Author: Khadejia Hupp

WTN Council Meeting Recap – 2/8/2024

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

The West Tennessee Safety/Maintenance Council hosted its first meeting of 2024 on February 8, 2024, at C.H. Robinson’s Memphis location. This session brought together industry professionals to discuss critical safety and maintenance issues affecting the trucking sector.

Wesley Russell, a Hazardous Materials Specialist from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), led the meeting. His presentation covered a range of essential topics, including the Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) on Safety Fitness Determination and the Comment Period for DataQs. Russell provided updates on Emergency Exemptions, the Crash Preventability Determination Program, and the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot.

The meeting highlighted initiatives aimed at improving safety within the Memphis area and addressed the critical issue of human trafficking, emphasizing the industry’s role in combating this problem.

Thank you to Crows Truck Center for sponsoring lunch and contributing to the day’s success

To engage with the West Tennessee Safety/Maintenance Council and join the newsletter list click here to join the email list for future meetings and event topics. These meetings are a great opportunity for professionals to contribute to and benefit from the council’s valuable work in promoting safety and maintenance excellence in the trucking industry.

 

Welcoming the 2024 Leading Edge Program Cohort

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

The Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) is excited to usher in the second cohort of the Leading Edge Program, which began on January 10th. This initiative is designed to cultivate the skills of promising individuals within the trucking industry, paving the way for the next generation of leadership.

This year’s group is a blend of dynamic professionals from various member companies. Each participant brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, poised to make significant contributions to the industry.

Meet the Participants

Jase Carvell, Rush Truck Center, Nashville
Ashton Storey, Titan Transfer, Inc.
Jonathan Gipson, Dobbs Peterbilt
Chris Fugatt, McKee Foods Transportation LLC
Joshua Wichman, Covenant Logistics
Connor Eli, TCW, Inc.
Christian Courts, Dobbs Peterbilt
Jeremy Faircloth, P&S Transportation
Michelle Hosford, Kenco Transportation Services, LLC
Bri Law, Tennessee Trucking Association
Ashley Simmons, Covenant Logistics

Thank you to everyone who nominated our new Leading Edge cohort, embarking on a transformative journey.

And thank you to Deborah Varallo from Varallo Public Relations, Sarah Heffington of M&W Logistics Group, and Adam Saner from Titan Transfer, and alum of the 2023 Leading Edge program, for sharing their insights with this year’s participants.

To learn more about the Leading Edge program and apply for next year’s program click here. 

I-55 Mississippi River Bridge Closure

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The Tennessee Department of Transportation contract crews will be closing the I-55 Mississippi River Bridge this weekend to continue construction activities on the I-55 and Crump interchange. Activities include repair work on the I-55 bridge and removal of overhead sign structures. All work is weather-dependent.


Saturday, February 3, 5:00 am through  Monday, February 5, 6:00 am

  • I-55 SB will be closed at Bridgeport Road in Arkansas
  • I-55 NB will be closed at South Parkway* in Tennessee

*Local traffic will be allowed to continue to the McLemore exit

  • I-55 SB ramp will be closed
  • Crump Boulevard WB will be closed

A detour will be posted. 

 

From your desktop or mobile device, get the latest construction activity and live-streaming SmartWay traffic cameras at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for travel information, or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/myTDOT for statewide travel or West Tennessee follow https://twitter.com/NicLawrenceTDOT.

 

As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.

 

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Nichole Lawrence | Region 4

Community Relations Officer

300 Benchmark Place

Jackson, Tennessee 38301

  1. 731-935-0318 c. 731-225-6041

nichole.lawrence@tn.gov

tn.gov/tdot

https://twitter.com/NicLawrenceTDOT

TEL donates truck to transport Remote Area Medical mobile clinic

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

CHATTANOOGA, TN, JAN. 12, 2024 – Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) has donated a 2022 Freightliner Cascadia commercial truck to Remote Area Medical (RAM) to power the nonprofit’s free pop-up clinics, announced Victor Duggard, chief financial officer of TEL. The truck, valued at $85,000, will transport RAM’s mobile clinic to locations throughout the region where the charity provides medical, dental and vision care to the uninsured and underserved.

 

“There is a tremendous need for medical services for individuals without insurance or the money to get medical services in our society. This is where RAM fills the void,” explained Duggard. “Partnering with a great organization like this is a great way for us to give back in our community.”

 

“RAM is grateful for this generous donation from Transport Enterprise Leasing,” Chris Hall, chief operations officer, said. “This commercial truck will allow us to continue to provide free, quality healthcare to those in need across the United States. As we expand our services and number of clinics, our fleet of tractor-trailers becomes an ever-growing, important aspect of delivering the care that countless individuals are seeking. Barriers exist for our patients in many different ways. With this truck, we are able to continue to remove those barriers that stand in the way of access to healthcare.”

 

Founded in 1985, RAM has recruited more than 196,000 volunteer providers and support staff over the years to treat nearly 1 million individuals, delivering free healthcare services valued at more than $195 million, the charity estimated. Some clinics provide care through on-site providers, while others deliver care via telehealth services in Tennessee.

 

Dozens of clinics are scheduled for the coming months in Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and in states as far away as Alaska. Pop-up clinics slated for January and February include visits Jan. 12-14 in Knoxville, TN, and Feb. 17-18 in Henderson, NC.

 

To support RAM and learn more about its clinics, please visit www.ramusa.org.

 

About Transport Enterprise Leasing LLC

Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) is a leading national provider of commercial truck and trailer leasing, sales and remarketing. We help hardworking professionals build profitable businesses by providing and financing new and like-new transport equipment from top brands, including Peterbilt, Freightliner, Volvo, Kenworth, Hyundai, Wabash, Utility and Fontaine. We specialize in Class 8 sleepers and day cabs, dry vans, reefers and flatbeds. We also are known for our comprehensive support programs, such as fleet support and maintenance advisory.

Founded in 2004, our headquarters is located in Chattanooga, TN, with additional facility operations right off I-70 in the east Indianapolis metro area (Greenfield, IN).

For more information on TEL, please visit www.tel360.com.

Titan Transfer Terminal Visit With Senator Hagerty

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

Pictured L-R Phillip Edwards, Titan Transfer, Donna England, TTA, Senator Bill Hagerty, Tommy Hodges, Goggin Warehousing

On November 17, 2023, a luncheon was orchestrated by Titan Transfer, Inc. with U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty, backed by Team Hagerty. This gathering served as a chance for the senator to visit with trucking industry leaders.

This event highlighted the necessity and value of collaboration between industry stakeholders and government representatives. Such interactions are key to ensuring that the trucking community’s concerns and needs are heard and understood. 

As the trucking industry navigates a complex landscape, the interaction between leaders and policymakers like Senator Hagerty underscores the industry’s commitment to advocacy and policy. It’s through these proactive endeavors that we can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities, solidifying a prosperous future for the trucking industry.

 

Tennessee Trucking Foundation 2023 Cash Raffle Winners Video

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

We’re thrilled to announce the winners of the 2023 Tennessee Trucking Foundation cash raffle held on December 14th 2023 at the Tennessee Trucking Association office in Nashville, TN. Funds from the raffle support the Foundation’s Road Team Captains and the Teens and Trucks program.

2023 Winners: 

Kristofer Adams, TCX /Temperature Control is the 1st place $15,000 winner.

Craig Kendall, The Peterbilt Store is the 2nd place $5,000 winner. 

Angie Leathers, Averitt Express, Inc. is the 3rd place $3,500 winner. 

Thank you to everyone who participated this year, and special thanks to our sponsors: Titan Transfer, Inc., Goggin Warehousing, LLC, and TCW Inc. Your support is invaluable.

View the video of this year’s raffle below created by Dave Edwards with S&E Productions. 

Averitt Partners with Radio Station to Deliver 15,000 Christmas and Holiday Cards to Soldiers Overseas

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

DALLAS, Texas – December 19, 2023 – Averitt associates are spreading joy this holiday season by delivering more than 15,000 Christmas and Holiday cards to soldiers stationed overseas.

