, and it proved to be a pivotal recommendation. One of the aspects Elijah appreciates most about Stevens Transport is the company’s commitment to safety. “The safety program is top-notch,” he explains. “Stevens really focuses on doing things the right way to prevent issues.” Elijah’s favorite memory from his time at Stevens is the fun and camaraderie he experienced during training. “The instructors have a great sense of humor, which makes the classes enjoyable and helps make learning easier.” What Elijah enjoys most about being a driver is the freedom to manage your schedule. Outside of work, Elijah enjoys playing games and watching movies and YouTube videos. He also stays active by playing basketball.
Congratulations, Elijah!
Jerald Gross
1st Place Independent Contractor of the Month
Please join us in congratulating our Independent Contractor of the Month, Jerald Gross. Jerald, a member of the Stevens Transport driving force since October of 2018, graduated from Stevens Driving Academy with his CDL. In October, Jerald ran 14,248 miles and maintained a perfect service record! Shortly after completing his training, Jerald joined the Independent Contractor (IC) division at Stevens Transport and has never looked back. Over the years, he has become a key member of the elite trainer team, helping to mentor and train the next generation of Stevens drivers. Jerald attributes his success to his disciplined, driven, and goal-oriented approach to his work. The freedom of the open road and the opportunity to experience scenic views were key motivators that led Jerald to pursue a career in truck driving. For those considering the profession, Jerald advises new drivers to carefully evaluate whether this career path aligns with their personal aspirations, recognizing that it may not be the right fit for everyone. One of the aspects Jerald appreciates most about Stevens Transport is the strong sense of camaraderie within the company. “The supportive environment at Stevens is truly one of its standout qualities,” he notes. Outside of work, Jerald enjoys hunting and riding motorcycles, making the most of his time off to unwind and pursue his personal passions.
Congratulations, Jerald!
Kendrick Booker
Runner-Up Independent Contractor of the Month
Our Independent Contractor of the Month Runner-Up is Kendrick Booker! Kendrick has been a member of the Stevens Transport driving force since November of 2021 and graduated with his CDL from Lonestar! In October, Kendrick was able to run 13,843 miles, earning him this great award! Kendrick was introduced to Stevens Transport through a friend who shared information about the excellent career opportunities available. He credits his success to his hard work, focus, dedication, and consistency, which have been key factors in achieving his goals. For new drivers, Kendrick advises them be patient, stay vigilant, and take the time necessary to learn and grow in the profession. “It’s a journey that requires persistence and attention to detail,” he notes. One of Kendrick’s most memorable moments at Stevens was the day he graduated and officially became a CDL driver. “That was a defining moment in my career,” he recalls. What Kendrick enjoys most about being a driver is the on-the-road experience—seeing new sights and experiencing things he never thought he would. “The opportunity to witness so many different places and landscapes is truly rewarding,” he says. Outside of his professional life, Kendrick enjoys taking care of his kids and being a family man.
Congratulations, Kendrick!
Carl Rykard
1st Place Grad Driver of the Month
Please join us in congratulating our New Grad Driver of the Month, Carl Rykard! Carl joined Stevens Transport in June of 2024, and graduated with his CDL from the Troops Into Transportation Program! During October, he drove an impressive 10,942 miles. Shortly after receiving his CDL, Carl was contacted by a recruiter with Stevens Transport and the rest is history! He credits much of his success to his daughter, who serves as his primary motivation. For Carl, one of the best aspects of working with Stevens Transport is the competitive compensation, which provides financial stability. His favorite part of being a driver is the solitude that comes with the job, allowing him the space to focus and enjoy the journey. Outside of work, Carl has a passion for photography and enjoys playing video games in his downtime.
Congratulations, Carl!
Jermaine Levy Jr.
Runner-Up Grad Driver of The Month
Our New Grad Driver of the Month Runner-UP is independent contractor Jermaine Levy Jr.! Jermaine, a member of the Stevens Transport driving force since August of 2024, graduated with his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy! In October, Jermaine ran an impressive 11,609 miles. He was introduced to Stevens Transport by his sister, who found the company online and recommended he apply. He credits his success to his son, who is his motivation to continue working hard and pushing forward. Jermaine’s advice to new drivers is simple: be prepared and keep the truck moving. One of the standout benefits of working at Stevens Transport for Jermaine is the opportunity to become an independent contractor, which offers greater flexibility and control. His most memorable moment at Stevens was working with his trainer, who provided valuable advice that has helped guide his careerand his favorite part of being a driver is the earning potential, which allows him to provide for his family. Outside of work, Jermaine enjoys spending quality time with his loved ones.
Congratulations, Jermaine!
