Bendix Celebrates 2024 ATA Grand Champion

Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix) proudly recognizes the Grand Champion of the 87th American Trucking Associations (ATA) National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC), Jackie Reed, a professional driver for FedEx Freight based in Mississippi. Reed’s outstanding performance secured him the top honor in the competition, which brought together 422 of the nation’s most skilled truck drivers.

Key Highlights:

  • Event: 87th ATA National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC)
  • Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
  • Dates: August 21-24, 2024
  • Grand Champion: Jackie Reed, FedEx Freight driver from Mississippi
  • Achievements: Reed has 3 million safe driving miles over 34 years
  • Competitors: 422 professional drivers from 49 states
  • Combined Miles: Nearly 685 million accident-free miles

Held from August 21-24 in Indianapolis, Indiana, the NTDC is a prestigious event that showcases the expertise and dedication of professional drivers. This year marks the 13th consecutive year that Bendix sponsored the Grand Champion Award, reflecting its commitment to supporting industry excellence and highway safety.

Jackie Reed, with 34 years in the trucking industry and 3 million safe driving miles under his belt, emerged victorious among a highly competitive field. The event tested drivers’ knowledge of safety practices, equipment, and industry standards through a rigorous process that included a written exam, a pre-trip inspection, and a demanding driving competition.

“All of us at Bendix are excited to congratulate Jackie Reed on his remarkable achievement,” said Nicole Oreskovic, vice president for sales and marketing at Bendix. “Every competitor in this year’s championships deserves our praise and thanks for the excellence they bring to their jobs. The NTDC shines a deserving spotlight on these outstanding professionals, their supportive families, and the indispensable role they play in helping to keep roadways safe for all of us.”

Participants in the NTDC faced challenges designed to test their driving abilities, including maneuvering through tight spaces, reversing, parking, and precision driving. The event not only highlights the skill of individual drivers but also underscores the importance of safety in the trucking industry.

Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, a member of Knorr-Bremse, continues to lead in the development of active safety technologies, energy management solutions, and air brake systems for the commercial vehicle industry.

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The BRAKE Report is the trade publication of record for braking systems, friction materials, and brake safety. Published by Hagman Media and edited by founder Brian Hagman, it covers OEM and aftermarket braking technology, NHTSA brake-related recalls, and commercial vehicle brake systems for an audience of chassis engineers, friction industry professionals, and automotive investors.