The Next Generation in Trucking Association today announced the launch of its second annual Career Catalyst Awards, recognizing companies across the trucking industry that are creating meaningful career pathways for the next generation workforce.
Following a successful inaugural year in 2025 that honored 16 trucking fleets for their leadership in workforce development, the 2026 Career Catalyst Awards expand eligibility to recognize both trucking employers and industry partners helping young people enter careers across trucking, diesel technology, logistics, and the broader supply chain.
Applications for the 2026 Career Catalyst Awards are now open. The application deadline is April 22. Interested companies can apply online.
The Career Catalyst Award celebrates organizations actively investing in early talent development and long-term workforce sustainability. This includes early-career hiring, structured training initiatives, mentorship programs, internships, apprenticeships, and innovative retention strategies, along with meaningful engagement with schools and training programs through activities such as advisory board participation, classroom speaking, student tours, CTSO involvement, and other work-based learning experiences that introduce students to careers in trucking.
“The future of trucking depends on companies willing to engage early and create clear pathways for long-term careers,” said Lindsey Trent, president and co-founder of the Next Generation in Trucking Association. “The Career Catalyst Awards recognize organizations that are building real solutions — investing in students, developing talent, and strengthening the connection between education and industry.”
2026 award categories include:
- Career Catalyst Award — Industry Employer
Recognizes for-hire carriers and private fleets creating entry-level opportunities, structured training programs, education partnerships, work-based learning experiences, and long-term career advancement pathways for individuals entering trucking careers. - Career Catalyst Award — Industry Partner
Recognizes dealerships, technology providers, insurance organizations, service companies, associations, and allied industry partners that are creating career pathways into trucking through hiring, internships, apprenticeships, training initiatives, and active collaboration with education and workforce development partners.
Both categories highlight organizations that are strengthening the trucking workforce pipeline by engaging students early and supporting their transition into sustainable careers.
Organizations of all sizes are encouraged to apply. Formal workforce programs are not required; demonstrated commitment to developing career opportunities for the next generation workforce is what matters most.
The 2026 Career Catalyst Awards are sponsored by Engine and the National Transportation Institute.
