"Professional drivers are the backbone of our economy and keep our communities supplied, often with little recognition for the important work they do," said Kari Irons, chief experience officer at Pilot. "Driver Appreciation Month is our opportunity to celebrate their dedication, thank them for the miles they travel, and honor the millions of drivers who deliver the products and essentials people rely on every day."

Honoring Professional Drivers Through Road Warrior

Pilot’s annual Road Warrior contest shares the stories of the professional drivers who go the extra mile every day, celebrating their commitment to safety and the impact they make on and off the road. Drivers can be nominated through the Road Warrior entry form from September 1 through September 18, 2026. Eligible nominees should demonstrate outstanding professionalism, safety and service.

This year’s Road Warrior winner will be announced in October 2026 and will receive a customized Kenworth truck transformed by the Diesel Brothers, along with a $50,000 cash prize. The Kenworth W990 truck embodies everything expected from ‘the driver's truck,’ with a 52" flat top sleeper equipped with a Diamond VIT interior, powered by a PACCAR MX-13 engine that delivers 510 horsepower and 1,850 lb-ft of torque via a PACCAR TX-18 transmission. The custom build journey and Road Warrior highlights will be shared through exclusive content on Pilot and Kenworth social media channels.

"Professional drivers do much more than deliver freight. They connect communities, support businesses and help power everyday life," said Rusty Kirby, vice president of transportation and logistics at Pilot. "We're honored to recognize one exceptional driver and celebrate the hardworking people who make this industry possible."

Last year's Road Warrior contest honored Stacy Batiste of Lafayette, Louisiana. A Marine Corps veteran, Batiste was selected from thousands of nominations after logging more than 5.1 million accident-free miles during his 33-year career and mentoring fellow drivers. To learn more about the Road Warrior contest, visit pilotcompany.com/road-warrior.

Celebrating Driver Appreciation Month

Beginning August 31, 2026, professional drivers can enjoy three free drinks and a snack each week throughout September for Driver Appreciation Month.** The weekly offers feature top-selling brands and can be redeemed through the Pilot app at participating U.S. Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers.

Pilot will also host events at select travel centers across the U.S. to surprise and delight drivers with swag, giveaways and free samples. And across North America, Pilot’s team members will show their appreciation for pros with ‘thanks for the drive’ celebrations at participating stores.

*Contest runs 9/1/26-9/18/26. Nominators and nominees must be 18 years old and a resident of the United States to enter and to win. See full terms and conditions at https://pilotcompany.com/file/road-warrior-contest-official-rules.

**Offer valid from 08/26/2026 12:01 AM EST through 10/6/2026 11:59 PM EST. Each week during the promotion period, restarting each Monday, members may redeem the offer for up to three (3) different free drinks each week (see the Pilot app each week for eligible drink options). Each eligible drink may only be redeemed once during the applicable week. To receive offer, must (1) be a professional driver using a professional driver myRewards account, (2) save offer in the Pilot app, and (3) present myRewards card, barcode in the Pilot app, or phone number associated with myRewards account at time of purchase. Valid only at participating U.S. Pilot, Flying J and One9 branded, owned and/or operated locations. Not valid at dealer/licensee locations. Not valid in Canada. Void where prohibited or otherwise restricted. Purchase required. Invalid on prior purchases. Cannot be sold, bartered, or combined with other offers. No cash value, rain checks, or substitutions allowed. Offer may be modified or terminated at any time. Subject to myRewards terms and conditions (pilotcompany.com/terms-and-conditions). Other terms, conditions, and restrictions may apply. Data rates may apply. ©2026 Pilot Travel Centers LLC.

This year, Pilot is hiring approximately 10,000 new team members across our network of more than 900 travel centers to support the busy season. Behind every stop for fuel, food or rest is a team dedicated to making the most of your miles. That’s where our journey makers come in.

Fueling Life’s Journeys

At Pilot, we’re in the business of fueling life’s journeys. Each day, we serve 1.2 million road travelers and support more than 30,000 team members nationwide. Our purpose is simple but powerful: show people they matter at every turn.

Whether it’s a traveler stopping for fuel and a Pilot pizza meal deal or a team member building a long-term career, we’re committed to be by your side for the whole ride.

Opportunities Across North America

We’re seeking driven, reliable, authentic and welcoming team members for a wide range of roles across our travel centers, on-site restaurants and tanker fleets. Opportunities range from hourly positions, leadership roles, facility maintenance technicians and fuel tanker drivers.

A Workplace Where You Belong

Success is a shared journey at Pilot. That’s why we invest in creating an environment where people feel seen, appreciated and know they belong. That includes offering our team members benefits and perks like:

• Competitive compensation: weekly pay and 401(k) retirement savings

• Daily perks: gas discounts, a $12 meal and beverage credit each shift for travel center team members and drivers, and rewards and recognition programs

• Health and wellness: low-cost, comprehensive health and well-being plans, access to 24/7 on-demand healthcare (U.S. team members) and paid time off

• Growth, education and support: professional development, tuition assistance and Pilot Cares hardship assistance program

Join the Journey

No matter where you’re coming from or where you’re headed, Pilot is ready to help you pave your path forward. Ready to get started? Visit careers.pilotcompany.com to explore opportunities and apply today. See you out here!

Pilot is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and fair employment practices. Pilot strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against team members, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex, age, physical or mental disability, past, current or prospective service in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Tesla Megachargers 

Heavy-duty electric vehicles, like electric semi-trucks, can only be an alternative to traditional diesel-powered vehicles if there is a dependable infrastructure of charging stations along the routes they use every day.

That's where the innovative collaboration between Pilot and Tesla comes in. Together, we will create a charging network along major freight corridors, helping make heavy-duty EVs a viable option. By building reliable, high-powered Tesla Megachargers along the nation's busiest highways and routes with expected EV demand, the collaboration accelerates the path toward widespread EV trucking adoption.

Strategic Charging Along Major Freight Corridors 

The first Tesla Megacharger sites are expected to open in summer 2026. The initial locations will be at select Pilot travel center locations along I-5, I-10 and several other key corridors across California, Georgia, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, where the need for heavy-duty charging is highest.

By placing chargers where fleets already operate, the collaboration ensures that charging fits seamlessly into existing routes and driver schedules.

High-power Charging Built for Heavy-duty Trucks

Pilot travel centers equipped with Tesla Megachargers will host four to eight high-power charging stalls powered by Tesla's V4 cabinet technology. These chargers deliver up to 1.2 megawatts of power per stall. This level of power is essential for long-haul electric trucking.

According to Tesla, one of their electric Semi trucks can regain most of its typical 500-mile range in about 30 minutes. That matches the length of a normal mandated rest break for professional drivers. That means fleets can charge while drivers rest, without sacrificing valuable time on the road.

Supporting Tesla Today and More EV Trucks Tomorrow 

While the initial network is designed for the Tesla Semi truck, both Tesla and Pilot have signaled an exciting future where other heavy-duty truck EV manufacturers can plug in, too. These sites will help support a broader shift toward decarbonization in the transportation industry.

Pilot is Shaping the Future of Energy 

This collaboration also aligns with Pilot's long-term vision to expand its energy offerings for fleets and travelers. Across North America, Pilot is expanding access to electrification solutions and lower-carbon fueling alternatives including renewable diesel and biodiesel.

As demand for lower-carbon and alternative fuels grows, Pilot is meeting customers wherever they are on their energy journey, whether they're already running electric or just beginning to explore alternative fuel solutions. It's all part of our effort to help shape the future of energy.

Recognizing International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day, recognized globally each March 8, offers a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the impact women make in every part of society, including the workplace. At Pilot, we’re proud to have women serving in roles across the organization, including behind the wheel as professional truck drivers.

One such team member is driver Courtney Tejeda, a December 2025 recipient of Pilot’s Virtue Award. This honor recognizes individuals who exemplify the everyday qualities that define Pilot: being driven, reliable, authentic and welcoming. Courtney says she was “honored and humbled” to receive the recognition, noting she felt she received the award for simply doing her job. But her commitment to excellence and her passion for her work make her a standout example of the vital contributions women bring to Pilot.

A Career in Trucking

Formerly working in catering, Courtney decided nearly a decade ago that she needed a change. She enrolled in trucking school, where she was one of just two or three women in a class of 40 drivers-in-training. She discovered not only that she enjoyed the work but also that she was good at it. After graduating, she became an over-the-road, long-haul driver, traveling across the country and visiting every one of the lower 48 states except Maine (a goal she plans to check off one day)!

Courtney joined Pilot six years ago and has spent the last three years serving as a lead driver. In this role, she ensures the 24 drivers on her team have everything they need to succeed. Her daily responsibilities span scheduling, overseeing truck maintenance and inspections, procuring supplies and transporting fuel herself. She credits strengths like organization, patience and the ability to pivot quickly as essential to her success.

Building Relationships, Shaping Perceptions

Being an effective leader is about more than getting tasks done— for Courtney it's about trust, connection and a culture of safety. Courtney prioritizes building strong relationships and sets the tone for her team by leading with authenticity. “I would say relationships are everything,” she says. “In our business, you never know who you are going to meet. Being driven, reliable, authentic and welcoming means showing up every day choosing to be my best self, doing what I say I’ll do and demonstrating accountability for safety.”

As one of the few women in her training classes and sometimes the only woman on a job site, Courtney quickly became aware of her unique role as a woman in trucking. Knowing she is often seen as a representative for all women drivers, Courtney pushes herself to be the best she can be, not just for her own success but because her actions may inspire other women to find a place in the trucking industry.

A Strong Community

Courtney credits her husband and best friend as her greatest source of encouragement. She adds that the strong sense of community she feels at Pilot is an important source of support in her life.

Today, she is encouraged to see more women on the road and more women joining the trucking community. A recent example was the Women in Trucking conference she attended on behalf of Pilot. “It’s beautiful!” she says of the growing visibility of female drivers.  “We belong here too.”

Women in Trucking

When asked what she would tell a woman considering a career in trucking, Courtney doesn’t hesitate: “Do it!” she says. What she once thought would simply be a job has become a source of empowerment. “I’ve found trucking empowering,” she says. “I learn something new every day and will never stop learning. You can really build a great career out here.”

Pilot is committed to fostering an environment where everyone can build a meaningful career. For those interested in making their next career stop with Pilot, visit our careers page to explore opportunities in trucking and more.

This International Women’s Day, we honor Courtney and all the women across Pilot who show people they matter at every turn. Their talent, dedication and visibility continue to pave the way for others, reminding us that when everyone feels they belong, we all go further together.

Pilot’s quick-serve restaurants are now open 24/7, and the Pilot app is ready to take your order anywhere you are on your journey. Explore the new ways we’re here to keep you moving.

Quick-Serve Restaurants, Open 24/7

Pilot’s more than 350 quick-serve restaurants—like Wendy’s, Dunkin and Taco Bell—are now open around the clock, seven days a week. Whether you’re craving a quick meal, a midnight snack or an early morning coffee, we’re ready to serve. You can even get food delivered 24/7 where third-party delivery drivers are available.

Whether it’s 2:00 pm or 2:00 am, count on our travel centers to be your trusty wingman and keep you going strong. Search on Pilot's website or in the mobile app for your favorite quick-serve restaurant locations.

Mobile Ordering to Make Your Life Easier

We know your time is valuable. With mobile ordering on the Pilot app and website, you can place your order from anywhere and pick it up when you’re ready.

Customize your meal, grab your favorite road trip snacks and stock up on supplies without juggling multiple orders. It’s your one-stop shop, all at your fingertips.

At Pilot, we’re committed to making every mile easier for you. Our expanded hours and convenient ordering options are two more ways we’re by your side for the whole ride.

After reviewing thousands of deserving entries, Pilot, the nation’s largest travel center operator and third largest tanker fleet operator in the U.S., announced today their 2025 Road Warrior champion, Stacy Batiste of Lafayette, Louisiana. Batiste was selected for his tireless dedication and commitment to professional driving, receiving the largest prize in contest history – a custom Kenworth truck built by the Diesel Brothers and a $50,000 cash prize. Pilot’s Road Warrior contest is a way for the company to say thanks to the drivers who go the extra mile and keep North America moving. A bonus second-place winner, Bobby Peeker of Woodruff, South Carolina, is also being awarded a $10,000 cash prize and a $25,000 donation on his behalf to a charity supporting veterans’ causes of his choice.  

“We received thousands of entries celebrating the efforts of drivers who go the extra mile each and every day. Stacy’s and Bobby’s hard work, dedication to the profession, commitment to safety and service stood out. We are honored to welcome them to the Road Warrior winner’s circle,” said Jordan Spradling, senior vice president of transportation and midstream assets at Pilot Company. “They both are prime examples of the positive impact professional drivers have on and off the road.”

Batiste has dedicated the past 33 years to being on the road, logging more than 5.1 million accident-free miles and considers trucking to be his calling. Batiste has been recognized throughout his career for his commitment to road safety. A Marine Corps veteran, Batiste is motivated by the pride of knowing his efforts keep communities and families supplied with the goods they need. In addition to his time behind the wheel, he routinely goes the extra mile to mentor younger drivers and serves as a pillar in his local community. 

On October 21, Pilot surprised Batiste with his prize while he was working and on the road. Batiste had stopped at a Flying J in Baytown, Texas, when Pilot and the Diesel Brothers handed over the keys to the custom Kenworth truck and presented the $50,000 check. His family hid in the travel center to be a part of the surprise. They say Batiste’s first job as a professional driver was hauling sugar cane in South Louisiana, and now, as an owner-operator, this truck will further his passion for safe driving and making a difference in his community. 

With the amount of heart-warming stories that were submitted through this year’s Road Warrior nomination process, Pilot selected an additional deserving winner. Bobby Peeker, also a Marine Corps veteran, will receive a $10,000 cash prize and a $25,000 donation made by Pilot on his behalf to a charity of his choice that supports veterans’ causes.  

Peeker boasts more than 1 million accident-free miles and supports the military community following his service in the Marine Corps, regularly volunteering his time and resources to aid his fellow servicemen and servicewomen. He also participates in truck shows that support the Special Olympics. His family instilled his passion for the profession, which was only strengthened by the role his grandfather played to help remove rubble from the 9/11 attacks with his truck. 

For over 10 years, Pilot has celebrated professional drivers and recognized them as Road Warriors for their dedication to going the extra mile. To learn more about the Road Warrior contest, including the more than 30 drivers who have been showcased, please visit: https://pilotcompany.com/road-warrior.   

“At every turn, professional drivers bring their grit and dedication to deliver the goods that keep our economy moving,” said Jordan Spradling, vice president of transportation and logistics at Pilot. “We owe professional drivers our gratitude for their hard work. Driver Appreciation Month is an opportunity for us to say ‘thanks for the drive’ and show drivers how much they matter by recognizing and rewarding them for going the extra mile.”

Pilot's annual Road Warrior contest shines a spotlight on the incredible stories of professional drivers who go the distance with excellent safety records and service to the community. This year, the Diesel Brothers are joining Pilot to create the ultimate big rig – a fully customized Kenworth. Fans can watch this truck come to life by following @SparksMotorsCo on YouTube, as they overhaul the rig for Pilot’s Road Warrior winner. Nominate a deserving driver for the chance to win the 2025 Road Warrior grand prize of a custom Kenworth truck and $50,000 by completing the entry form between September 2 through September 19, 2025. The grand prize winner will be announced in October 2025.

To show appreciation for all professional drivers, Pilot is offering exclusive deals** just for them in the Pilot app at participating Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers, including:

• Three free drinks every week, featuring top-selling brands from the cooler
• Extra deals and exclusive discounts on popular snacks and craveable signature Pilot food items
• A 10% discount on food and beverages for military and veteran professional drivers authenticated through ID.me

For more information about Driver Appreciation Month, visit pilotcompany.com/driver-appreciation-month. For more information about the 2025 Road Warrior contest, including terms and conditions, visit https://pilotcompany.com/road-warrior.

*See pilotcompany.com/road-warrior for contest rules for terms and conditions. Void where prohibited by law. 

**Offer available to professional drivers using the Pilot app until 9/30/25. See https://pilotcompany.com/driver-appreciation-month for terms and conditions.

Liz Leon, a professional driver for over 19 years and this year's grand prize winner, transports containers in and out of Southern California ports for 4Gen Logistics. Liz started her career with Toys R Us, where she fell in love with the road and found her passion for driving. Driving an average of 100,000 miles a year, Liz is accident-free and has been recognized by the California Trucking Association for her phenomenal driving.

On October 22, Pilot team members flew to Rialto, California, to surprise Liz before she began her shift at 4Gen Logistics. Colleagues and family members, including her husband, daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren, joined to celebrate the 2024 Road Warrior winner and present a check for $25,000 upon her arrival.

“Congratulations to this year’s Road Warrior, Liz Leon, who stood out among the many deserving drivers we read about during the contest,” said Jordan Spradling, vice president of transportation and logistics at Pilot. “We appreciate all the nominations and stories of drivers like Liz, Herschel, Joe, and Roy, who show up day in and day out, put in countless hours and miles and embody everything we value at Pilot.“

New to this year’s Road Warrior contest, Pilot chose four winners from each week’s nominations to win $1,000 and to be in the running for the $25,000 grand prize. In addition to Liz, this year’s weekly winners include:

• Herschel Evans: A professional driver from Bremen, Georgia, with over 38 years of experience and 3.5 million safe driving miles, he has helped countless families through his charity work, including Atlanta Ride for Kids, Convoy of Care and Safety Drive for a Cure.
• Joe Mondor: A professional driver from Grand Forks, North Dakota, Joe has logged over 4.5 million safe driving miles over his 33 years in the trucking industry. Joe has been recognized as a true professional, a safety leader and a mentor for his peers.
• Roy Prentice: A professional driver from Reno, Nevada, Roy has accrued more than 3 million safe driving miles and has been a professional driver for more than 30 years. He is known for his passion for helping others in his community and his fellow drivers out on the road.

To learn more about Pilot's Road Warrior contest and past winners, visit https://pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation.

As the heartbeat of the trucking industry, truck parking is crucial yet often gets sidelined in conversation. Truck drivers face a daily struggle—navigating long hours, tight schedules, unpredictable weather, and finding safe places to park their big rigs. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about safety and compliance.

Why Truck Parking Matters

Safe parking areas aren’t just resting spots; they’re lifelines for drivers. They offer the necessary downtime to recharge and ensure compliance with hours-of-service regulations. Did you know that driver fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents? Proper parking options help combat this risk and keep everyone safer.

Join the Pilot Family

That’s where we come in! At Pilot, we boast the largest network of travel centers across North America, featuring nearly 900 locations prioritizing truck parking. We provide drivers with a safe haven to stop, rest, and reset, whether they’re on long hauls or quick deliveries.

Finding Your Spot

Finding a space at Pilot is a breeze! Our website and mobile app keep you informed of real-time parking availability, ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible. No more driving in circles!

Cost Considerations

When it comes to costs, we keep it simple. In the US, overnight truck parking costs range between $10 to $25, while in Canada, it’s about $15 to $30. And with savings for professional drivers and fleet members, we make sure you can rest easy without breaking the bank.

At Pilot, we’re committed to making a difference in the truck parking landscape. So next time you hit the road, remember: safe travels start with a good parking plan. Check out our extensive network for affordable, convenient truck parking options. Happy trucking!

“It truly is an honor to work shoulder to shoulder with professional drivers who keep North America moving, day in and day out,” said Jordan Spradling, vice president of transportation and logistics at Pilot. “At Pilot, we are committed to doing our part to support, serve, and show professional drivers they matter, and we look forward to seeing them out here on the road.”

Pilot's Driver Appreciation campaign reflects the brand’s new creative direction, focusing on the people and moments that make the middle of nowhere feel like somewhere. Featuring real professional drivers in its campaign, Pilot celebrates the hardworking people behind the wheel of a big rig with a ‘Here’s to You’ cheers and an inviting call to ‘See You Out Here.’ Throughout September, Pilot will hero professional drivers in its commercials, billboards, store signage and digital content.

To further recognize professional drivers and share their stories, Pilot is kicking off its annual Road Warrior contest with a $25,000* grand prize. The Road Warrior contest recognizes the individuals who weather the storms, long hours, and tight schedules, day in and day out to keep North America moving. For this year’s contest, surprise personalities will invite people to nominate the professional drivers in their lives by visiting Pilot’s Facebook page and giving them a shout-out on each week’s Road Warrior recognition post. Every week during the contest, one deserving driver will be selected based on the details of their nomination to win a $1,000 prize.* At the end of the month, one of the four weekly Road Warrior winners will be named the grand prize recipient and will be awarded an additional $25,000.* Winners will be announced in October.*

Additionally, as a token of Pilot’s appreciation, professional drivers will be able to enjoy exclusive savings all September through use of the myRewards Plus app** at participating Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers, including:

• Three free drinks every week, including Pilot coffee, fountain drinks and top-selling beverage brands from the cooler
• Exclusive discounts on popular snack items
• Military and Veteran professional drivers will receive extra discounts on snacks in addition to the 10% military discount on food and beverage (after authentication through ID.me)

Download the myRewards Plus app** to find the nearest participating travel center and take advantage of these offers.

For more information about Driver Appreciation Month and the 2024 Road Warrior contest, visit pilotflyingj.com/driverappreciation.  

*See contest rules for terms and conditions. Void where prohibited by law.

**Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Terms and conditions apply. While supplies last.

Mountain Challenge

The summer started with an intern favorite – the Mountain Challenge! This activity is centered around team building and problem-solving with peers, as the group had to overcome obstacles that required great communication skills.

Team Member Appreciation Week

At Pilot, people are at the center of everything we do. Team Member Appreciation Week provides a moment to stop and recognize all the wonderful Pilot team members – from our drivers to store team members and corporate support teams. Here is what some interns shared about this week:

“Team member appreciation week was a great experience. My team and I had so much fun dressing up for the spirit days, especially Decades Day! The food trucks offered excellent choices and the pulled pork sandwich was my personal favorite.” – Carly Wrobleski, social media intern

“I appreciate my team and all the support they have shown me throughout my time at Pilot. This week was incredibly special as an intern. The appreciation I felt and received was overwhelming. Some of my favorite memories include Top Golf and Food Truck Thursday!” – Olivia McKain, communications intern

“Team member appreciation week was one for the books! I loved wearing fun outfits throughout the week and attending the big food truck event on campus. Spirits were high, and everyone was having a great week. We all felt very appreciated.” – Anna Rippy, marketing operations intern

Leader Chats

Every Friday, our summer interns heard from company leaders to learn more about the business, receive career advice and have Q&A sessions in a casual setting. This was a great way to help connect our interns with various leaders to show all the different types of development opportunities at Pilot.

Volunteer Sites

Pilot is dedicated to giving back and helping continue to build strong relationships with the communities we serve. So, it was important for our interns to have volunteer opportunities as part of the program! A few highlights below:

– At Helping Mamas, interns assisted in packaging diapers, sorting children’s clothes and organizing feminine products.

– Interns who volunteered at Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries (KARM) were tasked with arranging clothes by size and color for those in need.

– Knoxville Area Urban League utilized our interns to help them organize the books in their children’s library and write thank-you cards to people and businesses who donated items.

– At the Boys & Girls Club, interns interacted with children by coloring and playing games together.

– Interns helping at FISH Pantries sorted food donations for guests so they could easily pick the items they needed.

A huge thank you to all our summer interns for their hard work and dedication this summer! From learning the business and participating in company events to collaborating on group projects, these interns made a lasting positive impact at Pilot and set a strong precedent for the rest of their careers.

If you’re interested in joining the Pilot family, explore open positions on our career site.

At Pilot, people are at the center of everything we do, which is why we are committed to our team members’ personal and professional growth. But don’t just take our word for it – read below to hear from former Pilot interns about their experiences in the internship program and how they were set up to excel as full-time team members!

Evan Hurley, senior manager, operations financial planning and analysis

Evan interned with the loyalty team in 2016 and joined Pilot full-time the following summer. Since then, he has held various roles on teams across the company.

How did your internship experience align with your career goals and aspirations?
“I’ve cherished having the chance to become more well-rounded as part of my overall experience. From learning “hard” skills (resume writing, interviewing, networking, communication) to “soft” skills (interactions with others, navigating tough conversations, etc.), my time at Pilot has provided many opportunities to grow. Through my internship, I had the chance to interact with many leaders, which helped me establish relationships I still hold close today.”

Reflecting on your internship experience, what were the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
“I think there’s a natural learning curve that comes along with being a new intern and general navigation of the overall corporate workplace. There’s an assumption that others’ time is more valuable or that one may not feel “worthy” of higher-level leaders’ time. The awesome thing about Pilot’s company culture is that this could not be further from the truth – we all matter and are truly better together. I am grateful that I had tremendous supervisors and mentors early on who helped me understand this, and their dedication to my success really accelerated my growth potential.”

What advice would you give to current interns to make the most out of their experience?
“Mistakes are learning opportunities; you learn much more from your mistakes caused by trying something new than not trying in the first place. Also, realize that everyone is here to help, so embrace mentorship opportunities and take coaching for what it is – a chance to get better!”

Joanna Martin, senior manager, well-being and benefits

Joanna interned with the talent development team in 2017. Following her internship, she held various positions within Pilot which led her to where she is today.

What initially attracted you to Pilot’s internship program, and what made you stay?
“An internship was a requirement of my HR master’s program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I spoke to a Pilot recruiter at a job fair about available internships, but I wasn’t sure what area of HR I was interested in. I ended up interviewing with the leaders in talent development and felt like that group aligned with my passions and interests the most. Pilot’s internship program is structured in a way where I received a lot of personal and professional development, and it was great having a group of interns to learn from and share experiences with. I was also lucky to have a great manager and be surrounded by people who made sure I had an impactful experience and always felt part of the team.”

How have you grown both professionally and personally since joining Pilot?
“I really feel like I have grown up here (literally and figuratively). As a student-athlete, my time was limited; my internship at Pilot was my first “real world” experience. I have learned so much over my time here and have had the opportunity to take on several different roles that have challenged me and developed my career. One area that I feel I have really grown in is the ability to build great relationships, which helps me feel more connected to my work and the organization and provides me with great opportunities.”

What advice would you give to current interns to make the most out of their experience?
“Ask questions, take initiative and meet as many people as you can!”

Kacie Skeen, senior manager, IT service management

Kacie started as an intern with the sales team in 2015. She returned to the internship program the following year for a role with the operations excellence team before joining Pilot full-time.

What initially attracted you to Pilot’s internship program, and what made you stay?
“Pilot is a company with many opportunities for growth and learning. The amazing people and relationships I have built while here are what make me stay.”

How have you grown both professionally and personally since joining Pilot?
“Professionally, I have had the opportunity to play many roles within the company, which has given me a wide range of valuable experiences.”

Reflecting on your internship experience, what were the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
“Adjusting from life as a student-athlete to a corporate environment was a big challenge for me. I overcame this by finding my new routine over the summer with my internship. Another challenge was learning to interact with people in a professional environment rather than an academic setting. Over time, you figure out your personal brand and what role you play within the teams you work with.”

Matthew Walker, supply optimizer, supply and distribution

Matthew interned with the supply optimization department in 2023 before accepting a full-time position with them.

How did your internship experience align with your career goals and aspirations? 
“I wanted to work in a field that dealt with large complex industries, and that is exactly what Pilot offers. The scale of the business and diverse strategies keeps the work interesting and rewarding.”

Reflecting on your internship experience, what were the biggest challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? 
“One challenge I faced was fully understanding the energy and refined products industry, as it is so complex and well-developed. Thankfully, my leaders were able to facilitate the learning process in a simplified way.”

What advice would you give to current interns to make the most out of their experience? 
“My advice would be to ask plenty of questions, engage with your team and the company as a whole and focus on developing a few technical/professional skills that will be useful throughout your career.”

Sydnie Cziep, data strategist, IT service management

Sydnie interned with the IT service management department in 2022 before accepting a full-time role with the same department.

How have you grown both professionally and personally since joining Pilot?
“Most of my professional growth has been due to my confidence in my work and abilities. I am constantly being encouraged to try and do new things. And personally, I am more outgoing than before.”

How did your internship experience align with your career goals and aspirations?
“During my internship, I met with different teams within IT which gave me a good foundation of knowledge before starting my full-time employment.”

What advice would you give to current interns to make the most out of their experience?
“Get to know your co-workers! It gives you much more perspective when you know peoples’ background and how they got to where they are now.”

Thank you, Evan, Joanna, Kacie, Matthew and Sydnie for being role models for our current interns and sharing your experiences. Stay tuned for a recap of the 2024 internship program at the end of summer!

If you’re interested in joining the Pilot family, explore open positions on our career site.

Driver Appreciation Month lasts all September long with special perks in the myRewards Plus app just for professional drivers, including:

– Three free drinks each week, redeemable Monday-Sunday*

• Drivers can choose between a free Pilot fountain drink, coffee, and top-selling beverage brands they love

– Discounts on various freshly prepared food items each week throughout the month of September using the myRewards Plus app, this includes a 50% off pizza, burgers, salads and more*

– One bonus point automatically applied to Canadian professional drivers when fueling with their myRewards® card at participating Shell Flying J travel centers throughout September*

– The ability to earn even more points (up to 5 points per gallon) when fueling after activating PushForPoints in the myRewards Plus app beginning in October*

Join us in person during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week as we host a community celebration for professional drivers which will include prize giveaways, refreshments, outdoor games, music and more. Come celebrate with us on:

– September 13, 2023, 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Pilot Travel Center on 3300 AR-391, North Little Rock, AR 72117

To take advantage of these offers visit any of our more than 750 participating U.S. Pilot or Flying J travel centers or one of our owned and operated One9 Fuel Network locations. Download the myRewards Plus app* to find the nearest participating travel center and start earning more today.

Check back all month long as we continue to celebrate professional drivers! For more information about Driver Appreciation Month rewards and promotions, visit pilotflyingj.com/rewards.

*Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Terms and conditions apply. While supplies last.

For many of our interns, this summer at Pilot has been their first taste of the 9-to-5 life. After getting out of bed and stumbling to the kitchen, they’re ready for a cup of ambition! A little caffeine can make all the difference. Here’s the breakdown of what our interns typically choose to fuel up with before heading out for the day:

Everyone has their own morning ritual when they first get into the office. Most of our interns use those first few minutes organizing themselves for the day, while a third of the group spend it connecting with their fellow team members. And then there’s some who need another kick of caffeine!

Now it’s time to get to work. With over 40 departments represented in this year’s program, each intern’s list of responsibilities changes day to day as they explore different areas of the company. When asked what takes up most of their days, this is how it broke down:

For most respondents, the part of the day that they enjoy the most is the people:

“Collaborating with my team and learning new things every day!”

“I look forward to meetings that let me learn a greater context of the business/category teams.”

“I love my coworkers. They’re fantastic people and they’re so passionate about what they do.”

“Networking with new people from other departments and learning about my field of study.”

Before they know it, it’s time to take a break for lunch. While many bring food from home, a very popular option at the Knoxville office is the on-site cafeteria, PJ Fresh Café! It’s a great place for team members to grab a quick bite for breakfast and lunch. One intern has their café order down to a science:

“Two slices of pizza, a water bottle, and a cup of lemonade. The chicken bacon ranch pizza on Mondays is my favorite.”

