Following more than two decades of military service, Charles Jones Jr. has earned another accolade as he ventures into a career in trucking.
Jones was presented with the 2025 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence award on Dec. 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
The Transition Trucking award is given annually to a military veteran transitioning to a career in the trucking industry.
“These finalists show how military experience translates into excellence in the trucking industry, and we’re proud to honor their service and celebrate the vital role veterans play in keeping America moving,” Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes, said.
Jones, a Sergeant First Class in the Army, completed three deployments in Iraq, two rotations in South Korea and served as an unmanned aircraft systems operator, instructor operator, standard operator and platoon sergeant.
Following his retirement from military service, Jones enrolled in and graduated from Georgia Driving Academy in December 2024. He began his professional driving career with Roehl Transport in early 2025.
“I was absolutely surprised,” Jones said. “I love the fact that this even exists. When I left the military, the biggest thing I missed was being around the other soldiers. Now, when I see these other veterans doing the same thing I’m doing, it’s very reminiscent of being back in the military.”
In winning the Transition Trucking award, Jones was presented with a new Kenworth T680 with a 76-inch sleeper and the latest amenities.
“Initially, it was all about the business aspect when I saw this truck,” Jones said. “It would get me closer to becoming an owner-operator. Once I saw it, sat in it and touched it, I knew this truck was made for me.”
The three finalists for this year’s award were honored as part of the Veterans Ready Summit in Washington, D.C.
“We are honored to recognize Charles for an outstanding transition from military service to trucking and for the example he sets through his professionalism and dedication,” Fastport said on its Facebook page. “We also want to congratulate our incredible runners-up, Macy Mattice and Mark Scriven. We’re grateful to have both of you in the trucking industry and know you will continue to set the standard for transitioning military members for years to come.”
Mattice and Scriven were each awarded a cash prize.
A public vote, along with a selection committee, determined the Transition Trucking finalists and the winner.
“The transportation industry not only embraces a veteran-ready ethos but actively integrates the invaluable skills and experiences our service members bring,” said Brad Bentley, Fastport president. LL
More information about the award is available online.
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