Celebrating Excellence: February 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 February 2025.
William Bowman
1st Place Company Driver of the Month
We are pleased to announce William Bowman is our February Company Driver of the Month! William joined Stevens Transport in June 2010 after completing his CDL training at Stevens Driving Academy. He was drawn to the transportation industry because it offered him a stable career and the opportunity to provide for his family while exploring the country.
In February, William drove an impressive 11,154 miles! He credits his success to his strong work ethic, his commitment to continuous learning, and the support of a company that prioritizes safety and reliability. William emphasizes having patience, prioritizing safety, and staying open to learning, to create long-term success. He values having stability, reliable support, and access to top-tier equipment, which allows him to focus on performing his job safely and efficiently. William’s favorite part of being a driver is the opportunity to visit new places and the satisfaction of providing for his family while doing something he enjoys. Outside of work, William dedicates his time to his family.
Congratulations, William!
Steven Day
Runner Up Company Driver of the Month
Congratulations to Steven Day, our February Company Driver of the Month Runner-Up! Steven started his career with Stevens Transport in September 2024 and earned his CDL with Stevens Driving Academy. He joined Stevens Transport seeking a stable career that would help him provide for his family, and he found that Stevens was the perfect fit!
In February, Steven covered an impressive 10,640 miles! His success is built on his commitment to following procedures, adhering to company policies, and maintaining his paperwork. He is grateful for his Driver Trainer, Mark Harris, who helped him structure his routine. He appreciates the company’s focus on safety procedures and hopes new drivers approach their careers and the industry, with an open mind. Steven enjoys seeing and traveling across the U.S., experiencing different areas, and meeting new people. Outside of work, Steven enjoys drawing, fishing, and spending quality time with his wife and their four children.
Congratulations, Steven!
“It’s important to take things one day at a time, continually improve, and stay persistent.”
Stephen Walker
1st Place Independent Contractor of the Month
Please join us in congratulating Stephen Walker, our Independent Contractor of the Month! Stephen earned his CDL from Lone Star and joined Stevens Transport in November 2022. After years as a successful mechanic shop owner, this proud 4th-generation truck driver followed in the footsteps of his mother, father, grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, and got behind the wheel!
In February, Stephen achieved an impressive 12,559 miles! He credits his success to the support of his wife, whose encouragement has been instrumental in many of his achievements. He shared that his key to success has been focusing on miles, not hours. He recommends setting a daily mileage goal and treating any extra miles above the daily goal as a bonus. This concept has helped him be successful in his business while also maintaining a flawless service record. Stephen also highlighted Aileen Lucas, a CSR in the Protein Department, and appreciates her trust, support, and assistance with on-time deliveries. One of Stephen’s favorite parts of being a driver is the opportunity to travel to Utah because of its unmatched beauty. Outside of work, Stephen cherishes spending time with his family and is proud of his nine children, ranging in age from 18-34.
Congratulations, Stephen!
Russell Barnhardt
Runner-Up Independent Contractor of the Month
Congratulations to Russell Barnhardt, Independent Contractor of the Month Runner-Up! After earning his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy, Russell joined the Stevens Transport team in November 2020 and the Contractor Division shortly after.
In February, Russell achieved an impressive 12,005 miles! He leans on his experience and strong time-management skills, to meet and adapt to the needs of being a driver and business owner. Russell believes that managing time effectively is key to success — and if you can do that, financial success will follow! He attributes his motivation to his grandchild, who means the world to him. His mantra is -never give up and always try something new daily. Russell appreciates the proactive business approach by Stevens Transport, and his Driver Manager, Owen Eckblad, who has been a great support. Outside of work, Russell is passionate about cooking—especially homemade pasta, seafood, and grilling. As a skilled pit master, he enjoys creating dishes like smoked Alfredo sauce, often serving them in cast iron skillets! He also enjoys hunting, fishing, and any activity that allows him to connect with the outdoors.
Congratulations, Russell!
“Avoid distractions, take control of your career, and commit to it!”
Usman Tanveer
1st Place Grad Driver of the Month
Please join us in congratulating Usman Tanveer, our February New Driver of the Month! Usman began his journey with Stevens Transport in October 2024 after earning his CDL at Tampa Truck Driving School. Wanting to make a positive change for himself, and pursue a new career, it was an easy decision to come to Stevens Transport!
