Birdseye Newsletter - First Quarter 2024

over 20 years of sERVICE Our “Triplets” Are Turning 21

On June 4, 2003, three hopeful young gentlemen started their driving careers with Stevens Transport. On their first day, Granit Vladi, Jim Adams and Mateo Gonzalez recall being told only one would make it to a 1-year anniversary as a driver while the rest would move on to other ventures. These gentlemen will celebrate 21 years with Stevens this June! Mateo has yet to leave the road and is in our Haul of Fame as a very prestigious Two Million Miler! Granit, a driver for much of his 20 years, is also a member of our Haul of Fame and has driven over 1.7M astounding miles! Granit has also shared time in the office as a Driver Manager. Jim has split his time at Stevens, proudly representing our Haul of Fame with over 1.4M miles and in the role of Driver Trainer, Mentor, and Manager, spending over a decade mentoring our trainer fleet. Jim has recently been promoted to our Safety Management Team! As a Safety Manager, Jim is now supporting all aspects of prevention, safety best practices, improvement of CSA scores, and driver development. We are excited to have Jim in this role and for his continued success!

Granit Vladi

Jim Adams

Mateo Gonzalez

Dates to remember

MAY 5TH Cinco de Mayo

MAY 10th Native American Day

MAY 12th Mother's Day

MAY 18th Armed Forces Day

MAY 27th Memorial Day

JUNE 14th Flag Day

JUNE 16th Father's Day

JUNE 19th Juneteenth

JULY 4th Independence Day

JULY 28th Parents' Day

Honors Stevens Transport with 2023 Dedicated Transportation Carrier of the Year Award

Stevens Transport is proud to announce we have been honored with the 2023 Kraft Heinz Dedicated Carrier of the Year Award. This recognition exemplifies Stevens Transport's commitment to excellence and reliability in meeting the transportation needs of its customers and dedication in transporting Kraft Heinz products to customers across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Kraft Heinz, one of the five largest food manufacturers in the world, again recognized their largest dedicated carrier for their outstanding service. Delivering more than 25,000 loads annually, Stevens Transport focuses on safety, on-time delivery, reliability, and professionalism in temperature-controlled transportation. This most recent award recognizes Stevens Transport's commitment to delivering at the highest level.

"This acknowledgment underscores the unwavering commitment of our exceptional team members, who consistently deliver at a high rate of execution across all facets of our operations. We are humbled to be recognized for this distinguished recognition,” said Todd S. Aaron, Vice Chairman, of Stevens Transport.

"Receiving this award is a true honor, and it shows our commitment to excellence in every mile we drive. This recognition is a testament to the professionalism and hard work of every member of the team,” said Robert Solimani, Vice President of Stevens Transport.

During the past 30 years, Stevens has been recognized and honored with numerous Kraft Heinz awards, including the Kraft Transportation Excellence Award, Heinz North America Frozen Carrier of the Year Award, Kraft Transportation Partnership Award, and Kraft Calvary Award

Thank you to our dedicated Kraft Heinz driving force, Kim Burks, the Kraft Heinz Operations Team, and Paragon Leasing, for their tremendous support that has played an invaluable role in receiving this award.

Senior Management Team

Dear Stevens Transport,

We appreciate you partnering with us to capture surplus food and redirect it to feed the people who need it most. With your help, we collectively rescued 48 Million pounds of food in 2023. That amount of food resulted in over 40 Million meals being provided at no cost to our partners and neighbors!

By diverting that food from being sent to a landfill, you helped prevent 10,912 tons of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere. We look forward to continuing to work together as we seek to ignite the power of community to nourish people facing hunger.

Sincerely,

STEVENS TRANSPORT PROUD OF PROVIDING

13,470 MEALS IN 2023!

At Stevens Transport, we are honored to be able to collaborate with our many partners and contribute in beneficial and life changing ways throughout the year. Coming from OS&D, Stevens Transport, in partnership with customers and their approved facilities, can donate products to lessen waste and help impact the fight against hunger.

We eagerly anticipate the many opportunities to collaborate with our partners again!

Melvin Loveless Jr. Joseph Adams Ray Shaw Robert Rodriguez OSD Analyst OSD Analyst Cargo Temp Analyst OSD Manager

A Journey Well-Traveled: The Retirement of Eugene Thomas

for 28 years of service Thank

Eugene began his career at Stevens Transport as a driver in August of 1995 after completing his CDL training at Stevens Driving Academy. In 1998, Eugene and his wife started a family. This took him from the road to the classroom as an Academy instructor. Being a driver gave him the inside knowledge that allowed him to connect more easily with new drivers. Eugene spent six years as an instructor before moving into a Driver Counselor role where he continued to prepare, educate, and motivate drivers, new and seasoned.

