"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.

AAA projects more than 61 million Americans will travel by car over the Fourth of July holiday. Whether heading to the beach, visiting family or exploring a new destination, drivers can save along the way with Pilot's 25-cent-per-gallon discount and additional deals in the Pilot app.

“As we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary this Fourth of July, we’re focused on helping fuel road trips across the nation,” said Kari Irons, chief experience officer at Pilot. “There’s something uniquely American about the open road, and at Pilot, we’re showing up for our guests with real value and a reliable experience so they can make the most of every mile.”

To redeem 25 cents off per gallon of gas or auto-diesel, download or open the Pilot app, tap to claim the limited-time offer on the rewards screen from July 1 – 5, 2026 and scan the barcode, enter a myRewards number or phone number at the pump or inside the store before fueling. After the Fourth of July weekend, drivers can keep saving at the pump each month by claiming the 10 cents off every gallon of gas or auto-diesel offer in the app.**

Travelers can maximize the value of their stop by stocking up on popular drinks, snacks and craveable foods from Pilot eats, including hand-roped pizza and new chicken tenders and sauce. To see how Pilot is delivering value to its guests this Fourth of July weekend, visit newsroom.pilotcompany.com/hit-the-road-with-fourth-of-july-savings-at-pilot/.

*Offer valid from 07/01/2026 12:01 AM EST through 07/05/2026 11:59 PM EST. To receive offer, guests must save offer in the Pilot app and present myRewards card, barcode in the Pilot app, or phone number associated with myRewards account at time of purchase prior to fueling. Twenty-five cent ($0.25 USD) discount per gallon discount valid for purchase of all variations of gasoline and auto-diesel only; not valid on DEF, propane, commercial diesel fuel, or in-store purchases. 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. Not valid in New Jersey, Wisconsin, or 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.

**Offer valid for a limited time. To receive offer, guests must save offer in the Pilot app and present myRewards card, barcode in the Pilot app, or phone number associated with myRewards account at time of purchase prior to fueling. Ten cent ($0.10 USD) discount per gallon discount valid for purchase of all variations of gasoline and auto-diesel only; not valid on DEF, propane, commercial diesel fuel, or in-store purchases. 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. Not valid in New Jersey, Wisconsin, or 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.

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.

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.

As North America’s largest travel center network and the originator of National Road Trip Day, Pilot is revving up for the start of summer with limited-time offerings, the ultimate road trip giveaway and travel trends. Pilot teamed up with Campspot, the leading booking platform for campgrounds, RV parks and glamping resorts, to survey nearly 2,000 road trippers and reveal one of the biggest trends for this summer: the pop-up escape – a one to three night, flexible, budget-friendly getaway*.

“National Road Trip Day marks the official start of summer travel and is an invitation for drivers to pack up, fuel up and enjoy the freedom and excitement of the open road,” said Adrienne Ingoldt, chief marketing officer at Pilot. “This summer, many travelers are fully embracing pop-up escapes, transforming road trips into unforgettable journeys. Whether you’re seeking the beauty of wide-open spaces or just exploring a roadside hidden gem, Pilot is out here to fuel your journey with everything you need to make the most of your miles.”

Key findings from the 2025 Campspot x Pilot Summer Travel Survey:

• Short trips, big impact: 53% of travelers surveyed are planning more short trips or weekend getaways than in previous years, with more than 90% gearing up for pop-up escapes this summer—quick trips typically within driving distance of home.
• Experience over agenda: 66% of travelers say the best part of a road trip is discovering hidden gems, while 62% enjoy making memories with family or friends and 61% love soaking in the scenic views.
• Road trip priorities: 84% say they most value the convenience of fuel, food and restrooms in one stop. The perfect playlist (56%) and meaningful conversations (54%) also top the list of road trip essentials.
• Snack strategy: More than half (57%) of travelers crave a mix of everything, opting for the perfect portable treat of salty and sweet to elevate the journey.
• The (nearby) great escape: 58% of travelers are heading to lakes or beaches this summer, followed by mountains or national parks (51%) and charming small towns (48%), with 57% of travelers saying they’ll travel 200 miles or less to get to their destination.

“Travelers are rewriting the rules of summer getaways by choosing closer escapes, simpler plans and spontaneous moments that bring genuine connection,” said Jeff Bettin, general manager, Marketplace at Campspot. “Pop-up escapes show that it doesn’t take a faraway destination or a long itinerary to create something unforgettable. That’s why Campspot and Pilot are making it easier to discover the perfect place to stay, hit the road and experience the kind of escape that travelers need most this summer.”

National Road Trip Day Giveaway

To celebrate the season, Pilot is launching a $15,000 giveaway inviting travelers to share what calls them to the open road this summer. From May 23 – 30, 2025, entries can be submitted by following @PilotFlyingJ on Instagram, liking the National Road Trip Day post and posting a photo or video sharing why they should win using the hashtag #PilotNRTDGiveaway. Three winners will be selected to receive $5,000 in cash and $1,000 in Pilot gift cards to fuel their journeys this summer**.

Fuel for the Road

Whether heading out on a quick pop-up escape or a multi-day cross-country journey, every stop at Pilot is a chance to refuel, refresh and discover the joy of the open road. This summer, Pilot is your trusted wingman with welcoming spaces, convenient amenities and craveable food offerings like the limited-time legendary Pilot Big Dog or jumbo crispy hot wings. Plus, save by downloading Pilot's app to unlock exclusive digital deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas, along with other special offers to fuel your journey***.

