Press Releases
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National Carriers, Inc. has announced three finalists for the 2025 Driver of the Year. Rafael Murillo, Willie Grady III, and Bernard Talimeliyor were named Driver of the Month for May, June, and July, respectively. Each driver was recognized with a $1000 bonus and is now a finalist for Driver of the Year, along with their $10,000 bonus awarded in March of 2026.
May 2025 Driver of the Month
Owner-operator Rafael Murillo of Liberal, KS, was named Driver of the Month for May. He is dispatched on the national refrigerated fleet. Joining NCI as a student driver, he has excelled in both safe driving and customer service. After completing his training, he became a company driver and has recently become an owner-operator.
June 2025 Driver of the Month
Willie Grady III of Keene, TX, was named Driver of the Month for June. He is an NCI truck lease operator who joined the fleet in 2020. Operating his truck in the regional Midwest and southern states, he has both an outstanding safety and delivery record. Known for his upbeat demeanor, he excels in customer service.
July 2025 Driver of the Month
Bernard Talimeliyor operates a company truck on the national refrigerated fleet. Hailing from Irving, TX, he is a retired US Army veteran. Originally from the South Pacific Island of Yap, he enjoys his time safely driving coast to coast while delivering frozen goods to valued customers.
“Whether operating a company truck, a leased truck, or owning a truck, National Carriers appreciates these three outstanding delivery experts. Each has an exceptional safety record and puts the motoring public's well-being at the forefront of all they do. Together, these men uphold the high standards of the ‘Elite’ fleet,” shared Ed Kentner, Director of Media.
About National Carriers
Since 1968, National Carriers, Inc., has been the leader in refrigerated transportation. New equipment and established customers are the foundation for our successful business. National Carriers, Inc.'s mission statement is to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class. Known throughout the transportation industry as the "Elite" Fleet, NCI continues to be an outstanding leader in the highly competitive business of transporting goods for hire.
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National Carriers has named Steve Hart President, effective June 23, 2025. In this role, Hart will oversee the day-to-day operations of NCI’s trucking and logistics business.
Hart brings extensive experience in transportation, logistics, and supply chain leadership. Most recently, he served as Vice President at Sysco, where he led transportation operations exceeding $1 billion across North America and developed strategies for cold chain, compliance, and procurement. He also played a key role in integrating departments, enhancing sales and operations planning (S&OP), and strengthening strategic supplier partnerships.
“Being part of the ‘Elite Fleet’ means joining a tradition of excellence built on trust, dedication, and results. I’m honored to lead this next chapter and work alongside a team that will help carry that legacy forward with focus and care,” Hart stated.
About National Carriers
Since 1968, National Carriers, Inc, has been the leader in refrigerated transportation. New equipment and established customers are the foundation for our successful business. National Carriers, Inc.'s mission statement is to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class. Known throughout the transportation industry as the "Elite" Fleet, NCI continues to be an outstanding leader in the highly competitive business of transporting goods for hire.
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National Carriers, Inc. (NCI) is proud to announce the first four finalists for its 2025 Driver of the Year. Bradley Rickman, Ty Gurr, Ronald Hotchkiss, and Ken Bohn have each been named Driver of the Month in 2025. All recipients are recognized for their customer service, advancement of safety, and positive attitude. Each driver has received a $1,000 bonus and is now eligible for 2025 Driver of the Year recognition and the $10,000 bonus that is awarded to the winner.
Elite Fleet Driver Awards
Bradley Rickman is a professional company driver who joined the “Elite” fleet in 2017. Residing in northwest Oklahoma, he transports cattle hides from National Beef Packing Company’s beef processing plants in southwest Kansas to a National Beef Packing Company tannery in northwest Missouri. Since joining NCI, Rickman has operated his truck without an accident for more than one million miles. He was recognized as January 2025 Driver of the Month.
Ocala, Florida resident, Ty Gurr, was named February Driver of the Month. He transports refrigerated freight throughout the lower 48 states. Joining National Carriers in 2021 as a company driver, Gurr quickly established himself as a leader in customer service and safety. His continued dedication to excellence has made him a valuable member of the “Elite” fleet.
Owner-operator Ronald Hotchkiss has been a member of the National Carriers driving force for twelve years. Concentrating on servicing customers in the Midwest, Hotchkiss is known for his professional demeanor and appearance. He is a US Army veteran and was recognized in March as Driver of the Month.
