ATA Seeks Trucking Industry’s Future Leaders

American Trucking Associations opened the application window for its premier industry leadership initiative, LEAD ATA. Heading into its fifth year, LEAD ATA is searching for the 2018-2019 class of diverse trucking industry leaders looking to grow their careers and meet other ambitious trucking professionals.

“LEAD ATA continues to be an avenue for trucking professionals to expand their knowledge of the industry and interact with people who help move the industry forward,” said ATA Chairman and president of Jet Express Inc. Kevin Burch. “I’ve seen the program grow from its earliest stages and I’m excited to see the application process open for another round of strong applicants. LEAD ATA builds teamwork and lifelong friendships.”

Established in 2013 and sponsored by PeopleNet, the program provides exclusive education opportunities to up-and-coming trucking industry professionals highlighting how the regulatory and legislative process affects the trucking industry and the important role ATA plays in influencing those processes. LEAD ATA also exposes its participants to the many tools available to industry executives through ATA.

“From speaking with graduates of LEAD ATA, it’s evident that the program helped them take on more responsibilities within their companies and the larger industry,” said ATA First Vice Chairman and president of TCW Inc. Dave Manning “Many graduates serve as key voices on ATA policy committees and have really established themselves as strong advocates for our industry within their grassroots networks.”

“PeopleNet is proud to again sponsor LEAD ATA because we see the value in preparing emerging executives to take the lead on our industry’s advocacy efforts and image improvement campaigns,” said Bryan Coyne, PeopleNet senior vice president and general manager. “The next cycle of trucking leaders has a chance to establish themselves as key voices for our industry and LEAD ATA does a great job of providing an opportunity to the young industry leaders who welcome that responsibility.”

As part of LEAD ATA, participants meet face-to-face with ATA executives and trucking policy experts, experience thorough media relations and public speaking training, gain valuable insight into how ATA works with legislators to create a more efficient and profitable environment for trucking, and see firsthand how ATA and its members are improving the trucking industry’s image. Next month, the current LEAD ATA class will exemplify the value of LEAD ATA by visiting their respective legislators on Capitol Hill and educating their Members of Congress on critical trucking issues.

LEAD ATA is a one-year program that includes four mandatory meetings and two optional meetings. Along with participating in the mandatory meetings, the LEAD ATA class undergoes leadership development training and receives exclusive opportunities to network with key trucking industry decision-makers. As part of their journey, these emerging trucking executives will develop a vast network of industry peers and a thorough understanding of ATA and the industry it represents.

Visit the official LEAD ATA website to find out more about the program or to fill out an application form.