The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) is proud to kick off Truck Driver Appreciation Week, a time to recognize the professional drivers whose dedication, skill, and commitment keep America moving every day.

From early mornings and long miles to navigating challenging roads, demanding schedules, and time away from home, truck drivers play an essential role in keeping businesses supplied, communities connected, and the nation’s economy moving forward.

Throughout Truck Driver Appreciation Week, MATS will celebrate the men and women behind the wheel who make a difference every day. Stay tuned throughout the week for special updates, stories, and opportunities to recognize the drivers who keep our industry moving.

Nominate a Driver Who Deserves Recognition

MATS is also inviting members of the trucking community to help shine a spotlight on exceptional drivers.

Do you know a truck driver who goes above and beyond? Maybe they’re a veteran driver who has spent decades behind the wheel, a professional who consistently puts safety first, a driver who supports their fellow drivers, or someone whose dedication and positive attitude make a difference every day.

Submit a truck driver you believe deserves recognition through the MATS Truck Driver Appreciation submission form: Submit a Driver for Recognition

MATS will highlight selected drivers throughout Truck Driver Appreciation Week, with each driver receiving free VIP passes to the 2027 show.

“Truck drivers are the backbone of our industry and an essential part of our everyday lives,” said Toby Young, President of the Mid-America Trucking Show. “Truck Driver Appreciation Week gives us an opportunity to recognize their professionalism, sacrifice, and dedication. We encourage everyone in the trucking community to take a moment to thank a driver and share the stories of those who deserve to be recognized.”

For more than five decades, MATS has brought together the people, companies, and organizations that make trucking one of the most important industries in North America. Truck Driver Appreciation Week is another opportunity to celebrate the people at the center of that community.

Follow MATS throughout the week for more driver recognition, stories, and updates.

About MATS

Since 1972, the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) has grown to be the world’s largest and longest-running annual heavy-duty trucking event. MATS is the place to experience everything from new technologies to networking with industry thought leaders. This is where the industry’s largest brands and promising startups do business, form partnerships, and make meaningful connections. More than 800 exhibitors and 50,000 attendees are expected from across the globe at MATS this year, making it the education and innovation epicenter of the trucking industry. The entire industry connects at MATS 55 on March 18-20, 2027.