February 9, 2021 (North Little Rock, Ark.) – Maverick Transportation has announced their 2020 Drivers of the Year. TJ Hargis was named the 2020 Over-the-Road (OTR) Driver of the Year and Scott Claiborne the Dedicated Driver of the Year.

This honor is awarded each year to the Maverick drivers who not only demonstrate an outstanding commitment to safety, but exhibit great character and professionalism in all aspects of their role.

“I’m very proud of Tommy (TJ) and Scott for their achievements throughout their careers here at Maverick and now meeting the ultimate achievement by being voted in as our OTR and Dedicated Drivers of the Year,” said Vice President of Operations John Coppens.

As Drivers of the Year, Hargis and Claiborne will be the representatives for Maverick drivers, on the road as well as in communication with the Maverick leadership team.

Hargis said, “It is such an honor. I was surprised! The first time I was named a Maverick Driver of the Month, I was excited. I’ve always been so happy at Maverick. This time around, I was a little more nervous but I truly didn’t think I’d get it. When John [Culp] said my name, I didn’t know what to do. I’ve gotten a lot of words of encouragement from other Mavericks. I don’t think it has really hit me yet.”

According to Hargis, finding his support group at Maverick has been an integral part of his journey to Driver of the Year. “Find your support group of other drivers, office personnel and shop personnel that are going to give you good advice so when you have questions, they are your go-to,” Hargis said.

Being a 13-year employee of Maverick, Hargis had some thoughts for incoming drivers: “Maverick has great benefits and pay and no one else can beat them. They have been around long enough and when I walk through the building, I can sit down with anyone and talk business or shoot the breeze with them. They are up-front and honest and their equipment is always kept up well. They are family-oriented and they have proven that many times with me.”

Scott Claiborne said, “It was very cool as everyone spoke during the announcement. It is such an honor to be included with all of these professional drivers.” Scott credits his driver trainer, fellow Mavericks and his previous non-driving career for his success at Maverick. “I earned my CDL-A and spoke with one of your drivers,” Claiborne said. “He was very honest and told me we would be trained well and if we worked hard, it would pay off. Running a truck is very much like running a trading desk. [Something I used to do.] Looking at time constraints, fuel, traffic….it all made sense. That clicked with me.” His encouragement to new drivers: “Take your time and be patient.”

Founded in 1980, based in North Little Rock, Arkansas, and operating over 1,600 units, Maverick provides OTR and Dedicated services to the flatbed, glass and specialized transportation markets throughout North America. To learn more about Maverick Transportation visit www.maverickusa.com.