Ricky Upachak Named CTA Truck Driver of the Month, Marking a First for TCI

For the first time in TCI’s history, a TCI driver has been selected as the California Trucking Association’s Truck Driver of the Month. The recognition highlights both individual excellence and the safety-focused culture that guides TCI’s operations.

Ricky Upachak, who was named CTA’s Truck Driver of the Month for June 2025, has nearly 30 years of commercial driving experience and has spent six years with TCI. Since joining the company in 2019, he has earned a reputation for professionalism, humility and steady leadership across Northern California, particularly on the Smart & Final account.

Ask anyone who has worked with Ricky, and you’ll hear the same message: he’s not just a standout driver, he’s the kind of colleague you can depend on and one who lifts everyone around him. His peers regularly turn to him for guidance, whether it’s locating an important phone number, help troubleshooting equipment or advice on navigating difficult routes.

Daryl Cole, Director of Safety and Compliance, Western Region, who has worked closely with Ricky for more than four years said, “Ricky has proven himself year after year to be top-notch in every category: safety, driving performance, and customer service. What truly sets him apart is his willingness to share his knowledge so other drivers can grow. He’s a huge asset to TCI, and I couldn’t be more ecstatic to see him honored with this award.”

Ricky credits communication and teamwork for his success. “Communication is the key,” he said. “If we focus, stay safe and help each other, we get home safe and we build something that feels like family. That’s what TCI is to me, family.”

The camaraderie was on full display during an outdoor quarterly safety meeting in late October when Ricky’s leadership team Josh Bird, Daryl Cole, Antonio Verdugo and Roy Sheradan, surprised him with the good news amongst a crowd of his peers. Cheers erupted as Ricky was presented with a banner and gifts from TCI celebrating his achievement.

“It was amazing. I didn’t expect this at all. It really caught me off guard,” he said. “Everyone here, drivers, management, safety… we support each other. That’s what makes this place so great.”

On Nov. 8, Ricky was formally honored by the California Trucking Association during a recognition ceremony in Sacramento, where CTA celebrated all drivers selected for the Truck Driver of the Month award throughout 2025. He was joined by members of his leadership team, who attended the event to support him as he received the award on behalf of TCI.
Ricky was nominated for the award after TCI submitted detailed performance data, including miles driven, incident history and safety scores. His results stood out among a competitive pool of drivers statewide.

“Whenever we’re in a bind, Ricky steps up,” said Josh Bird, Regional Operations Director. “Reno and Tahoe aren’t easy runs, especially in winter when chains are required and conditions are rough. Ricky handles them with total professionalism, staying safe, staying focused, and still returning within hours of service. He holds himself to high standards and always works to learn from every experience.”

A leader by example, Ricky is also known for taking extra shifts, trading routes to assist coworkers, training new drivers and consistently participating in safety meetings.

Antonio Verdugo, Transportation Manager, describes Ricky as someone who “stays calm even under pressure, which sets the tone for everyone around him.” He recalls a severe storm last year with icy roads and low visibility when many drivers had to delay routes.

“Ricky planned ahead, stayed focused, and completed his deliveries safely and on time. His professionalism inspires the whole team,” Antonio said. “By leading through action, he’s helped create a culture of accountability and teamwork.”

Left to right: Daryl Cole, Director of Safety and Compliance, Roy Sheradan, Regional Director of Operations, Ricky Upachak, Driver of the Month, Josh Bird, Regional Director of Operations

The award marks a significant milestone for TCI, reflecting the company’s commitment to safety and operational excellence.

“This recognition is a huge milestone for both the driver and TCI,” said Roy Sheradan, Regional Director of Operations. “It validates the culture we’ve built, one that values safety, accountability and excellence. Our drivers don’t just move freight; they represent TCI’s standards and the values we live by every day.”

Ricky said he was both surprised and grateful for the recognition, noting that the support from his team meant as much as the award itself. He offered simple, practical advice to fellow drivers: “Stay focused. Be aware of your surroundings. Plan ahead. CSA scores matter.”

Ricky’s achievement marks a proud milestone for the company and reflects the dedication, consistency and teamwork that continue to shape TCI’s culture.

Tis’ the Season! Celebrating the Holidays Across TCI Terminals

Holiday cheer made its way across TCI terminals, creating moments worth celebrating throughout the season. From a special visit by Santa to barbecues, gift exchanges, and an Elf on the Shelf stirring up just the right amount of mischief, each terminal brought its own festive flair. These snapshots capture more than holiday fun—they reflect the connection, appreciation, and team spirit that power TCI every day.

RED Friday, Real Impact:
TCI’s Commitment to Our Veterans

Last month, Team TCI came together in a powerful display of gratitude for Veterans Day. Across our terminals, employees wore RED — “Remember Everyone Deployed” — as a meaningful reminder of the men and women who protect our freedom, especially those currently serving away from home. From drivers and technicians to office and shop teams, the sea of red underscored a simple message: our heroes are never forgotten, and we stand with them.

TCI also extended its support into the community by participating in the Veterans Day event at Ladera Ranch Town Green. The gathering brought together families, local organizations, and supporters to honor veterans through reflection, recognition, and connection.

These efforts reflect a broader dedication that extends well beyond Veterans Day. Read more about how TCI continues this mission through its veteran support initiatives and community-focused programs:

Team TCI Spreads Holiday Cheer Across Our Communities

Left to right: Christine Vallejo, Vanessa Torres, Michelle Thompson, Sylvia Mahfouz, Carlos Camaros

This holiday season, Team TCI embraced the spirit of giving by donating toys to Bithiah’s House as part of its annual holiday toy drive. Team members personally delivered the toys to the Pomona location, where they were welcomed for a tour led by Michelle Thompson, Bithiah’s co-founder. During the visit, the team learned more about the nonprofit’s mission, history, and ongoing work supporting children and youth in the foster care system.

TCI has proudly partnered with Bithiah’s House for five years, supporting its trauma-informed programs that provide stability, resources, and support for foster youth, youth aging out of care, and families in crisis.

In the same spirit, Team TCI in Fort Worth also gave back by donating toys to Cook Children’s Medical Center, helping bring comfort and joy to young patients and their families during the holidays. The donation reflects TCI’s continued commitment to supporting children and families in the communities where we live and work.

“A huge thank you to the TCI team and everyone who donated. Your generosity will bring smiles to so many children who may be facing a difficult time this holiday season.” — Nicole Perry, Business Development Manager, Fort Worth

Celebrating Growth & Legacy at TCI

As we close out 2025, we’re proud to reflect on a year shaped by growth, opportunity, and long-term commitment. At TCI, promoting from within isn’t just a value—it’s how we build careers and strengthen our culture.

This year, team members across the organization stepped into new roles through internal promotions, showcasing leadership, dedication, and alignment with TCI’s core values. Their advancement reflects our ongoing investment in developing talent and creating meaningful career pathways.

We also recognized employees who reached major milestones through our Legacy Awards, honoring 5, 10, 20, and 25 years of service in 2025. These team members represent the foundation of TCI’s success and the consistency, integrity, and teamwork that drive us forward.

Left to right: Greg Bassett, Truck Driver | Legacy Award Recipient, 10 Years, Ammar Raza, District Manager, Scott Halterman, Regional Manager, Derek Moncrief, Truck Driver | Legacy Award Recipient, 15 Years