Centerline Drivers Names Patricia Burns Driver of the Year

Patricia “Patty” Burns is Centerline Drivers’ 2021 Driver of the Year. This is the first year Centerline Drivers has awarded the honor as part of its Respect the Drive program, which celebrates the incredible work truck drivers do every day.

Burns, of Concord, Calif., has driven more than 1 million in her 11 years with Centerline and more than 2 million miles since she started driving in 1999. She was chosen from more than 500 drivers based on a perfect safety record, attendance and work with Centerline’s customers. She drives for Toyota, who consistently praise her ability to get the job done and her positive attitude.

“I have always taken great pride in being a truck driver,” Burns said. “I feel like I am an ambassador for the industry and for women in trucking. I always focus on being the best driver I can be. I have a passion for the industry and I really enjoy the partnerships with my customers.”

The award comes with a plaque, Respect the Drive gear and a $5000 bonus as well as recognition from both Centerline and Toyota.

“Patty Burns exhibits exemplary driving skills as shown by her excellent safety record,” said David Gadberry of Toyota Quality Parts Express. “Patty consistently reports for her runs on time. She performs her work expediently and efficiently, offering high value to our line haul operations. Patty always documents her work, communicates clearly and effectively and is willing to learn new tasks.”

Throughout 2022, Centerline will continue to encourage people to Respect the Drive by illustrating the positive things truck drivers do every day and celebrating our drivers and the industry. But first, Centerline is congratulating Burns on her achievement.

“Patty is not just our Driver of the Year, she is a pioneer for women in the trucking industry,” said Centerline Drivers President Jill Quinn. “It is incredible that she has driven more than 2 million miles, all while being the safest driver on the road and building great relationships with our customers. She is the epitome of what a driver should be and I’m thrilled to present her with this honor.”

Randy Beulah and Ronald Pettiford earned runner-up stats and will also receive Respect the Drive Gear.