The Pennsylvania Truck Driving Championship (TDC) was held earlier this summer. It is the premier showcase of safety, skill, and professionalism in the Commonwealth's trucking industry. Hosted by the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association, this annual competition brings together Pennsylvania's top professional drivers to test their knowledge, precision, and expertise through written exams, pre-trip inspections, and challenging driving courses.

At the end of the competition, four Local 776 drivers stood out as the best of the best in PA:

Kraig Keller 1st Place- 3 axle (ABF)

Colt Seltzer 2nd Place- 4 axle (UPS); Colt also had the best written test

TJ Altland 1st Place- Step Van (UPS)

Bernie Wanyo 3rd Place- 3 axle (UPS)

(L-R): Kraig Keller, Colt Seltzer, TJ Altland, and Bernie Wanyo show off their hardware!

Congratulations on your accomplishments, gentlemen. Your victory shows the skill and professionalism you display daily while working.

Next up, the National Truck Driving Championship, where the best of the best from across the country gather. As state winners, TJ Altland (UPS) and Kraig Keller (ABF) will compete at the national championship in Pittsburgh, PA, from August 11-14. The competition will be tough; getting this far is the equivalent of an NFL team playing in the Super Bowl. The competitors will be judged in the following categories:

Written Examination: Tests rules, regulations, and safety facts.

Pre-Trip Inspection: Meticulous identification of hidden vehicle defects.

Skills Course: Precision driving maneuvers including serpentine, tight spaces, and accurate stopping under pressure.

When the wheels stop turning and the scores are tallied, the Major Awards will be awarded to :

First, Second, and Third Place in each vehicle class:

Rookie of the Year

Vehicle Condition Award

Professional Excellence Award

Overall NTDC Grand Champion

Commented Local 776 President Spencer Dearth: “On behalf of everyone at Local 776, I would like to congratulate all of our members who took home state honors. Your commitment to your professionalism is second to none.”

Spencer added: "Kraig and TJ work hard every day to be the best at what they do. Being the best of the best in the state is no small feat. Now they get to test their skills against the best of the best from across the country. While you’re in Pittsburgh competing, we will all be behind you, encouraging you to do your best. Best of luck, gentlemen; enjoy yourselves, and enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow competitors while in Pittsburgh."