In February, Usman drove an impressive 10,919 miles, showcasing his commitment to starting his new career and giving it his best! He attributes his success to his proactive approach to each day, emphasizing the importance of making on-time deliveries. He strives to arrive ahead of schedule, as early as deliveries are available, which can often lead to receiving the next load sooner. Usman appreciates that Stevens Transport offers new drivers the opportunity to gain valuable experience and believes that Stevens supports the drivers more than other companies. He appreciates the reliability of Stevens’ brand-new trucks, which consistently perform without issues. Being a driver gives him the opportunity to visit places he never imagined he would go, and he values having the time to reflect on his personal and professional journey. Outside of work, Usman enjoys watching and playing soccer, and traveling.
Congratulations, Usman!
“Stay focused on your career… the experience will make things easier over time!”
Eric Ruiz
Runner-Up Grad Driver of The Month
Please join us in congratulating Eric Ruiz, our February New Driver of the Month Runner-Up! Eric previously worked in the oil fields and wanted a consistent, long-term, and rewarding career path. This led him to Stevens Driving Academy where he earned his CDL. He joined Stevens Transport in October 2024.
In February, Eric reached an impressive 10,150 miles, showcasing his dedication to building his new career. “Stevens has been good to me,” he says, expressing gratitude for the opportunities the company has provided. He attributes his success to his faith in God and the chance to embark on this new path. He believes in hard work and perseverance, and was raised to always strive for excellence. He goes above and beyond in all tasks and emphasizes that the key is to do the job right! He greatly appreciates the structure and comprehensive support he received throughout his training and values the guidance provided by Stevens, and the significant opportunities available. Outside of work, Eric enjoys listening to music, attending live performances, fellowship at church, and spending time with friends and family in his neighborhood of East Los Angeles.
Congratulations, Eric!
“Do your best, prioritize safety, and remain mindful of your actions.”
Tobey Spears & Bryan Ard
1st Place Team of the Month
Please join us in congratulating Tobey Spears and Bryan Ard, our February Team of the Month! Tobey began his career with Stevens Transport in October 2018 after earning his CDL from Tampa Truck Driving School. Bryan came to Stevens Transport in November 2023 after graduating from One Sixty Driving Academy in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Together, they achieved an impressive 20,270 miles in February, placing them among the top teams in the company!
Tobey was inspired to become a professional driver by his father, who had a 40-year career as a truck driver. He credits his father’s example for teaching him that driving is an honest and valuable living. He is grateful for the support from his wonderful parents, and his faith in God. The comprehensive training he received is the foundation for his success. Tobey shared, “The Comfort Zone Team—Robert Solimani, Arnnes Hamzic, and Driver Manager Owen Eckblad—are amazing, and they keep us rocking and rolling! A big shout-out to the Amazon team as well.”
Bryan’s decision to join Stevens Transport was driven by his faith. When he began praying for a career change, the opportunity arose and he credits his success to the Lord, who he believes always places him exactly where he needs to be. Bryan’s advice to new drivers is to network and connect with everyone when they first come to Stevens. Learning from others’ experiences and sharing your own, helps you grow into a better driver. He is thankful for the financial rewards that have enabled him to help many people. Bryan is actively involved in five different churches and feels very blessed.
Outside of work, Tobey enjoys working with metal, riding bicycles, and participating in water sports at the beach. Bryan enjoys resting and recharging to prepare for the next journey.
Congratulations, Tobey & Bryan!
Rodney Carr
Owner-Operator of the Month
Please join us in congratulating 2 Million Mile Haul of Famer and Owner Operator of the Month, Rodney Carr! Rodney’s journey with Stevens Transport began in November 2010, after a successful career in the construction industry, and first became intrigued by Class 8 trucks. Recognizing it was time for a career change, Rodney pursued his CDL at Georgia Driving Academy (GDA), and with his training in hand, he joined Stevens Transport to take the next step in his career and became an Independent Contractor in August 2011.
In February, Rodney drove an impressive 10,401 miles, continuing to demonstrate his commitment to excellence. Building on the foundation of skills and knowledge gained at GDA, Rodney chose Stevens Transport for its comprehensive training programs and the vast opportunities it offers. Rodney’s passion for sharing his knowledge led him to spend 8 years as a Driver Trainer, where he mentored and guided GRAD drivers, helping them develop the skills necessary for success. An incredibly successful business owner, 2 Million Mile Haul of Famer, and inspiration to many, Rodney continues to be a great representative of Stevens Transport! Outside of his work on the road, Rodney enjoys spending quality time with his five children, cherishing moments of relaxation and family life.
