KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In honor of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week September 9-15, Pilot Flying J has partnered with the American Trucking Association on an educational outreach program.
In light of the immense driver shortage facing the trucking industry, which may reach 174,000 by 2026 according to the ATA, the initiative is designed to raise greater awareness of the trucking profession and professional drivers’ tremendous contributions to our nation’s economy, according to Ken Parent, president of Pilot Flying J.
Pilot Flying J will celebrate professional drivers throughout the month of September starting last week with the announcement of a $60,000 philanthropic gift to the ATA’s Trucking Cares Foundation to help support professional drivers and the future of the industry.
Pilot Flying J will also reward drivers all month long through its annual 100 Million myRewards Points Giveaway and 30 days of free offers in the myPilot app.
“Hardworking professional drivers make countless sacrifices to keep our economy moving and our ways of life possible,” Parent said. “As we face a growing driver shortage, our hope is that this contribution will help support the Trucking Cares Foundation’s mission to improve the safety, security and sustainability of the trucking industry and contribute to the future growth of the industry through education and training.”
Behind the stocked retail shelves, fuel at the pump and expedited delivery of goods to consumers across the country, is an industry of more than 3.5 million American truck drivers that keep the U.S. economy moving, Parent noted, adding that Pilot Flying J is honored to partner with ATA’s driver community to share their insights on the trucking industry and their passion for professional driving, with the hope of shedding light on the benefits of the truck driving profession to reach the future of the industry.
“Professional drivers have a great impact on our economy,” said Steve Brand, a professional driver of 27 years for FedEx Freight. “It’s a great feeling knowing I have a small part in that, plus the independence, flexibility, pay and benefits are a perk of the job. I go to bed happy and wake up knowing that I am making a difference.”
In addition to driving awareness and appreciation of professional drivers, Parent said Pilot Flying J is thanking them in-store throughout the month of September with money-saving offers and giveaways.
All month Pilot Flying J is giving away one free item each day in the myPilot app, including a free slice of PJ Fresh pizza and popular drinks and snacks.
Pilot Flying J Truck Care is also providing free mid-trip inspections, a value of $50, to help professional drivers and trucking companies prepare for Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Brake Safety Week.
The pre-trip inspections offer is valid during September 1-30 with a limit of one complimentary mid-trip inspection per truck during promotional period. Other restrictions apply.
Pilot Flying J will award prizes to more than 60,000 professional drivers, including 2,000 daily winners, during the 100 Million myRewards Points Giveaway. To enter, professional drivers can simply swipe their myRewards Loyalty card when purchasing diesel fuel at a participating Pilot or Flying J Travel Center in the United States.
To learn more about Pilot Flying J’s September is driver appreciation celebration, sign up for myRewards, or to find Pilot Flying J travel center amenities and locations, visit www.pilotflyingj.com.
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.
