The transportation team members who keep Tyson Foods moving safely and efficiently every day don’t often seek the spotlight. But at this year’s Arkansas Trucking Championship, three of them earned well-deserved recognition for the skill, professionalism and leadership they demonstrate on the job each and every day.

Hosted by the Arkansas Trucking Association (ATA), the annual competition brings together some of the state’s top transportation professionals to test their knowledge, technical expertise and problem-solving abilities through a series of written exams and hands-on challenges. This year, the Tyson Foods team stood out in the field, bringing home a championship title and two sportsmanship awards.

A Championship Performance

Jordan Burris, a mechanic based in Russellville, Arkansas, earned the title of 2026 Trailer Technician Grand Champion, the highest honor awarded in the trailer technician division.

The competition challenged participants across multiple areas of trailer maintenance and repair, testing the knowledge and skills required to keep commercial equipment operating safely and reliably. Jordan claimed first-place finishes in the Alignment and Tire Inflation categories and earned second place in Tire & Wheel Analysis, securing the overall championship title.

His performance also earned him the opportunity to represent Arkansas at SuperTech 2026, the National Technician Skills Competition, where he will compete against fellow top technicians from across the country.

Recognized for Leadership and Sportsmanship

The Arkansas Trucking Championship celebrates more than technical excellence. It also recognizes the character, professionalism and attitude that help strengthen the transportation industry.

Two Tyson Foods team members were honored with sportsmanship awards during the event:

• Josh Simmons, a trailer mechanic in Springdale, Arkansas, earned the Technician Sportsmanship Award.
• Marvin Bair, a long-haul driver based in Springdale, Arkansas, earned the Driver Sportsmanship Award.

Selected by competition committees, these awards recognize individuals who demonstrate respect, professionalism and leadership throughout the event. For Josh and Marvin, the recognition reflects qualities that extend far beyond the competition floor: supporting teammates, setting a positive example and representing their profession with integrity.

Driving Excellence Every Day

While the awards highlighted individual accomplishments, they also reflect the dedication of transportation team members across our company. From maintaining the equipment that supports our fleet to safely delivering products across the country, these team members play an essential role in helping Tyson Foods serve customers and consumers. Jordan’s championship title and the sportsmanship honors earned by Josh and Marvin are a reminder of the talent and commitment found across our organization. Their achievements showcase the excellence that helps keep Tyson Foods moving forward in our pursuit to feed the world like family.