Groendyke Announces Regional Drivers of the Year

Please join us in congratulating Groendyke Transport’s Regional Drivers of the Year!

• Western Region: Chris Antonio, Albuquerque

• Central Region: Heath Lietzke, Wichita

• Gulf Region: Travis Smart, Mobile

• Eastern Region: Akeyra Green, Red Team

Why it matters: Each of these drivers had the best Safety Dashboard and Samsara coaching scores in their region for 2023. They also achieved Best in Class Safe Driver honors in our RALF & Reviews program.

What’s next: One of these outstanding drivers will be chosen as Groendyke’s Company Driver of the Year. The winner will be announced at the Company Safety and Recognition Awards Banquet on June 22 in Enid.

• Each driver will be presented with a plaque, a custom jacket, and other prizes during the event.

What they’re saying: “These drivers had exceptional safety metrics across the board in 2023 and are only separated by 0.03 points!” said Chris Pape, Vice President of Safety and Training. “They proved they were the safest drivers in our incredibly safe fleet, and we couldn’t be more proud of each of them.”

Go deeper: These drivers may vary in experience, but all of them have shown exemplary skill, outstanding professionalism, and relentless integrity during their time at Groendyke Transport.

• Chris Antonio: A 17-year veteran at Groendyke, Chris is a role model to the drivers at his terminal. He takes them under his wing with a positive attitude and enjoys sharing his knowledge for the betterment of the team. He is an advocate for safety at his terminal, constantly reminding his fellow employees there are no safe shortcuts. He is patient, understanding, and caring, always wishing success and happiness to those around him.

• Heath Lietzke: Heath has driven 22 years for Groendyke without an at-fault accident as a 20-year member of our prestigious President's Club. He takes great pride in his track record and exhibits relentless integrity in his safety practices. He is also proud to have trained three drivers who went on to make Groendyke's President's Club. He has represented Groendyke by helping facilitate first-responder training for the Kansas Highway Patrol as well.

• Travis Smart: After only two years with Groendyke, Travis has already made his mark as a positive, focused leader at his terminal. He greets every day and every person with a smile and keeps his eye on the big picture, even during difficult times. He loves helping his fellow drivers and looks forward to becoming a driver instructor in the near future.

• Akeyra Green: Akeyra may only have two years under her belt at Groendyke, but she's already worked her way up to driver instructor for our Red Team - our group of elite OTR drivers. From inspection and upkeep of her equipment to instruction and delivering loads, Akeyra's meticulous nature and commitment to safety have shined. Despite her brief time as a driver, she has gained the respect of her peers and has shown courageous leadership in helping others achieve their goals.