After four great years as a Driver Counselor, in 2011, Eugene transitioned to the Orientation and Safety team. Starting as the Classroom Orientation Facilitator and retiring as a Safety Manager, he shared that it was the last 13 years that were a considerable highlight of his tenure at Stevens. His love for interacting, coaching, and developing new hires made each day filled with joy. His resilience and dedication contributed to the growth of the Orientation and Safety teams all the while, leading with grace and fortitude. Always seen as a key individual to all who interacted and worked alongside him, his knowledge and compassion extended from drivers to support teams. Eugene always made time for what truly mattered: his colleagues, friends, and loved ones. His compassionate spirit fostered a sense of camaraderie that transcended professional boundaries.

“My 28 years and contributions have been very enjoyable. Every year promised to bring more enjoyable experiences.”

We wish Eugene the happiest and best of times ahead! We are forever grateful for his years of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment and hope the days of retirement are filled with laughter, adventure, and well-deserved relaxation.

Honoring Janice Turner: 28 Years of Dedication and Grace

Thank you Janice Turner

for 28 years of service

Janice Turner—a true pillar of grace, dedication, and unwavering commitment. After twenty-eight remarkable years of service, Janice bids farewell to office life and begins a new one called retirement-life. Janice's journey with Stevens Transport began in May of 1994, when she first graced our halls as an Admin in Safety & Training. From the outset, it was clear that Janice possessed a rare combination of professionalism, poise, and an innate ability to being a nurturing and calm presence.

In 2003, Janice moved to the role of Assistant to Angela Aaron Horowitz, where her organizational skills and attention to detail shone brightly. “Janice worked for me over a decade, she supported me professionally in every way, always pleasant, positive with a can-do attitude. From sun- up to sun- down, Janice always wore a smile, went out of her way to help others and truly was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. I feel very blessed to have had the good fortune of knowing and working with Janice. We developed a very special relationship and more importantly friendship. I wish Janice all the best life has to offer, there is no one more deserving. But life took an unexpected turn, and Janice made the selfless decision to step away from Stevens Transport to care for her best friend through her final days—a testament to her unwavering compassion and kindness.

In 2013, Janice returned to Stevens Transport with open arms, joining the Driver Services team. It was here that she truly found her calling, explaining the intricacies of the payroll process to drivers with patience and understanding each day. But Janice's impact extended far beyond her job description; she became a mother figure to many, offering guidance, support, and a listening ear to all who sought her wisdom.

Janice is the epitome of grace—a woman who exudes elegance and charm in everything she does. Always dressed to perfection, her eloquence and class leave an indelible impression on all who have the pleasure of crossing her path. She is the definition of "all the greats," never having a bad day, and radiating positivity wherever she goes. Her legacy at Stevens Transport will forever be cherished, alongside her kindness and dedication.

Janice is looking forward to spending precious time with her husband of over twenty years, Bobby, and her beloved daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. May her days ahead be as beautiful as the grace she brought to Stevens Transport.

STEVENS TRANSPORT INTRODUCES

LIQUID BULK FOOD GRADE TANKERS

In a bold and innovative move, Stevens Transport has announced the introduction of a new food grade tanker division. This specialized division will focus on the movement of liquid bulk tanker products across the United States, with a keen emphasis on transporting high-value items such as liquids, chocolates, milk, and other special commodities that require food grade tankers.

The unveiling of this new service offering comes as a response to the growing demand for safe and reliable transportation of food-grade products. Leveraging state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge technologies, Stevens Transport is poised to set new standards of excellence in the industry.

Food grade tanker transportation plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and quality of perishable goods during transit. With stringent regulations governing the transportation of food products, companies are increasingly seeking trusted partners who can guarantee the safe and sanitary delivery of their goods. Stevens Transport's entry into this specialized niche market has already garnered significant attention from many Fortune 500 companies. These industry giants are recognizing the unparalleled expertise and capabilities that Stevens Transport brings to the table, making them the preferred choice for their food grade tanker transportation needs.

The most common commodities transported in liquid bulk food grade tankers include:

• Liquid chocolate and cocoa products

• Edible oils (such as vegetable oils, olive oil, palm oil)

• Juices and concentrates (such as orange juice, apple juice)

• Syrups and sweeteners (such as corn syrup, liquid sugar)

• Dairy products (such as milk, cream)

• Sugar alcohols

• Liquid food additives and flavorings

Some of the largest shippers who use liquid bulk food grade tanker services include major food manufacturers, beverage companies, and food distributors. Companies such as Cargill, Nestle, Hershey, Mars, Coca-Cola, and Kraft Heinz are among a few of the key players in the food and beverage industry that rely on liquid bulk food grade tanker services to transport their products efficiently and safely across the supply chain. These companies often partner with specialized transportation providers like Stevens Transport to ensure the secure and timely delivery of their liquid food products to different locations.

