Each week, TruckNews.com lists notable events, promotions and awards in the trucking industry.
This week, Vipar’s vice-president of business development announced his retirement after nearly two decades with the company. Musket Transport and its CHET driving school hosted an inclusive Pride event and career showcase for LGBTQ2S+ community. Meanwhile, Martin Brower’s Alexey Khorev won Samsara’s award for top Canadian driver.
Martin Brower’s Khorev gets Samsara’s COA
Alexey Khorev of Martin Brower has been named Canada’s Top Driver in Samsara’s 2025 Connected Operations Awards, recognized for his outstanding safety record, delivery performance, and customer service.
Khorev, who operates in the Greater Toronto Area, achieved a perfect safety score of 100 and a 98.2% on-time delivery rate — surpassing the company’s target by 3.2% — despite navigating one of the country’s most congested urban environments. Over an 11-month period, he recorded zero harsh driving events and only 0.2% in speeding incidents.
According to Martin Brower’s internal scoring system, Khorev earned a 107/100 score, with bonus points awarded for reducing idling by 60% beyond the company’s benchmark and maintaining a flawless safety record.
“He navigates Toronto’s suggested streets with unmatched ease, keeping idling impressively low, as well as building trust with his customers,” award presenters said during Samsara’s Beyond 2025 event in San Diego, Calif.
Martin Brower’s team accepted the award on Khorev’s behalf during the conference on June 25.
Musket, CHET celebrate Pride
Musket Transport and Commercial Heavy Equipment Training (CHET) hosted a Pride event and career showcase at CHET’s Burlington campus to promote diversity and inclusion in the trucking industry.
The event, held during Pride Month, drew industry representatives, LGBTQ2S+ organizations, and government officials for a day of hands-on demonstrations, career exploration, and dialogue around equity in the skilled trades, according to a news release.
The event allowed guests to explore A/Z and D/Z training paths, meet CHET’s driver management team, and discuss job opportunities with on-site recruiters.
“Events like this showcase how open and welcoming the trucking and logistics can be,” said Craig Faucette, chief program officer at Trucking HR Canada, in the release.
Effie J. Triantafilopoulos, MPP for Oakville North–Burlington and parliamentary assistant to the minister of tourism, culture and gaming, also attended the event and voiced support for industry efforts to build inclusive workplaces. “Whether we’re celebrating Pride or investing in careers through programs like heavy equipment apprenticeships, we’re creating a province where everyone — regardless of identity — can thrive,” she said.
Sophia Sniegowski Begidzhanov, corporate communications officer for Musket, added the event was part of a broader effort to challenge stereotypes in the transportation industry. “At Musket and CHET, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that welcomes individuals of all gender identities, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and backgrounds,” she said.
Pennig to retire from Vipar Heavy Duty after nearly 20 years
Jim Pennig will retire from his role as vice-president of business development at Vipar Heavy Duty, effective June 30, the company announced.
Pennig has been part of the executive leadership team for nearly two decades, contributing to the growth of both the Vipar Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks. His efforts included expanding the company’s footprint in Mexico and Latin America and laying the groundwork for its national accounts program, according to a news release.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, president and CEO of Vipar Heavy Duty, in a release. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
Joe Meyer, currently program manager and a member of the company since 2018, will succeed Pennig as vice-president of business development. Meyer brings more than 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket. The company says Pennig and Meyer have worked closely to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
