Western Star and American Truck Simulator

Paving the Road for the Next Generation of Trucking

We Came. We Saw. We Conquered--Together.

The winners of the 2024 Western Star Star Nation Experience recently gathered in Bend, Oregon for a unique four-day event unlike any other in the trucking industry. This unforgettable experience offered participants behind-the-scenes access to Daimler Truck North America's facilities, a first look at the latest X-Series lineup, and face time with industry leaders--all set against the rugged backdrop that perfectly embodies Western Star and its Star Nation community. And though they arrived as strangers, their shared love for Western Star trucks quickly turned them into friends, bonding over a passion that would soon transform one participant's life.

From the Gamer Chair to the Driver's Seat

Western Star, like many in the trucking industry, knows that bringing in the “next generation” of drivers is essential for the industry’s future. To help close this gap, Western Star partnered with American Truck Simulator (ATS) to select two ATS participants for this year’s Star Nation Experience. The ATS community, known for its large platform and its younger, highly engaged audience, provided an ideal opportunity to connect with potential future drivers and further spark interest in the trucking industry.

One standout participant at this year’s Star Nation Experience was 25-year-old gamer Connor Hudziak, who had explored the world of trucking through ATS but had never driven a real truck.

At the Madras Proving Grounds, Connor had the chance to put his virtual skills to the test in a real-life driving competition. Winning multiple stages, he impressed the veteran drivers and quickly made a name for himself within the group—leading to one very meaningful connection.

Casey Ladelle, a veteran trucker with 20 years in the industry, met Connor and learned of his ambition to drive professionally. However, the high cost of CDL training stood in Connor’s way. Inspired by his dedication and talent, Casey, with support from Western Star and SCS Software, announced they would cover Connor’s training expenses, helping him transition from virtual highways to real-life roads.

This year’s Star Nation Experience was more than a celebration of Western Star trucks and its people; it was a powerful reminder of how the bonds within the trucking community can change lives—and even the entire industry—by supporting those with the passion to drive its future forward. We invite you to follow Connor’s journey as he transitions from the gamer chair to the driver’s seat, showing how non-traditional talent can help close the industry gap and inspire a new generation of drivers.

Details of the 2025 Star Nation Experience will be announced before the new year.

2024 Star Nation Experience Winners:

• Casey LaDelle, Owner-Operator in Bend, OR
• Trista House, Owner-Operator in Parish, NY
• Dustin Bishop, Owner-Operator in Athens, PA
• Brendan Schellenberg, Operator and American Truck Simulator Driver in Steinbach, MB
• Connor Hudziak, American Truck Simulator Driver in Frankfort, IL

2024 Star Nation Experience Special Guests:

• Daniel Němec, SCS Software (American Truck Simulator)
• Mark Mann, SCS Software (American Truck Simulator)