These tankers are required to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between loads to prevent contamination and ensure food safety. The cleaning process, often referred to as "tanker washout," typically involves rinsing the tanker with hot water and using specialized cleaning agents to remove any residues or contaminants. High-pressure cleaning equipment may also be used to ensure thorough cleaning. The loading and unloading of liquid bulk food grade tankers are typically conducted at specialized facilities equipped with the necessary infrastructure to maintain quality. Loading is often done through pumps or gravity feed systems. Unloading is typically done using similar methods, with the liquid being transferred from the tanker to storage tanks or directly into processing equipment.

With a strong customer demand and adjacent business synergies to our current customer base, the research, and demand for this highly specialized, differentiated service offering makes liquid bulk tanker services a perfect addition to our suite of transportation solutions and services. By focusing on precision, efficiency, and a strong commitment to quality, Stevens Transport is poised to become the next leader in the food grade tanker transportation space. Our dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted partner for companies looking to transport their most valuable and sensitive products.

WE HAVE NEW ADDITIONS TO OUR MILLI N MILE CLUB!

Stevens Transport is proud to have 753 drivers in the Million Mile Club. These drivers are in the top 10% of all drivers, all across the industry, and we are honored to have them as members of our driving force. The level of dedication and attention to safety that goes into the million miles these drivers have run is unmatched. Joining the million mile club is one of the highest achievements that a driver can earn. We are very thankful to have these incredible individuals as members of the Stevens Transport family, and we can’t thank them enough for all that they have done.

Congratulations to all!

4 MILLION SAFE MILES

FRANK NAGLEY

Congratulations Frank Nagley, Company Driver & Driver Trainer, on achieving 4 million miles! Frank, a proud U.S. Army Veteran, joined Stevens Transport in June 1992 following CDL training. Frank is a legend at Stevens Transport having been with us for over 30 years and training over 165 trainees since 2005. Three decades of professional service and commitment are unique and we are very grateful to have Frank as a valued part of the Stevens family as well as our second most senior driver. Frank became a truck driver after time in the hospitality industry and wanted to try something new. He is incredibly grateful to his wife of almost 30 years, Valerie, his family for always supporting him in his career path, and equally appreciative of many of the Stevens Transport family who have helped him over the years. Frank could write an amazing book about his incredible career as a professional driver with Stevens Transport and it would be a bestseller! His advice to those considering making a career change to transportation is to always pay attention to safety, focus on what you are doing, and take your time to help make the right decisions. He credits being structured, organized, and measured as characteristics that have greatly contributed to his success. Frank appreciates that Stevens Transport has always made sure miles or routes have been available, he was able to get home when needed, and has always had an open-door policy. For all of this, he is incredibly thankful. Franks also feels strongly that Stevens Transport takes care of all drivers but is especially accommodating to senior drivers to make sure they are supported in any situation. He is certain that having the will to work will get you the support you need. What he loves most about being a professional driver is the freedom and independence he feels on the road but when he is home, Frank loves spending time with his family and friends and riding motorcycles. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank Frank for 30 years of dedication, hard work, and loyalty. Congratulations, Frank!

3 MILLION SAFE MILES

MARIO WILLIAMS

Stevens Transport is proud to recognize Independent Contractor and Driver Trainer, Mario Williams, as our newest 3 Million Miler in the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame! Mario joined the Stevens Transport Family in 2005 and became an Independent Contractor in 2006. Averaging over 18K miles per month in 2023 and over 16K miles per month over the last decade, it is no wonder why Mario is referred to as one of our most consistent contractors at Stevens Transport! Intelligent, grounded, and goal oriented, these are some of the characteristics that make Mario incredibly reliable and dependable to so many. In his tenure as a trainer, Mario has shared his driving knowledge and business acumen with 215 trainees. His reputation as a driver and a trainer precedes him with many of our valued customers, fellow drivers, and the Stevens Transport Family. Mario does not view driving as work but instead as endless opportunities. Regimented and steadfast, he is a believer in the concept that if a person knows what he or she wants, it will position the person to be in the best scenario for how to make it happen. He applies this concept every day to how he drives, maintains an active and healthy lifestyle while on the road, and continues to create success in his business and life. Though fond of the Pacific Northwest, Mario calls every destination his favorite and has internal commentary to, “…just go” that contributes to his motivation and love for being on the road. We are so grateful for all you do! Congratulations Mario!

