FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AMTA Honours Industry Leaders at 2026 Awards Celebration
Recognizing those who make Alberta’s roads safer and strengthen the transportation industry
Tsuut’ina Nation – April 23, 2026 – The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) proudly celebrated excellence, leadership, and safety across the province’s commercial transportation industry at the 2026 Awards Celebration, held April 23 at the Grey Eagle Event Centre.
The Awards Celebration serves as an important reminder of the vital role individuals and organizations play in advancing safety, professionalism, and collaboration within the transportation sector. By recognizing these contributions, AMTA continues to promote a culture where safety and service remain at the forefront of the industry.
2026 AMTA Award Recipients are:
- Safety Person of the Year (sponsored by Echelon Insurance): Fred Pendelton, Federated Co-operatives Limited
- Historical Award: Gerald Wowk, Lac La Biche Transport
- Friend to Industry: Sgt. Dave Beattie, Edmonton Police Service
- Supplier Award: Ganesh Srinivasan, Cummins
- Don Achtemichuk Volunteer Service Award: Dwayne Warawa, Ocean Trailer
- Driver of the Year (Sponsored by Volvo): Richard Munkittrick, Bushell Transport
- Dean Paisley Service to Industry Award (Sponsored by BFL Insurance): Real Durand
- Excellence in Member Service: Kelsey Hipkin
- Core Value Award: Erica Veresh
“These awards highlight the people who go above and beyond to keep our roads safe and our industry strong,” said AMTA President Robert Harper. “Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence not only benefit Alberta, but set a standard felt far beyond our province.”
From frontline safety advocates to long-time contributors and innovative partners, this year’s recipients exemplify the shared responsibility of making Alberta’s roads safer for everyone.
About Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) – Founded in 1938, AMTA is a not-for-profit advocacy and safety training association for commercial transportation Alberta with the mission to Advocate. Educate. Innovate. AMTA offers a wide range of services to our members, including regulatory updates, workplace support, and an array of safety and training initiatives. AMTA and its members have advanced the commercial transportation industry through safety programs, progressive policy and partnerships. We help move Alberta forward.
Media inquiries
Kelsey Hipkin
Communications Manager
403-837-9978
media@amta.ca