The modern transportation industry is a critical pillar of the nation’s economy, with an even deeper impact on communities and families. For the eighth consecutive year, Fleet Advantage sponsored the Kids Essay Contest at the 2024 International Foodservice Distributor Association’s (IFDA) National Championship, reinforcing the company’s commitment to recognizing the importance of drivers and warehouse staff who keep the supply chain moving.

The IFDA National Championship remains a top event in the foodservice distribution industry, bringing together the most skilled drivers and warehouse operators to compete and demonstrate their expertise in driving, warehouse operations, safety and operational efficiency. The event provides a platform for these professionals to highlight their critical role in ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods in today’s economy.

“Recognizing the contributions of our nation’s drivers and warehouse operators is central to Fleet Advantage’s values,” said Katerina Jones, Chief Marketing Officer for Fleet Advantage. “Their hard work and dedication are not only essential to keeping our economy running but also to strengthening the communities in which we live. Through our continued sponsorship of the Kids Essay Contest, we aim to shine a spotlight on the personal stories behind the professionals who move America forward.”

A notable part of the three-day event, Fleet Advantage is the inaugural co-organizer and has been a sponsor and judge of the event’s annual Kids Essay Contest for the past eight years, where children of participants are encouraged to share why they are proud of their driver parent(s) or guardian(s). The contest once again provided an opportunity to celebrate the personal sacrifices made by these industry professionals and their families.

“For eight years running, IFDA has been fortunate to have the opportunity to partner with Fleet Advantage to host the Kids Contest at the IFDA National Championship,” said Lisa Broyhill, Vice President of Industry Relations for the International Foodservice Distributor Association. “This year, we received nearly 100 drawing and essay entries, the highest number to date. We would like to congratulate all the winners and extend our heartfelt thanks to Fleet Advantage for their continued support of this fun and momentous contest for our competitors' families.”

After evaluating numerous outstanding essays that showcased exceptional writing skills and creativity, it was determined that McKenzie Harden (12th grade, parent Marvin Harden driving for Performance Food Group) won first place in the 9th-12th grade category. “My dad has not only taught me life skills of not only, “what the boys can do,” but life skills of morals, compassion, respect and last but not least, “wearing your heart on your sleeve,” said McKenzie Harden in her essay.

In the 6th-8th grade category, Andrew Aylas (8th grade, parent Steve Aylas driving for Performance Food Group) secured first place, while Elijah Oliver (4th grade, parent Justin Oliver driving for Cheney Brothers) took top honors in the 3rd-5th grade category. Andrew said, “My dad has been there for me through my highs and lows. His love for me is always the reason I am successful in many things. I say this because he shows me how much he supports me in anything that I do.” Elijah commented that “My competitor is my hero because he works very hard for me and my family, he is a kind person in general and is very talented at truck driving. I am so lucky to be his son.”

These young participants demonstrated remarkable creativity in expressing their pride in their driver and operator parents’ dedication to the distribution of goods and services across the country.