ONE MILLION MILES

Asuquo Antia

Congratulations to Asuquo Antia for reaching the remarkable milestone of driving one million miles in his exceptional trucking career! Asuquo is an Over the Road driver and Trainer for Stevens Transport. He completed his driver training at Lone Star College and joined the Stevens Transport Family in 2014. Originally drawn to Stevens Transport because of the extensive opportunities as a driver, he decided to become a Driver Trainer shortly after. His patience and focus not only make him an expert driver, but also a great trainer. He enjoys sharing his tips and knowledge of being on the road with his trainees. From his first mile, Asuquo made it a goal to become a Million Miler and join other great drivers in the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame. He is grateful for the recognition and has already set his mind on his next million! Asuquo is humble, kind, and drives to make his family proud. He encourages new drivers to find true patience and focus within themselves and from there, the possibilities are great. The independence, freedom, and new experiences keep Asuquo driving. He finds something new and wonderful in every place he goes and appreciates every moment.

TWO MILLION MILES richard wallace

Congratulations to Company Driver, Richard Wallace, for reaching the outstanding achievement of TWO million miles! Richard joins a very prestigious group of less than 160 elite drivers with two million miles, in the Stevens Transport Million Mile Haul of Fame! We are also incredibly grateful for Richard's 20 years of service! Born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, Richard grew up in a family of drivers and believes it was always his destiny to be a driver. His father and uncle laid a foundation of strong work ethics and dedication that led him to his success in the industry. Richard came to Stevens Transport in March 2004 after receiving his CDL at Stevens Driving Academy. When asked about his twenty years of service at Stevens, with a humble smile, Richard noted, “the two million miles and twenty years have gone by like a blink of an eye.” Our iconic and eye-catching fleet of trucks is what originally led him to Stevens, and over the years, he has had the pleasure of driving a variety of makes and models, enjoying them all. He credits Mr. Steve Aaron and his extensive knowledge of high-quality trucks for always keeping the drivers a step ahead of the rest and in the best trucks available. Richard is also very appreciative of Stevens Transport for their support teams and having great Driver Managers. When off the road, Richard enjoys relaxing with his family, taking just enough time to recharge and get back on the road. Knowledgeable, engaging, and considerate, he is present in every moment. His professionalism and dedication only scratch the surface to what makes Richard a remarkable representative of Stevens Transport and the industry!

ONE MILLION MILES

Robert D. Graham jr.

Congratulations to Robert Graham, Jr., Kraft Dedicated Company Driver, for reaching the incredible achievement of one million miles and his induction into the Stevens Transport Million Mile Haul of Fame! Robert is a graduate of Georgia Driver Academy and joined Stevens Transport in 2015. After a conversation with his uncle, a truck driver of over 32 years of whom he credits for giving him the advice and knowledge he uses daily, Robert decided transportation would also be his future. The superior and state of the art equipment, the support he receives, and the sincere belief in knowing Stevens Transport cares about his life on and off the road is motivating and meaningful to him. His energetic and championing spirit contributed to Robert also being named Dedicated Driver of the Month in January! Extremely proud to have his hard work recognized, Robert encourages new drivers to follow their dream, stay positive, and stay on the path they have set for themselves to be successful as a professional driver. When not on the road, Robert simply likes to have fun! He enjoys sports, time with family, great food, helping others, and focuses on always finding the positive in everyday moments.

ONE MILLION MILES Anthony Ejenihu

Congratulations to Anthony Ejenihu for achieving the great accomplishment of driving one million miles and his induction into the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame! Anthony started with Stevens Transport in April of 2017 after receiving his CDL from Lone Star College. Initially, Anthony had planned to stay for just a year, learn the industry and move on but the incredible opportunities and training Stevens Transport gives to its drivers changed his mind and is now a successful Independent Contractor and Trainer of seven years. Resilient and tenacious, he takes considerable pride in his business acumen and sharing his knowledge and tips shared with him. His advice to new drivers comes from a place of patience and dedication. “Take it mile by mile, day by day, and success will follow.” He believes driving is not just a job but a calling and a chance to explore and create experiences on life’s journey. With every mile he travels, Anthony captures moments, visits new places, and embraces the freedom that comes with life on the road. He is exceptionally grateful for the Stevens Transport family that has created a community of support and helped him reach milestones while continuing his successes as a driver.

DRIVER SPOTLIGHT JERMAINE ACY

Stevens Transport expresses its sincere appreciation for the exemplary dedication and exceptional work ethic demonstrated by Jermaine Acy.

Jermaine Acy's journey is one of resilience and adaptability. From growing up in challenging parts of Houston, Texas to navigating through various job opportunities, he found his calling in trucking with Stevens Transport. His story reflects the importance of seizing opportunities and persevering through challenges to create a better life for himself and his family. Raised in a single-parent household, Jermaine learned the value of hard work and determination early on. Despite the difficulties, his mother managed to raise him and his brothers well, instilling in them the importance of education and ambition.

