Arizona Trucking Association Announces 2024 Pioneer Award Recipients
Celebrating Industry Leaders Who Have Made Lasting Contributions to Arizona’s Trucking Industry
The Arizona Trucking Association (ATA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Pioneer Awards, an honor recognizing exceptional leaders who have made significant contributions to the trucking industry in Arizona. This year, the prestigious award is presented to three outstanding individuals: Robert W. Cunningham, President of RWC Group; Mike Kunde, Vice President of Doudell Trucking; and Bruce D.D. MacRae, Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs at UPS.
The Pioneer Award was established in 2006 to recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing the goals of the commercial transportation industry while contributing to the betterment of their communities. The award is not presented annually, but rather when individuals stand out for their dedication and contributions to the industry.
2024 Pioneer Award Honorees:
- Robert W. Cunningham, President of RWC Group
Bob Cunningham began his career in the trucking industry in 1973 while working his way through college. His journey from loading trucks to becoming a titan in the industry is nothing short of remarkable. After key leadership roles at Swift Transportation, Bob took a bold step by purchasing the Arizona Freightliner dealerships, transforming them into one of the most successful Freightliner franchises in the nation. But Bob’s story didn’t stop there. He returned to Swift as President and CEO before founding the RWC Group, which today boasts revenues exceeding $500 million, 17 dealerships across five states, and a fleet of nearly 2,000 trucks. Bob’s entrepreneurial spirit and his contributions to our industry are truly extraordinary. - Mike Kunde, Vice President of Doudell Trucking
Mike’s journey in trucking began early, growing up in the family business and earning his CDL at just 18. After attending Arizona State University, Mike became deeply involved with the Arizona Trucking Association, eventually serving as President of the Board of Directors in 1994. For over four decades, Mike has been a driving force behind Doudell Trucking and Diamond Tank Lines, working tirelessly in sales and operations to build a company that exemplifies the values of our industry. His involvement with the ATA has spanned decades, and both he and his wife Jane have been enthusiastic supporters of the association. It’s no surprise that Mike is recognized today for his incredible leadership, dedication, and service to Arizona’s trucking industry. - Bruce D.D. MacRae, Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs at UPS
Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs at UPS.
Bruce’s career began in 1978 with UPS as an unloader, and his rise through the ranks to his current role is a testament to his work ethic and leadership. Today, Bruce oversees government affairs for UPS in the Western United States, playing a key role in navigating local, state, and federal issues affecting the industry. Beyond his professional contributions, Bruce has been a dedicated community leader, serving on numerous boards, including the Arizona Trucking Association, the Nevada Trucking Association, and Trucker Against Trafficking. His commitment to both the industry and his community is unwavering, and his reputation as a fearless and straightforward leader is well-earned.
Previous Pioneer Award Recipients:
The Arizona Trucking Association’s Pioneer Award has recognized many industry leaders since its inception. Previous recipients include:
- 2006: Ben Cravens, Richard Dungan, Bruce & Katie Dusenberry, Clyde McDonald, Jerry Moyes, Terry Smalley (posthumously)
- 2007: Hal Hedges (posthumously), Fred Hurley (posthumously), Tom Morgan
- 2008: Pat Crahan, William Ewing, John Ford
- 2009: Freeman Theriault
- 2010: Doug Burkard, A.E. Minard
- 2011: Michael “Mickey” Bernstein, Richard “Dick” Landis
- 2012: Kevin Knight
- 2016: Karen Rasmussen
- 2019: Mike Nesbitt
- 2022: Rick Duncan
- 2023: David Berry, Swift Transportation; Ina Daly, XPO Logistics; Chip Dircks, Dircks Moving and Logistics; Larry Woolson, and David Sly.
“The Pioneer Award recipients represent the best of the Arizona trucking industry,” said Tony Bradley, President and CEO of the Arizona Trucking Association. “Their leadership, commitment to innovation, and dedication to the communities they serve have made a lasting impact on our industry. We are proud to honor Robert Cunningham, Mike Kunde, and Bruce MacRae with this well-deserved recognition.”
The 2024 Pioneer Award winners were announced during the Arizona Trucking Association’s annual conference, which gathers industry leaders to celebrate the achievements and milestones of the past year.
For more information about the Pioneer Awards and the Arizona Trucking Association, please visit www.arizonatrucking.com.
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