The top professional truck driver in Canada for 2025 is a livestock hauler, Mario Bulacso of Steinbach, Man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mario, who drives for HyLife, was named the 2025 Canadian Trucking Alliance\/Volvo Trucks Canada National Driver of the Year during National Trucking Week (Sept 7-13) \u2013 an annual event to celebrate the many contributions of Canada\u2019s dedicated truck drivers and industry workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mario was previously named the 2024 Manitoba Trucking Association\/Volvo Driver of the Year. He was chosen among last year\u2019s other provincial Drivers of the Year to be named the 2025 national recipient. It is the most prestigious award that can be given to a professional truck driver in Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout his 10-year, collision-free driving career, Mario has shown unwavering commitment to his profession and to the livestock industry. He has dedicated many years to animal care in trucking as well as his prior, 18-year career in the pork industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He also participates in his company driver advisory board, career fairs and truck shows; acts as a driver representative, and is a driver trainer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cHis passion for driving radiates through his work ethic and energy. He exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated ambassador for trucking,\u201d says Aaron Dolyniuk, Executive Director of the MTA. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mario sees the potential in new drivers, often referring strong candidates to his company and then following though by supporting new drivers in their growth, going \u201cabove and beyond\u201d to ensure they can safely and efficiently operate their own trucks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He has also built a tight-knit community on the road, where drivers can rely on him for guidance, support, and camaraderie. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a livestock hauler, he has extra responsibilities; his dedication to animal care is commendable. With a Bachelor of Science in agriculture, majoring in animal science, plus prior experience as a barn technician, he brings valuable expertise to his daily responsibilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When he\u2019s not behind the wheel he enjoys spending time fishing, working in his yard, and sings karaoke! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
He has three children with his wife Carla, as well as four grandkids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAt Volvo Trucks, we are proud to recognize Mario Bulacso as the 2025 National Driver of the Year. His unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism and dedication to animal welfare reflects the very best of our industry,\u201d says Matthew Blackman, managing director, Volvo Trucks Canada. Mario\u2019s dedication to mentoring new drivers and building community on the road exemplifies the leadership and integrity we value in professional drivers. We are proud to recognize drivers like Mario who elevate our industry every day, congratulations on this well-deserved honour.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n