Experience all that Pilot is doing out here this summer by visiting pilotflyingj.com/summer and to read more about the survey findings visit campspot.com/about/pop-up-escape.

*Survey methodology: The survey was collaboratively developed by Pilot and Campspot and distributed by Campspot through an online survey between April 3 –11, 2025 targeting Campspot customers across North America. A total of 1,829 respondents participated in the survey.

**See pilotflyingj.com/national-road-trip-day-2025 for terms and conditions.

***For a limited time, members will receive a five cent ($0.05 USD) discount per gallon on the purchase of all variations of gasoline and auto diesel when you present your myRewards card, barcode in the myRewards Plus app, or phone number associated with myRewards account at time of purchase prior to fueling. Members can receive an additional five cent ($0.05 USD) discount per gallon (for a total discount of ten cents ($0.10 USD) per gallon) on the purchase of all variations of gasoline and auto diesel when you save the offer in the app each month and present your myRewards card, barcode in app or phone number associated with your myRewards account at time of purchase prior to fueling. Valid for gasoline fuel purchases only; not valid on DEF, propane, commercial diesel fuel or in-store purchases. Offer may be redeemed up to three times each day. 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. Not valid in New Jersey, Wisconsin or 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. Other terms, conditions, and restrictions may apply. Data rates may apply.

"Holiday travel is about more than just reaching the destination; it's about creating cheerful moments along the way. Whether it's singing holiday classics, savoring the warmth of a perfect cup of coffee on a frosty morning drive, or sharing stories with a car full of loved ones, these moments are what define the journey," shared Adrienne Ingoldt, Pilot’s chief marketing officer. “Wherever your holiday travels take you, Pilot is out here with road trip essentials and last-minute gifts to bring joy to every mile." 

Win Big with Pilot’s “Hauliday Giveaway” 

From December 2 – 8, 2024, holiday travelers can enter Pilot’s "Hauliday Giveaway," for a chance to win premium travel gear, gift cards and exclusive items*. To enter, visit the Pilot Flying J Facebook page and comment on each day’s post for a chance to win. Winners will be notified daily.

Explore Pilot’s Holiday Gift Guide

For those in need of stocking stuffers or last-minute gifts, Pilot’s Holiday Gift Guide offers convenient on-the-go gifting options. Featuring travel center staples and unexpected roadside treasures, holiday travelers can find something for everyone on their list. Items range from tech gadgets to foodie favorites and more. The gift guide also features new exclusive items such as Pilot’s holiday elf plush and take-home bags of its limited-time Bourbon Pecan Coffee. 

Save $1 on a Cup of Cheer 

To keep drivers’ cups full and holiday spirits high, Pilot is offering $1 off any size hot or iced coffee, including its specialty seasonal blends. To redeem, save the offer in the myRewards Plus app and present it at the time of purchase at participating locations** Guests can warm up with returning favorites like Cinnamon Roll cold brew, Bourbon Pecan hot coffee or White Chocolate Candy Cane hot chocolate.

For more information about Pilot’s holiday offerings, visit pilotflyingj.com/holiday. Find nearby Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers and discover exclusive money saving offers on the myRewards Plus app.**

*Terms and Conditions apply. Review the complete list of giveaway rules.

**Must use myRewards Plus app to redeem. Data rates may apply. Certain food and beverage exclusions apply. Good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Other terms and conditions apply. Visit pilotflyingj.com/rewards for more details. Offer Period is 10/28/24 12:00 AM EST to 1/5/25 11:59 PM EST.

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.

For over 65 years, Pilot has been a trusted companion to millions of travelers across North America. Building on this legacy, the company’s first-ever chief marketing officer, Adrienne Ingoldt, is leading the charge to make Pilot an iconic brand and the travel center of choice for all who love the open road.

“It’s the people and the moments along the way that make being on the road so much more than just traveling from point A to B,” Ingoldt explains. “We’ve found that people who choose to drive – wherever their journey takes them – have a shared desire to embrace all the possibilities along the way. Pilot is out here to fuel them up, fill them up and lift them up.”

To develop this campaign, Pilot spoke to all types of drivers to better understand the community it serves. These conversations revealed an essential truth: out on the road, like in life, it’s about the journey and what you make of it, not just the destination. Drivers of all kinds answer the call of the road because it puts them in the driver’s seat of life, where they feel alive and free.

This campaign is the first to showcase Pilot’s refreshed brand identity which includes a fresh, bold style with a new, modern logo, a more vibrant color palette and a relatable, witty brand voice. With its updated brand aesthetic and welcoming call to, ‘See You Out Here,’ Pilot invites everyone to create miles of memories along the way. The new brand comes to life through broadcast television in five key markets across the U.S., nationwide billboards, social media, radio ads and more.

The hero of the campaign is a 30-second television commercial that turns up the volume on everybody’s favorite road trip anthem, Tom Cochrane's "Life is a Highway,” and features everyday people, all kinds of drivers moving to the rhythm of the road. The ad is currently airing on major networks and streaming on connected TV platforms. The new brand elements and motto of “See You Out Here” will continue across the company’s owned channels and in key moments throughout the year.

“Everyone who’s ever hand-surfed out the window or belted out an epic car power ballad knows the middle of nowhere can be the greatest somewhere,” added Ingoldt. “Our brand is how we show up for drivers – whether it’s in the middle of a rigorous multi-day haul or an epic road trip, we get them and have just what they need to keep that upbeat feeling rolling. See you out here!” 

