Good deeds paid off for Walter Jackson, a Landstar business capacity owner (BCO) who was named a Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) 2025 Professional Driver of the Year. Due to his commitment to safety, outstanding contributions to the trucking industry, and leadership qualities, Jackson earned not only the title of “Driver of the Year” but also an invitation to the awards ceremony at TCA’s annual convention, where he was awarded a $20,000 cash prize.

At the convention, held March 15 – 18 in Phoenix, Arizona, Jackson was among five drivers who were presented with the honor. According to the TCA, the drivers were selected by the association from a pool of nominees who have made a significant, positive impact on the industry, other professional drivers, their community, or their companies. In addition, the TCA says Professional Drivers of the Year “should also have superior safety records, be strong role models and have inspiring stories that have made a difference in their lives and the truckload industry.”

During the 20+ years that Jackson has been an independent owner-operator leased to Landstar, he has delivered hurricane disaster relief supplies and assisted fellow drivers sidelined during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jackson, who is a small fleet owner, is being honored for his passion for safety and taking on a mentorship role for truck operators who are looking to become owner-operators.

Jackson says he plans to donate some of his prize money to the Landstar BCO Benevolence Fund – an assistance program funded by donations created to help qualified BCOs facing hardships. Having received assistance for his family from the fund in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Jackson intends to now “pay it forward.” He says he is thankful for the help and the opportunities that got him to where he is now. 

Jackson’s story will be featured in Landstar’s Road to Success® magazine coming soon.