Transitioning from the oil field to trucking was a

significant move for Jermaine. A downturn in the industry pushed him to look for options out of the need for stability and a steady income. After making his decision to pursue a career in trucking, he attended Lone Star College in Houston and obtained his CDL. Here, he underwent the training that shaped his skills and knowledge of the industry and laid a foundation for a career he wanted to pursue.

Joining Stevens Transport opened a new chapter in Jermaine's life. Through various experiences and interactions with colleagues and trainers, he honed his driving skills and embraced the challenges of the open road. His dedication and commitment to his job are evident in his longevity with the company, spanning over a decade. Jermaine's motivation stems from his desire to provide a better life for his children, breaking the cycle of hardship he experienced growing up. His reflections on his past and his aspirations for the future drive him forward, giving him a sense of purpose and determination in his work. When not on the road, Jermaine spends his time getting creative. From music to drawing, and learning to be a writer, he enjoys the creative side of things. An avid learner, he has also returned to his love of mechanical work, tapping into a skill passed down through his family.

Overcoming his past struggles with social interaction, Jermaine found support and encouragement from his wife and the team at Stevens Transport. Embracing the role of a trainer, he discovered the value of connection and mentorship, further enriching his personal and professional growth. As Jermaine reflects on his journey with Stevens Transport, he expresses great gratitude for the opportunities and is proud of the positive impact of his decision to pursue trucking. His story is an inspiration to others, highlighting the importance of perseverance, passion, and seizing opportunities in the pursuit of a fulfilling career and a better life.

A Farewell to Bill Fruit: Celebrating a Legacy of Dedication and Expertise at Paragon Leasing

After sixteen years of dedicated service to Paragon, Bill decided to embark on a new adventure called retirement. Bill's journey with Paragon began in 2008, when he first stepped into the Trailer Shop as a technician. From the onset, it was evident that Bill possessed a rare blend of skill, expertise, and dedication that set him apart. Specializing as a Thermo King technician, Bill quickly became Paragon's goto expert, tackling repairs and diagnostics with precision and finesse.

Day in and day out, Bill could be found in the box van service truck, whether it was repairing Thermo King units, instructing drivers on their operation, or imparting his knowledge to fellow technicians, Bill approached each task with the same level of diligence and passion. His calm demeanor, integrity, and willingness to lend a helping hand played out each day as a mentor, a friend, and a trusted advisor to all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

As Bill puts the days in the trailer shop behind him, he does so with a sense of fulfillment and contentment. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, knowing full well that he is leaving Paragon in good hands. He is looking forward to spending precious moments with his family, casting flyrods in mountain streams, and continuing his tireless service as a deacon at his church. It's a new chapter filled with endless possibilities and boundless adventures, and we wish him nothing but the best! Hoping his retirement will be filled with joy and countless blessings, Bill will always hold a special place in the heart of Paragon Leasing.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Bill

Armando Barrera Jr. - Leadman Truck Body Shop

We are happy to announce the March Employee of the Month for Paragon Leasing is Armando Barrera! Armando is our Leadman in the Truck Body Shop and has worked at Paragon Leasing since July 11, 2007. He is responsible for all fleet sales and the day-to-day production ensuring they are completed in a timely manner for our customers. He does an excellent job of providing quality service on the trucks before they reach our customers. Armando does a an outstanding job at encouraging our technicians to maintain the highest standards. Armando is highly respected and has a reputation of producing the best products for our customers. At the end of the day, our technicians know they’ve made a difference individually and as a team. We are grateful for his 16 years of service! His knowledge extends well beyond his role with Paragon and he is always ready to step in and help. Being dependable, efficient, and mindful, we can count on Armando to keep the shop on task and meeting all deadlines. He is highly skilled at fabricating interior parts when vendors are out of stock, saving the company money and time. Regularly looking to be cost effective, he continues to find new ways to reduce costs when working on our sales fleet. Paragon Leasing is very fortunate to have an employee like Armando! We are very proud of him and pleased to honor him with the March Employee of the Month for Paragon Leasing!

Congratulations Armando! We are so thankful for you!

Fruit - Trailer Technician 4

#MEETSTEVENS

Tanner Richardson - Driver Manager

Please join us in welcoming new Driver Manager, Tanner Richardson, to Stevens Transport! Tanner is from De Soto, TX, born and raised. He brings to Stevens Transport excellent experience in driver management and was encouraged to join Stevens by a good friend who is also a current employee of over five years! Tanner is excited for his role as Driver Manager, the challenges and excitement that will come with each day, and the new goals he plans on working towards. He sees Stevens Transport as a place he will be a part of for many years to come! When not in the office, Tanner is a dedicated family man and loves hanging out with his kids.

Welcome to the team, Tanner!