Learn more about the “See You Out Here” campaign and listen to the brand’s curated summer playlist by visiting https://pilotflyingj.com/life-is-a-highway. For direct access to more high-resolution campaign assets, click here.

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.

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.

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.

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.

“Whether you’re driving cross country or running errands, we know that every stop counts,” said Shameek Konar, CEO of Pilot Company. “We are always looking to help our guests maximize their trips and know that saving money goes a long way, which is why we are introducing a new gas discount and more deals on everything from fuel to snacks to make their journeys go further.”

Despite rising costs, car travel has reached record levels during recent summer holidays. According to Forbes Advisor, 30 percent of summer vacationers surveyed reported they would drive rather than fly to cut back on travel costs.** To meet the high demand and help travelers continue their journeys, Pilot Company is introducing the new 10-cent gas discount and offering more in-store savings with deals in the myRewards Plus™ app.

Guests can redeem the 10-cent gas discount by downloading the myRewards Plus™ app, registering or logging in, and scanning or entering their rewards number when fueling at participating Pilot, Flying J, and One9 Fuel Network locations.* Members can save all year long with exclusive daily and weekly in-app offers on their favorite food and drinks, and have access to sweepstakes with prize packages from top brands. For a limited time, new myRewards Plus^TM members will also receive special offers just for joining.

Pilot Company is committed to helping make travel better for its guests. In addition to weekly and daily discounts in the app, travel centers carry over 29,000 SNAP and EBT eligible items. Pilot Company is also investing in enhancing the store experience through New Horizons, its largest store remodel project, and initiatives like its recently announced collaboration with General Motors to install 2,000 EV fast-chargers at travel centers across the nation.

For more information, to download the app*, and to find nearby travel centers, visit pilotflyingj.com/rewards.

*Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Void where prohibited (not valid in Wisconsin and New Jersey). Other terms and conditions may apply. Visit pilotflyingj.com/rewards for details.

**Forbes Advisor survey: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/travel-insurance/summer-vacation-2022-trend

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.

###

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.

“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.

With more Americans anxious to make up lost vacation time, recent surveys suggest an overwhelming majority prefer driving as the leading choice for reaching their summer destinations. According to The Vacationer, 80 percent of Americans are going to take a road trip this summer and of those making plans for Memorial Day weekend, more than half plan to travel by car.*

“When it comes to making summer memories, half the fun is how you get there,” said Jason Nordin, chief operator for Pilot Flying J. “Many Americans are ready to enjoy a summer getaway and we are anticipating road trips to be one of the primary ways families choose to travel this year. Pilot Flying J is excited to welcome drivers, whether they are staying closer to home or trekking cross country, as the ultimate place to stock up on road trip essentials.”

To make getting on the road even easier, Pilot Flying J’s $50,000 fuel giveaway offers daily chances for travelers to win $500 Pilot gas cards. To enter, visit Pilot Flying J’s Facebook from May 25-29 to share road trip favorites, memories, and photos.**

Road trippers can tailor their trip routes and save as they go with special offers and three cents off gas and auto diesel by using Pilot Flying J’s myRewards Plus^TM app. Deals in the app include daily offers on popular drinks, snacks and merchandise, as well as ‘summer sizzler’ BOGOs every week.***

Open 24/7 with more than 750 locations across North America, Pilot Flying J has everything travelers need to enjoy the road including fresh food, premium snacks and drinks for all ages, an array of gear, toys, souvenirs and clothing, health and wellness items, and clean facilities and restrooms.

Anticipating an increase in travel, Pilot Flying J is actively hiring more than 10,000 team members at its travel centers across the country. In March, the company announced a $1 billion initiative, New Horizons, to remodel and enhance more than 400 locations over the next few years. This project is part of the company’s commitment to an excellent experience at its stores and is actively underway with several Pilot and Flying travel centers completing remodels this summer.

For more information on how Pilot Flying J is fueling summer travels, visit https://pilotflyingj.com/summer-travels. To find nearby Pilot and Flying J travel centers and to view the restaurants and amenities available at each stop, download*** the myRewards Plus^TM app.

*Source: https://thevacationer.com/summer-travel-survey-2022/ and https://thevacationer.com/memorial-day-travel-survey-2022/

**Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. No purchase necessary. View the official contest rules for details. 

***Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Other terms and conditions may apply.

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.

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.

“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.

From September 1 – September 30, 2021, anyone can nominate a U.S.-based professional truck driver for the chance to be named a 2021 Road Warrior*. These hardworking haulers will be awarded a grand prize of $10,000, $5,000 for second place and $2,500 for third place.

“Our annual Road Warrior contest shines a spotlight on the enormous impact professional drivers have on our economy and our communities,” said Jason Nordin, chief operator for Pilot Flying J. “Every day, we have the privilege of serving professional truck drivers in our stores and we hear these incredible stories of their heroism on the highways. Help us recognize these Road Warriors by nominating them and they could win $10,000.” 

New to this year’s contest, nominations will be accepted directly on the Pilot Flying J Facebook page to make the submission process easier. To enter*, simply comment on the pinned Road Warrior post with a story recognizing a professional truck driver for going above and beyond.  Nominations can also be submitted during the entry period on the Road Warrior website at pilotflyingj.com/roadwarrior.

Road Warrior winners will be announced in mid-October and are selected based upon the story submission, including contributions to the trucking industry, safe driving history, miles driven and community involvement.

