Veteran Shawn Haley Among Semi-Finalists for Prestigious "Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award"

The "Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award" program, now in its ninth year, has announced its semi-finalists, highlighting exceptional military veterans who have successfully transitioned into the trucking industry. Among this distinguished group is Shawn Haley, Holly, Michigan, a regional truck driver with Veriha Trucking, Marinette, Wisconsin, who exemplifies dedication and perseverance in his new career path.

"This year's group of 'Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award' semi-finalists are inspiring examples of accomplished military veterans who are making a successful transition into the trucking industry," said Kyle Kimball, Kenworth's Director of Marketing. "Kenworth is honored to mark our ninth year of participation in the program with FASTPORT and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Hiring Our Heroes initiative. I look forward to meeting all the esteemed semi-finalists this fall and presenting the T680 keys to a deserving veteran in Washington, D.C., at the end of the year."

Shawn Haley served in the Marine Corps from 1987 to 1991, where he had the honor of providing security for President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan, as well as President George H. W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush. Shawn became an entrepreneur after his distinguished military service, running a successful business for 20 years. Seeking a new challenge, he embarked on a career in trucking and obtained his CDL through the Truck Driving Institute. He then completed Veriha Trucking's finishing program and has thrived as a regional driver, enjoying the opportunity to explore the country.

“Safety and on-time service are just the threshold of expectations for Shawn. Recently, he went through Veriha’s Train the Trainer program to further enhance his skills and become one of Veriha’s In-Cab Coaches. Through this, he is able to give back and support new drivers as they enter the industry, ensuring they will be safe and successful drivers throughout their careers,” praised Karen Smerchek Veriha Trucking’s President.
"The Transition Trucking award campaign highlights the impact veterans are making in the transportation industry and introduces a new generation of veterans to the real economic opportunity a career in trucking can represent," said Eric Eversole, President of Hiring Our Heroes and Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

As part of the ninth annual award program, Shawn Haley and his fellow semi-finalists will be honored at a ceremony on September 25 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. The following day, they will tour the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant, where the finalists will be announced.
The finalists and ultimate winner will be part of an expanded veteran-focused week featuring a Veteran-Ready Summit from December 11-14. The "Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award" winner will be announced on December 13.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Shawn's personal journey is equally inspiring. During his trucking career, he reconnected with his high school sweetheart after 27 years, and they are now happily engaged.
Veriha Trucking is proud to support Shawn Haley's candidacy and celebrates his achievements as a shining example of the talent and dedication veterans bring to the trucking industry.