Our team members make sure to carve out time to connect with each other and have some fun during the day. Here are some team activities that our interns have enjoyed this summer:

“My department hosts cook outs at least once a month. They also do lunches throughout the month with open invites to all teams.”

“When it’s somebody’s birthday, we gather in the break room and have cake. We celebrate and play ice breaker games.’”

“Golf outings!”

At the Knoxville campus, we’re lucky to have a beautiful campus with lots of greenery and a walking trail that loops around the parking lots. Many team members walk the loop to take a brain break and get a little exercise. Some teams even coordinate their own department walks!

We want our interns to know that their work contributes to something purposeful at Pilot – whether it’s creating a new system to file paperwork or helping wrap up a big summer campaign. Here are a few examples of what makes our interns feel accomplished at the end of the day:

“Knowing I learned something new.”

“Looking at the progress I’ve made on different projects.”

“Being able to come up with a solution to a problem.”

“Checking things off my daily to-do list.”

Once five o’clock hits, it’s time to wrap up work and head home. After a full day of learning, collaborating, and creating, here’s how a few of our interns choose to relax and recharge:

“I like to catch a movie after work!”

“I find cooking very relaxing, so I enjoy making dinner every night.”

“I hang out with my friends and take my dog on a walk.”

“I unwind by spending time with my family.”

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for next week’s final intern blog, where we’ll recap our National Intern Day celebration.

In Knoxville, the group spent the day at MUSE Knoxville, a local children’s museum that offers interactive, educational experiences in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). The interns acted as guides for “MUSE Pop”, a weekly summer program featuring themed exhibits. This week’s topic was Smoky Mountain Exploration. Stationed at various booths, the interns helped museum visitors examine animal artifacts, build model habitats, and learn about the wildlife native to East Tennessee. They also helped in the gift shop by restocking and counting inventory.

“While volunteering at MUSE Knoxville, I was inspired by their purpose of increasing children’s educational literacy in various subjects through educational recreation. It inspired me to help be a ‘Way Maker’ on new educational technology for others in our community’s future.” –Alice Grace Beavers, Program Intern, Food and Beverage Innovation

Down in Houston, the cohort helped at Houston Food Bank, which serves 18 counties in the area. The interns sorted donations from community partners and helped repack them for local distribution.

After a day of serving, the interns took time to reflect on their experiences and how they could be better muses in their communities and workplaces. Here’s what a couple of them had to share:

“Volunteering at Houston Food Bank made me realize how much work it takes to feed people that desperately need it. This experience gave me the opportunity to reflect and appreciate what I have in life. I plan to continue to drive others in my community and workplace to also contribute to helping others. This will not only bring us closer together but show us the importance of being a part of something bigger than ourselves.”–Diego Longoria, Program Intern, Settlements

Make sure to vote for the Pilot Company Internship Program to be named as one of the Top 100 Internship Programs.

Following its July 2022 launch, commercial fleets leveraging the network have reported significant business efficiencies and savings as a result of its real-time, data-driven insights. Watsontown Trucking Company, which owns and operates a fleet of more than 475 tractors, 1,200 van trailers, 90 open-top vans, 75 flatbed trailers, and 5 Volvo VNR Electric Trucks, has begun to leverage the network and has achieved benefits that include the following:

• 867 annual labor hours saved on pre-trip and safety lane inspections.
• An emergency roadside incident rate reduction of 10%, eliminating nearly 1,300 annual breakdown hours.
• Operational and maintenance savings totaling an estimated $126,000.

“We are excited to see the ongoing success of this partnership with Pilot Company,” said Josh Holland, Vice President, Dealer Development and Mobility Solutions Deployment (Commercial), Bridgestone Americas. “Through our expanded Bridgestone Fleet Care service network at Pilot and Flying J travel centers, fleets across the United States are beginning to experience the benefits of a connected network of tire-monitoring services that are supported by our Bridgestone Commercial Dealer Network (BCDN).”

Each router installed in the fuel canopies of select Pilot and Flying J travel centers is linked to Bridgestone Fleet Care’s tire monitoring service and transmits real-time tire data in two minutes or less from trucks and buses to fleet managers. Bridgestone Fleet Care’s technology combines durable hardware with a software application to allow fleet operators to proactively address specific tire issues and mitigate unplanned maintenance, helping to reduce downtime and improve driver safety. Fleets using this solution have access to critical data such as tire inflation pressure and temperature, enabling them to continually monitor the health of each tire throughout its lifecycle.

“In one year, we’ve surpassed our initial goal and are now able to offer this technology at over 300 of our travel centers, helping maximize coverage throughout the country to Fleet Care customers,” said David Hughes, Senior Vice President of Sales at Pilot Company. “Fleet Care allows for new fleet and business efficiencies and helps keep the roads and highways safe for both professional drivers and passenger vehicles.”

The use of the Bridgestone advanced tire monitoring system at Pilot and Flying J travel centers enables both companies to expand their service offerings and support the growing need for evolving technology solutions that make it easier and faster to maintain vehicles. This program adds to Pilot Company’s bundle of fleet solutions, which provide trucking companies with financial, maintenance and fuel packages.

The tire monitoring and service network in collaboration with Pilot Company aligns with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, consisting of eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter “E” that Bridgestone has committed to creating together with employees, society, partners and customers to help realize a more sustainable society. It specifically aligns with “Efficiency,” “Extension,” and “Ease.”

For more information on Bridgestone commercial solutions, visit bridgsetoneamericas.com. For more information on Pilot Company’s nationwide network of travel centers, visit pilotflyingj.com.

Help our Intern Program be recognized as one of the top in the country by voting through this link daily. It takes less than 10 seconds to do!

Ranging from rising sophomores to recent graduates, this year’s cohorts represent 17 colleges and universities across the country and have joined more than 40 departments throughout the company.

So far, the professional development workshops have included seminars on professional etiquette, time management, and communication workplace styles. The interns have conquered a local mountain challenge, broke out of an escape room, and had an afternoon of fun and bowling at the arcade. Out of the 46 interns, five are returning to the program. Hear from them below in their own words why they came back for another summer of fun and learning with Pilot!

Name: Jackson Kizer

Education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Area of study: Double major in Finance & Supply Chain Management; MBA with a concentration in Finance
Department: Financial Planning & Analysis

Q1: Why did you choose to come back for another year in the Pilot Internship Program?
A: “I chose to return to Pilot this year because I found last year’s program to be a wonderfully put together and enriching experience. I also made lots of new friends in my department and internship class that I wanted to see again. Everyone was nice and the work that I did help me develop my business skills.”

Q2: What was something you enjoyed from your last experience that you hope to see again this time around?
A: “One thing that I enjoyed last summer that I hope to see again is the breakout room day. It was a very fun experience doing one for the first-time last year with a group of my fellow interns and know that the breakout this year will be just as fun.”

Q3: What’s something new that you have gotten to experience this far that you didn’t get to experience last time?
A: “Something new that I am getting to experience this year is calculating ROIs for different store locations. I shadowed someone in my department last year on this but never got around to actually calculating them. This year I am getting hands-on experience working on them.”

Q4: What advice would you give to all the other interns who are new to the program?
A: “My advice that I would give to the new interns is to treat your coworkers like respected colleagues rather than professors or bosses. They are not out to get you nor judge you harshly based on your understanding of certain topics; you just got here, and nobody expects you to know everything right away. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions and network.”

Name: Diego Longoria

Education: University of Texas at Dallas
Area of study: Finance
Department: Houston-Settlements

Q1: Why did you choose to come back for another year in the Pilot Internship Program?
A: “I chose to continue my career at Pilot because I felt like part of the team from Day 1. This internship blends the lives of corporate America with the feeling of a family business. Everyone in the organization was open to intellectual curiosity and challenged me to think about the ‘why?’ I am excited about another Summer with Pilot and highly recommend joining to anyone who wants to be a part of something special.”

Q2: What was something you enjoyed from your last experience that you hope to see again this time around?
A: “There were many things that I enjoyed throughout my internship. However, the laughs, smiles, and conversations are something that I look forward to experiencing again. I always feel like I am valued, and my ideas are important. The people here are truly amazing, and they are people who I enjoy being around.”

Q3: What’s something new that you have gotten to experience this far that you didn’t get to experience last time?
A: “I am doing a rotational program at the Houston office which means I am in a different department than I was last time. This has given me the valuable opportunity to learn more about the intricacies of the PFJ Energy business. Furthermore, I am working on projects that will continue to improve our processes so I believe my internship projects will have a lasting impact to the business.”

Q4: What advice would you give to all the other interns who are new to the program?
A: “The largest piece of advice for new and future interns is ASK QUESTIONS! I know that is what everyone says, but it is extremely important. Someone in PFJ Energy recently told me, ‘The worst-case scenario is you learn something.’ It is also equally important to ask people outside of your department questions. This is how you grow and learn as a person and a team member.”

Name: Veda Seay

Education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Area of study: Business Analytics, Mathematics, and Statistics
Department: Connect

Q1: Why did you choose to come back for another year in the Pilot Internship Program?
A: “I chose to come back because I felt I had the perfect balance of guidance and independence with my last internship with Pilot. I was able to work independently and take ownership of my projects while also having ample support systems to lean on anytime I needed it. It was such an incredible feeling to end the summer with finished projects and personal growth that I could be proud of thanks to Pilot challenging me and pushing me out of my comfort zone.”

Q2: What was something you enjoyed from your last experience that you hope to see again this time around?
A: “I really enjoyed all the people here at Pilot last summer, and I am so excited to be back and see so many familiar faces. I love being able to look around in my department, the intern group, and other areas of Pilot and see so many friends and colleagues. Everyone here is so supportive and friendly, and I feel welcome everywhere I go.”

Q3: What’s something new that you have gotten to experience this far that you didn’t get to experience last time?
A: “As a returning intern, the pace definitely picked up compared to last summer. When I first joined the team last year, there was a huge learning curve for me to understand the company itself and the everyday lingo my team uses in meetings. Because I had experience with my team going into this summer, I was able to jump in and understand things faster than I did last year, allowing me to start my project earlier and move at a much faster pace. There’s still a learning curve, it’s just a little less steep this time around.”

Q4: What advice would you give to all the other interns who are new to the program?
A: “My advice to other new interns is focus on learning, networking, and being true to yourself this summer. Your team doesn’t expect you to know everything, so be open to learning as much as possible about everything you touch this summer, and don’t be afraid to ask questions! The more connections you can make, the better. Try to say hi to as many people as possible, you never know when your paths may cross again. Lastly, you want to be memorable as an intern, so be yourself!”

Name: Logan Bowers

Education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Area of study: Computer Science
Department: Network Operations

Q1: Why did you choose to come back for another year in the Pilot Internship Program?
A: “To stay closer to home for the summer, and to build on the relationships I formed last summer.”

Q2: What was something you enjoyed from your last experience that you hope to see again this time around?
A: “Making new friends and connections within the intern group.”

Q3: What’s something new that you have gotten to experience this far that you didn’t get to experience last time?
A: “New projects and more trust.”

Q4: What advice would you give to all the other interns who are new to the program?
A: “Work hard and make as many new relationships as you can.”

Name: Ethan Naugle

Education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Area of study: Computer Engineering
Department: Enterprise Applications

Q1: Why did you choose to come back for another year in the Pilot Internship Program?
A: “I felt very welcomed by the Pilot family. The “people first” culture made me want to return for another year. “

Q2: What was something you enjoyed from your last experience that you hope to see again this time around?
A: “The Breakout escape room was really fun last year, and I am excited to go back.”

Q3: What’s something new that you have gotten to experience this far that you didn’t get to experience last time?
A: “I really enjoyed the travel center tour. It helped me better understand what we are working towards in terms of guess and team member experience.”

Q4: What advice would you give to all the other interns who are new to the program?
A: “Make as many connections as you can. Whether it is with other interns, people in your department, or people in totally different departments, the relationships you make can help shape your career down the road.”

We can’t wait to see what this group and the entire amazing cohort will do this summer – stay tuned for more blog updates. Don’t forget to vote for our program every day until July 20, 2023.

Interested in joining the team here at Pilot? Explore open opportunities here!

Summer travel is right down the road, and here at Pilot Company, we’re gearing up for a fantastic season. Our travel centers are the place to stop during a road trip – whether it’s for a quick sip of an ice-cold soda or somewhere to stretch your legs. No matter what your travel plans are, you can be part of the summer fun – we’re hoping to welcome over 10,000 new team members, including drivers, into the family!

Pilot and Flying J travel centers, One9 Fuel Network locations, and on-site restaurants across the country are hiring all positions, with many openings in key travel states including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia.

Locations of the top 10 hiring markets for the 2023 summer season.

Discover full-time and part-time opportunities in:
• Travel center leadership
• Hourly retail
• Restaurant leadership
• Hourly food service 
• Class A CDL drivers

We’re also hiring for corporate positions, including roles in IT, Guest Services, Risk Management, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, and Supply and Distribution. Our offices include our Sales and Support Center headquarters in Knoxville, locations in Dallas and Houston, and our IT Center of Excellence in Atlanta that opened last year.

“This is a rewarding time to start a career at Pilot,” said Jamie Landis, Vice President of Team Member Experience at Pilot Company. “In addition to great perks and benefits, we’ve launched a new rewards and recognition platform called Fueling Recognition, which touches every team member. This new platform is a way to empower our leaders to celebrate and reward individuals in those moments that matter, big and small.”

The platform allows peer-to-peer recognition and leaders to award team members points for their hard work. These points can be redeemed on thousands of items, including restaurant gift cards, electronics, company swag, concert tickets, and more!

At Pilot Company, we’re committed to enabling, empowering, and engaging team members across every department. This includes competitive benefits for every part- and full-time team member:
• 15-cent per gallon fuel discount
• Weekly pay
• Daily free meal and drinks
• Rewards & recognition programs
• Low-cost health plans
• 24/7 Access to on-demand healthcare 
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition assistance
• Paid time off
• And more perks and programs

Join the team today and help Pilot Company continue in fueling life’s journeys. Apply today by visiting jobs.pilotflyingj.com/nationalhiring to discover opportunities near you.

After Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.B) became majority owners of Pilot Company on January 31, 2023, they identified Wright and Lillo, longtime Berkshire Hathaway executives, for these key leadership roles to deliver on the company’s long-term growth and vision plans. Shameek Konar and Kevin Wills will be leaving their respective positions after supporting the transition.

Wright has over two decades of experience as a leader in the energy sector and brings expertise in strategic planning and operational excellence. He joined Berkshire Hathaway in 1996 and has served in various executive management roles in the energy sector including most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer for one of the nation’s largest combined natural gas and electric providers. 

Lillo has been an integral part of the Berkshire Hathaway Energy family of businesses for more than 25 years. He has significant expertise in enhancing financial controls, managing risk, and driving responsible value creation.  

"Pilot Company has become one of the most future-forward companies in our industry. Adam’s energy expertise, leadership, and focus on customer satisfaction will help ensure Pilot Company remains a pillar of North America’s transportation ecosystem for decades to come,” said Greg Abel, Vice Chair, Non-Insurance Operations for Berkshire Hathaway. “From the beginning of our journey together, Berkshire Hathaway recognized Pilot Company as a strong business that was well-positioned for the long term and was backed by an innovative and hardworking team. I am confident Adam and Joe have a solid platform from which to propel the company forward.”

As the nation’s largest travel center network, Pilot Company has continued to expand its footprint and prepare for the future of travel, including an investment of $1B in its New Horizons store modernization initiative and installing a coast-to-coast network of EV fast-chargers at many of its locations across the country. Pilot Company’s energy division is operating at record highs to fuel its growing travel center network and support its customers through the industry’s energy transformation. 