Ken Bohn was named Driver of the Month for April. He also served in the US Army and now operates a company truck on the 48-state refrigerated lease. Since 2019, Ken has proven to be a reliable and safe driver who excels in customer service. His willingness to help and his dedication to excellence make him an invaluable member of the National Carriers team
“Each month, National Carriers selects an outstanding driver to recognize for their continued contributions to our company's success. When making each selection, we consider service, safety, attitude, and appearance. These driving professionals transcend the requirements for superior performance and are the elite of the “Elite” fleet,” shared NCI company spokesman Ed Kentner.
For more information about National Carriers, Inc., please visit www.drivenci.com.
About National Carriers, Inc.
National Carriers, Inc. is a diversified motor carrier servicing all 48 states in the continental United States with transportation offerings that include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, our mission is to be the safest, most customer-focused, and most successful motor carrier in our class.
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National Carriers, Inc. (NCI) is proud to announce Perry Williams as its 2024 Driver of the Year. Williams, an Owner-Operator in the Reefer 48 state division with more than two decades of service to the company, exemplifies the excellence and dedication that has made NCI an industry leader.
Since joining National Carriers in June 2003, Williams has established himself as a versatile professional, operating across multiple divisions including livestock, regional boxed beef, local flatbed, tallow, and hides. Throughout his career with NCI, Williams has logged an impressive two million safe miles.
Williams' recent accolades include being named Driver of the Month for the state of Kansas in 2023 and receiving NCI's Driver of the Month award in May 2024. He has also served as a company ambassador at National Beef's corporate office in Kansas City, MO.
"What makes Perry so valuable is he is always up for a challenge no matter how bad or good it is. He understands the industry with its highs and lows. He always says 'that's trucking,'" shared Jason Greer, Director of Livestock. "The fact is, you can give him a task and walk away knowing he will do everything in his power to get it done the right way and if not, he lets everyone know what he needs to get it done."
Greer attributes Williams' exceptional work ethic to his father's influence. "His father was all about customer service as he worked in the food industry by helping to get a famous West Coast favorite eatery to where it is today. From the way you looked, dressed, and communicated at the job. Perry still holds true to his father's core values."
Williams' professionalism, superior communication skills, and positive attitude have earned him the distinction of being truly "Elite" in the transportation industry. His willingness to help and dedication to excellence make him an invaluable member of the National Carriers team.
For more information about National Carriers, Inc., please visit www.drivenci.com.
About National Carriers, Inc.
National Carriers, Inc. is a diversified motor carrier servicing all 48 states in the continental United States with transportation offerings that include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, our mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class." Our team consists of only the Elite driving and office professionals.
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National Carriers October Driver of the Month
Porfirio Martinez of Garden City, Kansas was named October Driver of the Month for National Carriers, Inc. He began driving as an owner-operator for the “Elite” fleet in June of 2006.
“My wife Emma and I have lived in Garden City most of our lives. I worked on a hay farm before earning a Commercial Driver License. I have five brothers who all have driven for National Carriers. In 2006, I bought my own truck and joined them. I love what I do; I like working with cattle. The most enjoyable thing about my job is the people I work with, because we all get along,” Martinez explained.
“Porfirio is reliable, respectful, and communicates well. Co-workers report he has always been someone that is easy to talk to. Every time he is asked to help, he never complains and always goes above and beyond for National Carriers. Whether an accident, road construction, traffic jam, or a minimal thing like excessive wind preventing safe travel, Porfirio will communicate through emails or call directly to update us on any situation that will be a conflict to loading or unloading on time. This allows our staff to update the feed yards or National Beef to let them know he will be running late,” shared livestock dispatcher, Gillermo Torres.
NCI November 2024 Drivers of the Month
Company Driver, Jason White of El Paso, Texas was named November Driver of the Month. Jason returned to National Carriers in January of 2023 following a brief stint driving elsewhere. After 22 years, he retired from serving in the US Marine Corp and began his driving career.
“Before exiting the armed forces, I was offered the opportunity to earn a CDL license through the military. As a youngster I road with my cousin who drove truck. After that experience I thought I would enjoy the lifestyle. He is now in management at National Carriers and invited me to join the company once I was qualified, “Jason shared.
He continued, “All NCI expects a driver to do is what all drivers are expected to do! In return, they provide current model trucks keeping repair and breakdowns at a minimum.”
