Our transportation team has made incredible strides in the trucking industry over the past few years, and it stems from the efforts of our entire Driver Services team that is dedicated to safety and excellence. As a result, one of our HyLife drivers, Mario Bulacso has been named the 2025 Canadian Trucking Alliance/Volvo Trucks Canada National Driver of the Year. He attributes his best-in-the-nation success not to himself alone, but to the strong support provided by the company throughout his career.
“The HyLife team supports me so much. What I love most is that they don’t treat you like just an employee – we’re more like a family,” said Bulacso, noting how speechless he was upon receiving the national award.
This national honour follows Mario’s recognition as the 2024 Manitoba Trucking Association (MTA) – Volvo Trucks Canada Driver of the Year, and recipient of the MTA Inland Industry Excellence Award. All 2024 provincial Volvo Trucks Canada Drivers of the Year recipients were considered for the national award. Among them, Mario stood out to industry experts for his exceptional performance, professionalism, commitment to road safety, and acts of bravery on the job – qualities that set a national standard during the rigorous review process.
“Mario’s dedication to mentoring new drivers and building community on the road exemplifies the leadership and integrity we value in professional drivers. We are proud to recognize drivers like him who elevate our industry every day. Congratulations on this well-deserved honour,” said Matthew Blackman, Managing Director, Volvo Trucks Canada.
Known as “The Godfather,” by our teams, Mario’s nickname reflects the respect he has across the company. He not only exemplifies operational excellence but also serves as a trusted mentor to junior drivers in his role as HyLife’s Livestock Driver Representative.
Mario’s success is built on the foundation of strategic innovation and a people-first philosophy we live out at HyLife. Central to that effort is the entire Driver Services Team, made up of a dedicated unit of six professionals who support a fleet of over 130 full-time drivers.
“We are incredibly proud of Mario, but this also a very proud moment for our entire team,” said Sergey Yaglinsky, Manager of Driver Services at HyLife.
HyLife’s Approach to Supporting Drivers
HyLife’s Approach to Supporting Drivers
Our HyLife Driver Services Team handles everything from onboarding and scheduling to coaching. They are not just administrators, they are advocates, problem-solvers, and partners, ensuring every driver has the tools, support, and encouragement needed to succeed.
“Whether it’s personally checking in during orientation or collaborating with other departments to improve operations, HyLife’s Driver Services Team works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the company moving forward,” said Yaglinsky.
Our commitment to excellence at HyLife also extends to technology. In 2023, we introduced a state-of-the-art driver simulator, housed in a 53-foot trailer to better prepare drivers for the unpredictable conditions they may face on the road. This innovative tool offers realistic and dynamic training experience, allowing drivers to sharpen their skills in a controlled environment. It’s another example of HyLife’s proactive approach to driver safety, education, and long-term performance.
From mentorship and driver development to cutting-edge training tools, HyLife is setting the bar for what excellence in trucking looks like. Mario Bulacso’s recent achievements shine a spotlight on a company culture rooted in respect, innovation, and a deep dedication to the drivers behind the wheel.
