Terry Luthy was named the 2026 South Dakota Truck Driving Championships Grand Champion after
Photo: Steve Hoffman
Photo by Dallas Chandler at Semi Casual
MEDIA SPONSORS
SDTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Justin Anders Chairman
Tom Murphy
Vice Chairman
Ryan Viessman
Treasurer
Jim Maciejewski
Secretary
Bob Willey
Past Chairman
Vacant ATA Vice President
Christine Vinatieri-Erickson President
SDTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Phillip Christian
Nick Cleveringa
Shanna Gray
Pete Halverson
Eric Hamiel
Jared Hanis
Steve Hoffman
Bailey Johnson
Larry Klaahsen
Tim Kotalik
Justin Larson
Matt Parker
Jeff Peterson
Dan Schipper
Ben Sternhagen
Gene Williams
SDTA SERVICES BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jim Maciejewski Chairman
Brad Schipper
Membership Retention Director
Todd Johnson
Public Relations Director
Rick Underwood
Membership Services Director
Cindy Heiberger
Group Insurance Director
MESSAGE FROM THE Chairman
We recently concluded our annual Spring Board Meeting and Cliff Tjaden Fishing tournament. We had a great turnout for the tournament and Calcutta with over 40 teams. I’d like to thank Brad and Shelley Schipper for spearheading the tournament and helping to get so many teams involved. Also, I really appreciate Taylor & Martin for auctioneering the Calcutta helping to make it a great success and a lot of fun.
The state of the trucking industry is currently a mixed bag in my opinion. Diesel continues to remain high and looks like it will continue through the summer months. Other operating costs continue to increase along with the replacement costs of new equipment. Despite the high cost of equipment, class 8 truck orders remain high although it’s mostly companies replacing old equipment rather than expanding. Spot rates have increased over the last month and are trending upward. Overall, I think industry is in a better place than a few months ago, but only time will tell.
Safe travels,
Justin Anders Anders Trucking dispatch@anderstrucking.com
JUSTIN LARSON (605) 224-1611
PIERRE, SD
KURT SWANSON (605) 224-1611
PIERRE, SD
JORDAN GAU (605) 996-4698
MITCHELL, SD NICK BACKLUND (605) 996-4698
MITCHELL, SD
TACHA ARTZ (605) 737-7865 RAPID CITY, SD GREG BALDWIN (605) 336-2795 SIOUX FALLS, SD
WE KNOW TRANSPORTATION
RUSS STOUGH (605) 336-4444 SIOUX FALLS, SD
Acrisure Truck Group consultants are experts in the coverage of all size trucks and farm equipment, so we know the risks and liabilities to make sure you are fully covered. We have four locations in South Dakota to serve you and your truck insurance needs—Pierre, Mitchell, Rapid City and Sioux Falls.
SDTA STAFF
Christine Vinatieri-Erickson President christine@southdakotatrucking.com
Michelle Wells Member Manager michelle@southdakotatrucking.com
As we move into another busy summer season, I continue to be reminded of what makes the South Dakota trucking industry so strong — the people. From our professional drivers and technicians to the volunteers, sponsors, and members who give their time and support, our association continues to thrive because of your commitment and passion for this industry.
Please check out page 37 for updated information regarding the new medical card requirement for intrastate drivers. I cannot stress enough how important it is to ensure your drivers complete their medical exams and submit all required paperwork to the state as soon as possible. While the state has received permission to delay implementation, this should not be viewed as a reason to wait. We strongly encourage all carriers to make this a priority and take care of it right away to avoid any future compliance issues or disruptions.
Our annual Fishing Calcutta was another tremendous success, bringing members and others together for a great cause while enjoying some friendly competition on the water. Most importantly, proceeds from this event continue to support workforce development initiatives and provide scholarships for diesel technician students. Investing in the next generation of skilled technicians is critical to the future of our industry, and we are proud to support students pursuing careers that keep America moving. As always, thank you to Shelley & Brad Schipper for your work to make this event happen.
We also recently held our Annual Truck Driving Championships, where some of the best drivers in the state demonstrated their professionalism, skill, and dedication to safety. These drivers truly left it all out on the course, and we could not be more proud of their efforts and accomplishments. A HUGE congratulations to all the competitors who represented their companies and our industry so well. Thank you also to all the volunteers and sponsors of this event….these events do not happen without you.
As we look ahead, be sure to mark your calendars for two upcoming events:
• SDTA Golf Event – July 9
• SDTA Annual Convention – September 1-3 in Deadwood, South Dakota
We look forward to seeing many of you there as we continue building connections, celebrating our industry, and shaping the future of trucking in South Dakota.
Thank you for all you do every day to keep our roads, businesses, and communities moving forward safely.
Jeremy Senger, FedEx Freight, Inc., Rapid City, SD, was selected as the May 2026 Driver of the Month by the South Dakota Safety Management Council.
Jeremy brings more than 25 years of professional driving experience to the industry and has been with FedEx Freight for the past 13 years. During his career, he has driven more than 2 million miles with only one chargeable accident, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to safety and professionalism on the road.
This marks the second time Jeremy has received the Driver of the Month honor, previously earning the recognition in February 2024.
In addition to his impressive driving record, Jeremy is recognized by his peers as someone who consistently goes above and beyond. He takes pride in his career, follows the rules, and serves as a positive example for others in the trucking industry.
Jeremy also serves as a South Dakota Road Team Captain, where he is an excellent representative for the trucking industry and helps promote highway safety and professionalism throughout the state. He has been an active competitor in the SD TDCs, qualifying for the NTDCs in 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2025.
Jeremy and his wife, Darlene, live in Rapid City. They have two children, Edward, 14, and Walter, 13.
The South Dakota Trucking Association joins the Safety Management Council in congratulating Jeremy Senger on being selected as the May 2026 Driver of the Month.
Nominate Them for Driver of the Month
A nomination form & rules can be found online at www.southdakotatrucking.com under the Resource s tab.
For more information, please contact the SDTA office at 605-334-8871 or michelle@southdakotatrucking.com
We offer high-quality, low-cost CDL training options in the South Dakota region that are available online from any device. Our curriculum is fully compliant with the current FMCSA ELDT Training standards, and we are a member in good standing of the Training Provider Registry as a Theory provider.
To learn about our fully-online, FMCSA-compliant CDL Theory program and how you can join our trainee to employee pipeline, call the SDTA office at 605-334-8871 or go to www.southdakotatrucking.com
JUNE 4-7, 2026
Wheel Jam Truck Show
State Fairgrounds
Huron, SD
JULY 9, 2026
SDTA East River Golf Event
9:00 a.m.
Brandon Golf Course Brandon, SD
AUGUST 11-15, 2026
National Truck Driving Championships
David L. Lawrence Convention Center Pittsburgh, PA
SEPTEMBER 1-3, 2026
SDTA 91st Annual Convention
Deadwood Mountain Grand Hotel & Casino
Deadwood, SD
SEPTEMBER 13-19, 2026
National Truck Driver
Appreciation Week
NOVEMBER 12, 2026
SDTA & SDADA Annual Pheasant Hunt
8:00 a.m.
Meet at Hutch’s Cafe
Presho, SD
NOVEMBER 13, 2026
SDTA Fall Executive Committee Meeting
8:00 a.m.
AmericInn
Fort Pierre, SD
NOVEMBER 13, 2026
SDTA Fall Board of Directors Meeting
10:00 a.m.
AmericInn
Fort Pierre, SD
NOVEMBER 17, 2026
West River Legislative Reception
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Hyatt Place
Rapid City, SD
NOVEMBER 19, 2026
East River Legislative Reception
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Minervas | Lower Level
Sioux Falls, SD
MAY 6, 2027
SDTA Spring/Summer Executive Committee Meeting
10:00 a.m.
AmericInn Chamberlain, SD
MAY 6, 2027
SDTA Spring/Summer Board of Directors Meeting
1:00 p.m.
AmericInn Chamberlain, SD
MAY 6, 2027
Social Hour, Dinner and Calcutta for the Annual Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event
6:00 p.m.
AmericInn Chamberlain, SD
MAY 7, 2027
Annual Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event
7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Cedar Shore Marina Oacoma, SD
MAY 15, 2027
SD Truck Driving Championships
7:00 a.m.
Southeast Technical College
Sioux Falls, SD
The 24th Annual Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event was another tremendous success in 2026, bringing together anglers, supporters, and industry partners for a memorable event filled with competition and camaraderie.
The festivities kicked off with a delicious pulled pork dinner provided by K&J Trucking—special thanks to K&J Trucking for once again generously providing the meal and helping set the tone for a great evening—followed by an exciting Calcutta held at the AmericInn in Chamberlain. Special thanks go to the Taylor & Martin team for bringing energy and enthusiasm to the evening as they auctioned off all 43 participating boats. The highest bid of the night reached an impressive $1,450, reflecting the excitement surrounding the tournament and strong support from attendees.
The Calcutta raised more than $21,500, with half supporting Workforce Development initiatives and the other half awarded to the top four Calcutta winners. An additional $2,300 was raised through the auctioning of a fishing trip to Michigan,
generously donated by Mitch Miller. It was a meaningful way to honor the legacy of Cliff Tjaden while continuing to invest in the future of the industry.
Tournament competition was strong throughout the event, with entry fee proceeds distributed among the top five boats based on total walleye weight. Each team weighed in seven fish, with only two exceeding the coveted 20-inch mark. The event once again showcased outstanding sportsmanship, friendly competition, and the strong sense of community that continues to make the Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event a favorite annual tradition.
The success of the event would not have been possible without the incredible support, generosity, and enthusiasm of so many individuals and organizations. Thank you to all of the anglers, sponsors, volunteers, donors, and attendees who helped make this year’s event such a memorable and meaningful success. Your continued support and commitment to honoring Cliff Tjaden’s legacy while investing in the future of the industry is what makes this tournament so special year after year.
Top Five Boats with the Most Walleye
by Weight
First Place Boat:
Boat # 32: Alex Surrell, Rebecca Surrell, and Matt Surrell
Total Fish Weight: 14.92
Received a check for $1,635.00
Second Place Boat:
Boat # 23: Andy Smit, Drew Woelfel, and Mason Smit
Total Fish Weight: 13.32
Received a check for $1,362.00
Third Place Boat:
Boat # 30: Brad Schipper, Shelley Schipper, and John Kramer
Total Fish Weight: 12.88
Received a check for $1,090.00
Fourth Place Boat:
Boat # 26: Andrew Harr and Ben Walts
Total Fish Weight: 11.88
Received a check for $817.00
Fifth Place Boat:
Boat # 33: Pat Miller and Dave Miller
Total Fish Weight: 10.44
Received a check for $545.00
Top Calcutta Winners
First Place: Alex Surrell team's purchased their own boat $900. Received a Calcutta check for $3,138.00
Second Place: Russ Robbers purchased Andy Smit team's boat for $350. Received a Calcutta check for $2,615.00
Third Place: Justin Anders purchased Brad Schipper team's boat $1,450.00. Received a Calcutta check for $2,092.00
Fourth Place: Andrew Harr team's bought themselves for $500. Received a Calcutta check for $1,569.00
Fifth Place: Shelly Schipper bought Pat Miller team's bought themselves for $300. Received a Calcutta check for $1,046.00
Largest Walleye Winner
Alex Surrell
Received $250, sponsored by The First National Bank
Thank You To Our Sponsors
DIAMOND SPONSOR
EMERALD SPONSORS
SAPPHIRE SPONSOR
DINNER SPONSOR
LARGEST WALLEYE SPONSOR
A special thank you to all of the businesses and individuals who generously donated silent auction and raffle items for the Annual Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event. Your contributions helped make the event even more successful and are greatly appreciated by everyone involved.
South Dakota Truck Driving Championships HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 47TH ANNUAL
The 47th Annual South Dakota Truck Driving Championships (TDC) was held in Sioux Falls on May 16, 2026, at Southeast Technical College. We sincerely appreciate their unwavering commitment to hosting our event year after year, helping us showcase the skill and dedication of our trucking professionals. Their continued support plays a vital role in the success of this competition.
Forty dedicated drivers stepped up to participate in this prestigious event. The day started with orientation led by Phil Lentz, Chair of the TDC and Manager of the Sioux Falls Port of Entry. Following this insightful session, drivers tackled a challenging 40-question test derived from the essential “2026 Facts for Drivers” book, provided to each contestant by the SDTA. The test encompassed critical knowledge from four key sections:
1) The Trucking Industry, 2) Safety and Security, 3) First Aid, Health and Wellness, and Personal Safety, and 4) Fire Safety. This rigorous examination not only tested their skills but also underscored the importance of safety and professionalism in the trucking profession.
Following the test, the drivers gathered for an essential review of the course instructions, guided by TDC Chair Phil Lentz and CoChair Jere Rions. Each challenge on the course was meticulously analyzed, and enhanced by video demonstrations to provide visual clarity. As the instructors discussed each problem, the drivers were actively encouraged to ask questions, fostering an interactive learning environment. After thoroughly covering all six challenges, the drivers were granted eight minutes to walk through the skills course, allowing them to gain firsthand experi-
Photos: Steve Hoffman
ence with each obstacle. This comprehensive approach ensured that all participants were well-prepared and confident as they approached the course.
Following the walk-through, the drivers were divided into two groups to maximize the competition’s effectiveness. One group advanced to the skills course, while the other commenced their critical pre-trip inspections. In an effort to rigorously test their expertise, each competition class faced a tractor-trailer rigged with the same five major defects and ten minor defects. The drivers were allotted a specific time frame to uncover these defects, and their meticulousness in identifying the issues determined their scores. This setup not only challenged their skills but also underscored the importance of thorough inspections in maintaining safety on the road.
At the conclusion of the competition, the top three drivers in each class— Step Van, Straight, 3-Axle, 4-Axle, Van, Sleeper, Tank, Flatbed, and Twins—are awarded prestigious trophies for their exceptional performance. The champions from each class will proudly represent their state at the National Truck Driving Championships in Pittsburgh, PA, from August 11 to 14, 2026, where they will compete against the finest class champions from across the nation. This is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase their skills and dedication in the trucking industry!
At the end of the competition, the driver with the highest accumulated score (written test, skills course & pre-trip inspection) was named the 2026 SDTDC’s Grand Champion.
Top Three Award Winners by Class
* Rookie
Step Van Class
1st Place Richard Holbrook* FedEx Express Corporation
2nd Place Evan Spencer* FedEx Express Corporation
3rd Place Josh Green* FedEx Express Corporation
Straight Truck Class
1st Place Teri Spencer K&J Trucking, Inc.
2nd Place Dan Norgaard Old Dominion Freight Line
3rd Place Darin Johnson* FedEx Express Corporation
3-Axle Truck Class
1st Place Josh Kelley FedEx Freight, Inc.
2nd Place Dan Roehrs Old Dominion Freight Line
3rd Place Andy Hanson Rude Transportation
4-Axle Truck Class
1st Place Jeremy Senger FedEx Freight, Inc.
2nd Place Radames Robles* XPO
3rd Place Patrick Schneider XPO
5-Axle Van Class
1st Place Terry Luthy* FedEx Freight, Inc.
2nd Place Seth Sigafoos FedEx Freight, Inc.
3rd Place Don Bardsley K&J Trucking, Inc.
Sleeper Berth Class
1st Place James Klimple* K&J Trucking, Inc.
2nd Place Todd Fletcher FedEx Freight, Inc.
3rd Place Jamie Phillips Johnson Feed Inc.
Tank Truck Class
1st Place Jeff Eschen K&J Trucking, Inc.
2nd Place Terry Buttemeier FedEx Freight, Inc.
3rd Place Tim Zulauf Old Dominion Freight Line
Flatbed Truck Class
1st Place Joel Gruis FedEx Freight, Inc.
2nd Place Scott Norton Mid States Transportation
3rd Place Vinny Harguth Cliff Viessman, Inc.
Twin Tractor-Trailer Class
1st Place Eric Johnson FedEx Express Corporation
2nd Place Mike Whitehead Mid States Transportation
3rd Place Rick Witczek Old Dominion Freight Line
2026 Grand Champion
Terry Luthy, FedEx Freight, Inc.
Rookie of the Year
Terry Luthy, FedEx Freight, Inc.
Chuck Fjellin Award
(Best Written Exam)
Teri Spencer, K&J Trucking, Inc.
Ron Green Award
(Best Pre-Trip Inspection)
Andy Hanson, Rude Transportation
Larry Thury Award
(Best Course Score)
Terry Luthy, FedEx Freight, Inc.
Company Award
(Highest Company Average Score for Companies with 3+ Competitors)
K&J Trucking, Inc.
Professional Excellence Award
Jeff Eschen
K&J Trucking, Inc.
This award recognizes drivers who have competed in the Truck Driving Championships for seven years or more, demonstrating exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to safety and excellence in the trucking industry. Their continued participation reflects the highest standards of professional driving and serves as an inspiration to others in the industry.
Jerry Cudmore Award
Don Knowler
K&J Trucking, Inc.
2026 Champion's Club Awards
Partners in Safety Award
The South Dakota Truck Driving Champions Club was established in 1994 to help prepare South Dakota’s class champions for the National Truck Driving Championships. The 2026 National Truck Driving Championships will be held in Pittsburgh, August 11–14. Through additional practice opportunities, coaching, and support from past champions, the program is designed to sharpen competitors’ skills, build confidence, and ensure South Dakota’s class champions are fully prepared to represent South Dakota at the national level.
Distinguished Service Award
Shelley Schipper
K&J Trucking, Inc.
SD Highway Patrol & SD Motor Carriers
Zone Two of Motor Carrier Services was awarded the 2026 Partners in Safety Award by the South Dakota Trucking Association. Congratulations and thank you for all your hard work and dedication in improving the safety of our highways
Special Guests
We were honored to welcome special guests to the 47th Annual South Dakota Truck Driving Championships banquet. Congressman Dusty Johnson delivered opening remarks and thanked the trucking industry for its dedication and contributions to South Dakota and the nation. We were also pleased to have TDC legends Jerry Cudmore and Ron Green in attendance, along with Ron’s wife, Christy Green.
