Celebrating Excellence: July 2025 Driver Awards
At Stevens Transport, our commitment to delivering premier logistics and transportation solutions is driven by the dedication and professionalism of our entire team—from our skilled back-office support staff to our exceptional driving professionals. We take great pride in recognizing the best among them. The executive leadership team is pleased to announce and honor the outstanding drivers who have demonstrated excellence and commitment throughout July 2025.
John Nichols
1st Place Company Driver of the Month
Congratulations to John Nichols, our July Company Driver of the Month! Since joining Stevens Transport in September 2024 after graduating from C1 Truck Driving School in Fort Worth, John has quickly proven himself to be an outstanding driver, logging an impressive 12,141 miles in July!
He first learned about Stevens Transport through a recruiter at his school and admits he was drawn in by our iconic black trucks. John credits his success to his Driver Trainer, the Safety Department, and the helpful feedback and coaching they provide. He appreciates the quality equipment, well-maintained trailers, and the excellent service from the Paragon team!
His favorite experiences as a professional driver so far include trips to Yellowstone and New York City, allowing him the opportunity to see the beauty across our country. What he enjoys most about being a driver is the solitude of the open road. Outside of work, John enjoys all the time available with his family. He is a proud father and shared that his daughter recently graduated in the top 10 of her class and is heading to the University of Texas! Go Longhorns!
Thank you, John, for your hard work! Congratulations!
“Slow down. It’s not as scary as it looks. You’ll get it.”
Ken Coats
Runner Up Company Driver of the Month
We are proud to recognize Ken Coats, our Company Driver of the Month Runner-Up. Ken joined Stevens Transport in September 2024 after completing his CDL training at Excel Driving School in San Antonio. In July, Ken logged an impressive 11,765 miles!
Ken came to trucking after a 20-year career in education and was drawn to Stevens by our strong focus on safety and training. Ken is a firm believer that these foundational principles have been essential to his success on the road. He credits the entire Stevens team, including Donna Stephens in Compliance and Driver Manager Lee Williams, for their support and great communication. Recruited by Daisy Martinez, Ken describes his Stevens Transport experience as “amazing” and values the open-door policy and team-first culture. A meaningful moment for Ken was graduating from his driver training and being recognized by instructors when he returned to the yard. He is grateful for feeling a part of something bigger and is intentional in doing the same for others.
Ken loves having the opportunity to see the country and is committed to lifelong learning. He is pursuing a Master’s degree in Leadership and is thankful to be in an industry that is giving him the financial means to pay for the classes and have the time to do the coursework.
Congratulations, Ken! Thank you for your dedication and drive!
“Be teachable. Take your time, focus on learning, and the rest will follow.”
Ricardo Juarez
1st Place Independent Contractor of the Month
We’re happy to recognize Ricardo Juarez, the July Independent Contractor of the Month! Ricardo began his journey with Stevens Transport in June 2024 and transitioned to the Contractor Division in November 2024. He earned his CDL from Pearl Trucking CDL Academy in Laredo, Texas. In July, Ricardo logged an impressive 12,363 miles!
Ricardo joined Stevens Transport in search of better opportunities for his family. He credits his success to being detail-oriented, communicating well with his driver manager and planners, and staying consistent with daily truck inspections.
He values the supportive and team-oriented atmosphere and the genuine inclusion felt across the company. From Driver Managers to Counselors, he appreciates everyone being on the same page. Ricardo appreciates every moment of this journey, especially learning from the different facilitators. From orientation to the last checklist with Instructor Thomas, it has been a “great experience overall.” So far, his favorite part of driving is seeing parts of the country he never had the chance to visit before, and loves being able to experience the diverse weather and scenery. When off the road, Ricardo enjoys reading, music, and spending quality time with his family.
Congratulations, Ricardo! We look forward to celebrating more of your successes!
“Don’t be afraid. We all start somewhere. Take your time. Everything comes with experience.”
Samuel Asare
Runner-Up Independent Contractor of the Month
Congratulations to Samuel Asare, the July Independent Contractor of the Month Runner-Up! Samuel earned his CDL from Careers Worldwide in Colorado. He joined Stevens Transport in July 2023 and joined the Contractor Division in November 2023. In July, he logged an impressive 12,450 miles!
