MONTGOMERY, AL --- The Alabama Trucking Association recently awarded more than $6,000 in scholarship money for state safety professionals to receive nationally recognized transportation safety training and certification. 

Five safety managers from ATA-member firms began training with the North American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI) last month. They are expected to complete certification this fall, which includes classroom training, personal study, comprehensive exam, and a presentation outlining a candidate's experience and expertise in the area of highway safety. 

Receiving 2009 NATMI scholarships of $1,250 apiece were:

• Steve Dewberry, J. Crawley Transport, LLC, Banks, Ala.

• Patsy White, UPS Freight, Birmingham, Ala.

• Debbie Henderson, Charles G. Lawson Trucking Inc., Hope Hull, Ala.

• Lonna Holmes, My-Way Transportation Inc., Hanceville, Ala.

• Matt Frazier, American Proteins Inc., Hanceville, Ala. 

The Alabama Trucking Association represents nearly 700 large and medium-sized trucking firms, all of which have an employee responsible for fleet safety management. 

ATA's executive board selected applicants, with final approval by current Chairman Skip Williams. Applicants must meet basic qualifications of experience, education, job responsibility, and participation within the SMMC. Alabama currently has 16 active safety professionals with the CDS distinction. 

ATA represents the Alabama motor carrier industry. The association's membership includes for-hire and private truck operators and allied members (those who equip and service the industry).