Richard Fertig Honored After More Than 3 Million Safe Trucking Miles

Richard Fertig's career offers a long-view example of professional driving built around patience, preparation and service. TheTrucker.com profiled the Smith Transport driver on September 6 after the Truckload Carriers Association selected him as one of five 2026 Professional Drivers of the Year. The recognition honors safety, leadership and community impact.

Fertig has logged more than 3 million safe miles during a trucking career spanning roughly 28 years. He joined Smith Transport in 2005 after serving 23 years in the U.S. Army. His work has included regular retail deliveries across parts of Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland and New Jersey, requiring consistent performance across changing routes and conditions.

His contribution extends beyond mileage. Fertig mentors other drivers and participates in Make-A-Wish convoys, Touch-a-Truck programs, Wreaths Across America and events supporting veterans. A tractor decorated as a tribute to Vietnam veterans has helped turn routine stops into opportunities for conversation and remembrance. TCA's award program also provided each 2026 honoree with a $20,000 prize.

For newer CDL drivers, the practical lesson is straightforward: safe careers are accumulated one decision at a time. Following distance, speed management, complete inspections and refusing to rush are more important than chasing a single fast trip. Carriers can reinforce that standard by recognizing mentors, protecting realistic schedules and measuring preventable events alongside productivity. Fertig's record shows how technical skill, calm judgment and community involvement can make a driver valuable far beyond the number of miles completed.