“It's an honor to join the Pilot family and to lead such an influential company that has fueled millions of journeys over the past 65 years,” said Wright. “Pilot remains focused on meeting the unique needs of our pro drivers, fleets, guests, and Team Members while advancing a strong company strategy that positions us for the future.”

The Haslam family continues to be an integral part of the company with 20 percent ownership and James A. Haslam II, founder of Pilot Company, and James A. "Jimmy" Haslam III as members of the Board. 

“I want to thank Shameek and Kevin for all that they have done for Pilot Company. They have been instrumental in leading our over 30,000 Team Members through several years of growth and innovation,” said Jimmy Haslam. “While we express our utmost gratitude to them, I also want to welcome Adam, Joe and their families to Pilot Company and to the Knoxville community.”

This next generation of leadership will build upon the company’s long-standing commitment to its team members, the community, and the industry. Pilot Company will remain headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee and has a compelling growth strategy in place with a bright future ahead as it aims to be the preferred choice for all interstate drivers. 

Check out the following stories from Pilot team members on why Heart Month is especially meaningful for them:

Hannah Lewis

“My son Bennett was born with a rare and critical heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Basically, he only has half of his heart. At 6 days old, he had his first open-heart surgery. He spent nearly his first year of his life in the hospital where he suffered a stroke, brain bleeds, seizures, two more open-heart surgeries, multiple other surgeries and he went into cardiac arrest. After he turned two, he had two more open heart surgeries, totaling in at five. That hospital stay became a long one as well, where he suffered a serious staph infection called MRSA, and went into severe heart failure.

By God’s grace, he grew stronger every day.

In November of 2021, Bennett had routine lab work done, which revealed some concerning high numbers that reflected his heart function. Shortly after his 10th birthday, we learned that Bennett’s heart was running out of time. The doctor said we had a good year left, and to do as much as we could with him, but that he was going to request an evaluation for a heart transplant. I remember asking if he thought they would approve him, and while he could not speak for what the transplant team would decide, he told me he thought Bennett had a pretty good chance to be approved. In April 2022, we had our first big day of evaluation. It was a long process that took two trips to Vanderbilt. The next month, we were given the news that he was approved! By the end of June, he was officially listed. We got the call a lot sooner than we had ever imagined: three weeks and one day after being listed, we got the call that they had a match for Bennett. On July 9th, Bennett received his gift, with his surgery ending in the early hours of the morning on July 10th.

We have reached the 6-month mark and his new heart has been doing wonderfully. We have so much to be thankful for. We are thankful for God first, the donor family, his surgeons, and the transplant team/community. We are thankful for our friends, families, and coworkers who have supported us along the way and have been there for us through some of our most difficult days.

What makes me #PilotProud during Heart Month is the support I have received every step of the way since I joined the company. Even at the beginning, I knew I had love and support. I needed to be out of work quite a bit during the first few months for his transplant and I never once felt worried about my job. I knew it would be waiting for me when I returned.”

Darin Klotzsche

“When I pulled into my apartment complex after lunch with my family on July 17, 2016, I suddenly felt like someone turned a fire hose on in me. I began to sweat profusely and grew very nauseous as I parked outside my apartment. I felt dizzy and started to cough. With every cough, I felt relief, which reminded me of an instance years ago when someone had told me to fake cough if I ever had a heart attack – that it would help relieve symptoms. At that moment, I knew I was having a heart attack.

My wife drove me to the hospital, where I found out I was having a massive widow-maker heart attack. I received one stent and a new lease on life. I have immersed myself into woodworking, nature, and recently became a distance trail-runner. I try to watch my diet, get my steps in, and log some major miles on the trails. I am grateful for a new lease on life and for those people that helped save my life. I have learned CPR, and have taken on a whole new approach to how I react to life’s situations. My new motto is, “Begin each day with a grateful heart!”

Patrick Brock

“I have been running as a volunteer fire and rescue member in my hometown since I was 16 years old, and served in law enforcement for close to 20 years before coming to work at Pilot. I first became CPR certified in 1984 and have maintained that certification to this very day. No fewer than ten times in the past 36 years have I had to use CPR, and 7 of those times were successful! I am proud I took the time to get CPR-certified and then recertify when it expired and urge you to take the time to learn how, too.  Everyone deserves the best chance at living to see another day, and that chance may very well come in the form of YOU!!!!”

Andrea Stratton

Crystal Aytes

Stay tuned for more heart-health advice from experts at American Heart Association this month, and don’t forget support the life-saving work of AHA and HSF by stopping at one of our participating stores to grab a paper heart or round-up your purchase to the nearest whole dollar!

The program focuses on promoting career opportunities for women in the trucking industry, celebrating inspirational women, and raising awareness for WIT’s mission.

An essential feature of the program is WITney, the association’s one-of-a-kind educational trailer. The expo trailer accompanies the Driver Ambassador out on the road, attending schools and industry events. Not only is WITney a traveling billboard for the nonprofit, but hosts an array of educational and interactive components, such as interactive kiosks and a state-of-the-art driver simulator.

“Pilot Company’s fuel sponsorship will have a major influence on the expansion of this program,” said Ellen Voie, WIT President and CEO. “The additional resources allow WITney to travel to more locations and events, such as public schools and Girl Scout events. This sponsorship will positively impact diversity in the trucking industry.”

“We are honored to support Women In Trucking and the WITney educational trailer,” said Whitney Johnson, Pilot Company Chief Experience Officer. “Through education and celebration of the amazing achievements of women in our industry, we can inspire future generations and encourage more women to get into trucking.”

$15,000 grand prize winner and 2022 Road Warrior: David Sweetman

David is an Army veteran with over 50 years and FIVE MILLION MILES, accident-free, behind the wheel. Currently, he lives in Wilmington, Delaware and leases out his truck making power-only moves for Bennett Truck Transport. Over his career, he has been involved in many organizations, from winning awards and trophies as a competitor to paving the way for better treatment and fair judging at truck shows as a founding member of the National Association of Show Trucks (NAST).

Throughout tough times David has continued going above and beyond to help as our country faced challenges. During Covid lockdowns, he spent time hauling, moving and setting up generators for emergency hospitals and setting up food banks to aid those out of work. After several natural disasters in parts of the southern United States, he helped move more generators, portable showers for first responders and mobile water treatment units for FEMA.

David has also contributed to our industry through his writing storytelling and has been a contributing writer for various trucking publications over the last 25 years. As a writer and trucker, he took his skills to the classroom as one of the original Trucker Buddy professional trucker volunteers, working to help educate young students across America. Through reading, writing and mentorship, Sweetman and others help encourage future generations of professional drivers through tales of the road and showcasing how essential trucking is to the economy and our way of life.

In partnership with Bennett Family of Companies in McDonough, Georgia, we convinced David to come in and help record a safety video during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Once mic’d and on stage, we surprised David with a video announcing him as this year’s Road Warrior grand prize winner. In addition to his $15,000 check, we had an extra special gift of $15,000 to Trucker Buddy in recognition of his volunteerism and commitment to giving back.

Watch the video HERE!

$10,000 second-place winner: Jeffrey Thomas

Jeffrey is a Marine Veteran and independent owner-operator out of Belews Creek, North Carolina. He has been a professional driver for over 35 years; from dry vans, step-decks and reefer trailers, he’s driven them and covered millions of miles during that time. He then became a driver trainer and training captain. He has trained and retrained more than 100 professional drivers while developing new safety standards and policies that have spread across the industry.

$5,000 third-place winner #1: Greg Hepner

Professional drivers keep our country moving; sometimes, this takes them overseas as they support those deployed overseas. As an overseas support contractor and professional driver, Greg has covered 17 foreign countries, 38 states and three million miles over his 30 years behind the wheel. Since returning to his hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina, he joined Tidewater Transit Company. He has continued his service driving an anhydrous ammonia tanker for medical use and hauled it non-stop as the country battled Covid.

$5,000 third place winner #2: Ron Rigdon

After more than 20 years over the road, Army veteran Ron Rigdon took his skills and shifted gears to hauling race cars. Coast to coast, Ron drives a 53’ race car hauler for Parella Motorsports and contributes as a tire and fuel specialist while at the track. He has received safe driving awards for covering a million miles accident-free and has more than 30 years of experience on North America’s roads. Ron also dedicates his time to helping others and started Santa’s Toy Run, a fundraiser and toy drive devoted to helping children in need, which delivers toys and funds to places like foster homes and domestic violence shelters. Over the last 16 years, Santa’s Toy Run has helped provide Christmas gifts to more than 6,500 children.

Congratulations, David, Jeffrey, Greg and Ron, on winning this year’s Road Warrior contest. It was truly an honor to read your stories and hear about the great things you do for our industry, our country and the communities we serve. Thank you to all the professional drivers out there for your hard work, dedication and sacrifice; we are grateful for you all!

To learn more about Pilot Flying J’s 2022 Road Warrior contest and winners, visit pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior.

After reviewing thousands of deserving nominations, this year’s $15,000 grand prize winner is David Sweetman of Wilmington, Delaware and the $10,000 second-place winner is Jeffrey Thomas of Belews Creek, North Carolina. Inspired by the incredible stories received this year, Pilot Flying J for the first time in contest history determined it was a tie for third place, selecting Greg Hepner of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Ron Rigdon of Tignal, Georgia, to win $5,000 each.

“It is an honor to be able to give back to professional drivers and hear their incredible stories through our annual Road Warrior contest,” said Jason Nordin, Chief Operator for Pilot Flying J. “We appreciate all the professional drivers out there who, like our winners, represent the heart, determination, and resiliency of trucking. Congratulations, David, Jeffrey, Greg, and Ron on being this year’s winners – we thank you for the millions of safe miles, for being incredible stewards of our industry, and for your dedication to serving our country in many ways.”

Grand prize winner, Sweetman, is an Army Veteran with over 50 years and five million miles behind the wheel. He leases out his truck to Bennett Truck Transport as a power-only hauler for concerts, stage events and equipment moves. He has also been a contributing writer and editor for various trucking publications for over 20 years. During the covid lockdown, Sweetman carried on, helping set up food banks, hauling generators for emergency hospitals and helping move generators, showers, and water treatment units for FEMA after several natural disasters across the southern United States.

“David is a great person with a tremendous set of core values while always being safety conscious. It is rare to find drivers with not only his qualities but who have driven over a million miles safely while out on the road. We are very blessed at Bennett to have David,” said Tom Woodall, President of Bennett DriveAway.

Sweetman is also one of the original Trucker Buddy professional trucker volunteers, working with classrooms to help educate young students across America. Through reading, writing and mentorship, Sweetman and others help encourage future generations of professional drivers through tales of the road and showcasing how essential trucking is to the economy and our way of life.

“One of the great things about the project is that it gives us, the people traveling the country, a chance to share not only what we do but it teaches school children, who’ve maybe never left their hometown, where produce in the supermarket comes from, it comes from trucks,” said Sweetman.

To recognize his contributions and further the great work of Trucker Buddy, Pilot Company surprised Sweetman during his award ceremony at the Bennett Family of Companies with a $15,000 donation on his behalf to the organization. To watch this special moment and Sweetman’s reaction, visit https://fb.watch/fXWEq9S1cj/.

“David, a founding driver of Trucker Buddy when Gary King started the program, has been showing students a positive image of the trucking industry for over 30 years,” said Randy Schwartzenburg, Assistant Treasurer and former Executive Director of Trucker Buddy. “We appreciate companies like Bennett and Pilot for working with us to encourage young students to excel in school and to bring education from the road to the classroom through the lens of a truck driver.”

Pilot Flying J’s second place Road Warrior winner, Jeffrey Thomas, is the independent owner operator of Joly American Enterprises, LLC, Marine veteran and driver trainer with over 35 years of experience. Third place winner, Greg Hepner, has spent 30 years and more than three million incident free miles behind the wheel covering 38 states, 17 foreign countries and three war zones and currently drives for Tidewater Transit Company. The other third place winner, Ron Rigdon, is an Army veteran, father and grandfather who currently operates a 53’ race car hauler across the country for Parella Motorsports Holdings. Rigdon also started and operates Santa’s Toy Run, a toy drive and fundraiser dedicated to providing toys and funds to children in need.

To learn more about Pilot Flying J’s 2022 Road Warrior contest and winners, visit pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior.

It takes an incredible team of dedicated drivers and logistics experts to make sure our travel centers are supplied with all the types of fuels that professional drivers and guests need to continue their journeys. Just like many of their fellow haulers, Pilot’s drivers keep on trucking through it all – doing what it takes to help in tough situations, such as prepping and recovery efforts for severe events like hurricanes.

We immensely appreciate our Pilot drivers for their hard work and dedication to keeping us all fueled. In honor of Driver Appreciation Month, we caught up with a few of our own drivers to learn more about them and share any advice for the road. Read their stories below.

Philippe Chagnon

Philippe Chagnon, out of Montreal, Canada, has been driving for 30 years and recently joined the Pilot team. Philippe’s father was in the United Nations, so he and his family traveled a lot when he was a child and a young adult. He said, “traveling has always been in my blood,” so he naturally took to being a driver.

What does he love about being a Pilot driver?

Philippe enjoys working at Pilot due to the good work conditions and flexibility, and he appreciates that his days aren’t all the same and that he is home at night. He likes the responsibility of having a mission, accomplishing the job, and doing it well.  Philippe says he is proud of what he does and how he helps people in their daily lives.

What advice do you have for other drivers?

“Don’t rush, be thoughtful, and take it easy – you should always take time for safety, as that makes for an overall better day,” says Philippe.

To other drivers, Philippe says, “Thank you for your professionalism. I appreciate safe and courteous drivers who accommodate others. Thanks for being out there.”

Chris Newton

Chris Newton, based out of Louisville, Kentucky, has been a Pilot driver for nearly 10 years. He decided to get his CDL and joined the industry after a few years of agricultural work.

What does he love about being a Pilot driver?

Chris says he enjoys working at Pilot because he can plan his day out and it makes it feel like a 9 to 5 job. He also appreciates the Pilot team that supports him every day and he likes knowing exactly what he needs to do to get the job done.

Chris says, “Helping the country move and playing a part in that is rewarding.”
 
His advice to other drivers?

“Slow down and enjoy the job, being in a hurry is what makes drivers frustrated, so you just need to slow down and enjoy it.”

Celesta Dickerson

Celesta Dickerson, out of Lubbock, Texas, recently joined the Pilot team with 25 years of experience hauling hazmat. She was inspired to be a driver because her father was an excellent driver, hauling doubles and triples in the Northwest for 42 years. She said that she is the oldest of five girls, and two of them are drivers because of their admiration for their father.

What does she love about being a Pilot driver?

Celesta says that she enjoys hauling fuel for the Pilot Flying J brand – she loves our travel centers because they are always nice, clean, and have everything drivers could need.  She really appreciates her team members and likes the teamwork, complimenting that her “dispatchers are the best” as they are supportive and helpful with any questions or problems. Celesta says, “I can’t imagine doing what they do. They are what drive us to have successful deliveries.”

Celesta says that this job allows her to support herself, her lifestyle, and her dreams. She lost her husband a few years ago and never thought she would end up in Texas. Now she has a ranch called Branding Iron with chickens, ducks, and goats. She is the proud mother of four children and three stepchildren, and she has 11 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Since her children are all grown, Celesta loves taking care of her animals and appreciates that her job supports her dreams.

Her advice to other drivers?

“Always keep your belt clean and keep your mind about you.” Celesta shared that her father always told her to focus on those two things and to also be courteous and aware while on the road. “Respect what you’re hauling because it’s dangerous,” she says, adding that she prays every morning before getting on the road – for those around her and that she returns safely.

