Mario Cardenas Honored as Trucking's Top Rookie finalist at GATS

on Friday, September 9, 2016 in Awards & Recognition

Proudly representing TMC, Mario Cardenas traveled to Dallas, Texas on Friday, August 26th to attend the Mike O’Connell Memorial Trucking’s Top Rookie Contests press conference being held during the Great American Trucking Show. Mario was among the top ten rookie drivers nominated for this prestigious award.

The contest, which is in its sixth year, was pursued as a suggestion from the Commercial Vehicle Training Association to highlight the opportunities in the truck driving profession. Drivers that have been in the industry less than one year are nominated by schools and motor carriers to have the chance to win over $25,000 in cash and prizes. The main purpose of the contest, however, is to increase pride and professionalism among new drivers, and promote the truck driving career choice during a severe shortage of drivers.

“What made me want to become a truck driver was the opportunity to travel around the country doing something that many people do not appreciate,” says Mario. “I like to believe that professional drivers like myself help to move this country and contribute to a better economy.”

Upon becoming a part of the TMC Family in June of 2015, Mario quickly became a top contender in the fleet. He holds the certification and revenue level of a tenured driver, always goes the extra mile and puts safety at the forefront. What really makes him stand out is his discipline, hard work and self motivation.

"I feel honored and thankful for being considered as a top ten finalist for the Trucking’s Top Rookie Contest,” says Mario. “GATS is a great event, and it was exciting to see just how big and important the trucking industry is. It keeps me motivated to know that people appreciate what we do.”

Mario is very family oriented, and devotes much of his free time and resources to helping his family. He is even assisting his younger brother in paying for his college education. “My brother is the reason I wake up some days at 3 am without hesitation,” Mario explains. “I like to think that my efforts will benefit him somehow. College may not be cheap but thanks to trucking, I am able to alleviate some of that weight off his shoulders.”

Mario is an inspiring individual and an absolute perfect representative of both TMC and the trucking industry. He goes above and beyond “Destination: Excellence,” and we look forward to aiding him in is future successes.