05/20/2026
We’re proud to see the Ohio Trucking Association Driver of the Year program recognized by the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission as they honored two outstanding finalists committed to keeping Ohio’s roadways safe. Programs like Driver of the Year shine a spotlight on the professionalism, dedication, and safety culture that define Ohio’s trucking industry every day.
Congratulations to William Reynolds of Ports Petroleum Company and Timothy Doerfler of Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. on this well-deserved recognition. We also thank the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission for helping elevate the professional drivers and member companies that keep freight moving safely across the state every day.
To learn more about OTA's committment to advocating for, supporting, and recognizing the people and companies driving Ohio forward, visit us at www.ohiotrucking.org
The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission recognizes two finalists from the Ohio Trucking Association’s (OTA) Driver of the Year awards program who haul freight across the 241-mile toll road. They attended a commission meeting in Berea, Ohio, on May 18, 2026, and were saluted for their dedication to keeping the roadways safe.
The OTA awards program highlights professional truck drivers who demonstrate exceptional safety records and a strong commitment to their profession and communities.
Pictured (left to right): Chris Matta, P.E., chief engineer/deputy executive director of the turnpike commission; William Reynolds, OTA Truck Driver of the Year Finalist, and Phillip Le Claire, safety director, from Ports Petroleum Company in Wooster, Ohio; Timothy Doerfler, OTA Truck Driver of the Year Finalist, and John Hughes, regional safety manager, from Old Dominion Freight Line in Columbus, Ohio; and Ferzan Ahmed, P.E., executive director of the turnpike commission.