Last year’s $10,000 grand prize winner was Lenwood "Eric" Britton, an army veteran of 15 years that became a professional truck driver and then was promoted to a safety driver trainer. You can learn more about Eric and his passion for helping others in this article spotlighting his military service and career. 

“To be named the 2020 Road Warrior means so much and I’m very thankful,” said Britton. “My advice to other drivers is to slow down, take your time, be aware of what’s around you and always display professionalism. It’s truly an honor to represent my company and be recognized in this way. Thank you for believing in me.”

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

*See contest rules for terms and conditions.

To show gratitude to the men and women that keep North America moving, Pilot Company is encouraging everyone to join in bringing back the “Trucker Salute” and will be rewarding professional drivers all month with free drinks, bonus loyalty points and more perks.

“Professional drivers have carried us through many tough times, especially over this past year and a half, and we all owe them our gratitude and thanks,” said Shameek Konar, Pilot Company CEO. “Our annual Driver Appreciation month in September is a special time to recognize and celebrate professional drivers everywhere, including our own Pilot drivers. The Pilot team thanks all of you and gives you a 'Trucker Salute' for working incredibly hard to haul all of the goods needed across the nation.”

For those unfamiliar with the "Trucker Salute”, Pilot Company produced this video of the classic arm pump gesture that many professional drivers miss seeing and responding to with a friendly blow of their horn. To help bring back this beloved tradition, share a video of a “Trucker Salute” on social media and Pilot Company will donate $5 to Trucking Moves America Forward for each post that tags @PilotFlyingJ and uses the #ThankATrucker, up to $25,000. Trucking Moves America Forward, an organization Pilot Company has a long-standing partnership with, is an educational movement to recognize the importance of the trucking industry and professional drivers.

The Driver Appreciation celebration continues with special perks and offerings from September 1 – 30 exclusively for professional drivers in the myRewards Plus^TM app*, including: 

- Free drink of choice* from each day’s brand family or beverage category on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the month. Offer details on eligible products are available in the myRewards Plus^TM

- Free showers all month* with shower power after one 50+ gallon commercial diesel fill

- Earn bonus points* with several ways to boost loyalty earnings throughout September

Professional drivers can redeem these promotions at any of the more than 750 participating U.S. Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers or owned and operated One9 Fuel Network locations. Canadian professional drivers will automatically receive one bonus point throughout the month of September when fueling at participating Shell Flying J stations. Download the myRewards Plus^TM app** to find the nearest participating travel center.

For more information about Driver Appreciation Month, which got off to a fast start on August 17 when Dale Earnhardt, Jr., unveiled the #ThankATrucker theme on the No. 1 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet, visit pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation.

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

**Data rates may apply.

Pilot Company and Peterbilt surprised Daniel at the event, presenting him with a custom Peterbilt truck that is reminiscent of the rig his father, Jim, drove during his tenure at Pilot.

Family is very important for Pilot Company, which has been a family-owned business for 63 years, and this tradition rings true with Jim and Daniel Abshire. In 1971, Jim Abshire was the second driver ever hired by Pilot. Based in Virginia, Jim became the company’s first lead driver and drove for Pilot for 42 years. Following in his father’s footsteps, Daniel joined Pilot in 1980 at the age of 21, and eventually assumed the role of lead driver when Jim retired from the position in 2013.

“The Abshire family and Pilot transportation are synonymous,” said Jim Haslam, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Pilot Company. “Daniel is the best. And that’s because he learned from the best – his father, Jim. This job requires patience, endurance and a deep regard for everyone on the road. We are very proud of these two long and legendary careers and it’s an honor to recognize Daniel for his 40 years at Pilot with this specially designed Peterbilt truck.”

Today, Daniel oversees the trucks and drivers based in Staunton and Roanoke, Virginia, where he resides. During his 40-year career, Daniel has:

• Driven 2.5 million miles, the equivalent of five trips to the moon and back or 1,650 trips Knoxville-to-New York and back.
• Amassed 9,800 Safety Days in the cab of his truck, the equivalent of more than 26 years of safe driving.
• Delivered more than 200 million gallons of fuel, the equivalent of 300 Olympic swimming pools.

“I’m still in shock,” Daniel Abshire said. “I wasn’t expecting to be recognized, let alone get a new truck to drive that also celebrates my dad’s time with Pilot. I remember him driving a Peterbilt like this one, and this is my dream truck. We’ve always been part of the Pilot family, and the team here, especially the other drivers, always have been part of the Abshire family. That’s not lip service; it’s how we operate. This just illustrates how true it is. We are family.”

Both Jim and Daniel are fans of Peterbilt trucks. Inspired by a photo of Jim from the 1970s with his Pilot truck, Peterbilt designed the truck that Daniel will drive as a throwback to the 389 model with updated red and yellow Pilot Flying J graphics.

“Everyone at Peterbilt would like to congratulate Daniel Abshire and the whole Abshire family for the millions of miles they have spent on the road delivering fuel for the Pilot Company. To be a part of this celebration is a privilege and we look forward to seeing Daniel on the road behind the wheel of his Peterbilt Model 389 outfitted with a throwback design honoring the legacy of his father,” said Jason Skoog Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president.

Pilot Company employs more than 1,200 drivers as the third largest tanker fleet in North America and has open positions for company drivers, as well as at its travel centers across North America. To view job opportunities, learn more about Pilot Company’s culture and benefits, and to apply, go to jobs.pilotflyingj.com.