Originally referred by a friend to the trucking industry, Samuel chose Stevens Transport because of the strong support for Independent Contractors. Coming from a hard-working immigrant family, Samuel credits his drive and discipline to his upbringing. Though he remains humble, his dedication to the industry encourages him to strive for more. Samuel values the flexibility being an independent contractor offers, and the biggest highlight of his journey so far has been earning enough to put a down payment on his own truck, as one of his goals is to be an Owner-Operator!
Outside of work, Samuel is passionate about building computers, making videos, traveling, and life on the road with his dog.
Congratulations, Samuel! Thank you for your hard work and professionalism!
“Do your research. There are so many paths. Learn how to run efficiently.”
Alexzander Smith
1st Place Grad Driver of the Month
We’re proud to celebrate U.S. Navy Veteran and July New Driver of the Month, Alexzander Smith! Alexzander joined Stevens Transport in April 2025 after earning his CDL through Georgia Driving Academy. In July, he logged an impressive 11,727 miles!
Inspired by his experience driving trucks in the Navy, Alexzander decided to pursue trucking as his next career. He credits his success to the strong support of his wife, with whom he’s also celebrating the arrival of their newborn daughter! He highlighted the support from his Driver Trainer and also Driver Manager (Pio Gonzalez), who he says are always available, professionally and personally. A memorable moment in his journey so far was driving through a cold storage cave in Missouri. Outside of work, Alexzander enjoys video games, connecting with people, and time with his loved ones.
Thank you for your service, Alexzander, and congratulations on this well-earned recognition!
“Just listen. You’ll learn a lot on your own, but experienced drivers have valuable insight.”
Elijah Jimenez
Runner-Up Grad Driver of The Month
We are proud to recognize Elijah Jimenez, the July New Driver of the Month Runner-Up! Elijah earned his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy and joined Stevens Transport in April 2025. Logging an impressive 11,330 miles in July, he is quickly proving himself as a focused and dependable professional!
Elijah chose Stevens Transport for having a solid reputation as a company with a strong training program and supporting new drivers. He credits his success to staying focused, listening to his trainers, and being open to feedback. “I’m still new, but I’ve learned that being open to feedback and staying consistent makes a big difference.” When off the road, Elijah enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Congratulations, Elijah! We are excited for your bright future!
“Be patient and take the learning process seriously. It’s a lifestyle change, so give yourself time to grow.”
Jimmie and Ann Lewis
1st Place Team of the Month
We are proud to recognize Jimmie and Ann Lewis, the July Team of the Month! They began their journey with Stevens Transport in 2010. Jimmie earned his CDL through Advanced Truck Driving School in Visalia, CA, and Ann earned hers through Stevens Driving Academy. They became Independent Contractors in November 2010 and have since driven over 3 million miles together, building a successful business and partnership on the road! In July, they logged an impressive 20,980 miles, making them our top team performers for the month!
Ann and Jimmie credit their success to the opportunities provided by Stevens Transport, a perfect pairing to their hard work, strong communication, and dedication to each other and the industry. When not behind the wheel, Jimmie and Ann enjoy fishing, riding motorcycles, exploring new restaurants, and spending quality time with family.
Congratulations, Jimmie and Ann! We are grateful to have you both and thank you for all you do!
“Have patience, an open mind, and trust that Stevens will take care of you.”
Felton Howard
Owner-Operator of the Month
Congratulations to Felton Howard, the July Owner-Operator of the Month! Felton joined Stevens Transport in June 2019 after earning his CDL from Tampa Driving School and is known for being a high-performing driver who exemplifies professionalism and consistency. In July, he logged an impressive 9,757 miles!
Felton credits his success to being a mindful business owner, staying consistent, and maintaining a positive mindset through any challenge. “If you take care of your truck, your time, and your word, success follows.” Felton appreciates Stevens Transport for the growth opportunities, whether you’re just starting out in the industry or looking to advance as an owner-operator, “…they give you the tools and treat you like a professional, and that goes a long way.” Outside of driving, Felton enjoys spending time with family.