National Carriers recognition includes a bonus of one thousand dollars, and each winner is now a finalist for Driver of the Year recognition which includes a ten-thousand-dollar award.
ABOUT NATIONAL CARRIERS, INC.
National Carriers is a diversified motor carrier that serves all 48 continental U.S. states. Their transportation offerings include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, their mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class."
Being part of the Elite Fleet® means enjoying a rewarding career that matches your skills and commitment to excellence. National Carriers is one of the nation's oldest, most respected, and successful carriers. They believe long-term success is waiting for you, whether you're an owner-operator or company driver. Learn about their exciting job opportunities.
For Immediate Release
National Carriers, Inc. 3925 Carbon Rd, Irving, TX 75038 Contact: Edward Kentner Director of Media Phone: (800) 835-2097 Ext. 6628 Email:
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National Carriers, Inc. has named its Driver of the Month for the months of July, August, and September of 2024. Glendol Moody, a native of Texas, Joel Rosado of New Jersey, and April Celestine from Louisiana were each named as a 2024 Driver of the Month. These drivers have each received a one-thousand-dollar bonus and are now eligible to be named 2024 Driver of the Year. The winner will receive an additional $10,000 bonus.
July 2024 Driver of the Month
National Carriers announced Glendol Moody as Driver of the Month in July. He joined the firm in October of 2019 as a company driver servicing customers on our 48-state fleet. Immediately, he proved himself as a valued team member, and is now a leading driver trainer at the “Elite” fleet.
Moody shared, ”I am born and raised in the state of Texas. My dad was a trucker, and I fell in love with it early on. In 1997 I began my career in the industry. When I researched coming to work at National Carriers, lead recruiter, Jerritt Judie, was straightforward with me with no BS. He promised the company would not be perfect, but everyone would try their hardest to make things work. My driver manager is Paul Whitley; we have a cordial and honest relationship. He is the best dispatcher I have ever had. “What I enjoy most is training incoming drivers who are new to the industry. I have a teacher mentality, and I enjoy watching my students achieve. I don’t expect perfection, and I let students know my expectations at the start of their training. That removes stress for the student and allows them to concentrate on learning as they drive,” Moody emphasized.
August 2024 Driver of the Month
Joel Rosado was awarded August Driver of the Month. He resides in New Brunswick, New Jersey and began driving at National Carriers in 2018. He operates his truck within the Greater New York area servicing accounts throughout the region. What began as a specialized route for one customer has morphed into a vital service for many.
Vice President of Refrigerated Operations Mark Phillips expressed, “Joel is our local dedicated driver on the East Coast. This award for him is long overdue. Joel is always a professional and willing to do what is needed to complete the task at hand. He safely and efficiently operates in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. He has always been a go-to driver who performs. Simply put, he is a true professional! We appreciate Joel.”
“I chose National Carriers because the company is not too big or too small. During orientation, things just felt right. The best thing about working here is that everyone is on a first-name basis. I am familiar with the New York City traffic and directions. ‘Elite’ fleet drivers not familiar with the metro can drop their loaded trailers and head out of the area while I complete our customer deliveries. This is less stressful for both incoming drivers and me. I know the neighborhoods, and I know what needs done. I appreciate National Carriers recognizing me with this award,” commented Rosado.
September 2024 Driver of the Month
April Celestine of Lafayette, Louisiana, was recognized as September Driver of the Month. She joined the “Elite” Fleet in October of 2018 and currently delivers refrigerated products to customers across the midwestern and eastern states. As a past resident of New York City, she feels confident with shipments and deliveries into difficult areas.
“This recognition is well deserved. She has an ‘in it, to win it’ attitude. April is a team player who has her head on straight and stays focused. She is professional and does a damn good job,” boasted her driver manager, Aaron Donbar.
Celestine shared, “My granddad on my mother’s side was a trucker; my dad was a trucker. In 2004 I earned my Class-A CDL and became a trucker. Before my CDL, I used to watch trucks come and go on Interstate 10 and wondered where they were coming from or going to. I enjoy seeing the United States and I only have one state left to visit that I have not traveled to. Being named Driver of the Month was a great surprise to me.”
National Carriers recognition includes a bonus of one thousand dollars, and each winner is now a finalist for Driver of the Year recognition which includes a ten-thousand-dollar award.
ABOUT NATIONAL CARRIERS, INC.