“This summer represents a return to the road for so many people and we’re hoping to inspire everyone to take the road trip of their dreams while participating in the Summer is a Go Road Trip Giveaway,” said Brian Ferguson, chief merchant for Pilot Flying J. “Pilot Flying J is the ultimate one-stop travel center to fuel up, re-energize and restock on road trip essentials. With safety and cleanliness a top priority, our guests can expect friendly service, clean restrooms and quality items at every stop.”

The Summer is a Go Road Trip Giveaway kicks off on May 24 and runs through September 5, 2021, with a grand prize of $5,000 in free fuel* and three-monthly prizes of $250 gift cards*, courtesy of Pilot Flying J. To be entered to win*, road trippers, professional drivers and Pilot Flying J guests are encouraged to share pictures of their adventures on the brand’s Facebook page or by posting on Instagram and Twitter with #SummerIsAGoGiveaway and tagging @PilotFlyingJ.* Participants can double their chances and earn an additional entry* by including any Pilot-branded cup in their photo.*

In honor of National Road Trip Day, Pilot Flying J is offering a summer of deals through the myRewards Plus^TM app** to save travelers money on the best road trip essentials:

• Beginning May 24, enjoy BOGO drinks all summer long with deals on popular brands available in the app.
• Stock up and save on drinks and snacks for the road with an in-app offer for $5 off purchases $15 or higher from May 28 - 31.***
• Fill up on the new southern or spicy chicken sandwich with $2 off in the app from May 24 – 30 at any participating Pilot Flying J location.
• Get ready for a summer in the sun with BOGO 50% off on all sunglasses from May 31 – June 6 when using the offer in the app.
• Cool down with 99 cent fountain or frozen drinks with the purchase of any hot food item at the register through August 31.

“After an unusual year for many, National Road Trip Day recognizes the pent-up demand to get back on the road and spend quality time with loved ones while safely exploring new destinations,” said Whitney Haslam Johnson, chief experience officer for Pilot Flying J. “For over 62 years, Pilot Flying J has fueled America’s road trips and with more than 750 locations serving over 1.5 million guests a day, our travel centers are ready to welcome road trippers with clean, safe fuel stops and everything needed for a summer of fun.”

Drivers can fuel up and recharge at Pilot Flying J with a wide assortment of drinks, snacks and delicious food options available 24/7. Paired with the best coffee on the interstate, Pilot Flying J is the ultimate stop for a quick, freshly made breakfast with more than 10 options on its morning menu, including its jumbo burritos and recently launched breakfast sandwiches. For a lunch stop or late-night snack, Pilot Flying J’s new chicken sandwiches and Greek wraps bring quality, flavor and variety for any road tripper’s palate.

For more information on National Road Trip Day and the Summer is a Go Road Trip Giveaway, visit https://pilotflyingj.com/summer-travels. To find nearby Pilot Flying J locations and to view the restaurants and amenities available at each stop, download the myRewards Plus^TM app.*

*Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. No purchase necessary. View the official contest rules for details.

**Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Other terms and conditions may apply.

***Excludes purchases on tobacco, fuel, lottery, and alcohol.

Dedicated teams from Pilot Company and RTS will work with fleets to provide funding, fuel and essential services at competitive rates. By combining Pilot Company’s cross-network bundle of fuel savings, credit, truck maintenance and loyalty rewards, with the favorable advance rates and same-day funding services from RTS, fleets of all sizes will be able to streamline their business. 

“Through this partnership, RTS and Pilot Company will be able to provide even greater value to the trucking industry,” said Bill Ryan, founder and CEO, Shamrock Trading Corporation, parent company of RTS. “Together, we’re excited to help trucking companies grow their businesses so they can provide for their families, stay on the road and enhance their operations.” 

In addition to convenient fuel and factoring solutions, customers will be supported with:

• Dedicated, multilingual account and sales representatives
• Back-office services to streamline paperwork
• Easy-to-use mobile and web account management and credit analysis with RTS Pro
• Enhanced Pilot Company customer portal to manage fuel accounts
• Access to more than 1,000 fueling locations across the Pilot Flying J Travel Center network and One9 Fuel Network

To learn more and apply for bundled services with Pilot Company and RTS, visit https://www.rtsinc.com/lp/pfj-press or speak directly with a customer care representative at (866) 779-7670.

“With the growing demand for fleet customers to find greater efficient means to maximize their up-time and maximize driver productivity, the need to create and build a consistent nationwide network is clear,” said John Boynton, president of Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J. “Our goal is to help fleet operators maximize the return on their investment while creating an exceptional driver experience—safe, well-maintained moving vehicles means happy owners, happy drivers and most importantly, happy customers.”

Beginning January 1, 2021, Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J will assume management operations of the current 35 Pilot Flying J Truck Care maintenance facilities. The new operation remains dedicated to providing professional drivers and fleet customers with exceptional repair, maintenance, roadside assistance, lube and tire-focused services. Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J will honor existing promotions and discounts to ensure a smooth transition for customers.

“We’re excited to bring together the strengths of our network with the expertise of Southern Tire Mart to better meet the tire and maintenance needs of the trucking industry,” said Shameek Konar, CEO of Pilot Company. “Through this partnership, we look forward to building a nationwide network of on-highway commercial vehicle maintenance, lube and tire-focused services that keeps fleet and drivers moving with safe, well-maintained trucks.”

Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J plans to build over 100 more locations in the next 18 months with a goal to grow the network across the U.S. to 200 points of service over 36 months. These facilities, located coast-to-coast throughout the continental United States, will be built on Pilot and Flying J Travel Center properties to better serve over the road fleet customer needs. In addition to the facilities at Pilot and Flying J travel centers, customers will have access to the 160 Southern Tire Mart locations nationwide.

“Professional drivers deserve our gratitude every day,” said Shameek Konar, chief strategy officer of Pilot Company. “The last few months have shown the world how essential these men and women are to our economy and day-to-day life. On behalf of our 28,000 team members, we want to thank all professional drivers for their tireless work to supply goods across North America. To show our appreciation, we invite professional drivers to stop in for a free drink every day in September.” 

From Sept. 1 – 30, Pilot Company will have exclusive offers for professional drivers in the Pilot Flying J app, including:

• Free drinks every day
• Free showers all month with September Shower Power after one 75+ gallon fill
• Earn up to four points per gallon when activating Push4Points
• Free JPRO diagnostics test at Pilot Flying J Truck Care service centers

To redeem the promotions, professional drivers simply save the offers in the Pilot Flying J app* and visit any of the 750 company-operated stores in the U.S., including Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers, Pilot Flying J Truck Care locations and participating One9 Fuel Network locations**. 

Additionally, Pilot Company is honoring professional drivers with a video that features a voiceover and musical track by Americana artist Ray Wylie Hubbard. Dubbed “Make Way”, the video depicts professional drivers as modern-day pioneers, making way with each mile traveled and load delivered for people to live out their dreams. 

To learn more about how Pilot Company is thanking professional drivers this September for Driver Appreciation, visit www.pilotflyingj.com/driver-appreciation. To access offers and find nearby travel center locations, download the Pilot Flying J app***.

Pilot Company and its more than 28,000 team members remain committed to keeping its travel centers open and operational to safely provide the necessities professional drivers need while on the road. For more information on the company’s health and safety measures, please visit Pilot Company’s COVID-19 Resource Center.

* Terms and conditions apply.

** Points, credits, and offers can be redeemed at participating owned and operated One9 locations or participating U.S. Pilot or Flying J locations.

*** Standard data rates may apply.

“Our annual Road Warrior contest is just one way we celebrate and recognize how much professional drivers mean to the world,” said Shameek Konar, chief strategy officer for Pilot Flying J. “Especially during these challenging times, professional drivers are delivering the goods we depend on while going above and beyond to help people and communities along the way. Congratulations to Eric, our finalists and all of the drivers who were nominated – you are changing the world one mile at a time and we truly appreciate your hard work to keep North America moving.”

To honor Britton as the grand prize winner, Pilot Flying J partnered with his employer, First Fleet, and his family to surprise him with the news of his win in a congratulatory video. To view the video and Britton’s reaction to the surprise presentation, click here.

Nominated by his wife, Britton was recognized for his service to the country as a veteran and a professional driver. Britton served for 15 years in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper and then a driver, delivering supplies to military units. After retiring from the army, Britton became a professional driver for First Fleet and was recently awarded for 19 years and two million miles of safe driving.

“To be named the 2020 Road Warrior means so much and I’m very thankful,” said Britton. “My advice to other drivers is to slow down, take your time, be aware of what’s around you and always display professionalism. It’s truly an honor to represent my company and be recognized in this way. Thank you for believing in me.”

In addition to the $10,000 grand prize, Pilot Flying J awarded $5,000 to second place winner, Zalac, an owner-operator and driver for over 20 years with over three million accident free miles, and $2,500 to third place winner, Beedle, a driver of over 30 years for RayLee Transport who’s a strong advocate for women drivers across the country. Nominators of the grand, second and third place winners also received a $500 prize.

New this year, Pilot Flying J randomly selected 400 professional drivers from Road Warrior contest entries and rewarded them each with 5,000 myRewards™ loyalty points, a $50 in-store value, for their dedication throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

To read more about the Road Warrior winners and learn about the contest, visit pilotflyingj.com/road-warrior-2020. To join the Road Warrior conversation, follow @pilotflyingj and #RoadWarrior.

New this year, Pilot Flying J is also introducing a weekly sweepstakes to the program and will randomly select 100 professional driver entries each week during the nomination period – for a total of 400 winners throughout the contest – to win 5,000 myRewards™ loyalty points, a $50 in-store value.

“Professional drivers brave the roads each and every day to safely transport the goods that keep America moving,” said Ken Parent, president for Pilot Flying J. “The Road Warrior program is our way of thanking drivers and showing them how grateful we are for their dedication and tireless work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We invite the public and the industry to join us in recognizing the many exceptional drivers for their continuous hard work to support the economy and our nation.” 

To honor these unsung “heroes on the road,” Pilot Flying J is now accepting online story submissions about professional drivers that go above and beyond as Road Warriors in the industry and in their communities. Last year, the Road Warrior program received nearly 9,500 nominations.

Following the contest period ending July 20, a Pilot voting committee will select three finalists who exemplify Road Warrior standards, based on their community and charitable involvement, safety records and personal stories of working hard on the road. Pilot Flying J will then announce the grand prize ($10,000), second place ($5,000) and third place ($2,500) winners in August. Nominators of the winners will also receive a $500 prize.

Last year, Pilot Flying J recognized Timothy Chelette, a professional driver at Big G Express and an American Road Team Captain, as the 2019 Road Warrior grand prize winner. Chelette was selected for his hard work on the road and his charity to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through an annual motorcycle ride he created.