Jao Lasso & David Vandermark
1st Place Team of the Month
Please join us in congratulating our Team Drivers of the Month, Jao Lasso & David Vandermark! Jao started his journey at Stevens Transport in February of 2020, following his graduation from Roadmaster! David began his journey with Stevens Transport in April 2024 after graduating from Five Star CDL Training. Together, they achieved an impressive 22,064 miles in October, ranking among the top teams in the company. They credit their success to strong communication, trust, and a commitment to working together as a seamless team. Their advice for other team drivers is to always support each other, stay patient, and maintain clear communication on the road. What they enjoy most about driving professionally is the opportunity to work as a team, the freedom of the open road, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with each delivery, safely and efficiently. Outside of work, Jao enjoys watching movies, while David enjoys spending time with his family.
Congratulations, Jao & David!
Owen Smith
Owner-Operator of the Month
We are excited to congratulate Owen Smith, our distinguished Owner-Operator of the Month! Owen has been a valued member of the Stevens Transport team since February 1996 and graduated with his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy. In October, he logged an impressive 13,166 miles, positioning himself among the top Owner-Operators and earning this award! Throughout his impressive 27-year plus career with Stevens Transport, Owen, a Haul of Fame Three Million Miler, has established an exemplary track record with an impressive total of over 3,600,000 accident-free miles. He has successfully navigated leases, acquired trucks, and achieved numerous milestones in the industry. Owen’s remarkable dedication is further exemplified by his accomplishment of owning the largest private fleet contracted with Stevens Transport CD. Beyond his professional commitments, Owen enjoys spending his leisure time with family and embracing the outdoors.
Congratulations, Owen!
Lianne Reyes Collins
Trainer of the Month
Congratulations to Lianne Reyes-Collins, our accomplished Trainer of the Month! A graduate of Roadmaster CDL School, Lianne has been an integral part of the Stevens Transport driving force since November 2010. As a dedicated driver trainer, Lianne has successfully trained for over 11 years and earned a spot in the prestigious Stevens Transport Haul of Fame as a Million Miler. She has accumulated an impressive driving record with a total of 1,883,905 miles. Emphasizing safety and patience as pivotal aspects of a successful driving career, Lianne’s training tactics have proven effective. In October, an impressive distance of 18,044 miles, secured this well-deserved award. Outside of work, Lianne enjoys her leisure time by relaxing and watching Netflix.
Congratulations, Lianne!
Andre Simpson
Runner Up Trainer of the Month
Our Trainer of the Month Runner-Up is Andre Simpson! Andre has been a member of the Stevens Transport driving force since June of 2016, following his graduation from The CDL School in Miami! In October, Andre, a Million-Miler in the Haul of Fame, achieved an impressive milestone by driving 16,769 miles. Andre has spent eight years in truck driving, a career he chose to help grow and improve his lifestyle, after moving from Jamaica to Miami. Reaching one million miles is a milestone that reflects his hard work and dedication. He credits his family for their support and mentors for their guidance. As a driver trainer, Andre has taught 71 new drivers and has a focus topic on staying calm under pressure. He’s grateful to Stevens Transport and individuals like Allie Gilbert, Lorie Jensen, and Owen Eckblad for their encouragement.
Congratulations, Andre!
Joseph Ramirez
1st Place Dedicated Driver of the Month
We are delighted to extend our congratulations to Joseph Ramirez, our Dedicated Driver of the Month (Laredo)! Joseph has been a valuable member of the Stevens Transport team since January 2020 after graduating with his CDL from the Stevens Driving Academy. He credits his success to staying focused, following procedures, and always prioritizing safety on the road. For new drivers, Joseph advises maintaining patience, consistency, and never rushing. His favorite part of driving for Stevens is the support and respect he receives from the team, along with the flexibility the job offers. Outside of work, Joseph values spending quality time with his family, cherishing those moments of connection and relaxation.
Congratulations, Joseph!
Dustin Effenbeck
Runner Up Dedicated Driver of the Month
We are proud to announce Dustin Effenbeck as our Dedicated Driver of the Month Runner-Up. Dustin’s commitment to excellence is evident both on and off the road. He joined the Stevens Transport team in January 2022 after earning his CDL from Trans in Charlotte North Carolina. In October, Dustin achieved an impressive 4,652 miles driven, showcasing his dedication and professionalism. Prior to joining Stevens, Justin served seven years in the U.S. Navy. We thank Dustin for his service and his ongoing contributions to our team. Dustin credits his success to the guidance and support he received from his driver trainers. His advice to new drivers is to ensure they are comfortable with the day-to-day on the road and are comfortable in solitude. Dustin appreciates Stevens Transport for offering a great career and being a great place to work. Outside of work, Dustin enjoys reading and playing video games.
Congratulations, Dustin!
Congratulations, drivers!
Interested in joining the Stevens Transport family? Check out the great truck driving job opportunities currently available: