Longtime Owner-Operator Ingrid Brown Named WIT Driver of the Year

Brown, a 46-year trucking veteran, is recognized for her dedication to safety, advocacy, and mentorship.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:08pm

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Ingrid Brown, a former owner-operator who now serves as a driver and operations manager for Blackjack Express LLC, has been named the 2026 Women in Trucking (WIT) Driver of the Year. Brown was selected from four finalists for the award, which honors trailblazing female truck drivers who have elevated professionalism in the industry.

Why it matters

The WIT Driver of the Year award recognizes exceptional women in trucking who champion safety and positively shape public perception of the industry. Brown's 46-year career, marked by determination, advocacy, and leadership, makes her a fitting recipient and role model for aspiring female drivers.

The details

In addition to her current role at Blackjack Express, Brown previously operated her own company, Rollin' B LLC, as an independent owner-operator. She has earned numerous honors over the years, including the National Association of Small Trucking Companies (NASTC) Woman Driver of the Year Award, the TA-Petro Citizen Driver Award, and induction into the Mid-America Trucking Show Wall of Fame. Brown is also a charter member of the Women in Trucking Association and has served two terms on its board of directors.

  • Brown was named the 2026 WIT Driver of the Year during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky.
  • Brown was among four finalists for the award, which was presented with the support of Walmart.

The players

Ingrid Brown

A 46-year veteran of the trucking industry, Brown is currently a driver and operations manager for Blackjack Express LLC, where she hauls heavy, oversize, and refrigerated freight. She previously operated her own company, Rollin' B LLC, as an independent owner-operator.

Jennifer Hedrick

The president and CEO of Women in Trucking (WIT), the organization that presents the annual Driver of the Year award.

Ryan McDaniel

The senior vice president of transportation at Walmart, which sponsored the Driver of the Year award.

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What they’re saying

“We are proud to recognize Ingrid, whose tireless commitment to excellence, safety, and empowering women in this industry sets a standard that inspires us all.”

— Jennifer Hedrick, President and CEO, Women in Trucking

“Walmart is proud to sponsor the Driver of the Year award because it reflects our commitment to safety, excellence, and a culture of belonging across transportation. Ingrid Brown embodies what this recognition stands for, a seasoned professional whose leadership, safety advocacy and dedication to the industry have made a meaningful impact. Congrats to Ingrid for being named Driver of the Year.”

— Ryan McDaniel, Senior Vice President, Transportation, Walmart

What’s next

The annual WIT Driver of the Year award will continue to be presented at the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event during the Mid-America Trucking Show, celebrating the achievements of exceptional female truck drivers.

The takeaway

Ingrid Brown's recognition as the 2026 WIT Driver of the Year underscores the vital role that women play in the trucking industry, both in terms of safety and professionalism. Her decades-long career and tireless advocacy for her peers serve as an inspiration for aspiring female drivers.