Celebrating Trucking Excellence and Craftsmanship
As the trucking sector continues to grapple with driver shortages, Western Star Trucks is prioritizing the acknowledgment of the importance of professional drivers and operators within the industry. The company aims to emphasize the expertise and experience needed to transport materials, handle equi
As the trucking sector continues to grapple with driver shortages, Western Star Trucks is prioritizing the acknowledgment of the importance of professional drivers and operators within the industry.
The company aims to emphasize the expertise and experience needed to transport materials, handle equipment, and manage demanding conditions, while promoting awareness of trucking careers to new entrants.
“The collaboration between people and equipment is what drives this industry forward,” stated Alex Martin-Banzer, the brand manager for Western Star.
A fleet of Western Star trucks showcases the durability and adaptability of modern heavy-duty trucking.
Return of the Star Nation Experience in 2026
Western Star’s Star Nation Experience, a program dedicated to recognizing operators, will make its return for the fourth year from June 5-8, 2026, in Bend, Oregon. This event unites operators, dealers, and industry participants for various hands-on activities and contests.
The upcoming event will feature a competitive operator showdown and continue its collaboration with American Truck Simulator, a driving simulation platform aimed at attracting younger audiences to the trucking profession.
Star Nation Experience 2026: Key Details
Event Dates: June 5–8, 2026
Location: Bend, Oregon
Format: Team-based operator competition
Eligibility: Open to operators with an active CDL (Class A) and members of the ATS community in the U.S. and Canada, aged 21 and over
Cost: All expenses covered for winning participants
Two returning participants will take on the role of team captains:
- Ronald Byrd, an operator from Texas experienced in the oil sector
- Jarett Dorman, an operator from British Columbia with a background in crane operations
Participants will engage in off-road challenges and team-centric activities designed to showcase their skills as operators.
Enhancing Dealer Involvement and Industry Engagement
The 2026 program will also broaden dealer participation, inviting two dealers to attend alongside a customer who will be competing, thereby showcasing the crucial role that dealers play in equipment selection and support.
Western Star emphasized that this event aims to reinforce connections among operators, dealers, and all stakeholders in the trucking industry while raising awareness of career opportunities.
For more information: Skill Meets Technology at the 2025 Star Nation Experience