Alabama’s Top Drivers Take Stage at the 2026 Truck Driving Championship

This past Saturday, Thompson Tractor Company in Birmingham hosted our annual Truck Driving Championship, bringing together some of the best concrete truck drivers in the state for a day focused on skill, safety, professionalism, and industry pride.

A total of 46 drivers from nine different companies competed throughout the day in a series of precision driving challenges, truck inspection and a written exam designed to test the real-world skills required behind the wheel of concrete trucks. Drivers navigated obstacle courses, tight turns, difficult backing maneuvers, and timed events while showcasing the expertise and concentration their jobs demand every day.

The event kicked off with a Chick-fil-A breakfast as drivers, judges, sponsors, and families gathered early Saturday morning in anticipation of the competition. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a lively atmosphere filled with encouragement, teamwork, and friendly competition before sitting down to a barbecue lunch catered by Full Moon Bar-B-Que.

One of the highlights of the championship was the involvement of the Alabama State Troopers, who served as judges for the competition events. Their participation reinforced the championship’s strong emphasis on roadway safety, professionalism, and excellence behind the wheel, and we appreciate them taking time out of their day to attend.

The event also offered activities for families and guests. Magic City Face Art kept children entertained with face painting, while Auburn University brought its truck driving simulator, giving participants and spectators an interactive opportunity to experience the challenges drivers face on the road.

Taking home the 1^st place belt, provided by Truckworx, was Willie Benson of Ready Mix USA after an outstanding overall performance throughout the competition.

Second Place went to Josh Sanders of Wayne Davis Concrete, followed by Ashley Gassaway of Ready Mix USA in Third Place. Royce Lofton of Hodgson Concrete earned Fourth Place, while Bob Bafford of Heidelberg Materials secured Fifth Place. Nicholas Moody of Ready Mix USA rounded out the top six competitors with a strong Sixth Place finish.

Several drivers also earned top honors in individual skill events:

• Parallel Park Champion: Gordon Gipson of MMC Materials
• Rear Back-Up Champion: Scott Newbern of Bama Concrete
• Railroad Stop Champion: Ladarius Scott of Ready Mix USA
• Written Test Champion: Preston Tatum of Webb Concrete

The event also included a contest for family members which included AU’s simulator and a few obstacles driving a golf cart, adding another fun and engaging element to the day. The winner was Jasmine Benson, daughter of 1^st place winner Willie Benson.

In team competition, Ready Mix USA claimed the Team Winner title, showcasing the company’s strong commitment to driver training, safety, and excellence across its organization.

A tremendous amount of support from sponsors helped make the championship possible.

The Association also recognized the continued support of annual sponsors whose contributions help fund industry events and initiatives throughout the year, including the Truck Driving Championship itself.

As scores were finalized and awards presented, one thing was clear: this event is about far more than competition. It is about recognizing the professionalism, precision, and safety-minded dedication of the drivers who play a critical role in Alabama’s infrastructure and economy every day.

Thanks to the support of sponsors, volunteers, participants, and host venue Thompson Tractor Company, this year’s Truck Driving Championship was another tremendous success — and a powerful reminder of the pride and talent that exists throughout the industry.