Jean-Sébastien Houle of Boucherville, Quebec, Canada, has been named Ryder’s 2026 Top Technician, earning the $50,000 grand prize at the company’s 25th annual Top Tech Skills Competition, one of Ryder’s premier recognition programs honoring the company’s most skilled commercial truck technicians.
“Congratulations to Jean-Sébastien on earning the 2026 Top Tech title. We also extend our gratitude to all the finalists for their incredible expertise and skills,” said John Diez, chief executive officer of Ryder. “Our technicians play a crucial role in delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring operational excellence across our fleet. Their expertise and commitment enable Ryder to consistently exceed the expectations of our customers.”
Hosted in Nashville, Tennessee, the 25th annual Top Tech competition celebrated the top tier of Ryder’s technician workforce of approximately 5,000 professionals across the U.S. and Canada. After advancing through rigorous written exams and regional hands-on competitions, 10 finalists earned a place in the championship, where they were tested at 10 timed skills stations covering advanced diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and complex vehicle systems, including aftertreatment, multiplexing, electrical, and electronic engine technologies.
“One of the strengths of Top Tech is the close collaboration we have with our OEM partners in designing and supporting the competition,” said Tom Havens, president of fleet management solutions at Ryder. “Their involvement helps ensure our technicians are tested against the technologies, systems, and standards they work with every day. This year’s finalists demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism, and our 2026 Top Technician, Jean-Sébastien, represents the very best of our maintenance workforce. Top Tech continues to showcase our commitment to skilled trades, celebrate excellence and attract the next generation of elite technicians.”
Among the finalists, Peter Finn of Holland, Michigan, earned second place, while Cameron Hughes of Kitchener, Ontario, Canada took third. Following the event, all finalists were honored during an awards ceremony, where each received a $10,000 cash prize.
