Key takeaways from inaugural Top Fleet Employer Scholarship applications
By Rebecka Freels, Chief Communications Officer, Trucking HR Canada
When we invited students to tell us how their parents’ work in trucking and logistics had shaped their lives as part of a scholarship application, we expected thoughtful entries. What we received went well beyond our expectations: personal stories full of pride, gratitude, and an understanding of our sector that would move even its most seasoned leaders.
The inaugural Samsara–THRC Top Fleet Employers Scholarship asked post-secondary students whose parent or guardian works for a current Top Fleet Employer (TFE) to share that experience in a video of two minutes or less.
Top Fleet Employers is a Trucking HR Canada initiative that recognizes fleets that set the standard for workplace excellence in Canada’s trucking and logistics sector. The scholarship is just one of the many exclusive perks available to TFEs.
One student described his truck driver dad who sends photos and videos from across Canada, keeping his family connected wherever the road takes him. Another remembered colouring in her mother’s office at five, only later appreciating her work to keep drivers on the road and goods moving. A third recalled hearing from her father’s colleague about how much his dedication meant to his team.
Others shared how a parent’s first job in Canadian trucking and logistics helped their family build a new life after immigrating. They spoke with gratitude for the opportunities that followed, including their own education.
What struck me was how much these students understood about work that often goes unnoticed by the public. They saw their parents’ commitment, understood the sacrifices, took pride in contributing to Canadian communities — and overall, how they played a pivotal role in making big things possible.
The submissions were so compelling, that thanks to Samsara, we were able to double the funding, turning one $5,000 scholarship into three awards totalling $10,000.
At our Top Fleet Employers Awards Gala in Toronto on October 14, we had the pleasure of recognizing Jillian Rust of St. Thomas University with the $5,000 scholarship, Heysha Makwana of McMaster University with $3,000, and Nikolay Sazanovich of the University of Alberta with $2,000. Their parents work for RST Sunbury Transport, Armour Transportation Systems, and Big Freight Systems, respectively.
Choosing recipients was difficult. My thanks to our fellow judges from TruckNews.com, the Private Motor Truck Council of Canada, and Samsara for the careful thought and attention they gave the submissions.
These students reminded me that the stories we want people to hear about trucking are already being told around kitchen tables and within families across Canada. Their pride should give all of us something to build on.
Watch the video featuring highlights from the three successful scholarship recipients’ applications. I hope their stories inspire you as much as they inspired us. And, find out more about Top Fleet Employers which is now accepting applications for 2027.
Rebecka Freels is Chief Communications Officer at Trucking HR Canada. THRC is a national not-for-profit organization that advances modern HR solutions that are evidence-based and best-in-class, ensuring Canada’s road transportation sector has the skilled and engaged workforce needed for today and into the future. Learn more at truckinghr.com, subscribe to our weekly newsletter and follow us on social media @TruckingHR for the latest tips, practical resources, and more. Email us at info@truckinghr.com
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