Deaf Truckers United (DTU) is a grassroots organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and inclusion of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the commercial trucking industry. Founded on March 4, 2011, DTU has grown from a small group to a community of over a thousand members. Their mission centers on demonstrating that trucking is about skills, not hearing ability, and they actively work to remove barriers that hinder deaf individuals from pursuing careers in trucking.

Key Objectives and Activities

• Advocacy for Policy Change: DTU collaborates with organizations like the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) to challenge outdated regulations. In 2013, their efforts contributed to the U.S. Department of Transportation granting exemptions to the hearing test requirement for deaf and hard-of-hearing truck drivers, acknowledging that they can operate commercial vehicles safely.
• Hearing Waiver Guidance: The organization provides resources and support to help deaf individuals navigate the process of obtaining a hearing waiver from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a crucial step for those seeking a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
• Community Building: DTU fosters a supportive network through events like the Deaf Truck Show, held twice a year, where members can connect, share experiences, and build camaraderie.
• Educational Outreach: The organization also serves as an educational platform, offering information and inspiration to prospective deaf truck drivers, demonstrating that with the right support and determination, a career in trucking is attainable.

Leadership and Structure

Deaf Truckers United (DTU) is led by a dedicated team of professionals who are deeply involved in the trucking industry and committed to supporting Deaf drivers.

• President: Brandon Bruton is a dedicated leader and advocate for the Deaf trucking community. With over 25 years of experience in the trucking industry and a lifelong commitment to leadership and service, he has worked to promote equity, inclusion, and opportunities for Deaf drivers. As DTU’s President, Brandon fosters unity, empowers members, and champions a culture of respect, dignity, and collaboration. His vision and advocacy continue to inspire and advance meaningful change for Deaf professionals in trucking and beyond.
• Vice President: Jesse Shelander, a Texas native and 1996 graduate of the Texas School for the Deaf, brings over 20 years of experience in mining, construction, and commercial driving. An early advocate for Deaf truckers, he has been actively involved with Deaf Truckers United (DTU) since 2011, promoting accessibility, representation, and equality within the industry. Outside of work, Jesse enjoys hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and spending quality time with his wife and young daughter. His dedication to both family and the Deaf professional community reflects his commitment to service, empowerment, and positive impact.
• Member-at-Large: Zachary Rietz brings nearly 30 years of experience in trucking and logistics, with expertise spanning driving, warehousing, accounting, dispatching, and fleet management. Currently a Fleet Manager in Texas, he oversees operations while ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency. He is known for his practical leadership, strategic thinking, and collaborative approach. With Deaf Truckers United, he leverages his industry knowledge to support Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, advocating for accessibility, equal opportunities, and a strong, inclusive trucking community.
• Treasurer: Katie Young is a dedicated educator and advocate with over 15 years of experience supporting Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals. She has held leadership roles from her youth through adulthood, including serving on the boards of ASL ACCESS and the Idaho State Department of Education. Coming from a family of truckers and gaining firsthand insight into the industry through her fiancé, Katie is passionate about promoting accessibility, inclusion, and equitable opportunities for Deaf drivers. As DTU Treasurer, she works to empower members and advance positive change for Deaf professionals in both education and the trucking industry.
• Sergeant at Arms: Christa Butner is a pioneering advocate and professional driver dedicated to empowering Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and Deaf-Blind communities. She became the first female in North Carolina to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and founded the Deaf Female Truckers Facebook group to mentor and support women in trucking. Recognized for her commitment to accessibility and equity, Christa shares her expertise in communication strategies and resources with the broader community. As DTU’s Sergeant at Arms, she upholds organizational integrity while inspiring members through her leadership, advocacy, and dedication to breaking barriers.
• Director of Digital Communications: Kerri Wright is a pioneering professional with over 20 years of experience in customer service, digital communications, entrepreneurship, and trucking. She co-owned and operated a fully independent trucking company and, in 2019, and became the first deaf female trucker in Oklahoma. A skilled web developer and designer, Kerri now serves as DTU’s Director of Digital Communications, using her expertise to amplify voices, foster inclusion, and empower the community. Her career exemplifies resilience, innovation, and leadership.
• Social Media Coordinator: Glenn Ferguson began his trucking career in 2017, building on early experience working with his father on Class B vehicles. He has expertise in flatbed and oversize load hauling, route planning, and safety, earning recognition for a full year of safe driving without violations. As DTU’s Social Media Coordinator, Glenn uses his firsthand industry experience to share driver stories, foster engagement, and strengthen community connections. His work bridges trucking and advocacy, ensuring that truckers feel seen, supported, and informed.

Conclusion

Deaf Truckers United stands as a testament to the power of advocacy, community, and determination. Through their efforts, they continue to pave the way for greater inclusion and opportunity for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the trucking industry. For more information or to get involved, visit their official website at deaftruckersunited.com.