At the corporate office, located in McDonough, Georgia, the company unveiled the “Spirit of Bennett,” a one-of-a-kind custom designed and wrapped Kenworth truck commemorating the company’s 40th anniversary. The truck is a gift to the company owners and those who have contributed to the company’s success, and it serves as a constant and visual reminder of the company’s first 40 years. Members of the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders were on hand to help celebrate as the “Spirit of Bennett” took center stage at the event and drivers and employees saw the truck for the first time.
David Pittman, chief operating officer and chief financial officer, said the truck was envisioned to mark the milestone and is a source of pride for all who are connected with Bennett.
“It’s a beautiful truck that everyone will be proud to see as it rolls down the road,” Pittman said. “It’s something we all share and another way to show others who we are as a company.”
In addition, signatures of current Bennett employees will be added to the design of the truck before it hits the highways.
Marcia Taylor, president, addressed the crowd about the company’s new “Women In the Driver’s Seat” program. Bennett women drivers and women employees in all company locations across the U.S. donned the signature “Women in the Driver’s Seat” blue shirts and visors. Taylor acknowledged Potter for being selected as the Women in Trucking Member of the Month for August 2014, and new members of the President’s Million Mile Club were also recognized.
Ellen Voie, president of Women In Trucking, joined the celebration to help kick off the Women in the Driver’s Seat program. She made a special presentation to Potter for being selected as the Judges Choice winner in the Women In Trucking’s “I Heart Trucking” video contest.
Also during the festivities, drivers showed off their polished rigs in a “Show and Shine” contest. Winners were announced in four categories: Classic Truck – Ben Cadle, Work Truck – Guerin St. Hilaire, Show Truck – Chuck Malinski, and Viewer’s Choice – David Gruel. The winners were awarded a trophy and cash prizes.
A raffle was held with the proceeds going to Bennett’s Driver Relief Fund, a fund set up by drivers for drivers offering financial assistance during times of need. Several raffle winners won Pace Car Victory Laps and satisfied their need for speed at Atlanta Motor Speedway later that afternoon.