National Carriers is a diversified motor carrier that serves all 48 continental U.S. states. Their transportation offerings include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, their mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class."
Being part of the Elite Fleet® means enjoying a rewarding career that matches your skills and commitment to excellence. National Carriers is one of the nation's oldest, most respected, and successful carriers. They believe long-term success is waiting for you, whether you're an owner-operator or company driver. Learn about their exciting job opportunities.
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New jobs are always stressful, but this takes it to a whole new level. Tristin Utter, likely excited and nervous to fulfill his first load working for NCI, got a whole lot more than he bargained for when torrential rains and winds from Hurricane Helene kept him stranded and unable to communicate for days.
A Kansas City, Missouri native, Utter was en route to deliver beef to an Ingles distribution center in Black Mountain, North Carolina. He parked his truck to sleep before his 5 am delivery. Instead, violent winds woke him at 3 am. As you might expect, he did not make his ETA.
While the storm progressed, Utter learned that I-40 and I-26 had been closed, thus blocking him in. Soon after, he lost cell phone service. It was, to put it mildly, a rough situation for any driver to be in, much less someone on their first delivery for the NCI “Elite” Fleet.
Utter found himself in a Dollar General parking lot with around twelve other drivers. Since he had his kitchen stocked for a month on the road, he had plenty of food to share with his fellow stranded truckers.
Eventually, Utter’s cell phone found service, and he received a personal call from NCI’s Vice President, telling him just how much everyone back home supports and appreciates him. Ultimately, after five days, Tristin Utter was able to move along. He praised National Carriers for the company’s response and how they reassured his family even when he didn’t have service to reach them. “Just the way that they treated me and the way they have been with me through this ordeal has made me want to stay with them,” he said.
“I met some really great people,” he said. “It was a terrible experience, but overall the community pulled together.”
ABOUT NATIONAL CARRIERS, INC.
National Carriers is a diversified motor carrier that serves all 48 continental U.S. states. Their transportation offerings include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, their mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class."
Being part of the Elite Fleet® means enjoying a rewarding career that matches your skills and commitment to excellence. National Carriers is one of the nation's oldest, most respected, and successful carriers. They believe long-term success is waiting for you, whether you're an owner-operator or company driver. Learn about their exciting job opportunities.
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Perry Williams - May 2024 Driver of the Month
“For the past 21 years Perry Williams has been an owner operator at National Carriers. Operating within the livestock division he hauls tallow and transports refrigerated freight as needed. Perry has worked in every department in this company, literally all of them in some fashion or another. His hard work is recognized as he was named Driver of the Month for May of 2024.
“When it comes to Perry’s work ethic, I’d say he got that from his father. His father was all about customer service as he worked in the food industry by helping to get a famous west coast favorite eatery to where it is today. He was ALL ABOUT IT! From the way you looked, dressed, and communicated at the job. I’d say his dad beat that into Perry’s head and Perry still holds true to his father’s core values, just ask him!
“What makes Perry so valuable is he is always up for a challenge no matter how bad or good it is. He understands the industry with its highs and lows. He always says “that’s trucking.“ The fact is, you can give him a task and walk away knowing he will do everything in his power to get it done the right way and if not, he lets everyone know what he needs to get it done. As far as his willingness to help, I just ask him to do whatever needs done and he takes it from there…. JOB IS DONE and we don’t worry about it anymore,“ shared Director of Livestock Jason Greer.
Jason Crawford - June 2024 Driver of the Month
After twelve years of duty in the United States Army, Jason Crawford, ended his term of service. With tours in Kosovo, Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan he rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class. As he exited the service, a buddy he had served with recommended National Carriers to begin his driving career. In less than five years he has earned the title of Driver of the Month for June 2024.
“At National Carriers I can have my children ride with me on my truck. That is a big deal for me. The pay in the NCI truck leasing program allows my wife to be a stay-at-home mother. I work well with my driver manager, and we generally have good communication between us,” said Crawford.
Driver manager Aaron Donbar remarked, “Jason is a pleasure to work with. He requires minimal supervision while performing at a high level. His leadership experience in the military translates well into the trucking industry. With an exceptional safety record blended with outstanding service to our customers, Jason is a fine example for other “Elite” fleet drivers to follow.”
Each driver received a $1000 bonus for their recognition and are now eligible to be named 2024 Driver of the Year. A $10,000 bonus is given to the winning driver at the conclusion of the Driver of the Year banquet.