Suzanne Sacco - Rates Manager

Meet Suzy, our new Rates Manager! A true veteran of the transportation industry, Suzy comes to Stevens Transport with a seasoned level of experience in transportation analytics and pricing for various logistics companies. Furthermore, her tenured experience in transportation sales, operations, and supply chain solutions will drive value to our rates department as we add additional leadership support to match our strategy of continued expansion of services to our customers. Outside of work, Suzy enjoys time with her children and watching her favorite TV series, "Community."

Welcome to the team, Suzanne!

Jeremy LeBeau - Casualty Insurance Claims Manager

Please join us in welcoming Jeremy LeBeau, Casualty Insurance Claims Manager, to Stevens Transport! Jeremy, born and raised in Rowlett, TX, is excited to join the Stevens Team! He is a graduate of Texas A&M Commerce, holding a degree in Organizational Leadership. Jeremy has worked in insurance for many years and came to Stevens based on a family member's recommendation. He looks forward to getting to know everyone and contributing in the best way. He refers to himself as an open book and loves to see and help others succeed. When not in the office, you can find Jeremy playing with his two year old daughter, cooking, or playing guitar.

Welcome to the team, Jeremy!

Vanessa Sanchez - Detail Technician

Please welcome Vanessa Sanchez to the family as she joins the detail shop with Paragon Leasing. No stranger to physically taxing jobs, Vanessa, a Texas native, worked for a packaging company operating heavy equipment before finding her next home with Paragon, and is eager to see where her career leads as she learns the ins and outs of our fleet and the work that goes into making sure our trucks are clean and ready to roll! Her enthusiasm and readiness to engage coupled with her prior service experience, make her a valuable addition. Vanessa looks up to her mother most, who has been a guiding force and a source of constant support. Outside of work, Vanessa's passion lies in art, and especially drawing.

Welcome to the team, Vanessa!

Clarissa Martinez - Service Writer

Please welcome Clarissa Martinez as she joins the Service Writing team with Paragon Leasing. A Dallas, Texas native, Clarissa comes to us with extensive administrative and customer service experience in the health care field. Similar to her previous roles, she will be a primary point of contact to support our drivers for service-related questions and or concerns they may have when servicing their trucks and trailers on the yard. Clarissa enjoys working with people and providing superior customer service and communication. Outside of work, Clarissa is committed to health and fitness, regularly attending the gym, and finds enjoyment in cheering for her favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Welcome to the team, Clarissa!

Calvin Williams - Paragon Parts Specialist

We are so excited to welcome Calvin Williams, Parts Specialist, to the Paragon Leasing team! Calvin, a Dallas native, is an avid reader and believes greatly in the power of knowledge. He has great admiration for his father and enjoys cooking for his family. Calvin also loves working with his hands by building computers. He is a football guy but don't let the Dallas in him be your final answer. Calvin is a proud 49ers Fan!

Welcome to the team, Calvin!

