
Arkansas-based Maverick Transportation recently announce their 2024 Drivers of the Year. Justin Melvin was named their 2024 Over-the-Road Driver of the Year and Kenneth Thomas was chosen as the company's 2024 Dedicated Driver of the Year.
Justin Melvin and Kenneth ThomasMaverick Transportation
John Coppens, vice president of Operations said, “We couldn’t be prouder of Justin. He has earned the respect of his students and peers and his vast knowledge and incredible work ethic will allow him to make a difference on our driver advisory councils.
"Justin has been recognized for his excellent abilities as a road trainer, specifically for always upholding the highest standards. In addition to his productivity as a driver and a road trainer, he has completed 1.9 million safe driving miles during his 18 years of service and has successfully trained 66 drivers.”
Upon being named the 2024 Over-the-Road Driver of the Year, Melvin said, “I never thought it would happen, and I am still in shock about it. I have a lot to live up to and it will probably take a while for it to sink in.”
He also said that a particular piece of advice has stuck with him since day one. “When I first started here, a tenured driver told me to drive my truck and secure it every day like my family was on either side of me and that made me think about how I was doing things. Everyone has to start somewhere, and I want to make sure they are trained right.”
Justin Brown, vice president of Dedicated Operations said, “Ken embodies the Maverick way. He has performed his job with integrity, respect and commitment for over 13 years, always delivering on time and claim-free. His commitment to excellence has allowed us to grow with our customer, creating additional jobs for other drivers. Thank you, Ken. We appreciate you.”
Thomas said, “I was completely shocked. As I was walking back to the table, I didn’t even hear my name get called for Driver of the Year. When I realized, I was just overwhelmed with honor. This is all still fresh and new.”
He said, “What sets Maverick apart is our attention to detail and doing everything The Maverick Way®. We here at Maverick are professionals.”
Founded in 1980, based in North Little Rock, Arkansas, and operating over 1,600 units, Maverick provides OTR and dedicated services to the flatbed, glass and specialized transportation markets throughout North America