ABOUT NATIONAL CARRIERS, INC.
National Carriers is a diversified motor carrier servicing all 48 states in the continental United States with transportation offerings which include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, our mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class."
Being part of the Elite Fleet® means enjoying a career worthy of your skills and commitment to excellence. We believe long-term success is waiting for you at National Carriers®, one of the nation's oldest, most respected, and successful carriers. Learn about our exciting opportunities for owner operators as well as company drivers.
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National Carriers, Inc. has named Mindy Parson as May Driver of the Month and Derius Jordan as June Driver of the Month.
Irving, TX, For Immediate Release - National Carriers, Inc. has named Mindy Parson as May Driver of the Month and Derius Jordan as June Driver of the Month. Both have received a one thousand dollar bonus and are now eligible to be named 2022 Driver of the Year. The Driver of the Year will receive an additional ten thousand dollar bonus.
Director of Media, Ed Kentner expounded, “Both Mindy and Derius perform their job at a high level. Putting the motoring public’s safety first, each has achieved our highest rating in customer service. It is work ethic such as this that allows our company to live up to the name the ‘Elite’ fleet.”
After eleven years as an administrative assistant in an auto part manufacturing plant, Parson was a victim of corporate downsizing. As a single parent of grown children, she felt the call to do something completely different in the workforce. The state of Tennessee offered grants for displaced workers, one of which provided for Class A CDL training. With the desire to explore the country combined with the thought of solitude without a boss looking over her shoulder, she eagerly enrolled. Once she completed her schooling, she combed through online advertising to find the right trucking company for her.
“I chose National Carriers, because they offered paid training and it felt like they had a family-oriented workplace. Once I was trained, I got my own truck and traveled the country. Over time a dedicated route near my home became available and I signed up for it. I drive six to seven days a week regionally. I am very happy with my work situation,” shared Parson.
Derius Jordan also joined National Carriers as a trainee. A friend had recommended that he call National Carriers and apply.
“NCI was the first company I called. Recruiter Dena Moore immediately made me feel comfortable. My trainer taught me the ins and outs of the business during our time together. After operating a company truck for several months my driver manager helped me get into the truck leasing program. The lease is great. I stay out four to six weeks at a time. While working here I have found that everyone talks to everyone and you can speak to the management if you have a problem. No one bothers me if I don’t bother them,” he explained.
About National Carriers, Inc.
National Carriers is a diversified motor carrier servicing all 48 states in the continental United States with transportation offerings which include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, our mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class."
Being part of the Elite Fleet® means enjoying a career worthy of your skills and commitment to excellence. We believe long-term success is waiting for you at National Carriers®, one of the nation's oldest, most respected, and successful carriers. Learn about our exciting opportunities for owner operators as well as company drivers. If you are interested in leasing a truck, National Carriers® Leasing Division is the ideal partner to help you get started.
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National Carriers, Inc. has named Craig Petty as their January Driver of the Month.
“Craig personifies the ‘Elite Fleet’ with his professionalism and safety. We are all proud of what he has accomplished,” said NCI President Jim Franck.
As January’s Driver of the Month, he will receive a $1000 award and is now a finalist for the 2022 Driver of the Year contest which earns the winner a $10,000 bonus.
Petty is quickly approaching his eighth year driving at National Carriers. He provides dedicated service to customers within the state of Texas.
In response to being recognized for his efforts, Petty shared, “I was blown away when I was notified! I work hard, but I never thought I would have a chance of being named Driver of the Month. I appreciate the recognition from the management team. When I called my wife, she was so excited. From top to bottom, National Carriers is one big family. Our company is a well-oiled machine. If you have a problem with anything you can talk to someone in the office or shop and they will help. I believe if you enjoy what you do, you will never work a day in your life. And I enjoy what I do each day.”
About National Carriers, Inc.
National Carriers is a diversified motor carrier servicing all 48 states in the continental United States with transportation offerings that include refrigerated, livestock, and logistics services. At National Carriers, our mission is "to be the safest, most customer-focused, and successful motor carrier in our class."
Being part of the Elite Fleet® means enjoying a career worthy of your skills and commitment to excellence. We believe long-term success is waiting for you at National Carriers®, one of the nation's oldest, most respected, and successful carriers. Learn about our exciting opportunities for owner operators as well as company drivers. If you are interested in leasing a truck, National Carriers® Leasing Division is the ideal partner to help you get started.