2026 Inspector’s Challenge
The Inspector Challenge winner will be competing in Pittsburgh, PA, at the National Inspectors Challenge, held in conjunction with the National Truck Driving Championships.
Inspectors
Paul Beaudry – Sioux Falls
Brian Stenbak – Tilford (2nd Place)
Josh Stow – Jefferson
Warren Fritz – Tilford
George Gibbons – Sisseton
Robert Schmidt – Sisseton
Micheal Turbiville – Tilford
Troopers
Pictured L to R: Trooper JT Parris, Lt. Matt Koll, and Inspector
Paul Beaudry, who graciously accepted Inspector Brian Stenbak’s award on his behalf.
ROLLING WITH YOU
You deserve a banker who actually understands your business.
Derek has extensive industry knowledge and expertise in the transportation industry, and he’s been helping entrepreneurs finance and grow their businesses for more than a decade.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, determine equipment value, or review financial performance, you have a trusted partner in him. Give Derek a call, and let’s get a conversation rolling.
Derek Simonsen
SDTA NextGen Launches 2026 Golf Cart Raffle to Power Workforce Development and Leadership Growth
Nick
Cleveringa
| SDTA NextGen Chairman
The SDTA NextGen group is excited to announce our 2026 Golf Cart Raffle, giving everyone the chance to win a new Sierra AX2 electric utility vehicle courtesy of NB Golf Cars. This street-legal cart comes loaded with premium features including a 125Ah lithium battery, 9” touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, built-in cooler, seat belts, and more.
We want to try something bigger this year as we have big ideas for the future of the SDTA NextGen. Raffle proceeds will support SDTA NextGen initiatives focused on educating and promoting the many career opportunities available within the trucking industry. Funds raised will help promote the wide variety of opportunities within the trucking industry to the younger generations, aimed at strengthening the future of transportation in South Dakota.
• DOT and Non-DOT Drug Screening and Alcohol Testing
• MRO Services
• Injury Care (billed at South Dakota Work Comp Fee Schedule)
• Third Party Administration • Employee Assistance Plan
• Additional Occupational Health Services
• Efficient, Friendly, Professional Services
In addition to outreach and education, proceeds will also help SDTA NextGen develop leadership resources and future programs focused on succession planning within trucking
Avera EPA Services is Now Offering...
companies and industry organizations. As experienced leaders retire or transition out of the industry, many companies face challenges in identifying and preparing the next generation of leadership. SDTA NextGen hopes to help create tools, conversations, and future development opportunities that encourage long-term leadership growth and continuity throughout the trucking industry.
Raffle tickets are $20 each or six for $100, and all tickets are digital. The live drawing will take place September 3rd during the SDTA Convention Banquet in Deadwood. Winners do not need to be present to win.
There are still sponsorship opportunities available, ranging from $250 to $500, to help offset the cost of the cart. Sponsors will receive logo placement directly on the golf cart, recognition across SDTA NextGen's social media promotions, and acknowledgment during the live drawing event. Anyone
DOT SERVICES
DOT Physicals | DOT and Non-DOT Drug Screening and Alcohol Testing | MRO Services | Injury Care (billed at South Dakota Work Comp Fee Schedule) | Third Party Administration Employee Assistant Plan | Additional Occupational Health Services | Efficient, Friendly, Professional Services 605-322-5100
AVERA EPA SERVICES IS NOW OFFERING... DOT-QUALIFIED SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROFESSIONALS
The Avera Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers substance abuse evaluations for employees who test positive for drugs or alcohol, as regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Under DOT regulations, safety-sensitive employees (i.e., truck drivers, pilots and airline workers, transit workers, pipeline workers, etc.) are subject to pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol tests. When there is a positive test result, the DOTregulated employee must seek the service of a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). 605-322-4069
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Speaking Opportunity
September 1-3, 2026
Deadwood Mountain Grand: 1906 Deadwood Mountain Dr, Deadwood, SD 57732 Hotel Block Held through August 1, 2026 - Call (605) 559-0386 Company:_______________________________________________________
City/State/Zip:
Print name(s) here as they will appear on name tag. Mark you attendees with an “x” if attending and leave blank if unable to attend. Food count is based off these numbers.
NAME
SPOUSE/GUEST
Please mark the appropriate box(s) below for your REGISTRATION fees:
r First Company Representative $350 r Spouse/Guest $325 r Non SDTA Member $700 TOTAL: $__________ (After August 1st registration fees will be $425 for Members, Spouse/Guest $400 and $725 for Non-Members)
Chairman’s Banquet Only Tickets Available at $75 each
We would like to SPONSOR at the following level: r
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities, please refer to the Sponsorship Opportunities Sheet. SPONSORSHIPS MUST BE RECEIVED BY AUGUST TO BE INCLUDED IN THE CONVENTION PROGRAM.
Total Registration Fees: $ Total Golf Hole Sponsor/Exhibitor Fees: $
Total Sponsorship Fees: $ Total ATV Ride Fees: $
Total Golf Registration Fees: $ Chairman’s Banquet Only Tickets $ TOTAL AMOUNT DUE: $
ACTIVITY CHOICES FOR WEDNESDAY,
1. GOLF REGISTRATION:
2, 2026
Registration 8:00 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided. Participants will be split up unless specified. $125 per golfer ($200 if not registered for the convention). TRANSPORTATION IS ON YOUR OWN
r I would like to sponsor ___ golf hole(s) at $200 per hole. r Golf Exhibitor: $280
2. ATV RIDE REGISTRATION:
Be prepared to be at Custer Peak Off Road Rentals NO LATER THAN 7:45 a.m Ride will start promptly at 8:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided. TRANSPORTATION IS ON YOUR OWN.
Hotel Block Held through August 1, 2026 - Call (605) 559-0386
TENTATIVE AGENDA
Vendor Setup
Setup booth prior to start of NextGen Event
NextGen Event
Annual Corn Hole Tournament
Deadwood Mountain Grand Heavy Hors d’ oeuvres
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026
7:45 A.M.
Registration for ATV Poker Run
Meet at Custer Peak Off-Road Rentals located at 21766 Custer Peak Road, Deadwood Ride starts at 8
Transportation is on own
8:00 - 8:45
Registration for Golf Outing
Check-in at Boulder Canyon Golf Club located at 12281 Stagecoach Trail, Sturgis, Shotgun start at 9
Transportation is on own
3:00 P.M.
5:30
6:30
Registration Desk Opens
Deadwood Mountain Grand
Social & Visit Displays
Deadwood Mountain Grand
Enjoy the relationships you foster each year at the SDTA Convention
Dinner
Deadwood Mountain Grand
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
8:00 A.M.
Breakfast
Deadwood Mountain Grand
We will be starting with the Formal Opening of the 91st Annual Convention.
SDTA and SDTA Services Inc. Annual / Board meetings will kick off the morning.
9:00
General Business Session 1: TBD
Deadwood Mountain Grand
10:00 - Noon Business Session 2: ROTATING OPEN FORUM SESSIONS (30 minutes each session)
1. (TBD) 3. (TBD) 2. (TBD) 4. (TBD) Noon
1:15 P.M.
2:30
3:00
5:00
Awards Luncheon
Deadwood Mountain Grand
• Fleet Safety Awards
• SDHP Annual Safety Award
Business Session 3:
Update from SD Motor Vehicle Division and SD Highway Patrol
Deadwood Mountain Grand
Driver of the Year Interviews
Meet at SDTA Registration Desk
Each driver selected from September 2025 through August 2026 are invited to participate in a six minute interview with a panel of three judges. The driver scoring the most points in this interview will be named the Driver of the Year at the Chairman’s Banquet.
Heavy Duty Truck Dealer Meeting
Deadwood Mountain Grand
An annual heavy duty truck dealer meeting to discuss changes in the industry and how best to adapt to them.
Capitol Club Reception - By Invitation Only
Deadwood Mountain Grand
Every SDTA member who has contributed $200 or more to the SDTA Political Action Committee (PAC) is invited to the Capitol Club Reception. Legislators from all around SD are invited to attend. This is a great way to establish relationships with Legislators we may need to call on in the 2027 Legislative Session.
5:30 Vendor Appreciation & Social
Deadwood Mountain Grand
6:30 Chairman’s Banquet
Deadwood Mountain Grand
To close out the convention, we will be presenting the following awards:
PIERRE, S.D. – The Performance Excellence Network (PEN), a regional Baldrige-based program serving South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota, recognized 18 recipients across multiple organizations with 2025 Performance Excellence Awards at the annual conference held May 7-8, 2026. The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) was one of the recipients; and the only organization to earn the Excellence Award designation – the highest recognition level awarded by PEN.
This award follows a rigorous, year-long evaluation of SDDOT’s management practices and performance systems designed to help the SDDOT identify strengths, uncover opportunities for improvement, and drive long-term performance excellence.
“Our work toward continuous improvement doesn’t stop with the distinguished honor of being recognized at the Excellence Award level,” said Joel Jundt, Cabinet Secretary, South Dakota Department of Transportation. “Participating in the PEN assessment process over the past 13 years has given us the opportunity to step back and take an objective look at how we operate –understanding where we excel and where we can improve. That outside perspective helps us focus on what truly matters and to make data-driven decisions that strengthen our organization.”
The PEN Performance Excellence Award is presented at five levels: Commitment, Engagement, Advancement, Achievement, and Excellence.
The PEN Performance Awards are based on the Baldrige Framework and reflect a rigorous, independent evaluation of an organization’s leadership, strategy, customers, measurement and knowledge management, workforce, and operations. The process includes an in-depth review by trained examiners and detailed feedback to help organizations strengthen and improve results over time.
“This year’s recognition includes a rare Excellence-level Award, the highest level in the program, awarded for the first time since 2018,” said Amy Czechowicz, President and CEO of the Performance Excellence Network. “The South Dakota Department of Transportation has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to continuous process improvement and performance excellence throughout its journey and is very deserving of earning the Excellence Award honor.”
The PEN assessment process plays a critical role in aligning SDDOT’s workforce across the state. “With staff working across
divisions, regions, and programs, having a shared framework ensures our work connects to our strategic goals and that we operate as one coordinated organization,” said Jundt. “It also reinforces a culture of continuous improvement, where we are always evaluating how we can better serve the public.”
The PEN evaluation examines organizational processes in key areas including leadership, strategic planning, customer focus, workforce engagement, and operations. A key component of the process is employee involvement at all levels.
“One of the most meaningful parts of the assessment is the involvement of our employees,” Jundt continued. “Team members across the Department contribute insights, share their experiences, and help identify opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed. Staff input strengthens our organization and builds a sense of shared ownership in shaping SDDOT’s future.”
Jundt emphasized that the recognition reflects SDDOT’s ongoing commitment to customers. “Ultimately, this process helps us deliver safer, more reliable, and more efficient public transportation services for the citizens of South Dakota today and into the future.”
Find additional information about the recognition awards in the PEN press release at PEN honors.
About Performance Excellence Network (PEN):
The Performance Excellence Network was founded in 1987 by the Minnesota Legislature and Governor Rudy Perpich and later became an independent nonprofit organization. PEN helps organizations improve performance by identifying strengths and opportunities, sharing proven practices, and building networks that support learning and growth. For more information, visit https://performanceexcellencenetwork.org/.
About SDDOT:
The mission of the South Dakota Department of Transportation is to provide a safe and efficient public transportation system.
Read more about the innovative work of the SDDOT at https:// dot.sd.gov.
For the latest on road and weather conditions, road closures, construction work zones, commercial vehicle restrictions, and traffic incidents, please visit https://sd511.org or dial 511.
Appeals Court Rejects Requests to Pause Non-domiciled CDL Rule
The new regulation has the ability to slowly sideline most noncitizens from trucking.
David Taube | Trucking Dive Dive Brief:
• A federal appeals court rejected requests to temporarily pause the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s non-domiciled CDL rule. Non-domiciled is a special category given to a foreign driver who is legally present in the U.S., and those drivers may make up as much as a quarter of for-hire and private motor carriers.
• The Tuesday order suggests judges with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit are questioning whether the parties suing the federal government will succeed. “Petitioners have not satisfied the stringent requirements for a stay pending court review,” the appeals court said in its order.
• The order means the case will continue to unfold with the rule intact, and there’s “at least fairly contestable” dispute over the issues, judges said. Briefs are due on dates ranging from June 15 through Aug. 5.
Dive Insight:
The new regulation has the ability to slowly sideline most noncitizens from trucking, where affected drivers represent about 97% of the country’s roughly 200,000 non-domiciled CDLs, according to the final rule from February.
Drivers eligible to remain in the workforce must have an I-94 admission form as well as an unexpired passport and belong to one of three employment-based immigration categories.
Those categories are H-2A (temporary agricultural workers), H-2B (temporary non-agricultural workers) and E-2 (treaty investors) nonimmigrant status holders.
That’s a change from when the federal government allowed employment authorization documents to approve non-domiciled CDLs. FMCSA audits have alleged states such as Illinois, North Carolina and Pennsylvania were not properly issuing and renewing non-domiciled licenses. The agency has suggested that state clerks are misreading immigration codes
“In contrast, I-94 forms convey that information in plain English,” the appeals court order noted.
A key issue in audits, which have threatened states’ funding, involves whether a federal immigration document expires before a non-domiciled CDL does. But some states have pushed back with lawsuits over whether they should really lose the money.
The agency also says the new rule strengthens identification requirements and seeks to make the roads safer. The rule also involves commercial learners’ permits.
The rule can come into force particularly when non-domiciled CDL holders seek to renew their licenses. Affected drivers could “exit the market over the course of the next five years,” the FMCSA said in its rule.
Reprinted from The Trucker.
SD Road Team Brings Truck Safety Lesson to O’Gorman Driver Ed Students
On Tuesday, May 19th, three South Dakota Road Team Captains visited O’Gorman High School and spoke with more than 200 driver education students about safely sharing the road with large trucks. Captains Gary Schmidt, Mike Whitehead, and Jeff Eschen led the presentation, offering real-world insight into commercial driving and roadway safety.
Students also had the opportunity to climb into the trucks and experience firsthand the size of blind spots, helping them better understand what truck drivers can and cannot see. on EAD forms, according to the appeals court.
SIMPLIFIED, INTERACTIVE, AND TRUSTED ONLINE SAFETY TRAINING.
Outdated and unrealistic safety training slows operations and increases liability. Built by former CDL drivers, safety and operations leaders, and state troopers, Changing Lanes Academy (CLA) delivers modern, mobile-friendly training that works for drivers and support teams without disrupting daily operations.
Why CLA works for every role:
Drivers Realistic, engaging training they can complete anywhere
Safety Teams Real-time tracking and documented compliance
Operations Efficient training with no wasted time
Owners Reduced risk and potential insurance savings
The best part? Drivers who complete CLA and have an approved front-facing camera may qualify for a 5% insurance discount through Aladdin’s trucking insurance partner.
SDTA & AGC Secure CDL Medical Card Deadline Extension
Dear SDTA Members,
We heard your frustration about the tight timeline to comply with the new CDL medical card requirements. Many of you let us know that the DMV’s schedules could not accommodate your drivers until after the July 1 compliance deadline. That’s when the Associated General Contractors and the South Dakota Trucking Association stepped up. By joining forces, we let the State of South Dakota know that our member’s livelihood was in danger because of this tight compliance timeline. And they responded by delaying the implementation of the CDL med card law until August 29, 2026. After that date, they were able to delay enforcement until January 1, 2027, as long as drivers can show a copy of their medical examination form.
Please read the following email from South Dakota Department of Public Safety carefully to ensure you understand the delay implementation. All CDL license holders will also receive a letter from the Department as well.
Good afternoon,
I wanted to let the three of you know that DPS sent the below communication to the FMCSA earlier this week on our adjustments for implementation of SB10. The justification for the August 29th date is that SDCL 32-12A-69 allows the downgrade to occur within 60 days. While we won’t be compliant with the FMCSA (we aren’t now) we can argue we are compliant with state law with a delayed implementation until August 29th. Second, enforcement will be delayed for those who have a physical copy of a medical examination completed before August 29th, 2026, with an existing license until January 1st as they will have complied with FMCSA and only be lacking a state DMV appointment. Drivers must ensure their medical provider supplies them with a physical copy of their completed and passed exam. You can inform your members of these adjustments and let them know that letters will be in the mail to CDL holders next week.
Additionally, Driver Licensing has shifted workforce resources to accommodate appointment availability for AGC and SDTA members on June 2nd and June 16th, so please encourage members to schedule their appointments as soon as possible.
We do not want to pull additional staff away from other critical duties to support these dates and times if appointment numbers are low.
If you are contacted by individuals who are not members, they are also welcome to utilize these open appointment slots.
Here is the link to the live appointment scheduler: https://432203.waitwell.us/book/_Hw8G_AjhM-
If you have any questions, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Bob Perry Cabinet Secretary Department of Public Safety
(605) 786-4502
FMCSA Notification:
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety had previously informed FMCSA in our MCSAP Program Review Corrective Action Plan that we would be compliant by July 1st, 2026. Due to a long backlog of commercial driver licenses to comply with this change, DPS has been working overtime and Saturday hours. However, a substantial number of CDLs cannot be upgraded before July 1st. Please accept this email as an update that our compliance schedule with FMCSA will be delayed until August 29, 2026. We are informing license holders of this additional timeline and will continue working diligently to process the required upgrades.
In addition, South Dakota enforcement officers will accept a physical copy of a passed medical examination with an existing license until January 1st, 2027. We believe this complies with FMCSA because they will have passed the required medical examination and be eligible for the upgraded license but have been unable to complete the drivers licensing processes. We are already booking appointments through July, and this additional timeline will allow drivers to comply with FMCSA requirements, but also allow longer time periods for completing the South Dakota-specific drivers license portion.
Cummins experts go above and beyond to ensure you’re moving forward. With over 3200 certified technicians and 24/7 emergency field support through locations all across North America, you can count on Cummins to keep you moving in a world that’s Always On.
Go to cummins.com to request service or to find a Cummins service center near you.