To her fellow drivers, she says, “thank you for giving support and encouragement, being there for each other, and doing a great job in a difficult industry.”

Rick Moorehead

Rick Moorehead operates as a lead driver out of Columbus, Ohio and has been with Pilot for almost 20 years. He says, “it’s been my favorite job I’ve ever had in my lifetime besides serving in the military.”

What does he love about being a Pilot driver?

“Number one is that it gives me the freedom to have a family life since I have a set schedule and know when I am working. Number two, I feel like I am accomplishing something here and I always strive to leave places better than when I started.”

Rick says, “Everybody I have in place on my team does a great job, and I have met so many great people here over the years that it would be impossible for me to talk about every single one of them.”

His advice to other drivers?

“Treat people like you want to be treated, and make sure you are happy where you are, because if you aren’t happy, nothing will work out.” Rick says that he always thinks of this motto: “It’s not important what you do when people are watching, it’s important what you do when they aren’t watching.”

To his fellow drivers, he says, “After all the years I have spent driving trucks, I really have run into a lot of great people in my career that are truck drivers – and I have a lot of fond of memories.”

Marty Dodge

Marty Dodge is the lead driver for the North Augusta/South Carolina area, and he has been driving for 37 years, with the last 16 years being at Pilot. He says that being a driver always impressed him, and it is something he has wanted to do since he was a little kid.

What does he love about being a Pilot driver?

Marty enjoys working at Pilot because of the steady work, great people, and the solid foundation. He really enjoys his co-workers because he can always call them for help – from his region manager to the maintenance team to the dispatch crew.

His advice to other drivers?

Marty’s advice for other drivers is to stay focused. He says, “This is a very dangerous job, and you have to stay focused even if you’re running late. Just do one thing at a time and as long as you pay attention, you’ll be fine. Don’t try to make up time or lose focus, just set a pace and do the job right.”

To his fellow drivers, he says, “Thanks for all you do. Continue to focus on teamwork and learn from mistakes.”

From all of us here at Pilot, THANK YOU, to all our Pilot drivers for all you do for our company, one another, and our guests across North America. And thank you to ALL the pro drivers out there. We appreciate you!

United Through Reading understands how difficult it is to be away from home and the importance of staying connected to even the youngest family members. Their program has helped over 2.7 million military family members read together since 1989, even when oceans separate those families. UTR proudly serves members of the military, including Guard and Reserves regardless of status, as well as Veterans, especially those in the Transportation Industry.

The service member or Veteran makes a recording with United Through Reading’s Mobile Reading App, and the recording and book are given to the child for free to read along with their loved one on demand. Truckers can make recordings before they leave home and record more stories while on the road as time permits using ebooks available on the App. Reading together as a family with United Through Reading helps families maintain connection, reinforces family routines, provides reliable communication, and bolsters literacy skills.

“Finding a way for my husband to connect with our children while he’s away is a top priority for me. He is the reader in our house, so it goes without saying that he wants to keep reading to them while he’s away. I found United Through Reading and knew right away it would be perfect for our family. We have the App installed on both kids’ tablets and the ‘daddy phone.’ They love that they can have him read to them whenever they want, and they can read along with the books we have at home!” – Alicia, a National Guard Spouse

Since 2020, Pilot Company has been United Through Reading’s Transportation Industry Veteran Outreach Partner, helping us reach and provide services through the United Through Reading App to Veterans, Reservists, and National Guard Members, especially truckers and others in the Transportation Industry.

To get started with United Through Reading follow these simple steps:

1. Download the United Through Reading App to your mobile device or tablet from utr.org/app

2. Login or create an account using your ID.me credentials to verify your military service

3. Select a book to read – the App has several ebooks to choose from or request a free book from utrapp.org

4. Make your recording and send to the caregiver of the child in your life. A copy of the book can be requested for free through our online web viewer.

5.Child reads with their United Through Reading story time recording whenever they are missing the trucker in their life

Learn more at about how United Through Reading supports Veteran and military families on their website at unitedthroughreading.org.

Professional drivers go further to carry our economy throughout even the toughest times – delivering more than 70% of the goods in this country. To show our thanks, we are going further for them with an extended Driver Appreciation full of freebies, special perks, bonus points and fun events.

Driver Appreciation Month kicks off on September 1 and extends through October 31 with special perks in the myRewards Plus app just for professional drivers, including:

– Three free drinks each week, redeemable Monday-Sunday*

• Drivers can choose between a free Pilot fountain drink or coffee, and free cooler category beverages like sodas, energy drinks, and waters from the top brands they love

– New in-app challenges where drivers can earn 500 bonus loyalty points by completing tasks like mobile fueling, shower reservation and activating PushForPoints™ up to 2.5 points

• One bonus point automatically applied to Canadian professional drivers when fueling with their myRewards® card at participating Shell Flying J travel centers throughout September

– Discounts on various deli food items all September using the myRewards Plus^TM app, including a 50% discount during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week* (Sept. 11 – 17, 2022)

– The ability to earn even more points (up to 5 points per gallon) when fueling after activating PushForPoints™ in the myRewards Plus^TM app beginning in October

Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J is also extending free Safe and Road Ready Checks in September. With every check completed, drivers will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win one of three sets of Bridgestone premium steer tires!

Join us in person during Driver Appreciation as we team up with Monster Energy for on-site celebrations at recently remodeled and new travel centers as part of our New Horizons initiative. Drivers and guests are invited to join the festivities, including events like a BMX show, freebies from the Monster Energy girls, special guests, gas card giveaways, swag and more. Upcoming events include:

– September 16, 2022, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Pilot Travel Center on 5231 Pearblossom Hwy in Palmdale, CA

– September 30, 2022, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Pilot Travel Center on 1701 Ashley Road in Boonville, MO

To take advantage of these offers visit any of our more than 750 participating U.S. Pilot or Flying J travel centers or one of our owned and operated One9 Fuel Network locations. Download the myRewards Plus™ app* to find the nearest participating travel center and start earning more today.

Check back all month long as we continue to celebrate professional drivers! For more information about Driver Appreciation Month rewards and promotions, visit https://pilotflyingj.com/press-release/6368

*Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Terms and conditions apply. While supplies last.

Pilot Company and Kodiak are in the process of creating an autonomous truckport in the Atlanta area to evaluate potential service offerings and explore scalable solutions. These services will include spaces to pick-up and drop-off autonomous trucking loads; conduct inspections; maintain and refuel trucks; and the ability to transfer data for processing, such as feature development and mapping. To strengthen the ability to work together to develop a solution that works best for its customers, Pilot Company has made a strategic investment in Kodiak and will join the company’s Board of Directors.

“Pilot Company is committed to providing best in class service to its customers today and going forward,” said John Tully, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at Pilot Company. “In making this strategic investment, we understand that our customers have a need for real solutions that help address the growing demand to move goods and Kodiak is a strong leader in the autonomous trucking space. As we explore the future of autonomous trucks and how we can best support these customers, we will continue to be the travel center network that the trucking industry and professional drivers can count on for the services and care they need.”

Combining Pilot Company’s nationwide network of travel centers and services with Kodiak’s technology will play a crucial role in the deployment of autonomous trucks. Kodiak will lend its expertise as Pilot Company looks to integrate autonomous truck services into its operations. The partnership will further define service and maintenance requirements, operational necessities, facilities planning, and more to meet the needs of autonomous trucks.

“Pilot Company’s industry-leading network of highway-adjacent travel centers provides unprecedented geographic reach for the launch and scale of Kodiak’s fast-growing network of autonomous trucking lanes,” said Don Burnette, Founder and CEO of Kodiak Robotics. “Their customer first approach, with a focus on technology, scale, and infrastructure, makes Pilot Company an ideal partner to support the service and maintenance of self-driving trucks nationwide. We are honored to have Pilot Company as an investor, strategic partner, and supporter of our continued commercial footprint growth.”

Kodiak entered a hyper-growth phase in 2022, significantly expanding its service footprint and partner network. In July, the company announced a partnership with 10 Roads Express, a provider of time sensitive surface transportation for the U.S. Postal Service, expanding the company’s service to Florida. Earlier this year, Kodiak announced a new route between Dallas and Oklahoma City with CEVA Logistics and a route between Dallas and Atlanta with U.S. Xpress. The company has been delivering freight commercially since 2019 and currently has six routes that run regularly between Dallas and Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Atlanta, Oklahoma City and Jacksonville, Florida.

INNOVATE.22 was our second hackathon competition (the first being in 2019) and had a whole new meaning since the pandemic to bring people together in person from across the company – designers, engineers, coders, project managers, data analysts, marketing, guest services, digital products, and more – to help ideate new business opportunities while giving back to the local community.

Twelve teams had 30 hours to come up with real business solutions across a wide range of topics, from employee onboarding to EV installation. Each team competed on behalf of a nonprofit of their choice, with Pilot Company donating $10,000 to the four winners’ organizations.

“INNOVATE is all about collaboration, team building, and really just getting to know one another,” said John Mardini, senior manager of enterprise architecture and compute strategy at Pilot Company. “It’s incredible that Pilot allows us to spend two or three days to play with technology, meet new people, and ultimately invests in us while also giving back to the community.”

 

Here are the winners from this year’s competition:

Team 1: The Badgers

Charity: STEM for her

Project: Pay by Badge at PFJ Stores and PJ Fresh Café

“My first INNOVATE was a great experience,” said Nick Yeo, a data strategist for Pilot. “I really enjoyed getting to meet new people and hear about all the different work that’s going on at Pilot and different areas the business is interested in developing.”

 

Team 3: Tell me how you really feel

Charity: Navy Marine Corps Relief Society

Project: Guest Feedback on MyRewards+ app

“It was actually a pretty grueling two days. We had a team that was PACKED with incredible skill, talent, and passion! Every single individual wanted to be there and wanted to bring their best to help build a valuable solution. So, as you can imagine, there was a ton of excitement, energy, nervousness, tension, frustration, exasperation, confusion…but somehow, when you put a team together with a shared purpose and goal, you’re able to turn all of those emotions into determination, collaboration, and, ultimately, celebration! The greatest value we got from this experience was committing together to create something valuable for our Team and Guests, and successfully delivering on that commitment.” – Evan Lindauer, manager of compliance and risk for Pilot Company

 

Team 6: Feedback Fuel

Charity: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Project: Real-time store feedback

Our team was a great mix of developers, project managers, Team Member services, data analysts, and marketers; everyone was really passionate about working on Real-time store feedback. We had some fun debates, some great ideating, and overall came away with a winning idea. – Sheeva Hoders, Director of brand marketing

 

Team 12: It’s not a camera…

Charity: Truckers Against Trafficking

Project: Call for Service Using Cameras

“My favorite part of INNOVATE was meeting and working with people I’d typically never cross paths with here at Pilot. It’s been fun to see my new friends from INNOVATE walking the halls of my building!” – Jade Morton, assistant brand marketing manager for Pilot Company.

WHAT’S NEXT AFTER INNOVATE?

This event isn’t just a fun moment – it’s something we look to incorporate in our business moving forward. In fact, our team will soon take some of these projects to key stakeholders and vote on which ones to implement in our business.

INNOVATE.19, for example, kickstarted our internal PILOTCo app, which tremendously helped us communicate to our team members during the pandemic as we went remote. We’re excited to see what new innovations become realities for our stores and team members thanks to this year’s successful competition.

If you want to be a part of the action happening here at Pilot, check out our latest IT opportunities at our corporate offices.

“We throw challenges at her and she always rises to the occasion,” Rianna Woolley, Pilot’s food service manager, said.

She won three bronze medals after competing against 10 other countries in this year’s Special Olympics – one for singles, one doubles, and one for unified team.

“To see us all come together and bond over something we have in common, which is our love for sports, was awesome,” Tanya said.

Tanya moved to California in 2010 and began searching for a new after-work activity. She checked bowling out and, sure enough, she loved it. Twelve years later, she’s still playing, with dreams of someday going to the Special Olympics World games.

“I love being able to meet other people who also have a disability,” Tanya said. “I love learning how to socialize at the same time with each other since not all of us really know how to.”

Her Pilot team cheered Tanya on from the store, downloading an app that kept them updated with each game she played. They sent her little notes of congratulations and encouraging messages, supporting her just like she does to guests and team members at Store 1096 each and every day. Ever since joining Pilot last June, Tanya “enhances the day” for the store, and is even the team’s trainer. She makes sure all of the store’s new team members are comfortable on the front register, have a great onboarding experience, and know how to take great care of each guest that walks in to the store.

“She’s very thorough and patient, always making sure our guests come first,” Rianna said. “All of our regulars love to come to her because she remembers their order and makes sure they’re taken care of.” There have been a few times where a hearing-impaired guest walks into the store, their face brightening when Tanya makes eye contact with them and begins signing.

“To be able talk to someone and make them be heard in that way just makes their day,” Rianna said.

It’s easier for Tanya to help brighten someone’s day since the work environment is “more happy, more upbeat” than before. Even simple things like being able to hear the music from the lobby has made her experience at Pilot much more friendly.

“Shoutout to my managers for giving me an ample opportunity to prove how good I am instead of looking at my disability and saying, ‘this isn’t gonna work out.’ They’ve given me my shot and I’m running with the opportunity I’ve been given.”

Since 2014, DataIQ has been tracking the rise of chief data officers, chief analytics officers, data scientists, data governance experts, and the leaders of key vendors and service providers. Inclusion on the DataIQ 100 2022 list reflects outstanding leadership in the field.

More than 1,000 individuals applied to be on the 2022 list, and the 100 honorees were selected based on three factors: leadership, engagement with broader data and analytics industry, and those who support DataIQ and want to advance the profession. Ameet’s strategic vision and thought leadership in the data and analytics field were what secured him a spot.

“This is a well-deserved honor for Ameet,” Pilot Company CEO Shameek Konar said. “We are very proud of him and the way he leads this company with purpose. His forward thinking and guidance are what helps us understand the needs of our customers, and how we can grow as a company.”

CUSTOMER-FOCUSED CULTURE

Ameet has been with the company for two years and leads the enterprise and data analytics office, which includes data management, governance and operations, and business-aligned data teams. He understands that for our company to succeed in a competitive landscape, it must fully be able to interpret all available information.

He uses data to drive insights into such things as consumer behavior, pricing, supply chain, and expense management. These analytics not only will improve guest experience, but also present other growth opportunities for services and products.

RANGE OF EXPERIENCE

Before joining Pilot, Ameet served as chief data and analytics officer at McDonald’s Corporation and SunTrust Banks, Inc. He also served on the SunTrust Operating Council, an executive committee charged with improving client experience. Additionally, he has held leadership roles in finance and global outsourcing. This combined experience has given him a thorough understanding of both customer-facing and non-customer facing needs.

LEADING WITH INTENTION

Ameet notes that being an effective leader in the data field means endless curiosity. In order to be a good leader, he knows he has to be flexible and evolve in a changing business environment. It’s important for Ameet not only to develop talent, but also to continue learning best practices from other partners in the field.

“We are on a journey to develop talent across the organization and educate our team members on data literacy regardless of their role,” Ameet said. “We have a great mentorship program within our data team to ensure continuous learning and have partnerships with several universities to ensure access to the latest thinking. We also partner with multiple companies such as AWS, Databricks, Snowflake for analytics insight and various consulting companies that help ensure we are at the forefront of knowledge.”

We congratulate Ameet and the other DataIQ 100 recipients for being excellent role models and forward-thinking leaders within their companies and within our industry. To join his team here at Pilot, click here to view the latest opportunities.

Our annual 2022 Road Warrior contest is back with $30,000 in prizes – the largest in contest history! This annual contest celebrates the amazing achievements of the millions of men and women out on the road keeping America going. Join us in celebrating all the great things drivers do for our country, the trucking industry, and their communities.

From August 1 through 15, anyone can nominate a U.S.-based professional driver for a chance to win the 2022 Road Warrior title. This year, the grand prize winner will receive a $15,000 cash prize, second place will receive $10,000, and third place will receive a $5,000 prize.

“We are honored to recognize the selflessness, dedication, and service of professional truck drivers who are working hard to deliver the goods that we all rely on,” said David Hughes, Senior Vice President of Sales for Pilot Flying J. “Our annual Road Warrior contest is an opportunity to highlight those individuals who are role models in the trucking industry and to say thank you to all the drivers out there for letting us be part of your journey to keep the country moving.”

Share your driver’s story today to claim the title of Road Warrior! Click here to submit your nomination.

Last year’s grand prize winner was Eric Curlett, a Marine Veteran and glass hauler for Maverick Transportation. He was nominated by a fellow driver who described him as “one of the best humans” he has ever met. Eric was chosen for his dedication to the profession, outstanding driver record, and involvement in his community. Learn more about Eric’s contribution to the trucking industry in this article.

To enter, visit the Road Warrior Contest page at pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior and submit a nomination through August 15 for a professional driver deserving of this recognition. The first, second, and third place winners will be announced at the end of September as part of Driver Appreciation month.

*See contest rules for terms and conditions.

Every intern did a wonderful job in their departments this summer and we look forward to seeing where everyone ends up in the future! Thanks again to Emily Bell for scheduling and organizing a well-rounded program filled with leader chats, engaging workshops, and fun events. It’s been a busy summer for everyone so we’re grateful to all our interns for working hard and taking the initiative to help keep Pilot moving.

To wrap-up the program and summarize some of the many things we learned, the interns shared some of their thoughts about this summer:

We also asked some of our interns to share their best piece of advice for future Pilot interns:

This summer has been an incredible experience for everyone involved and we wish all our interns the very best as they continue school, pursue their career paths, or choose to stay at Pilot!

From August 1—August 15, 2022, the nation’s leading network of travel centers will be accepting nominations of these highway heroes for the chance to be named the 2022 Road Warrior. Submissions should highlight the driver’s contributions to the trucking industry, safe driving history, community involvement, miles driven, and other meaningful stories about the hardworking nominee. Three winners will be selected with cash prizes including $15,000 for the grand prize winner, $10,000 for second place, and $5,000 for third place.

“We are honored to recognize the selflessness, dedication, and service of professional truck drivers who are working hard to deliver the goods that we all rely on,” said David Hughes, Senior Vice President of Sales for Pilot Flying J. “Our annual Road Warrior contest is an opportunity to highlight those individuals who are role models in the trucking industry and to say thank you to all the drivers out there for letting us be part of your journey to keep the country moving.”

To enter*, visit the Road Warrior Contest page at pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior and submit a nomination through August 15 for a professional driver deserving of this recognition. The first, second, and third place winners will be announced at the end of September as part of Driver Appreciation month.

Last year’s grand prize winner was Eric Curlett, a Marine Veteran and glass hauler for Maverick Transportation. He was nominated by a fellow driver who described him as “one of the best humans” he has ever met. Eric was chosen for his dedication to the profession, outstanding driver record, and involvement in his community. Learn more about Eric’s contribution to the trucking industry and last year’s second and third place winners, Eduardo Andrade and David Rosenquist, in this article.

To nominate a professional truck driver, view the official contest rules, and learn more about the Road Warrior contest, visit pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior.

*See contest rules for terms and conditions.

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Before becoming a driver, he wanted to be in the technology world and attended school for computer science, and with a very close family, he knew he wanted to stay close to home. Computer Science as a profession in rural Idaho “didn’t seem appropriate” so he shifted gears to trucking.

Now in his second year over the road, Douglas has fallen in love with being a professional driver. He usually spends a couple of weeks out at a time and for him driving is a meditation and “gives me more time to reflect.” Douglas says, “Some people like watching tv, I enjoy watching the road and the people go by.”

As new and innovative technology takes hold in the industry, Douglas gets to be a part of the evolving driver experience, and Pilot’s rewards program has become a part of his everyday routine. With the exclusive rewards program for professional drivers, PushForPoints™, he makes sure to fuel 75 gallons at the beginning and end of the day to maximize his rewards points, plus, at the end of the day, “I can pull in, pull up my phone, click a button and have a shower waiting on me,” he says.

Whether it’s morning coffee, parking for the night, showers, fueling, or food, Douglas can access everything he needs, all from the app, to save time and money on the road.

We asked Douglas, as a new driver, what three words he would use to describe truckers and the trucking industry. “Integrity, Courage and Freedom,” he replied. “We have the freedom to make our own choices on the road and the freedom of the open road. It’s the most freeing job I’ve ever had.”

Thank you, Douglas, for sharing your story with us, we look forward to serving you in our travel centers and bringing you more great services to help you out on the road.

Introducing IntelliTire

Coming soon to a travel center near you is an advanced tire monitoring and service network by Bridgestone called IntelliTire. This incredible technology is proven to reduce tire-related downtime by 40% or more for commercial truck and bus fleets.

Phase one of this fleet tire monitoring and service network is currently rolling out, and installations are taking place at 200 Pilot and Flying J travel centers throughout the summer.

What is Bridgestone’s IntelliTire?

IntelliTire is an advanced tire monitoring service offered by Bridgestone that provides real-time data on tire pressure monitoring, temperature, speed and more to detect and avoid potential incidents causing downtime while on the road. Before you ask, yes, it will work with other tires and tire manufacturers. Almost all of them!

IntelliTire offers a yard-based and real-time solution for commercial truck and bus fleets. Both solutions utilize durable tire sensors installed directly onto each tire’s valve stem. The yard-based version, which you can find at Pilot and Flying J travel centers across the country, utilizes a router to capture sensor data.

The insights derived from this data can be accessed by fleets via the IntelliTire app, allowing fleets to take immediate action when a critical tire issue appears. Fleet owners and managers can even set up custom alerts to only be notified by email, text message, or both if critical problems arise.

How does the new fleet tire monitoring and services network work?

The partnership between Bridgestone and Pilot Company leverages Bridgestone Fleet Care mobility solutions and Pilot and Flying J travel centers to provide more convenient, frequent and actionable tire intelligence. Routers are currently being installed in the fuel canopies of select Pilot and Flying J locations and are linked to the Bridgestone tire pressure monitoring solution, IntelliTire. When a driver pulls into the travel center, the routers will transmit real-time tire data from trucks and buses to fleet managers in two minutes or less and will not take any additional time away from drivers.

If a tire issue has been detected, fleets who are subscribed to Bridgestone’s service event management application, REACH, can view suggested nearby service centers and schedule a replacement or repair. With IntelliTire and REACH, you can locate a service dealer and reduce lost time under one digital platform, all before the driver finishes refueling!

Our goal is to provide the best experience possible for our guests and drivers; this is another way we can help increase the safety and efficiency of the professional drivers that keep North America moving. To learn more about the many features and benefits of this new partnership or to sign up for this service or visit https://bridgestonemobilitysolutions.lpages.co/pfj/.

Each router currently being installed in the fuel canopies of select Pilot and Flying J travel centers is linked to the Bridgestone tire pressure monitoring solution, IntelliTire, and transmits real-time tire data in two minutes or less from trucks and buses to fleet managers. IntelliTire combines durable hardware with a software application to allow fleet operators to proactively address specific tire issues and mitigate unplanned maintenance, reducing downtime and improving driver safety. Fleets using this technology will have access to critical data such as tire inflation pressure and temperature, enabling them to continually monitor the health of each tire throughout its lifecycle.

With this intelligence in hand, fleets can also utilize the Bridgestone service event management application, REACH¹, to make preventative maintenance, roadside assistance and other vehicle service requests simpler and more efficient by connecting drivers, fleet dispatch, service centers, and technicians under one digital platform.

“Physical, on-the-ground touchpoints are critical elements to the success of digital, data-driven fleet solutions, and together they enable synergies to improve mobility,” said Chris Ripani, president, Commercial Tire Group, Bridgestone Americas. “With a robust footprint and strong fleet relationships, Pilot Company is the perfect partner to help us develop a connected network that is designed to allow our shared customers to minimize downtime, save on costs and improve driver safety now and in the future.”

The use of the Bridgestone advanced tire monitoring system at Pilot and Flying J travel centers allows both companies to expand their service offerings and support the growing need for evolving technology solutions that make it easier and faster to maintain vehicles. This program adds to Pilot Company’s bundle of fleet solutions, which provides trucking companies with full-service financial, maintenance and fuel packages.

“With the safety of our customers in mind, we are leveraging our network of Pilot and Flying J travel centers to help deliver IntelliTire technology to the road—making it easy for fleets and drivers to maintain their trucks and minimize downtime during routine fuel stops,” said Shameek Konar, Pilot Company CEO. “This project is part of our larger focus to add new technologies and services to make road travel better, safer and more efficient for our guests.” 

The tire monitoring and service network in collaboration with Pilot Company aligns with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, consisting of eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter “E” that Bridgestone has committed to creating together with employees, society, partners and customers to realize a sustainable society. It specifically aligns with “Efficiency,” “Extension,” and “Ease.”

For more information on Bridgestone commercial solutions, visit bridgsetoneamericas.com. For more information on Pilot Company’s nationwide network of travel centers, visit pilotflyingj.com.

¹ To access REACH service event management tool, a subscription and SaaS agreement is required.

Two weeks ago, we had the opportunity to volunteer at Muse Knoxville, a children’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math) museum located downtown. Interns helped clean up trash, painted benches and fences, facilitated activities with visitors, and disinfected playground equipment. Everyone came together to help kids have an enjoyable and educational experience at Muse Knoxville while also implementing Pilot’s values on education and giving back.

Pilot Company is dedicated to giving back to the communities around them and holds philanthropy at a high level of value. They encourage all their team members to be active in the community and by volunteering for Muse Knoxville, the interns were able to represent Pilot and the company values. One of our key Giving Back pillars is education and Pilot’s helping strengthen the next generation with the innovative skills needed to succeed.

Alongside a fun Friday morning at The Muse, we also asked a few of our interns to describe their futures and what they’ve learned about their personal career goals during their internships. Take a look at how their dream jobs have changed over the years!

Name: Ethan Naugle

School/Major: UTK / Computer Engineering

Department: Enterprise Applications

“This internship has made me see the importance of leadership in any field.”

When Ethan was five years old, he wanted to be an astronaut. Now, he wants to be a computer engineer and help companies “become more productive using better computer hardware and software.” Being in the Enterprise Applications department, he’s been able to learn how important software and leadership are to a company’s productivity. This internship has helped Ethan understand the differences between the business and technical sides of engineering, leading him to discover an interest in leadership and investment of the business side. Ethan wants to lead a team of computer engineers one day!

Name: Tristan Damron

School/Major: UTK / Finance

Department: Business Integration

“I have found that I really enjoy working with other people and collaborating to solve problems.”

When Tristan was little, he wanted to be a professional lacrosse player. Now, he sees himself pursuing a career in the finance industry (like financial planning or wealth management).

• This internship has provided a lot of teambuilding and collaboration that have helped him further appreciate working with a team in a corporate setting.
• Through his experience in sports and this internship opportunity, he has strengthened his ability to be a good teammate in a professional setting—something that is really important to him!

Name: Elaina Boyette

School/Major: UTK / Supply Chain Management

Department: Merchandising

“I like the ability to get out from behind the desk and work with my hands every once in a while.”

When Elaina was younger, she loved animals and wanted to be a veterinarian. Now that she’s in school, she’s realized that her brain functions better with business and data rather than animal anatomy and illnesses.

• While she doesn’t know exactly what she wants to do, this internship has given her a good look at the merchandising side of the corporate world. It’s something she’d like to stick with after graduation!
• There have been many aspects of this internship that have helped show Elaina what she wants in a future career. She enjoys meeting with vendors, discussing promos, and going to the fieldhouse to put together planograms for the stores. Getting to leave her desk and work hands-on every now and then is something that she really values!

Name: Peyton Solimine

School/Major: UTK / Business Analytics

Department: Logistics

 “I really like the upbeat and high energy spirit around the office at Pilot.”

When Peyton was five, he wanted to play in the NFL for the Indianapolis Colts. Now that he’s at UTK and has some life experience, he sees himself working in the supply and distribution industry.

• He wants to work in an interactive environment where he enjoys his coworkers—similar to the experience of his role on the Logistics team this summer.
• Being an intern at Pilot has helped Peyton learn more about what he wants in a career which includes a dynamic office environment and a strong team to collaborate with.

Name: Luke Roberts

School/Major: UTK / Industrial & Systems Engineering

Department: Store Modernization

“I have really enjoyed looking at problems and coming up with unique solutions.”

When Luke was little, he frequently played with Legos, K’Nex, puzzles, and other inventive toys and games. His parents told him that he was going to grow up to be an engineer, but now that Luke is almost done with school, he sees himself in both becoming a business owner and possibly being a part of Pilot’s Rotational Development Program.

• He has spent most of his summer with Pilot coming up with possible solutions to solve difficult problems. With the possibility of his ideas being implemented to some degree in the future, he looks forward to seeing how the team uses the solutions he’s created.
• Luke’s experience working with the Store Modernization team has been a great opportunity for him and he appreciates having the ability to work on interesting projects with the space to work independently.

Prioritizing creativity and innovation, both in the office and at Muse Knoxville, are some of the values Pilot instills in their interns each and every day. We’re proud of everyone for their hard work on volunteer day, and in general! Although we’re sad the program is ending soon, we’re grateful for the time we’ve had together and look forward to seeing everyone succeed in their careers!

“Everything I know and learned about truck driving, I learned at truck stops and from other drivers,” said JT. “I’d pull up and see someone doing something and ask what they were doing and if they could show me how.”

He now calls Michigan home in a small town between Detroit and Toledo called Gibraltar. JT has four kids and five grandkids in Utah, whom he sends a handwritten postcard from the road every month. His grandkids love seeing where their grandpa has been and his adventures. His son, Aaron, recently took some time off to ride with his dad, sharing the cab with him for a few days.

At the end of the day’s journey and having been away from his family for weeks, JT heads to Pilot, stating, “travel centers are home away from home, Pilot has that consistency that provides familiarity on the road. Plus, they have the best coffee!” Living in the Midwest, he takes advantage of the mobile fueling with Pilot because “it is so much easier, so much faster, and you don’t have to stand out there in the cold. You can get it all done while you’re waiting in line, so when you get to the pump, you just punch in the number and go.”

As a bonus for JT, he says, “I save up my rewards point for the big electronics I normally wouldn’t buy with my own money. Last year I got a new trucker GPS, and I will upgrade my Bluetooth headsets when they come out with a new one with just my points.”

Back on the road, JT has also taken on the role of driver trainer, sharing his knowledge from fellow drivers with new ones. His words of advice to new drivers, “don’t watch smokey and the bandit!” For those looking to get started driving, he says, “it’s a great time to get into the industry, technology is starting to take hold, and it’s fun to be a part of the transition, but more than any other job, truck driving is a way of life.”

JT wrote about his journeys and experiences while on the road and was kind enough to share a recent poem with us.

THE END OF MY RUN

by JT Huffaker

I love what I do, that much is true.
But it’s not always easy and it’s not always fun.
And there’s dirt and there’s bugs, and there’s not enough hugs,
‘Til I finish my work at the end of my run.

If I have the right load, and I’m out on the road,
It can be a real pleasure to make this truck run,
But the load’s often wrong, and the road’s often long,
That leads me back home, at the end of my run.

I do what I can, to follow their plan,
On time and safely, and get the job done,
But there’s too many miles,
And not enough smiles,
‘Til I hang up my keys, at the end of my run.

Thank you, JT, for sharing some of your stories with us and allowing us to be a part of your journey. We look forward to seeing you at our travel centers and continuing to be, at least in some way, a home away from home.

The category recognizes those who have had an “exceptional impact on the success or direction of their company, as well as a positive impact on the convenience store industry as a whole.” Each winner was nominated through an in-depth questionnaire covering achievements, leadership, influence, and qualifications – and Allison’s success in each of these areas helped secure the top honor.

“Anyone who knows Allison would agree she deserves this great honor,” said Shameek Konar, CEO of Pilot Company. “She is a hard worker who always accepts challenges that come her way.”

Five women across the industry receive the top honor amongst hundreds of nominees and Allison’s exceptional achievements over the last 12 months earned her a spot among these amazing women. The five Women of the Year will join an extended class of honorees in categories of Senior-Level Leaders, Rising Stars, and Mentors from across our industry in the retail, wholesale, and supplier sectors. All of this year’s honorees will come together at an awards gala in Las Vegas this fall for an official ceremony and celebration.

New Horizons

Allison has been with the company for nearly 23 years and her current role includes oversight of store modernization initiatives. She oversees the design and execution of store improvement initiatives alongside Pilot Company’s construction and development team.

One of her largest endeavors is a three-year project, called New Horizons, which is a $1 billion initiative focused on upgrading the guest experience and equipping our stores for the future of travel. This project is the company’s largest investment in store modernization to date and will fully remodel more than 400 Pilot and Flying J travel centers, as well as make upgrades at several more locations across the country.

Allison is at the helm of the planning, design and execution of New Horizons, and is incredible passionate about incorporating feedback from team members and guests to help inform what locations and types of improvements need to be made. She also looks at trends and ideas from the retail space, as well as considers how infrastructure, the energy transformation and future products will impact our stores. She and the team strive to make meaningful upgrades at each travel center that will make it a better, faster and more enjoyable experience for team members and guests today, while preparing for what’s next. 

Allison cares about her team, sets a great example, leads with humility and integrity, and has a passion for this company and all our Team Members. We are proud of her and the work she does, especially how she is leading New Horizons, one of our company’s biggest initiatives. – Shameek Konar, CEO of Pilot Company

Prepared Through Experience

In her prior roles with Pilot, Allison was a Vice President of Operations and spent several years of her career prior to that running stores in various parts of the country. She also served as Chief of Staff during her tenure and gained experience working cross-functionally across many departments to support leaders in strategy and execution of many key initiatives. Through this experience, Allison has developed a keen intuition which helps her make decisions for things that aren’t formulaic. With the many roles and hats Allison has worn over the years, she has a deep understanding of the company, our team members, our guests and our customers, which is immensely helpful as she sets out to help the company modernize its stores for the future.

A Lesson on Personal Growth

Allison routinely mentors and meets with young and up-and-coming leaders including those in similar roles that she’s had throughout her career. When asked about the impact she has made through these relationships, Allison quickly insisted on how much she’s learned through these mentoring relationships as well.

“It’s important for women to support other women. I’ve learned the value in helping other women see the value in themselves. It’s also important for women to push people to get outside their comfort zone. If you want to grow, you have to pursue and take jobs that make you uncomfortable, those that have aspects that you don’t know much about. That’s when you grow!”

We congratulate Allison and the entire class of Top Women in Convenience for being role models and great leaders within their companies and within our industry.

Name: Samantha Germain

School/Major: UT / Retail & Consumer Sciences & Finance

Department: Merchandising

Favorite thing from the café: I’m a sucker for the salad bar!

Most exciting moment so far: Getting to speak to all of the vendors, interact with products, getting to experience the decision process of merchandising, and visiting the fieldhouse.

Q: Can you describe the differences you’ve noticed so far between learning about your field in the classroom versus actually working in your department?

A: There are quite a lot of differences between my classwork and the actual work within the department, but at the end of the day, both my work and class work are consumer-focused and figuring out what is the best option. So, I am taking my studying of the consumer and implementing it when I analyze consumer trends and products that the customer would enjoy.

Name: Blake Curtsinger

School/Major: UT / Business Analytics

Department: Business Intelligence

Favorite thing from the café: Unorthodox salads from the build-your-own salad bar (especially with asparagus)

Most exciting moment so far: Moments that were shared with the entire group of interns, like the mountain challenge that reinforced innovation and teamwork

Q: Can you describe the differences you’ve noticed so far between learning about your field in the classroom versus actually working in your department?

A: Being a business analytics major, I’d have to say the most obvious difference between the classroom and the real world is the data that I am using. Everything is prepped for you in school, but in reality, data is very messy and can be difficult to interpret. We also have a LOT of data here at Pilot, so I’ve had to spend a lot of time just getting to know how data flows through our organization and what it is representing. It’s been a challenge, but a fun one!

Name: Greer Giffen

School/Major: UT / Accounting

Department: Corporate Accounting

Favorite thing from the café: I’ve enjoyed the fountain drinks.

Most exciting moment so far: Doing the mountain challenge!

Q: Can you describe the differences you’ve noticed so far between learning about your field in the classroom versus actually working in your department?

A: It’s different working with real money rather than imaginary amounts in an accounting textbook. Accounting at Pilot has been a more detailed and complex application of a lot of the content of my classes.

Name: Jacob Bisping

School/Major: UT / Marketing

Department: Business Integration

Favorite thing from the café: Definitely the giant Rice Krispies Treats. They make for a great pre-workout snack.

Most exciting moment so far: When my director told me that she used my visualizations in her presentation to the higher-ups of the company. It felt good to know my hard work was being implemented.

Q: Can you describe the differences you’ve noticed so far between learning about your field in the classroom versus actually working in your department?

A: The biggest difference between the classroom and the work environment are my views toward meetings. In school, they teach that meetings will be very professional and nerve-racking. I hosted my first meeting the other day and it just felt like a conversation with friends. I love that I feel at home with Pilot and get treated as a friend first.

Stay tuned for more intern spotlights over the summer, and best of luck to all our interns in their departments for the rest of the program! If you’d like to read the first post about our 2022 interns, click here.

This week is also our inaugural Team Member Appreciation Week, and we had a chance to catch up with a few of our military Pilot Team Members and say thanks.

Thank You, Kera

Kera Porter served six and a half years as a Black Hawk helicopter mechanic in the US Army. After graduating from Fountainhead College of Technology, she joined Pilot on our Help Desk team. Since then, Kera has been a member of the network operations center and IT security team and currently serves as an Observability Engineer. In July of this year, she will celebrate ten years at Pilot Company!

What advice would you give to fellow service members transitioning from the military into the civilian world?

“Find something you are passionate about. There are many different programs out there that will help you get into needed fields, especially IT. Go after those and look for companies that are veteran-friendly.” – Kera Porter.

Thank You, Shaddy

Shaddy Bowling served in the US Army for 11 years and was a platoon sergeant. When he was exiting the military, he attended an event where Pilot had a table to recruit people in our travel centers. He was interested in the Transportation side and had previous driving experience. Shaddy has been with Pilot for almost three years and currently serves as a field supervisor for region four and lives and operates out of the Dallas Fort Worth area.

What does he love about working at Pilot?

“Pilot is great at taking care of their people and providing a work and family balance that you don’t (and can’t) get with many companies, especially in the transportation world.” – Shaddy Bowling.

Thank You, Greg

Greg White served 23 years in the US Army, first as an infantry officer, then as a military strategist. Greg joined the team in January 2022 and currently serves as the General Manager for store Travel Center #6996 in Warsaw, North Carolina. After six months with Pilot, Greg says that he loves the engagement of his team and the support he receives from leadership.

His advice to transitioning service members?

“Understand it is going to be different. In the military, everyone is focused on one goal, which is to serve the country. When you get out of the military, you have to recognize that everyone has different goals and different motivations, but we can all still work together.” – Greg White.

Thank You, Lisa

For three years, Lisa Umali served as a counterintelligence special agent in the US Army. After serving, she was recruited by a Pilot to come aboard as a Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) and has been with Pilot for two years. One of the things that she loves about Pilot is the history and culture of the company.

What advice does she have for fellow servicemen and women trying to find a job?

“Research the companies that you are interested in or interviewing with and make sure that you ask questions about what is important to you (culture, responsibilities, career growth, work-life balance, etc.).” – Lisa Umali

Thank you all for sharing your military background with us. We are honored to have you and all of our veteran servicemen and women across our company as part of the team. We are grateful for all you have done and continue to do.

Click here to learn more about Pilot’s commitment to giving back to veterans throughout the year.

It’s a flashback to school spirit week with unique themes each day to dress up, have fun and show all the ways we are #PilotProud. If you happen to visit one of our stores or offices this week, you may catch our team members repping their favorite sports team, dressing like their favorite superhero, or shining bright on neon day.

The week’s events also include team building activities, special treats and swag, and personal ‘Thank You’ messages from senior leaders.

From the team members at our travel centers, to those in our support center offices, and to the drivers of our tanker fleet – it is because of you that we are able to keep North America moving by fueling millions of journeys every day.

On behalf of Pilot Company, thank you to all our team members for everything you do for our company, our guests, and for each other every day. We are truly Pilot Proud.

Want to join a team that has fun, recognizes hard work and supports career growth? We are looking for new teammates to join the Pilot family. If you’re ready for better benefits, better perks and better opportunities, check out our open positions at jobs.pilotflyingj.com and apply now. Click here to find out why our Team Members love working at Pilot.

During the filming, we had the privilege to learn more about Brian, a veteran and professional driver for ten years who is about to celebrate his first 1 million miles behind the cab. He spent 21 years in the Navy and completed multiple overseas deployments as a heavy equipment operator, “If it had wheels or tracks, I drove it,” he said.

After retiring from the Navy in 2009, he took his decades of experience operating heavy equipment and hit the road, delivering freight across the country. While he is spending weeks out on the road, Brian relies on Pilot Flying J for a clean and friendly place to rest and refuel, and he frequently uses the myRewards Plus™ app to help.

“The most important is getting the prime parking. If it’s late in the afternoon and I know I have to drive until 8 or 9 pm, I will pull up the app and look up the closest Pilot or Flying J to the area. Then I can see the available parking spots you have and will go ahead and reserve a spot,” Brian said. “I love it when I don’t have to worry about finding a parking spot; if I reserve a spot, I know I got it.”

As a veteran, he takes advantage of our Military Discount Program all year long to save money in our stores which he can put towards a hot shower. The shower remodels are something he is excited to see as part of our upgrades across North America. Being able to refresh before you get back out there makes a huge difference, and “Pilot Flying J always has that extra person to make sure the showers are clean and ready to go. You can tell they aren’t afraid to spend the money to have that extra someone there to take care of you,” Brian said.

As he hops out of his truck back home in McComb, Mississippi, his advice to new drivers just getting into the industry, “there is a lot to learn on the road as you go, you’re going to get aggravated, have patience, learn the trucker etiquette, and enjoy the trip.”

Thank you, Brian, for being part of this exciting initiative, and more importantly, thank you for your continued service to our country. We thank all our veterans for their bravery and sacrifice and look forward to seeing you in our travel centers. For more details on how we are celebrating Military Appreciation Month in May, click here.

“I got older and wanted a job,” he said, “I started off delivering food to restaurants; that hustle and bustle didn’t have me in the truck much, then I switched over to delivering grain to farms.”

We connected with Andre to learn more about his journey into trucking and what he loves about being on the road delivering grain. A regular at Pilot, Andre visits our store off Route 36 in Sunbury, Ohio, between early deliveries for a hot breakfast. “Five or six times a week, if not every day, I’m stopping at a Pilot,” he said, “it’s a good feeling when you walk in there, and you hear not just driver but your name.” He often stops to restock his work clothes, relying on Pilot Flying J’s Buffalo Outdoors clothing line.”

“On Wednesday night, it was 50 degrees. The next morning, we were at a level 2 snow emergency, and I didn’t bring my heavy jacket. But I knew if I stopped at a Pilot, they’d have one there I could purchase – and that’s exactly what I did. It did the job for the snow and the wind I experienced that day, and it even does well in the rain, too.” – Andre Troy

With his job, he is in and out of the cab several times throughout the day, so it’s vital to have work clothes that are comfortable to drive in and hold up against the rough and gritty grain.

Safety and visibility are essential in this industry. “There’s not much lighting that early, so I needed brighter clothing to make sure I could be seen,” Andre relayed, “without brighter clothing, tractors and bulldozers that are running can’t see me, posing a danger. I didn’t know where to get them from but slowly started to notice all of the lighter sweatshirts and stuff you guys have at your stores for any kind of weather.”

Andre’s favorite pieces are the Buffalo sweatshirts with reflector stripes on the hood and sleeves, durable, long-sleeve shirts for the summertime, and the recently added heavy, bright yellow jacket he had to purchase during the unexpected snowstorm. After seeing the bright jacket, his two sons, aged ten and eleven, wanted a coat just like their dads. By the following week, Andre had gotten them all matching jackets. “You have no idea how important Pilot is to me,” Andre said.

We’re so glad that we can be the stop you can count on with friendly faces to greet you, the gear to get you through your day and the hot foods to fuel your journeys. To Andre and all the professional truck drivers out there hauling goods, you have no idea how important you are to Pilot Flying J!

Learn more about Buffalo Outdoors by clicking here or stop by the nearest Pilot Flying J to gear up.

Women Who Paved The Way

Adriesue “Bitsy” Gomez

Growing up, Bitsy held a fascination for trucks and the overall trucking industry. However, she didn’t join the industry until later on, after moving to California with her three children. Adriesue entered the industry by loading and unloading trucks, befriending a woman who owned a truck and eventually making her way into the industry as a driver. Adriesue quickly realized how tough the industry was for women during that time, and grew passionate about making some changes.

That’s what led her to start the Coalition of Women Truck Drivers in the 1970s. The coalition consisted of 150 members and focused on fighting discrimination and sexism within the industry. The group’s first order of business was to raise awareness behind the lack of female bathrooms at truck stops – but the group didn’t stop there. It continued to advocate for the rights of women in the industry, including on-the-job training for women, adjustable seats and pedals, and separate rooms during overnight stops. Adriesue championed for women until she passed in 2015, but her legacy and the coalition live on today.

Lillie McGee Drennan

Lillie McGee Drennan cemented herself in history as the first woman to own a trucking firm. In 1928, she and her husband launched a trucking business called Drennan Truck Line (DTL) to take advantage of an oil boom nearby in Texas. Their first trucks were an open-cab Model T Ford and a closed-cab Chevrolet. Business boomed, which meant demand boomed as well, leading them to add more drivers and trucks. Lillie received her commercial truck-driver’s license and eventually became the sole owner of DTL, which she operated for 24 years.

There were several obstacles and challenges Lillie faced, especially as a female owner. Many challenged her ability to drive after suffering some hearing loss from Scarlet Fever. However, Lillie received numerous safety awards throughout her career, and was known to have driven accident-free, even amidst 48-hour stretches with little to no sleep or rest.

The female business owner was a huge believer of training and ensuring that her drivers followed her rules to keep them safe. During World War II, the United States Army praised Lillie for her success in helping the army recruit women truck drivers for the quartermaster corps. Lillie was also a member of the Texas Transportation Association and an honorary member of the Houston Freight Carriers Association.

Female Pilot Drivers Making An Impact Today

Mylene Ironside

Mylene has been in the trucking industry for almost three decades, spending the past three years driving for our company and hauling fuel for North America.

What challenges do you face? What is most rewarding to you?

“The biggest challenge that I face is that people see me get out of the truck and they see a small woman and wonder how I can properly do my job. I’ve had to build my strength and learn techniques to not injure myself, but I can handle all of the equipment perfectly fine. Earning a good reputation and proving you can do your job is key, but those both take time. However, once people know you’re capable, many opportunities will open up. I just focus on being a good operator. Unfortunately, people will try to smear your reputation, but just be who you are and work hard to not let your image erode.

