The Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award ceremony took place at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., where Cory Troxell was presented with the grand prize—a fully loaded Kenworth T680 Signature Edition truck valued at nearly $200,000. This life-changing award will enable Cory to fulfill his dream of becoming an independent owner-operator and establish himself as a business owner working with Stevens Transport.
“I honestly thought after coming out of the military that you fade away. No one thinks about you anymore; you’re done. But this is proof that’s not true,” said an emotional Cory Troxell during the ceremony. “I cannot thank Stevens Transport enough. To everyone at the company, thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Angela Horowitz, Vice President of Stevens Transport, shared her excitement for Cory’s recognition: “We could not have nominated a better candidate than Cory Troxell. Veterans are so important to our country, and Cory brings commitment, discipline, focus, professionalism, integrity, and safety to the job. Those are the cornerstones our company is built on.”
Cory Troxell stood alongside three other finalists in Washington, who have all served their nation through both military service and as drivers integral to the national supply chain. All four winners attended CVTA member schools on their journey into the trucking industry.
The first runner-up, Douglas Couch (U.S. Navy, E-5, Roehl Transport - Roehl Driver Training Center), was awarded a $10,000 prize, and finalists Billy Taylor (U.S. Coast Guard, E-7, Werner Enterprises - Roadmaster Drivers School) and Shawn Haley (U.S. Marine Corps, E-4, Veriha Trucking LLC - Truck Driver Institute) each received $5,000.
"This is one of the absolute best events in the industry," said CVTA Executive Director, Andrew Poliakoff. "Seeing these outstanding veterans honored in this way, it really gives you a strong sense of the greatness of the trucking industry. And the fact that the winner and finalists graduated from CVTA member schools, that's a testament to the quality and diligent training that CVTA's national members engage in every day. "
Launched in 2016, the Transition Trucking program aims to promote careers in the transportation industry for transitioning military veterans, National Guard members, and Reservists. This prestigious award highlights the hard work, dedication, and achievements of veterans who have chosen trucking as their next chapter.
Cory Troxell’s journey to this recognition is a reflection of his resilience, service, and commitment. Born into a military family at Fort Hood, TX, Cory was inspired to serve his country following the events of 9/11. He enlisted in the Army in 2004 immediately after high school and served with distinction. During his second combat tour in Iraq (Mosul) in 2009, Cory was severely wounded in an enemy IED attack, earning him the Purple Heart. Despite these challenges, Cory demonstrated immense strength and perseverance, continuing his service in the Army until his retirement in 2024.
Upon retiring from the Army, Cory’s transition to the trucking industry was a natural fit. Following in his family’s footsteps, he joined Stevens Transport and quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional driver. His hard work, discipline, and leadership skills honed during his military service have been instrumental in his success.
For more information, visit www.transitiontrucking.org.