Goodyear seeking “Highway Hero”
The search for the 42nd Goodyear Highway Hero has begun.
Goodyear started its annual recognition of professional drivers who go beyond their daily responsibilities to protect others in 1983.
“Truck drivers are the unsung heroes of our roads and communities,” Joe Stuglis, vice president, Commercial Sales North America, Goodyear, said. “For more than four decades, the Highway Hero Award has celebrated those who step up in critical moments to protect others. We’re proud to continue this tradition and shine a spotlight on their inspiring stories.”
Through Jan. 31, 2026, Goodyear is accepting nominations for drivers who have “demonstrated exceptional courage while on the job.”
Eligible nominees must hold a valid commercial driver’s license and operate qualifying commercial vehicles, including long-haul trucks, vocational vehicles, infrastructure trucks and non-lifesaving emergency vehicles with rim sizes greater than 19 inches.
The heroic act must have occurred between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025, while the driver was on duty in the U.S. or Canada.
Nominate a Goodyear Highway Hero.
Submissions will be reviewed and approved by Goodyear before a panel of judges selects the winner and up to two finalists.
Goodyear said it will announce the winner, who will receive a cash prize and ride aboard the iconic Goodyear Blimp, in early 2026.
Finalists will also receive cash prizes for their courageous actions.
J.B. Hunt driver, Adam Medley of Omro, Wisc., was named Goodyear Highway Hero in 2025.
Medley was on a county road in Green Lake, Wis., when he noticed something on the road in the distance. It was approximately 2 a.m., so he thought it could have been anything from wildlife to garbage.
“I knew something was wrong, but it was dark, so I wasn’t sure if someone lost a trash bag or something fell out of someone’s boat or anything like that,” Medley said. “Once I got close enough to see, I thought, ‘Deer don’t wear denim.’”
Medley realized what he’d seen actually was a person lying in the road. Medley safely pulled over and helped the individual off the road. He also called local police, who took control of the situation upon arrival.
“In a moment where every second counted, Adam put the safety and well-being of others first,” said Nick Hobbs, chief operating officer at J.B. Hunt. “His actions exemplified integrity and selflessness, and we are excited that Goodyear has recognized him with this year’s Highway Hero Award.”
More information about the Highway Hero is available on the Goodyear website. LL