Congratulations, Rodney!
Adrian Chaney
Trainer of the Month
Please join us in congratulating Adrian Chaney, our February Trainer of the Month! Adrian has been a valued member of Stevens Transport since November 2020 and received his CDL from Georgia Driving Academy in Columbus, Georgia. Adrian had always wanted to be in transportation. After earning his degree in engineering and enjoying a successful career, he decided to change career paths, —a decision he considers one of the best he ever made.
Over the past four years, Adrian has found great satisfaction in training new drivers, watching them succeed, and creating rewarding careers for themselves! He credits his success to the guidance of two outstanding mentors, Joe Deshawn and Lenard, who played a significant role in his development as a driver, trainer, and his willingness to ask questions. Adrian appreciates Stevens Transport for the opportunities available to drivers and the emphasis placed on safety during the school training program. He is grateful for the relationships he has built with his fellow trainers that have not only enriched his professional life but have also contributed to his growth and success in the industry. Adrian enjoys experiencing new places and often considers himself a “tourist”. Outside of work, Adrian enjoys gardening and time with his three children, two daughters (14 and 10) and son (9). Spending time with his family is a top priority, and Adrian cherishes every moment with them.
Congratulations, Adrian!
John Blakey
Runner Up Trainer of the Month
Please join us in congratulating John Blakey, our Trainer of the Month Runner-Up! John came to Stevens Transport in August 2022, after earning his CDL at Stevens Driving Academy. For John, being a Driver Trainer is not just a job; it is an extension of his character, and he takes this responsibility very seriously.
John’s advice for new drivers is simple yet effective: “You’ll learn and figure it out. Don’t just believe you have to know everything upfront… and never stop learning.” He has mentored nearly 20 trainees already and has great appreciation for Stevens Transport and Stevens Driving Academy. He credits the program for much of his success and believes Stevens Driving Academy provides an unparalleled foundation for individuals new to the industry. Outside of work, John has recently taken up golf. After purchasing his golf clubs, he enjoys spending his free time at the golf course and learning more about his new hobby!
Congratulations, John!
Jose Ortiz
1st Place Dedicated Driver of the Month
We are proud to recognize Haul of Fame Million Miler, Jose Ortiz, our February Dedicated Driver of the Month! Jose has been a member of Stevens Transport since July 2008, after receiving his CDL training at Metropolitan Trucking in Miami, Florida. Jose transitioned to the contractor division shortly after joining Stevens Transport and values the freedom of managing his own business and making independent decisions.
In February, Jose covered an impressive 12,972 miles! He appreciates the supportive platform the Stevens Transport Contractor Division provides, enabling all drivers to be successful in their careers. Jose has enjoyed every moment of being a professional driver, having now driven over 1.7 million miles! His most cherished destinations are Hoover Dam in Nevada and witnessing the beauty of Niagara Falls while driving through Canada. Outside of work, Jose enjoys spending quality time with his family.
Congratulations, Jose!
Edward Wilburn
Runner Up Dedicated Driver of the Month
We are pleased to recognize Million Mile Haul of Famer Edward Wilburn, our Dedicated Driver of the Month Runner-Up! Edward joined Stevens Transport in November 2006 after earning his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy. Before getting his CDL, Edward was a forklift operator. His cousin (and driver for Stevens), encouraged him to learn about the opportunities available with Stevens Transport.
In February, Edward covered an impressive 12,121 miles! He credits his success to the support of his family, particularly his wife and 13-year-old son. As he puts it, “I do what I do to maintain the responsibilities of my family.” He values the incredible support given to the drivers and the relationships he has built with his colleagues and driver manager. Edward’s favorite part of being a driver is the time it gives him for self-reflection. Outside of work, he enjoys relaxing on the couch, watching great TV shows, attending livestock shows, and spending quality time with his family—especially hosting BBQs and supporting all the activities his son enjoys!
Congratulations, Edward!
“Try to do the right thing. If you want to drive a truck, dedicate yourself to it.”
Congratulations, drivers!
Interested in joining the Stevens Transport family? Check out the great truck driving job opportunities currently available: