The Next Generation in Trucking Association (NGT) today announces the winners and finalists of the inaugural 2025 NEXT Top Talent Award, a first-of-its-kind recognition program honoring CDL drivers and diesel technicians under 30, which the. association says “are redefining what it means to be a professional in our industry.”
These rising stars exemplify dedication to safety, professionalism, and purpose, and their stories prove that the future of trucking is already here, and it’s full of promise, NGT said in its announcement.
The grand champion diesel technician is Joe Reed of the Kenan Advantage Group
“From his start as a technician to his role today as shop foreman, Joe’s leadership, mentorship, and drive for excellence have elevated his team and strengthened operations. We’re proud to celebrate his well-deserved recognition!,” NGT said.
Reed began his career as a technician and has steadily worked his way up to become shop foreman for KAG Energy in North Canton, Ohio. His leadership has transformed the shop, improving its appearance, operational performance, and team morale, accordin g to the NGTA. The organization said Reed leads by example and holds himself to high standards while motivating his team to grow alongside him.
NGTA said Reed has strengthened KAG’s terminal operations by keeping trucks on the road and maximizing load revenue. He actively collaborates with corporate fleet leaders, and his hunger for learning has positioned him for even greater opportunities in leadership, such as terminal manager or regional maintenance manager roles.
“Joe’s mentorship has raised the performance of other team members, and several technicians have expressed interest in advancing their careers because of Joe’s example,” said the NGTA. “He exemplifies what it means to lead with humility, skill, and a vision for the future.”
2025 NEXT Top Talent diesel technician winners include:
· Adam Wheaton – Old Dominion Freight Line
· Angel Alcala – Old Dominion Freight Line
· Austin Randler – KL Harring Transportation, LLC
· Ayden Standridge – Boyd Cat
· Bradley Mackey – Waste Management
· Caleb Varner – Logisticize
· Carlos Lopez – FedEx Freight
· Corey Coots – Usher Transport, Inc.
· David M Carter – Horizon Freight Lines, Inc.
· Dylan Gallagher – Old Dominion Freight Line
· Jackie Clark – Gordon Food Service
· Joe Brilowski – Koch NaitonaLease
· Joseph Weeks – Waste Management
· Kameron Pugh – Ralph Moyle, Inc.
· Kyle T. Applebee – Hoffman Transportation
· Matthew Becker – Old Dominion Freight Line
· Riley Sullivan – Advantage Truck Group
· Ryan Frisk – Waste Management
· Thomas Cornell – Koch Trucking
“The NEXT Top Talent Award allows us to highlight their achievements and elevate the importance of building career pathways for Gen Z,” said Lindsey Trent, President and Co-Founder of NGT.
The NEXT Top Talent Award is co-sponsored by Fullbay and Project 61.
