Known for her signature red cowboy boots, her willingness to help her fellow drivers, her community and her fellow women, Idella Hansen leads by example. Idella’s ability and dedication have earned her the respect of her fellow drivers, and TA-Petro is proud to honor her as a 2017 Citizen Driver.
In 2013, TA-Petro launched the Citizen Driver Program to honor exceptional drivers who exhibit strong citizenship, community involvement, leadership, health and wellness, and safety. To date, 26 Citizen Driver Honorees have been named as the best of the best. Idella is one of five members of the 2017 class.
“Idella is a pioneer in our industry and is a great example of what the Citizen Driver Award was created to recognize. She exemplifies the qualities of the award by her words and deeds on a daily basis, and continues to be a shining example of safety, involvement and passion within our industry,” said Rick Ash, 2015 Citizen Driver Award Recipient, St. Christopher Fund Board Member, Former Chairman Trucking Solutions Group, Chairman Onramp to Health.
Hansen was 18-years-old when she started driving with her family’s business, and now, more than 48 years later, she shows no sign of stopping. She is the finest professional in all aspects of her career; her strong work ethic shines and her employers sing her praises.
“Idella is a problem solver, and her professionalism is an encouragement to me on days when I feel burned out – she is a constant reminder to stay positive about my work. She follows the golden rule by treating others with respect and somehow is able to keep a cool head in the most trying circumstances,” said Mike McDermott, Carrier Account Manager, Great Lakes Capacity (GLC), C.H. Robinson.
An active volunteer with numerous trucking organizations, her community and her local church, Idella strongly believes in giving back, and does so on a grand scale. She sits on the board of directors as Treasurer for REAL Women In Trucking (RWIT), a volunteer organization formed to empower women drivers. Idella is also a board member with Operation Roger, a volunteer group of pet-loving truckers who help needy pets travel to their new homes all across the country. She is deeply involved in Trucker Charity and Last Ride Home, helping to provide transportation for the remains of deceased drivers. Idella and her daughter also quilt or make decorated ash bags for the cremated remains, giving dignity and a small comfort to the families.
“She is a determined, hardworking woman and I’m extremely proud of her, not just for what she has done in her career, but what she has accomplished outside as well. Every time I look around, I see her involved in yet another community project. She’s relentless when she believes in a cause. I’ve seen her take the bull by the horns and just plow through many adversities, where others may have given up,” said Teresa Burrell, Author of The Advocate Series.
“Anyone who knows Idella knows she is a hard worker. She does not know the meaning of quit,” said Sandy Soendker, Editor-in-Chief, Land Line Magazine, Inc.
Do you know someone who should be a Citizen Driver? TA-Petro is currently accepting nominations for our next class of Citizen Driver Honorees. You have until September 30, 2017 to submit your entry click here. The 2018 Citizen Drivers will be announced at a ceremony at the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum.