#USA #Northfield #Medline #MedTrans #National Truck Rodeo

Celebrating the Stars of the Road: Medline's National Truck Rodeo 2025

Medline Industries, a leader in medical-surgical products, recently concluded its third annual MedTrans National Truck Rodeo in Northfield, Illinois. This event is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of the dedication, skills, and commitment of MedTrans drivers who ensure timely deliveries across the United States.

With a fleet of over 2,000 drivers, MedTrans plays a crucial role in Medline's promise to deliver medical supplies to 95% of its U.S. customers the very next day. The Rodeo has emerged as a significant event that emphasizes safety and technical prowess among drivers, featuring competitions in various categories.

Jeff Brennan, VP of Transportation for Medline, emphasized the company's pride in maintaining its own delivery service rather than subcontracting it to third-party providers. "Our drivers are the visible face of Medline," he stated, highlighting their dedication and resilience in all weather conditions. The MedTrans team exemplifies Medline's cultural values, demonstrating a commitment to safety and technical excellence. The annual Rodeo promotes camaraderie, encouraging teams to support each other while fostering a spirit of friendly competition aimed at continuous improvement.

A Series of Regional Competitions

Before the grand event, Medline hosted five regional rodeos attended by drivers and their families at various facilities across the country. These local competitions were integral in identifying the best drivers, who were then given the opportunity to compete for larger prizes at the National Truck Rodeo. Each first-place winner from the region was awarded $1,500, followed by a chance to compete nationally for a share of the impressive $15,000 prize pool.

Celebrating Winners

Winners were announced in three categories: National Class A, National Class B, and National Parcel Truck. Each category showcased the versatility and skills of the drivers:

• - National Class A: First prize went to Kevin English from St. Peters, MO, who dedicated 20 years to driving, with two years at MedTrans. He reflected, "Winning this Rodeo means that all those years of driving have paid off in more than just a paycheck. It validates my skills in improving healthcare delivery."
• - National Class B: Phillip Alongi from Kansas City, MO took home the top prize, emphasizing the value of work-life balance that MedTrans offers, saying, "Participating in the National Truck Rodeo has been an incredible opportunity to showcase my skills."
• - National Parcel Truck: Robert Villa Remijio from Goodyear, AZ earned the first prize, stating, "This win reflects my personal growth and the incredible support from my family."

The second and third place winners in each category also shared their experiences, underlining the supportive nature of MedTrans and the rewarding skills they’ve honed through their years of service.

A Commitment to Safety and Culture

Medline’s investment in the National Truck Rodeo goes beyond recognition; it illustrates a commitment to workplace safety and employee engagement. The event inspires over 2,000 drivers to focus on technical skills, fostering an environment where excellence is recognized and celebrated.

The standout performances at the Rodeo not only spotlight individual talents but also strengthen the collective ethos of the fleet, ultimately enhancing Medline's overall operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

As Medline continues to grow and serve the healthcare sector, its drivers remain at the heart of its operations, embodying the principles of reliability, commitment, and professionalism. The National Truck Rodeo has successfully become a hallmark of this culture, inspiring drivers year after year to elevate their skills and contribute actively to the success of the healthcare supply chain.

For Medline, the rodeo is not just a competition; it is a representation of how dedicated drivers can influence healthcare logistics positively and a testimony to the company's mission to improve efficiency throughout the industry.