August 22, 2025
MINNEAPOLIS —
FedEx employees and competitors at the four-day National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) gathered this week to celebrate the life and safety-focused legacy of founder Fred W. Smith, who died in June.
Tribute to Fred W. Smith
A contingent of 174 FedEx team members attended the event wearing caps marked with Smith’s initials as a tribute to the leader who made safety a cornerstone of the company.
FedEx’s Commitment to Safety
The company’s long-standing commitment to driver safety is evident in its strong presence at NTDC over the years. Many top contenders on the grounds have ties to FedEx and credit the company’s programs for their development.
Driver Experiences and Testimonials
Roland Bolduc, a two-time NTDC grand champion from Connecticut (2017 and 2022), competed in the five-axle class on Aug. 22 while wearing a “FWS” hat. He said Smith’s influence directly affected his career and pushed drivers to raise safety standards.
“This competition reflects the challenges Fred set for us,” Bolduc said after his first run. “He pushed everyone to improve, and his leadership helped shape where ...