PERC Celebrates Propane Drivers During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

RICHMOND, Va. (Sept. 15, 2026) — During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Sept. 13–19, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) recognized the bobtail and transport drivers who safely and reliably deliver propane to homes, businesses, farms and communities across the country. 

“What stands out in these nominations is the trust propane drivers earn every day,” said Bridget Kidd, chief operating officer at PERC. “They put safety first, build lasting relationships with their customers and step up when their communities need them most. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week gives us an opportunity to recognize the skill, dedication and dependability they bring to this industry.” 

Those qualities were reflected throughout nominations submitted by propane companies and customers across the country. Safety was at the center of many stories. Drivers were recognized for their attention to detail, adherence to proper procedures, ability to identify potential hazards, equipment maintenance and commitment to performing inspections and leak tests correctly. Their nominators repeatedly described professionals who refuse to cut corners, even when schedules are demanding or conditions are difficult. 

“He is concerned with safe operations first but then really serves his customers in an extremely professional manner and has become a cornerstone to our team and our community,” said Paul Lilley, who nominated Lewis Whittaker. 

Nominations also reflected the strong relationships drivers build with the people they serve. Drivers remember customers’ properties, tanks, families, pets and individual needs. For many customers, their propane driver has become a familiar and trusted face and some specifically request their favorite driver by name. 

“Many customers specifically request Teddy as their delivery driver because they know they can count on him for safe, timely, and exceptional service,” said Emily Pierce, who nominated Teddy Jenkins. 

The nominations also highlighted the extraordinary dependability and willingness of drivers to go above and beyond. Drivers were recognized for working weekends and holidays, volunteering for overtime, responding during severe winter weather and storms, taking difficult routes, helping coworkers complete deliveries, troubleshooting equipment and stepping into other roles when needed. 

“He has earned the confidence of our customers and coworkers through thousands of deliveries, countless on-call hours, holidays away from his own family, and an unwavering commitment to doing his job safely and well,” said Kari L. Bevers, who nominated Ronald Schlenker. 

For some drivers, that commitment spans decades. 

“For 41 years, John Christianson has exemplified what dedication, reliability, and community trust truly mean in the propane industry,” said Brandi Burr, who nominated Christianson. “Wisconsin weather is unforgiving, yet John has never let it stand between him and the people who depend on him.” 

PERC invited propane companies and customers across the country to nominate outstanding drivers as part of its National Truck Driver Appreciation Week celebration. Nominees will be highlighted across PERC communications channels, giving the industry an opportunity to recognize the professionals whose work often happens behind the scenes but remains essential to the customers and communities they serve.

Nominated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week Propane Drivers