As for rewards, there are so many! I’ve raised two sons while trucking, and they’ve always been proud of me as their mom. Like I said, I thankfully haven’t had many negative experiences. I’ve heard of women being in those situations, but it hasn’t happened to me first-hand. Companies are also pretty good about recognizing their drivers and giving them opportunities to grow. I love the relationships that I make along the way with the customers I serve and with other drivers and people in the industry. As I have told my husband, I haven’t woken up once on a workday and felt like I hated my job.”

How does it feel to be a woman in a male-dominated industry?

“I love it. I find that the industry for me personally hasn’t been overly disrespectful. I’ve definitely had moments where I had to stand up for myself and put people in their place, but I don’t let those experiences ruin the industry for me. We all have bad days. I’m very proud to be a trucker and proud of my accomplishments. I wish I could talk more women into joining the industry! Also, I very much respect what I do and the products that I haul. You can’t be scared of it – you just have to follow your training and the procedures, as they are there for a reason. This is such a cool part of the industry and I knew I wanted to work my way up to hauling fuel. And although there are some old school companies that won’t hire women, that’s their loss.”

Marama Johnson

Marama has been in the trucking industry for 20 years and has spent the past 16 years with Pilot Flying J.

What has surprised you the most about your job?

“Everything. Every day, attitude and even the weather is different – it’s awesome. For me, every day is a good day as long as I go to work, get along with everyone and come home happy to my family.”

What advice would you give to other women who would like to be drivers?

“Don’t be scared – try it and if you don’t like it you can move on, but it never hurts to try. Also, make sure you always help out new drivers, and this is advice for anyone. For example, I was five years into my career, and I saw a new driver having a hard time with the loading arms and connecting to the tanker. Some old school truckers were watching him struggle and not helping. I went over to the guy and showed him how to use his arm to help him guide the equipment, instead of relying on strength. Now, he always recognizes me and says thanks. Always help beginners because you were once there.”

Check out some of our other amazing women at Pilot Company and read how they’re making an impact on the trucking industry here.

“This is the largest investment in store modernization in Pilot’s history,” Shameek Konar, Pilot Company CEO, said. “We’re listening [to our guests and team members] by making this $1 billion investment – its our commitment to our guests, our team members, and the communities we serve.”

This initiative is now underway with more than 50 of our stoles being renovated in 2022. Key enhancements will include:

Store exteriors and interiors – Top-to-bottom overhauls from the curb to the counter, including energy-efficient lighting for well-lit parking lots, updated branding, modernized store features and accents, and durable materials that’ll leave a lasting impression on guests.

Restrooms, showers, and laundry – Modernized facilities with new tile, fresh paint, more space, and brighter lighting.

Seating and lounges – Expanded spaces for guests to enjoy along with additional dining areas.

Retail, food, and beverage – Revamped store layouts that’ll help bring more variety and Pilot’s signature fresh deli items, such as pizza, homestyle meals, grab-and-go foods, and premium coffee to more of our locations.

New technology – Retail and fueling technology upgrades that’ll increase efficiency and help our team members further personalize the guest experience.

Improved team member areas – Reconfigured and expanded breakrooms and workspaces – new kitchen equipment, back-office solutions, and more – to make our team members’ jobs easier so that they can focus on providing the best possible service.

Future innovations – Equipping our stores with fueling alternatives such as EV charging stations and strategies to help support low emission and zero emission vehicles.

In addition to the remodels, we’ll also be giving back to our local communities where are stores are located. This year alone, we’ll be donating half a million dollars to support local school districts, helping to provide students with equal access to educational technology. You can learn more about our giving back program at www.pilotcompany.com/about.

Stay tuned for what’s on the horizon as we revamp our stores, making any and every stop with us the ultimate experience.

Over the past 12 years, there’s been an 88 percent increase in female drivers – a huge accomplishment! However, there’s still only a small number of women drivers overall, totaling in at 7.8 percent of the industry. Here are some women #BreakingTheBias and adding exceptional female leadership to a historically male-dominated industry.

Women are the real architects of society. – Cher

1. Pilot Company’s HR Business Partner, Division 11, Melinda Samuel

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? This is a day to celebrate strong, talented, and intelligent women who have made a significant impact in our lives and communities across the globe. It’s also a day to reflect on equality and equity – how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go.

What do you do to celebrate women and women’s achievements (inside and outside of Pilot)? I’m a member of a local women’s organization that focuses on the potential of women, voluntarism, and community service where we have celebratory activities during the month. I also enjoy watching movies that celebrate women empowerment like Hidden Figures, Fried Green Tomatoes, The Color Purple, Erin Brockovich, etc.

What woman has inspired you and why? Personally – My mom. My dad passed when I was 10 years old and my mom single-handedly raised a big family, instilled strong morals/values, and taught us the importance of having a strong work ethic and the rewards of helping others.

Professionally – Marilyn Tipton, who gave me my first job in HR almost 20 years ago. She taught me the importance of listening, gaining trust, and establishing fairness and consistency when working with people.

What advice do you have to encourage other women to continue their drive to succeed? Continue to work hard, ask questions, forge relationships, and help other women when you can. If you don’t have a female mentor, find one – it’ll have a significant impact on your life.

2. Pilot Company’s VP of Store Modernization, Allison Cornish

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? International Women’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge all the incredible women out there who are contributing to society.

What do you do to celebrate women and women’s achievements (inside and outside of Pilot)? When female leaders have been promoted or celebrated within the company, we’ll often send notes of congratulations celebrating them. It’s been great to see more women at our company promoted into key roles and recognized for their efforts and achievements.

What woman has inspired you and why? I’m extremely fortunate to have grown up under the influence of many strong and intelligent women in my family. It’s very hard to narrow it down to just one. These women include my mother, aunts, stepmother, and grandmothers. Each one has their own incredible story of accomplishment and have provided me countless words of wisdom, motivation, and inspiration.

What advice do you have to encourage other women to continue their drive to succeed? Don’t be afraid to try new things and to place yourself in uncomfortable situations. You can’t learn or grow without a little discomfort.

3. Decker Truck Line Driver Lisa Ohrmundt

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? International Women’s Day is important as the generations change and equality is slowly, very slowly, beginning to turn the tide.

What do you do to celebrate women and women’s achievements? I celebrate women in an everyday life sort of celebration. As a female in the trucking industry, I encourage and mentor women that are just starting in the industry. There are a lot of truck driving Facebook Pages and other female pages I’m on that are incredibly uplifting to each other!

What woman has inspired you and why? It all starts with my mom. She was a single parent and taught me what it means to have a good work ethic and to take care of the people around you! In trucking, my teacher, Judy, has been incredible as a mentor and friend. I have one Facebook friend that’s an amazing inspiration and she probably doesn’t even know – Gwen Black. She hauls heavy equipment is a straight-up bad ass!!! There are so many women helping women out her on the road, it’s really something special!

What advice do you have to encourage other women to continue their drive to succeed? One of my favorite things about this job is the women new in the industry that reach out to me who I get to help….there’s so much to learn in the first year, and I’m always willing to share the things I’ve learned and experienced over the years….I spend a fair amount of time trying to get other women to come to work at Decker Truck Line because I love it so much and the culture is driver-focused!!!

4. Pilot Company’s Region Manager Donna Brough

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? It means a since of accomplishment. It’s a feeling that others recognize of how it hasn’t always been easy for women to have opportunities to lead.

What do you do to celebrate women and women’s achievements (inside and outside of Pilot)? I’m excited to say I have a region of 12 locations, 10 being led by women. I personally try to attend local events and invite others to join me. (Note: COVID has had an impact on my ability to do this over the past few years)

What woman has inspired you and why? I got my first job when I was 15 working at a local diner. It was owned by a woman named Wanda Rayburn. She taught me how to “work” if you will. I learned from her the skill of connecting with people and the importance of creating a great work atmosphere. She allowed me to grow and learn continuously.

What advice do you have to encourage other women to continue their drive to succeed? Leverage what makes you unique. Be true to who you are and take time to celebrate all of the small accomplishments. They’ll add up over time. Never let anyone tell you tears are a sign of weakness.

5. Over The Road Driver Clarissa Rankin

We wanted to end this blog with a quick video from Over The Road Driver Clarissa Rankin. She’s an incredible example of breaking the mold in this industry and encouraging women to live out their passions and become their best selves. Click here to watch.

We also want to give a special shoutout to our Founder’s Award winners for 2022 – these team members went above and beyond in their service to others.

The Founder’s Awards are announced every year at our annual leadership conference – an event we’ve hosted for 35 years to bring our operations leaders together to learn, develop, collaborate and align on the year’s priorities. The award was created in honor of our founder, Mr. Jim Haslam II, who recognized the importance of taking care of one another and putting people first.

Considered the most prestigious award at Pilot, it recognizes the “best of the best” leaders in our stores. This year’s 79 winners include regional managers, multi-unit managers, travel center general managers, restaurant general managers and deli managers who have some of the most engaged teams highest guest compliments, consistent financials and strong leadership qualities. They exemplify what it means to be Pilot Proud – hungry, humble, accountable and commercial.

Here are just a few of our amazing Founder Award winners for this year:

BRIAN MCCRORY

Meet regional manager Brian McCrory. He’s spent the past 15 years in leadership roles at Pilot, helping to build consistency within his teams that not only drive results, but that also push his team to be the very best they can be.

My R36 team worked very hard this year and their hard work paid off with awesome results, we all did it together. So proud of all of the leaders in R36 for focusing in on the right things and growing as leaders.

Top highlight since joining the company: The dedication of leaders to invest in me personally and grow me as a leader along the way.

What his team does best: My team has a lot of humility. They’re always looking to get better, they work very hard every day, and everyone has a great attitude and truly wants to take care of their team and guests.

PEGGY WOLFORD

Meet Peggy Wolford, one of our general managers whose been with us for more than 26 years. Peggy started off as a cashier, working her way up to a leadership position for almost two decades. This award is especially significant to her because of a major remodel her store underwent this past year. Despite the hectic renovation process, her team had a fantastic sales year.

This award means so very much to me. I’ve worked extremely hard to build a quality team that takes care of our guests and helps me to make sure our store is always clean and stocked. [Receiving this] makes me feel like all the hard work I’ve put in to make sure that we continue to do our best in sales has really paid off.

Top highlight since joining the company: Meeting Mr. Haslam for the first time. We discussed many things – at the time, we didn’t have very good dental insurance and I voiced my concern with that. He listened and made a company-wide change. Wow! That told me how important each person on the Pilot team really was to him. We weren’t just employees, we were family.

What her team does best: My team works hard as a family to take care of our store and guests.

VICTORIA CLINE

Meet Victoria Cline, a restaurant worker/sandwich artist turned restaurant general manager for our store in Oregon. After the previous restaurant general manager experienced medical issues, Victoria quickly stepped in as acting restaurant general manager has been in that role ever since.

The last five years of our hard work have paid off. My team and I have worked hard to get to where we are today. I’m looking forward to keeping up the same passion the team and I had this past year.

Top highlight since joining the company: I feel like the company really cares about the team. I like how construction tries to change and adapt [our store] for the better.

What her team does best: My team pulls together like a family and we take care of our guests and each other.

MICHAEL BATORY

Meet Michael Batory, a travel center general manager for one of our locations in Wyoming. His goal is to help every one of his team members become subject matter experts in their respective roles, training and developing them while continuing to expand his own skill set.

I was completely surprised even being nominated for such a high award for TCGM.  When my name was called, I was speechless. It meant validation for the team’s and my hard work – day in and day out. We try as leaders to run the best stores possible by placing the right person in the right place, utilizing all the tools Pilot provides for us. It all started to come together once we started seeing the desired results.

Top highlights since joining the company: The way Pilot takes care of all their team members.  The way senior leadership comes out to the stores and really takes the time to engage the team and answer all our questions. The training and the onboarding process are industry leading.

What his team does best: I think first and foremost they display Pilot Proud behaviors. They work as a team and over-communicate with each other, including leaders. They’re huge on following the process and using the tools the company provides for them.

TAMMY ROBETS

Meet Tammy Robets, a food service leader for our travel center’s Subway in Monroe, Michigan. She joined the team 17 years ago as a co-manager, quickly moving over to Subway and being trained by several folks that taught her how to become an even better leader. This is her second Founder’s Award; she’s also won our Spirit Award.

I feel honored that [my team’s] hard work was recognized. I feel appreciated and valued by the leaders I look up to for guidance. These folks inspire me to be a better person each day; I’m grateful to say that I am a part of the Pilot Family.

Top highlights since joining the company: Being a member of the Coaches Club and a concept leader as it affords me the opportunity to impact someone else’s journey at Pilot. It’s so rewarding to see someone succeed and know that I may have helped along the way – that I had a positive impact.

What her team does best: My team is amazing. Without them, I wouldn’t be here today. What we do best are process and routines. We create high standards and expectations, and we stick to them. These are the things that help us take care of each other so we can take care of our guests.  

#PilotCompanyAppreciationDay

We echo Tammy – our team members are amazing. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their hard work, dedication and passion for serving guests. That’s why we’ll be celebrating our team members today with all sorts of treats, including ice cream trucks, balloons, store parties, rewards and more! If you’re a fellow team member, make sure to share the love and festivities using our hashtag #PilotCompanyAppreciationDay. And if you want to be a part of our family, check out https://jobs.pilotflyingj.com/ to view our latest career opportunities.

“We are honored to host our annual Road Warrior contest and give back to the professional drivers who have such a significant impact on our economy and who work so hard to serve our communities,” said Shameek Konar, CEO for Pilot Flying J. “This recognition is one way we say, ‘thank you’ to the professional drivers we get to serve each day. Congratulations to Eric, Eduardo and David for being our top Road Warriors this year – we appreciate your dedication, commitment to safety and passion for helping others.”

Each year, the Road Warrior is selected based upon story submission, including contributions to the trucking industry, safe driving history, miles driven and community involvement. This year, Pilot Flying J received thousands of nominations with incredible stories about hardworking haulers from across the country.  

Grand prize winner, Curlett, is a husband, father, Marine Veteran and glass hauler at Maverick Transportation for six years. Curlett has an outstanding driving record and has been named Driver of the Month and Driver of the Year for the company. While he is always willing to go out of his way to help fellow professional drivers, he also gives back to his community, including participating in a yearly convoy that raises money for the Arkansas Special Olympics.

"After 20 years of faithful service in the Marine Corps, I knew the trucking industry had plenty of opportunities in any direction and found that open-deck trailers were the best fit for me," said Curlett. "To those that are looking to get into the industry, I recommend they research everything and don't hesitate to call companies and other drivers to get the information needed to make the decision that is right for you."

Curlett was nominated by a fellow professional driver and friend, who described him as “one of the best humans” he has ever met. To announce his grand prize win, Pilot Flying J partnered with Maverick Transportation and Curlett’s family to surprise him with the news in a congratulatory video. To view this special moment and Curlett’s reaction, visit pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior.

"I'm honored that a peer and friend in this industry nominated me for this recognition," said Eric Curlett. "I didn't expect to win and it definitely took me by surprise. I look forward to taking my family to a warm weather place to spend a week together."

In addition to the $10,000 grand prize, Pilot Flying J awarded $5,000 to second place winner, Andrade, a father, grandfather, Army Veteran and Master Driver for Baylor Trucking who has logged more than 2.5 million safe miles. Third place winner, Rosenquist, received a $2,500 prize in recognition of his 40 years as a professional driver with 5 million accident-free miles.

To learn more about our 2021 Road Warrior contest and winners, visit pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior.