Winner of ‘King of the road’ contest
Ruan Transportation Management Systems named Dean Key of Milbank, S.D., as the 2023 Driver of the Year during the company’s recent Driver and Operation of the Year event. Key drives for Do it Best through Ruan, one of the largest family-owned transportation management companies in the nation.
Key is a professional driver with 40 years of experience, 28 of which have been with Ruan. According to the company, his industry knowledge and commitment to safety and professionalism have made him a respected leader among his peers. Throughout his career, Key has consistently demonstrated the highest standards both on and off the road.
One nomination letter stated, “Dean’s dedication to the transportation industry is unmatched. When I think about the future of the industry, I think about the students Dean has talked to, and there is no doubt in my mind the students that pursue a career in trucking will always remember the driver from Ruan who had a tremendous impact on their decision to be a part of this great industry. Dean’s advocacy for Ruan and the industry exemplifies all that is great in trucking.”
The search for Ruan’s 2023 Driver of the Year began in March, with 149 finalists selected from the company’s 300 operators based on their safety performance, industry expertise and exceptional customer service. After an extensive evaluation process, Key was selected as the winner. As part of his recognition, Key received a trophy and a $5,000 cash prize.
“It might feel like this outstanding performance sometimes exists ‘under the radar,’ and you do it because it’s the right thing to do. It’s simply part of who you are,” said Ruan CEO Ben McLean.
Do it Best Outbound Operations Manager Tom Mowery praised Key’s accomplishments: “Dean represents the very best of Do it Best. His exceptional safety performance, industry expertise and commitment to outstanding customer service align perfectly with our core values. We’re honored to have him on our team, and his recognition as Ruan’s 2023 Driver of the Year showcases the tremendous impact he’s made in the transportation industry.”