STEVENS TRANSPORT

APRIL 2024

Kathy Whitaker - Accounting Department Manager - 40 years

Debbie Malison - Driver Payroll Coordinator - 39 years

Tracy Frederick - Freight Broker - 34 years

Wendy Timbes - A/R Billing Specialist - 33 years

Kip Gandy - Director of Safety - 29 years

Richard Bishop - Dispatch Planner 7/7 WC - 27 years

John Brandt - Sr. Programmer - 24 years

Mike Unser - 3rd Party Examiner - 24 years

Cindy Dennis - Work Injury Plan Coordinator - 22 years

Tammy Hogue - Owner Operator Insurance Coordinator - 21 years

Thomas Shoemate - Driver Classroom Facilitator - 20 years

Chad Muzzillo - Student Training Coordinator - 19 years

Lana Hall - I/C Bookkeeping Support - 18 years

Brian Ladd - Extended Operations Manager - 18 years

David Taylor - Safety Supervisor - 16 years

Keyshona Haggerty - Casualty Claims Adjuster - 14 years

Angela Price - EDI - Detention Coordinator - 11 years

Debbie Heath - Corporate Payroll Manager -6 years

Chelsea Ramirez - Assistant Director of Driver Recruiting - 6 years

Clayton Freeman - Accounting Manager - 6 years

Monica Gaut - Driver Payroll Coordinator - 6 years

Ken Stewart - Financial Controller - 5 years

Terry Miller - Casualty Claims Adjuster - 5 years

Jason Dinwiddie - Produce Support Manager - 5 years

Jade Abarca - Dispatch Planner MA - 5 years

Nick Graham - Comfort Zone Planner - 4 years

Chris Palin - I/C Business Advisor - 4 years

Joey Morico - Director of TL - 3 years

Michael Quentin - Freight Broker - 3 years

Raquel Carmon - Customer Service Representative - Meat - 2 years

Daniella Brooks - Driver Recruiting Department Manager - 2 years

Mateo Silva - Data Analyst - 2 years

Cameron Eberhart - 3rd Party Examiner - 2 years

Eugene Danbury - Regional Operations Manager - 2 years

Juan Valdez - Senior Graphic Designer - 2 years

Carl Aronson - Safety Supervisor - 1 year

Danielle Delaney - SR HR Generalist - 1 year

MAY 2024

Thavian Godwin - Dispatch Planner 7/7 Meat - 23 years

Russell Hogue - Driver Manager - Lease Contractors - 23 years

Tonya Nelson - Driver Recruiting Verifications - 20 years

Joshua Middleton - Service Specalist - Extended Ops - 19 years

Edward Johnson - Safety Supervisor - 12 years

Linda Koceja - I/C Bookkeeping Support - 10 years

Kevin Bradshaw - Service Specalist - Extended Ops - 10 years

Melvin Loveless - OS&D Adjuster - 7 years

Suzie Chasney - Claims Office Assistant - 7 years

Michael Johnson - Operations Manager - 7 years

Eric Miller - Lead Instructor - 7 years

Marc Bawcum - Comfort Zone Planner - 5 years

Christopher Harrison - Driver Operations Leader - 5 years

Bryan Douglas - Casualty Claims Adjuster - 3 years

Owen Eckblad - Driver Manager - CZ Fleet - 3 years

Ryan Vanderway - Operations Manager - 3 years

An Tran - PC Support - 3 years

John Keating - Broker - 3 years

Dave Barron - AS400 Sr. Developer - 2 years

Josh Rhodes - Director of Intermodal - 2 years

Christopher Garmon - Driver Manager - Company - 2 years

Arturo Quintero - Driver Manager - Dedicated - 2 years

Karen Cass - Service Specalist - Extended Ops - 2 years

Alex Green - Data Analyst - 2 years

Lacie Rowan - Accounting Coordinator - 2 years

Kei Siler - Field Recruiter - 1 year

JUNE 2024

Josephine Garza - Driver Recruiter / CSR - 25 years

Manuel Espinoza - Extended Operations - Shift 2 - 22 years

James Adams - Safety Training Supervisor - 21 years

William Motley - 3rd Party Examiner - 20 years

Morten Djerf - Instructor - 19 years

April Bergstrasser - I/C Settlements Support - 17 years

Carol Springer - Bill of Lading Coordinator - 17 years

Michael Jeffers - Driver Classroom Facilitator - 14 years

Bennett Aaron - VP - Contractor Division - 12 years

Troy Dailey - Student Training Coordinator - 11 years

Kayla Cooper - Customer Service Associate - 11 years

Patrisia Estrada - Dispatch Planner 7/7 Meat - 10 years

Richard Snody - 3rd Party Examiner - 9 years

Aileen Lucas - Customer Service Representative - Meat - 7 years

JUNE 2024 (continued)

