Midland shines at the 2025 APTA Awards: Celebrating Excellence Across our Team

Driver of the Year: Stephen Hare

Over a remarkable 28‑year career with Midland, Stephen Hare has driven more than 3.5 million miles, earning his 1 Million Mile Award in 2005, 2 Million in 2014, and 3 Million in 2024—with a spotless record that reflects discipline and care. Known for his calm demeanor, immaculate equipment, and unwavering professionalism, Stephen sets the standard for what a professional truck driver can be.

“If ‘Professional Truck Driver’ were listed in the dictionary, Stephen’s photo should appear beside it.” — Rod Hudson, Director, Owner/Operator & Driver Relations.

Customers and colleagues alike rely on Stephen for his punctuality, precision, and integrity. He represents Midland—and the Atlantic trucking industry—with pride, humility, and consistency.

Service to Industry: Rod Hudson

For 46 years, Rod Hudson has shaped the culture of professionalism in Atlantic Canadian trucking. As Midland’s Director, Owner/Operator & Driver Relations for nearly four decades, Rod leads with empathy, integrity, and a people‑first mindset. He’s the steady hand drivers turn to for coaching, conflict resolution, and compliance—day or night.

“Rod’s contribution is measured not only in years, but in the countless drivers and partners whose careers he has guided.” — RJ Irving, Senior Vice President & General Manager.

Rod’s impact can be seen in strengthened safety programs (including the Million Miles Club), elevated driver engagement, and the trust he’s built across the industry. His quiet leadership, mentorship, and servant‑hearted approach embody the true spirit of Service to the Industry.  

Dispatcher of the Year: Melissa Henry

As Planner Supervisor in Linehaul Dispatch, Melissa Henry is the calm centre of a complex daily operation—aligning routes, capacity, safety, and customer needs across Midland’s asset network. Drivers and customers know Melissa for her clarity, foresight, and care.

“She’s organized, thoughtful, and always focused on safety. If a delay happens, Melissa communicates right away and helps us find a safe, realistic solution.” — Howie White, Professional Driver

A trusted partner to major customers, Melissa’s proactive question—“What can we do?”—has become her trademark. She removes stress, balances schedules, and keeps freight moving smoothly. Her leadership elevates the entire operation, and her humility says it best: “Honestly, I like my job.”

Recruiter of the Year: Natasha Malisevych

Natasha Malisevych is redefining recruitment through empathy, integrity, and human connection. Since joining Midland in 2022 after relocating to Canada from Ukraine in 2019, Natasha has helped professional drivers find more than a job—she helps them find a home.

“Natasha listens, follows through, and genuinely cares. Her understanding of the driver experience—from recruitment to life on the road—sets her apart.”

— Jason Hargraft, Manager, Talent Acquisition

Natasha collaborates closely with all internal departments, ensuring smooth onboarding and long‑term success. She advocates for inclusion and fairness, supports families settling in Atlantic Canada, and represents Midland at career fairs and industry events. Her approach strengthens teams, retention, and community—reflecting the APTA values of adaptability, integrity, and unity.

Technician of the Year: Steven Cormier

Red Seal–certified and relentlessly dedicated to craftsmanship, Steven Cormier is a cornerstone of Midland’s maintenance excellence. Since 2020, Steven has combined deep diagnostic expertise with leadership and mentorship—bringing factory‑level service to Great Dane trailers and Freightliner equipment.

“Steven is more than a skilled mechanic—he represents reliability, craftsmanship, and continuous learning.” — Travis Crossman, Maintenance Manager

Certified with OEM partners including Timken, Hendrickson, Wabco, and Freightliner, Steven integrates telematics, service bulletins, and preventive maintenance to reduce breakdowns and improve fleet reliability. A former member of the Canadian Armed Forces, he embodies discipline and integrity—mentoring apprentices, elevating standards, and keeping our fleet safe.