Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024:
Trucking pioneer Gene England passes away at age 105
Born on October 24, 1919, in Plain City, Utah, Gene England was a pioneer in the trucking industry, having began his career at a young age, working alongside his father, Chester (C.R.), and brother, Bill, to build C.R. England into a leading transportation company. His extended family includes Kevin Knight, the founder of Knight Transportation.
An icon of the transportation industry, "he was one of the original truckers, driving millions of miles throughout his life while leading the company with his brother, sons, and grandchildren," the company noted in announcing Gene's passing. "Despite his many responsibilities in the office, Gene had a passion to get behind the wheel and get the work done as a professional driver."
Gene England also earned a Bronze Star, serving in Okinawa during World War II.
"His love for trucking and dedication to C.R. England were second only to his devotion to his faith and family. Gene was a lifelong advocate for truck drivers and the trucking industry, tirelessly promoting the importance of the profession he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, hard work, and a deep commitment to those who keep our country moving. Details regarding Gene’s memorial service will be shared in the near future," said the company. "Gene England’s passing is a great loss to the C.R. England family and the trucking industry at large. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the company he built."
For those wishing to pay respects, C.R. England noted the best way to honor Gene's memory "is to pay it forward by thanking a truck driver for their service to our country and communities."
R.E. Garrison’s safety, recruiting director named 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking
Women in Trucking this week named R.E. Garrison's Tracy Rushing as its 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking.Women in Trucking
The Women in Trucking Association (WIT) recently presented Tracy Rushing, Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting, RE Garrison Trucking (CCJ Top 250, No. 110) with the 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking award.
The award is sponsored by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) and recognizes the achievements of female role models and trailblazers in the trucking industry.
“Women in Trucking is honored each year to name a leader in our industry who demonstrates remarkable grit, talent and passion to advance opportunities for women in trucking,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT President and CEO. “We’re thrilled to give this honor to Tracy Rushing this year. Tracy’s commitment to this profession and desire to mentor future leaders is an example for all of us.”
The winner was announced during the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo in Dallas, Texas. The announcement came after the panel discussion “Becoming an Influential Woman in Trucking.” Panelists consisted of the 2024 award finalists: Lisa Gonnerman, Vice President of Enterprise Services, TA Dedicated, and Sheri Aaberg, Chief Operating Officer, Transport Enterprise Leasing. The panel was facilitated by two 2024 WIT Top Women to Watch in Transportation: Kelley Martin, Director of Aftermarket, and Heather Callahan, Director of Logistics, both with DTNA.
Rushing began her career 30 years ago in a scale house and grew into leadership roles through perseverance, mentorship and a strong work ethic, WIT said. She shared personal stories with the audience, including her early years in trucking and the importance of relationships in the industry. She left the audience encouraged to find their "why" in trucking and strive to leave a legacy of support, inclusion and opportunity for future generations of trucking professionals.
"I'm incredibly grateful to be named 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking, but this honor isn't mine alone,” Rushing said. “It belongs to all the women who have paved the way and continue to push our industry forward. I’m just proud to be a part of this community of strong, dedicated women who work tirelessly to keep America moving. We’re all in this together, and I’m thankful every day that I get to be a trucker.”
Saia celebrating 100th anniversary
This year, Saia Inc. (CCJ Top 250, No. 19) is celebrating Saia LTL Freight’s 100th anniversary, reflecting on a remarkable journey that has established it as one of North America's leading transportation companies, the fleet said.
Founded in response to the many requests Louis Saia Sr., of Houma, Louisiana, received from his customers to haul their goods to New Orleans where he'd travel to pick up produce, this anniversary is a celebration of not only Saia’s storied past but also its enduring commitment to the employees and customers who have been central to its success.
From its earliest days, Saia has recognized that employees are the backbone of the company and emphasized the importance of creating a supportive and rewarding work environment. Saia strives to foster a family-like atmosphere, where every employee’s role is recognized as essential to its collective success.
Recently, the company held a recognition event at its Johns Creek, Georgia, headquarters where employees, families, friends, and local dignitaries, including Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry, came together to celebrate team members and the company’s a 100-year anniversary. Similar events recognizing employees were also held throughout the company’s network, as well as at its Houma general office.
Beyond investing in employees, Saia is also investing in real estate, equipment, technology, and more. In tandem with its 100th anniversary, Saia announced it would be making a $1 billion investment in its operations this year, underscoring the company’s dedication to innovation, efficiency, and customer service. Saia currently operates 213 terminals across the country, employs over 15,000 people, and owns a fleet of over 6,500 tractors and 22,000 trailers.
"Our centennial is not just about looking back at our achievements but also looking forward to the innovations and opportunities that lie ahead," said Saia President and CEO Fritz Holzgrefe.
To commemorate the anniversary, Saia launched two mobile museums that will stop at select venues for private events and visits. Guests can step into a real Saia truck and experience the company's 100-year history through interactive artifacts. Visitors can also get behind the wheel of an action-packed simulator to learn what it’s like to be a Saia driver.