Tracy Crite - Broker - 7 years

Tara McGee - I/C Relations Coordinator - 6 years

Melissa Lara - Service Specalist - 7/7 - 6 years

Christopher Nelson - Driver Manager - Lease Contractors - 6 years

Lisa Lantz - Broker - 6 years

Donald Taylor - Shuttle Driver - 5 years

Micah Daniels - Driver Operations Leader - 5 years

Geoff Maas - I/C Settlements Manager - 4 years

Anissa Willie - I/C Business Advisor - 4 years

Sam Freni - Executive Vice President - 4 years

Theresa Vargas - I/C Bookkeeping Support - 3 years

Erin Day - Customer Service Representative - Coke - 3 years

Carly Griffith - Customer Service Representative - Dedicated - 3 years

John Rebone - Driver Operations Junior Lead - CD - 3 years

Timothy Stephens - Extended Operations - Shift 1 - 7/7 - 3 years

Jack Mcdonald - Safety Supervisor - 3 years

Zeze Imasekha - Senior Accountant - 3 years

Nicholas Nguyen - Rates Team Lead - 3 years

Amy Whitlow - Accounting Coordinator - 3 years

Ashley Burnside - Broker - 3 years

Bryant Sims - Driver Manager - Dedicated - 2 years

Jessica White - Redshirt Instructor - 2 years

Brandie Mancini - Student Training Counselor - 2 years

Devin Robillard - Driver Manager - Lease Contractors - 2 years

Stephen LeComte - Driver Recruiting Department Manager - 2 years

Alyson Garofalo - Customer Service Manager & Special Projects - 2 years

Grayson Logan - Broker - 2 years

Richie Henderson - Chief Financial Officer - 1 year

Dominique Granucci - Operations Driver Manager in Training - 1 year

Cory Wallen - Operations Dispatch Planner - 1 year

PARAGON LEASING

APRIL 2024

Emir Dizdarevic - Truck Shop Lead - 26 years

Juan Monsivais - Trailer Technician - 24 years

David Cepak - Senior Trailer Shop Manager - 21 years

Chad Rangel - Tractor Body Technician - 17 years

Fraunce Goree - Road Assist Coordinator - 16 years

Oscar Jaramillo - Tractor Technician - 14 years

Kayla Valdez - Administrative Assistant - 7 years

Martavious Tarver - Detail Technician - 7 years

Caine Braswell - Equipment Manager - 3 years

Marvin Smith - Trailer Technician - 2 years

Jafarie Powell - Storage Coordinator - 2 years

Omar Diaz - Trailer Technician - 1 year

Aaron Castaneda - Equipment Inspector - 1 year

MAY 2024

Julie Davis - Adminstrative Assistant - 20 years

Bill Fruit - Trailer Technician 4 - 16 years

Tracy Shiplett - Road Rescue Service Technician - 10 years

Allan Itzep-Asig - Tractor Technician 4 - 8 years

Dillon Shiplett - Tire Technician 1- 6 years

Jimmy Trevino - Director of Maintenance - 4 years

Fred Darr - Service Writer - 3 years

Jamee Hampton - Parts Clerk 1 - 2 years

Roberto Torres - Tractor Technician 1 - 2 years

Blaine Carter - Road Assist Coordinator 2 - 2 years

Joel Alvarez - Tractor Body Technician 1 - 1 year

Austin Summerall - Tractor Technician 2 - 1 year

Joey Hinkle - Senior Director of Maintenance - 1 year

JUNE 2024

Artis Molett - Yard Coordinator - 33 years

Ekrem Salic - Tractor Technician 3 - 25 years

Millie Braucht - Adminstrative Assistant - 22 years

Senad Dedovic - Tractor Technician 2 - 21 years

Melvin Loveless - Service Writer - 12 years

Pedro Barillas - Trailer Shop Lead - 10 years

Timothy Simmons - Mechanic A - 10 years

Christina Guillory - Service Writer - 9 years

Douglas Call - Tire Technician 2 - 9 years

Marijan Pranjic - Wash Technician 1 - 5 years

Claude Decker - Yard Maintenance - 5 years

Arnisha Harris - Data Entry Clerk - 3 years

Christopher Saenz - Detail Technician 1 - 2 years

Greg Garwood - Parts Clerk 1 - 2 years

Timothy White - Road Assist Coordinator 2 - 2 years

Martin Karanja - Equipment Inspector - 2 years

James Fuller - Tractor Technician 4 - 1 year

DECEMBER

Driver AWARDS - 2023

Corey Erwin 1st Place

Company Driver of the Month

Michael May Runner-Up Company Driver of the Month

Crystal Nelson 1st Place

Contractor of the Month

Hassan Assani Bisilongo Runner-Up Contractor of the Month

Marcus Summerville 1st Place

Grad Driver of the Month

Diego Montemayor Runner-Up

Grad Driver of the Month

Nicolae Pielea and Vlad Pielea Team Drivers of the Month

Denzil Anderson Owner Operator of the Month

Roddy Lambeth 1st Place Trainer Driver of the Month

Jeffrey Bolton Runner-Up Trainer Driver of the Month

Fredie Hardy 1st Place Dedicated Driver of the Month

Trung Nguyen Runner-Up Dedicated Driver of the Month

JANUARY

Driver AWARDS - 2024

John Stout 1st Place

Company Driver of the Month

Ranferi Briones Runner-Up

Company Driver of the Month

Kierre Marshall 1st Place

Contractor of the Month

Marquise Smith Runner-Up Contractor of the Month

Brady Taylor 1st Place

Grad Driver of the Month

Joshua Dees Runner-Up Grad Driver of the Month

Lucas Thompson and Johnathan Arey Team Drivers of the Month

David Kathriner Owner Operator of the Month

Kadeem Edgehill 1st Place

Trainer Driver of the Month

Andrew "Drew" Adams Runner-Up Trainer Driver of the Month

Robert Graham Jr. 1st Place

Dedicated Driver of the Month

Douglas Barriger Runner-Up

Dedicated Driver of the Month

FEBRUARY

Driver AWARDS - 2024

Eric Clark 1st Place

Company Driver of the Month

Charles Dill Runner-Up

Company Driver of the Month

James Ratliff 1st Place

Contractor of the Month

Corey Harrist Runner-Up

Contractor of the Month

Carlos Gonzalez Martinez 1st Place

Grad Driver of the Month

Christopher Tezeno Runner-Up

Grad Driver of the Month

Liane and Roderick Thompson Team Drivers of the Month

Michael Richardson Owner Operator of the Month

John Anderson III 1st Place Trainer Driver of the Month

Ruben Guzman Runner-Up Trainer Driver of the Month

Jose Alberto 1st Place

Dedicated Driver of the Month

Timothy Wilkerson Runner-Up Dedicated Driver of the Month