“It was a great honor to be named the Pilot Flying J Road Warrior winner,” said Chelette. “Thank you to Big G Express for nominating me and to Pilot Flying J for putting on this great program that recognizes drivers like me. Thanks to Road Warrior, I’m able to do more charity rides now that my motorcycle is paid off. I appreciated everyone who voted – it really meant a lot.”

To nominate a professional driver, learn more about the Road Warrior program and view complete contest rules, visit pilotflyingj.com/road-warrior-2020 . To join the Road Warrior conversation, follow #RoadWarrior.

Falling on May 22, Pilot Flying J is celebrating National Road Trip Day a little differently due to the pandemic. In the spirit of the road trip and everything it stands for – exploration, discovery and connection – Pilot Flying J is reimagining the road trip. Starting today through May 22, people can visit Pilot Flying J social channels to participate in the Road Trip Reimagined campaign by sharing different ways to enjoy the open road, favorite road trip memories and ultimate road trip destinations. Each day this week, Pilot Flying J is giving away a $500 gift card to fuel future road trips, whenever or wherever they may be.*

“As the nation continues its road to recovery, we know many people are thinking about ways to safely enjoy summer vacations,” said Whitney Haslam Johnson, chief experience officer for Pilot Flying J. “While current travel guidelines vary across the country, we hope this National Road Trip Day will inspire people to discover new places to visit once they are ready to get back on the road. Our travel centers will be open with everything they need for a successful road trip, from clean bathrooms to everyday items and a large selection of snacks, food and beverage offerings.”

To find out how the pandemic has affected travelers’ plans and mindsets, Pilot Flying J commissioned a survey of 2,000 U.S. adult drivers. After having spent weeks indoors, it comes as no surprise that many people are ready for the open air – and the open road. Almost half (44%) of people reported using their time in quarantine to plan future trips, with 88% having at least one trip mapped out for summer. Travelers might leave behind their quarantine companions, however, as 62% of respondents admit they need a break from loved ones after being cooped up together.

The survey also found:

• Road trips and outdoor adventures – More than half (53%) of people plan to take a road trip this summer, and many will be venturing outside, with 52% of respondents reporting that the pandemic has made them more likely to take an outdoors-focused trip.
• Opting to drive – There might be more travelers opting to hit the road this summer, as one-third (35%) of respondents said they’d prefer to drive due to worries about flying post-COVID-19. People reported they would be willing to add an average of 6 hours and 38 min to their trip by opting to drive.
• Saving while social distancing – More than half (54%) of Americans have taken advantage of the travel deals and discounts available due to COVID-19. Thirty-two percent of those surveyed took a discounted trip when the pandemic began (before travel restrictions), while 22% booked a cheaper trip for the future.
• Summer Sabbatical – Of those planning to travel this summer, two-thirds (65%) are thinking about taking a three-month hiatus from work and traveling instead.
• Reuniting with loved ones (in real life) - During quarantine, more than half (56%) of people reconnected with friends or family members they hadn’t communicated with in a while. Of those, two-thirds (64%) plan to visit one of these friends or family members this summer.

Given that two-thirds (66%) of respondents had to cancel or postpone vacations due to COVID-19, people may be looking to compensate for lost time. A summer trip may seem long overdue, especially for the more than half (54%) who reported that they have not left their home state in two or more years.

Though the survey asked respondents to answer questions under the assumption that social distancing guidelines and travel restrictions were lifted, summer travel is going to look different in the wake of COVID-19. The study revealed exactly how people are adjusting their future travel plans and habits for a safe and successful trip, specifically:

• New road trip essentials – The top ways people will change their future road trips are traveling with spare masks and gloves (50%); only stopping at pre-planned places where they know it’s clean/safe (40%); and bringing different supplies (37%).
• Trusted road trip stops – When taking their next road trip, people will feel most comfortable stopping at fast food restaurants (48%); travel centers/gas stations (41%); only places they know have increased their cleaning procedures (41%); and non-fast food restaurants (41%).

“Whether you’re stopping for a food and bathroom break or taking a minute to stretch your legs, know that our Pilot and Flying J locations put health and safety first with thorough cleaning procedures, social distancing guidelines and friendly team members ready to help make your stop a great experience,” said Johnson.

To learn more about National Road Trip Day, visit pilotflyingj.com/nationalroadtripday. To plan your next road trip and save along the way, download the Pilot Flying J app.**

Follow @PilotFlyingJ on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to participate in the Road Trip Reimagined campaign and share your National Road Trip Day plans with #NationalRoadTripDay and #RoadTripReimagined.  

*Terms and conditions may apply.

**Standard data rates may apply.

Methodology

The 2020 National Road Trip Day survey was commissioned by Pilot Flying J through OnePoll, who conducted an online survey among n = 2,000 U.S. adults aged 18+ who are drivers. The survey was conducted Apr. 27-30, 2020 and has a margin of error of +/- 3 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level.

 “In the current environment, trucking companies and their drivers are facing unprecedented challenges as they work incredibly hard to supply our country,” said Jimmy Haslam, CEO of Pilot Company. “The majority of goods that we rely on every day are transported by truck and we are committed to doing everything we can to keep them moving. Through the new Axle Fuel Card, we’re able to extend much-needed credit to the industry with added rewards for fleets and professional drivers. Our goal is to provide fleets of all sizes with a reliable credit solution that fuels their business and enables them to focus on the road ahead.”