Congratulations, Felton, and thank you for your continued excellence on the road!
“Treat it like a career, not just a job. Learn the business early, stay organized, and never cut corners. Your first year lays the foundation, make it strong.”
Lars Johnston
Trainer of the Month
We’re proud to recognize the July Trainer of the Month, U.S. Navy Veteran and Haul of Famer, Lars Johnston! Lars joined Stevens Transport in November 2017 after completing CDL training with Truck Driving Institute in Saucier, Mississippi. Initially coming to the industry to start a new and rewarding career, Lars decided to give back and became a Driver Trainer. Soon after, Lars accomplished his goal of becoming a business owner and became an Independent Contractor in May 2021.
In July, an impressive 18,734 miles were logged, speaking to both his years of experience as a Driver Trainer and his strong commitment to his trainees. He believes it is his duty to ensure they feel comfortable, supported, and prepared for life on the road. He values the recognition and support Stevens Transport offers to the drivers and takes great pride in helping shape the next generation of driving professionals.
When he’s not driving or training, Lars enjoys reading sci-fi, fantasy, and military fiction.
Congratulations, Lars, on being named Trainer of the Month! Thank you for your service and all you do for Stevens Transport!
Lewis Greeno
Runner Up Trainer of the Month
We’re pleased to recognize Lewis Greeno, our July Trainer of the Month Runner-Up! A Texas native, Lewis transitioned to the transportation industry after a successful career in warehouse management. When the facility closed, he pursued his CDL at Lone Star College, earning his license in Fall 2020, and soon after joined Stevens Transport.
In July, an impressive 18,438 miles were covered. He credits Field Recruiter Charles Wages for delivering on every promise and helping him launch his new career. Drawing from his management background, Lewis brings structure, leadership, and professionalism to his role as a driver trainer. Outside of work, Lewis enjoys traveling and collecting unique keepsakes from the road.
Thank you, Lewis, for your dedication and commitment to developing new drivers. Congratulations!
“Do what you’re supposed to do, and everything falls into place.”
William Fletcher
1st Place Dedicated Driver of the Month
We’re proud to celebrate U.S. Marine Veteran William Fletcher, our July Dedicated Driver of the Month! William joined Stevens Transport in September 2020 after earning his CDL from Tennessee Truck Driving School in Knoxville. In July, he logged an impressive 13,747 miles!
Being a truck driver runs in William’s family. His father and grandfather were both drivers, and after 20 years working in agriculture and industrial sowing, he made the leap to follow in their footsteps. He credits his success to his family’s support, his strong work ethic, and a never-give-up attitude. William appreciates the strong communication at Stevens Transport and the ability to keep moving efficiently on the road.
During his time in the Marines, William was hired by NASA as a space suit technician, an unforgettable opportunity where he worked hands-on with the astronauts’ space suits. Outside of work, William enjoys attending local wrestling events.
Congratulations, William! Thank you for your service, exceptional performance, and commitment to safety!
“Don’t give up. Ask questions. Each day is a new adventure.”
Kurt Bodah
Runner Up Dedicated Driver of the Month
We are proud to recognize One Million Miler Kurt Bodah, the July Dedicated Driver of the Month Runner-Up! Kurt joined the Stevens Transport team in January 2013, after earning his CDL from CDI in Sanford, Florida. In July, he drove an impressive 12,585 miles!
Kurt credits his success to discipline, consistency, and a strong work ethic. He shared that driving over 1.5 million miles across 48 states has taught him that showing up every day with a professional attitude, staying safe, and always being willing to learn are key to a successful and rewarding career. For Kurt, it’s not just about driving. He believes in being dependable, staying humble, and moving forward. He shared that he has learned a lot from being on the road and encourages drivers to stay open to learning.
He appreciates all he has learned over the years and continues to learn each day. His focus on being safe, consistent, and professional has contributed significantly to the successes he has achieved as a professional driver. Outside of work, Kurt enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Congratulations, Kurt! Thank you for being an incredible representative for Stevens Transport and the industry!
“Come in with patience, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn.”
Congratulations, drivers!
Interested in joining the Stevens Transport family? Check out the great truck driving job opportunities currently available: