At TCI Transportation, Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar — it’s a reminder of the courage, camaraderie, and commitment that define so many of the people who make our company strong. Veterans bring accountability, teamwork, and dependability to every role they take on — values that align perfectly with the foundation TCI is built upon.
A Program Built to Honor and Unite
The Veterans Program at TCI was created to do more than just recognize service. It’s about building a community where veterans feel seen, supported, and connected — both as professionals and as people.
“Our goal for the Veterans Program is to create a meaningful space for veterans within TCI — one where they feel seen, supported, and connected,” says Teresa Smith, Veterans Program Lead. “As we grow this program, I want it to be something veterans are proud to be part of and something that inspires others across TCI to get involved.”
From mentorship opportunities to symbolic gestures like challenge coins and custom truck wraps, the program continues to grow into a company-wide initiative that unites veterans and allies around shared values of teamwork and respect.
Finding Connection Beyond Service
COREY HULBERT
U.S. Navy, Rank: Petty Officer 3rd Class
For Corey Hulbert, a Project Manager and Navy veteran, the transition from military to civilian life came with one big question — would he ever find the same sense of belonging he had in the military?
“From 2011 until now, I’d been searching for that kind of teamwork and belonging I had in the service,” Corey shares. “I never thought I’d find it outside the military, but I did — right here at TCI.”
Corey credits TCI’s collaborative culture for filling that gap. “At TCI, it doesn’t matter if something isn’t technically your job — if someone needs help, you jump in. That’s the same mentality we had in the military. One team, one fight.”
That spirit of unity resonates across his work. “Veterans love structure — at least this veteran does,” Corey says. “I like when things are organized and everyone knows their role, but what really makes TCI special is the teamwork. It’s a real team here, not people competing against each other. Everyone’s willing to roll up their sleeves, help out, and get the job done together.”
Translating Military Skills Into a New Mission
ED GIBBS
U.S. Navy, Rank: Petty Officer 3rd Class
U.S. Army, Rank: Sergeant
Hubert “Ed” Gibbs, who served in both the Navy and the Army, found his way to TCI’s Used Truck Sales team after more than a decade of military service. His path from ship technology to customer relationships might seem unconventional, but for Ed, the foundation is the same: discipline, structure, and service.
“The military taught me motivation, structure, and discipline — the importance of attacking each day with focus and direction,” he says. “. We used to have a ‘plan of the day,’ and I still use that at TCI. I map out my mornings, afternoons, and evenings so I always know what I want to accomplish.”
Ed also sees TCI as a place where veterans can thrive long after they’ve hung up their uniforms. “What makes TCI great for veterans is opportunity. There are so many departments — maintenance, driving, management — where veterans can use their skills and grow. The values we bring from the military fit naturally here.”
For Ed, Veterans Day is about simple gratitude: “It’s for everyone who’s served our country — a day to say, ‘We see you, and we’re grateful.’”
Carrying the Legacy Forward
As TCI’s Veterans Program expands, TCI remains focused on creating more ways to honor and empower those who’ve served — from supporting veteran-led initiatives to encouraging veterans to help shape the program’s future.
“I’d love to see our Veterans Program partner with veterans and the causes that matter most to them,” says Teresa. “It’s about showing up for veterans both inside and outside our organization.”
Ultimately, the program reflects what TCI stands for — unity, pride, and purpose. Whether it’s a small gesture of thanks or a new opportunity to grow, TCI’s Veterans Program is a living tribute to the service and spirit of those who’ve worn the uniform — and those who stand beside them every day.
