Each September, the nation takes a moment to recognize the hardworking professionals who keep America moving. During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW), we at the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association (PMTA) are proud to honor the more than 80,000 professional truck drivers across the Commonwealth whose dedication powers our economy, strengthens our communities, and ensures that essential goods reach every corner of our state — and beyond.

Driving Pennsylvania Forward

Whether delivering food to grocery stores, transporting medical supplies to hospitals, or moving goods between warehouses and ports, truck drivers are a vital part of everyday life. In Pennsylvania — a critical transportation hub in the Northeast — our drivers are especially essential.

From the busy streets of Philadelphia to the rural highways of the Northern Tier, Pennsylvania’s truck drivers face long hours, tough weather, and challenging conditions with unmatched professionalism. Their commitment keeps store shelves stocked, supply chains running, and local businesses thriving.

A Week of Gratitude

Throughout NTDAW, PMTA chapters and member companies across the state showed their appreciation in many ways — from breakfasts and appreciation cookouts to safety awards, giveaways, and heartfelt thank-you notes. These events not only recognized the hard work of drivers but also they foster a deeper sense of connection across the industry. Our list of events that PMTA hosted are as follows:

• Monday, September 15th at the Sheetz Bloomsburg Store 769, was David McCord of PMTA.
• Tuesday, September 16th at the PA Turnpike Allentown, mile marker 55.9 was Doug Frombaugh of FedEx Freight and the PMTA Safety trailer, Bob Dolan, Safety Management Council Chairman, Dave Simon of Ward Transport and Trucking and Kammi Bredbenner of PMTA.
• Wednesday, September 17th at the PA Turnpike South Somerset mile marker 112.4 was Doug Frombaugh of FedEx Freight and the PMTA Safety trailer, Bernie Wanyo of UPS Freight, Dave Simon of Ward Transport and Trucking along with Anthony Cloud of PMTA.
• Thursday, September 18th at the Sheetz Barkeyville Store 859 was Mike Cable of Ward Transport and Trucking, Pam Pollock of Movin' Out Magazine and David McCord of PMTA.
• Friday, September 19th at the PA Turnpike Sidling Hill mile marker 172.3 was Doug Frombaugh of FedEx Freight and the PMTA Safety trailer, Bernie Wanyo of UPS Freight, Dave Simon of Ward Transport and Trucking along with Wendy Palermo of PMTA.
• Friday September 19th at the I-83 Welcome Center Shrewsbury PA was Michelle Timmermans of PMTA.

The Human Side of Hauling

Behind every load delivered is a driver with a story — a parent, a neighbor, a veteran, a friend. These are the people who wake before dawn, navigate Pennsylvania’s winding roads and major highways, and return home late to do it all over again the next day.

Their resilience, responsibility, and work ethic represent the very best of our state. And while NTDAW offers a moment to spotlight their efforts, our appreciation must extend year-round.

How You Can Show Support

Whether you’re part of the industry or simply someone who benefits from the work of truck drivers (hint: that’s everyone!), here are a few ways to show your appreciation:

• Say Thank You – A simple gesture of gratitude at a truck stop or rest area goes a long way.
• Support Local Events – Attend or sponsor events through your local PMTA chapter. To find your local chapter, click here!
• Post on Social Media – Use #ThankATrucker to help spread the message and don’t forget to tag #PMTA because we’re #PMTAProud
• Drive Safely Around Trucks – Respecting trucks on the road is one of the best ways to show appreciation.

Thank You, Pennsylvania Truck Drivers