GDA Graduate Charles Jones Jr. Wins National Trucking Excellence Award
Just weeks ago, Charles Jones Jr., U.S. Army veteran and proud graduate of Georgia Driving Academy’s Columbus campus, celebrated a significant achievement. Charles received the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, a prestigious national award recognizing outstanding military veterans who have built successful careers in professional truck driving.
The award ceremony took place on December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., where Charles was selected from a competitive pool of finalists. As the grand prize, Charles received the keys to a new 2026 Kenworth T680.
From Military Veteran to a Successful Truck Driver
Charles’s journey began with his military service. Like many veterans, after leaving the Army, he wanted a civilian career that offered stability, growth, and personal fulfillment. The challenge was finding the right path forward.
That’s where Georgia Driving Academy played a pivotal role. Charles gained the technical skills and industry knowledge in GDA’s Class A CDL training program. Now, as a professional driver for Roehl Transport, he is putting his training to work every day.
“The professionalism, discipline, and deep commitment to safety that Charles embodies reflect everything we strive to instill in our students. His recent national award and career success showcase the powerful impact quality CDL training can have.”
– Brad Barber, President of Georgia Driving Academy
What is the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award?
A national award that celebrates the best military veterans who have transitioned into the trucking industry. Public voting and evaluations from industry leaders decide the winner. The winner goes home with a brand new Kenworth T680 truck and the other two finalists receive checks for $10,000.
Charles stood out as a winner for the award due to his professionalism, leadership, and authenticity. His semifinalist interview highlights his great sense of humor and humility, qualities that earned him this award.
Supporting Veterans in Trucking
Our dedicated veteran training programs help vets transition into trucking jobs with confidence. Veterans like Charles bring unique skills like discipline, leadership, reliability that make them excellent truck drivers. Our mission is to equip them with the practical skills and industry connections to succeed.
The trucking industry offers veterans competitive pay, career advancement, and the chance to travel while maintaining a stable job. Charles’s achievement motivates others considering trucking as a career path after military service.
If you’re ready to start a new career, whether as a veteran or someone looking for a stable, well-paying job, Georgia Driving Academy is here to help. With flexible programs, expert instructors, and job placement assistance, we’ll help you get on the road quickly.