The Axle Fuel Card™ is accepted at more than 950 locations in the U.S. and Canada, including Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers, the One9 Fuel Network and at Pilot Flying J Truck Care Service Centers. Opening an account is fast and convenient with quick access to lines of credit upon approval. The card can be used for fuel purchases, truck care services and select truck merchandise, as determined by each fleet.

Benefits of the Axle Fuel Card™ include:

• No transaction, account management, annual or other hidden fees
• Enhanced online account portal with personal credit representative and sales representative
• Enhanced payment terms
• Money back rewards to go toward fuel purchases
• Driver perks:
  • One bonus loyalty point per gallon when using Axle Fuel Card™ at Pilot and Flying J locations
  • Two bonus loyalty points per gallon when using Axle Fuel Card™ at One9 Fuel Network locations
• Pilot Flying J Truck Care Savings:
  • $30 off any tire or service
  • 10% off Service Center hourly rate
  • No callout fee for roadside service

Once the card is activated, professional drivers can add the Axle Fuel Card™ to their digital wallet in the Pilot Flying J app and select it when mobile fueling at any participating Pilot, Flying J or One9 location to automatically earn loyalty points and save time at the pump. Existing fleet card customers can still use the yellow fleet card and will receive access to the new rewards including truck care discounts, money back offerings and loyalty perks.

To easily manage Axle Fuel Card™ accounts, customers will receive one invoice for all Pilot Flying J and One9 Fuel Network transactions and will have access to an enhanced online customer portal. Through the new portal, customers can monitor fueling transactions, make payments, manage payment cards, lock fuel cards, set transaction limits, restrict products and/or locations, and much more.

To learn more about the Axle Fuel Card or to apply, visit pilotflyingj.com/axle-fuel-card or text AXLE to 26494.*

Pilot Company and its more than 28,000 team members remain committed to keeping its travel centers open and operational to safely provide the necessities professional drivers need while on the road. For more information on the company’s health and safety measures, please visit Pilot Company’s COVID-19 Resource Center.

* Subject to credit approval.  Additional terms and conditions apply.

“This is an incredibly tough time, and our hearts go out to all those who are impacted by this pandemic,” said Jim Haslam II, founder and chairman of Pilot Company. “We are committed to partnering with area nonprofits to help meet the immediate needs of those most affected, especially in our hometown of Knoxville and professional drivers across the country. Through these organizations and their services, we hope to provide some relief to the many families and professional drivers grappling with financial hardships, job disruptions or childcare challenges. More than ever, we must take care of each other and work together.”

The donations include gifts to United Way of Greater Knoxville’s COVID-19 Response Fund, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley and St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund.

Pilot Company’s gift to United Way of Greater Knoxville’s COVID-19 Response Fund will provide direct support to local nonprofits delivering essential services to those affected by the crisis. Support to Second Harvest will help fight hunger in East Tennessee as the organization works around the clock to serve an unprecedented number of people needing assistance during this health crisis. The donation to Boys & Girls Club of the Tennessee Valley will support the organization as it maintains and expands services to care for the children of essential workers during this critical time.

Headquartered in Knoxville, St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund (SCF) assists professional drivers and their families when an illness or injury causes them to be out of work, the instances of which could increase as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Professional drivers needing assistance from SCF can apply at truckersfund.org/application.

For more information about Pilot Company’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit pilotflyingj.com/covid-response. To learn more about Pilot Company and its longstanding commitment to giving back, visit pilotcompany.com/about.

Pilot Company’s top priority right now is protecting the safety of team members and guests, while continuing to provide essential goods and services. During this time, the company is taking several extra precautions, such as following social distancing guidelines and disinfecting frequently used surfaces, including gas pumps, door handles, restrooms and showers.

“We are extraordinarily grateful to the everyday heroes – from professional drivers to first responders and health care providers – who are working tirelessly to provide the care, services and supplies we need through this challenging time,” said Jimmy Haslam, CEO of Pilot Company. “Thank you to our incredible team members for working together to keep our travel centers open, clean and fueling. We are committed to doing everything we can to support our communities, the industry and professional drivers to help keep North America moving.”

More than 80% of communities rely solely on trucks to move their goods, and hardworking professional drivers deliver nearly 71% of all freight tonnage in the U.S. To thank drivers for their incredible dedication to supplying our country, Pilot Company issued a “Thank You” video celebrating their impact and is also providing ways to save money on food, showers and supplies at its travel center locations using the Pilot Flying J app.

Last week, the company announced new measures to thank team members, including its fuel drivers and those working in stores, for everything they’re doing to keep vehicles fueled, showers and restrooms clean, and shelves stocked with food and drinks. These initiatives include:

• “Thank You Pay” for all store hourly team members to earn an additional $2/hour.
• Free Meal for store team members and company fuel delivery drivers to receive a free meal during every shift.
• Emergency Pay Plan for 14 days of paid time off for quarantine and recovery.
• Manager Bonus expedited and paid at 100% for eligible managers.

To ensure the company’s facilities are staffed and open, as an essential business, Pilot Company is still hiring and accepting applications online at jobs.pilotflyingj.com.

Pilot Company is continuing to work closely with its suppliers, partners and customers to supply fuel, food and essential goods. The country’s fuel supply continues to be strong, and Pilot Company’s logistics team is working hard to keep fuel supply levels high across its network of travel centers.

For the latest information on Pilot Company’s COVID-19 efforts and response, including updates on operations, please visit: https://pilotflyingj.com/covid-response.