The effort was coordinated as part of Hawkeye & Michelle’s “10,000 for the Troops” program, organized by New Country 96.3 radio station in Dallas, Texas.
Averitt’s commitment to supporting the U.S. military was showcased through the donation of 15,101 personalized cards, far surpassing the radio station’s goal of 10,000.

As part of Averitt’s year-round Team Up Community Challenge, associates based in the company’s locations in Texas actively participated in signing cards throughout the year. Averitt’s Team Up Community Challenge is an initiative where associates volunteer with organizations throughout their local communities – a process that’s served 220+ organizations in nearly 100 communities so far.

Averitt’s involvement in the program dates back to 2022, when Averitt associates signed approximately 1,000 cards in one week after hearing about the card drive on a local radio broadcast. During the card drop-off, Averitt learned that the station was facing logistical challenges for delivering the cards. Without hesitation, Averitt’s Dallas team stepped in to help.

In 2023, Averitt became an official sponsor of the “10,000 for the Troops” program to continue to help spread holiday cheer to those serving our country abroad.
“Being far from home is challenging no matter the season, and these personalized cards serve as a connection to the warmth and love of home,” said Gary Sasser, chairman and CEO of Averitt, who served in the Marine Corps Reserves. “We want them to know that we are thinking of them and appreciate what they do for our country.”

Averitt’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting our military is a foundational element of the company’s culture. Earlier this year, Averitt was recognized as a 2024 Top Ten Military Friendly® Employer and Military Friendly® Spouse Employer by VIQTORY.

To learn more about Averitt’s commitment to the military, visit Averitt.com/veterans.

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About Averitt:
Serving shippers for over 50 years, Averitt is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management solutions with an international reach of over 100 countries. Averitt’s “Power of One” service structure provides shippers access to LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated services that cover every link in the supply chain. Averitt’s team has been awarded the highest honors in the industry in the past year, including five Quest for Quality Awards, numerous customer awards, and a No. 1 overall ranking in MASTIO & Company’s shipper survey. Averitt’s 9,000+ associates are dedicated to delivering the most reliable services within the industry and promoting a company culture centered around people, communities, sustainability, and giving back. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT (283-7488) or visit Averitt.com.

2023 Haulin for the Holidays Finale

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NASHVILLE, TN, November 22, 2023 – The Tennessee Trucking Foundation and the Young Professional Council (YPC) of the Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) proudly announce the success of their 5th Annual Haulin’ for the Holidays initiative. With a fundraising achievement of $100,000 this year, they will start deliveries on December 1st, ending in a grand finale toy drive on December 14th. This effort will provide clothing, food, and toys to families across Tennessee.

“There is not a harder working and more generous group of people than the trucking industry!” said YPC Chairperson Sarah Heffington of M & W Logistics. “The idea for a statewide toy drive started five years ago and has been driven by the Young Professional Council of the Tennessee Trucking Association as a way for trucking companies and industry partners to pull together and bless children and families across our state whose Christmas otherwise would not be as bright.” She states, “For me, ‘Haulin for the Holidays’ is personal. There was not one Christmas growing up that I wondered if there would be presents under the tree. Unfortunately, for many children
and teens across our state, that is not always the case, and the trucking industry is doing our part to change that.”

This year, the initiative has received overwhelming support from various “Angel Sponsors” within the trucking community.

“I’m floored by our trucking community’s generosity,” said Jessie Merritt, Executive Vice President of Sales for Reliance Partners and former chairman of the YPC. “This year is remarkable because we will more than double our funds raised from last year AND it’s a very challenging freight market. The Tennessee Trucking Association is home to the best and brightest in our industry and I’m inspired by the hustle and grit that makes these generous donations possible.”

Haulin’ for the Holidays is more than a toy drive. It stands for the mission of making a lasting impact on young lives and organizations supporting youth development. The YPC carefully personalizes donations to each non-profit’s specific needs, whether they need toys, books, or even bounce houses for school celebrations. “We’re thoughtful about the population we’re serving,” Merritt said. “We’re enthusiastic about representing every child in the toys or books they receive.”

Donna England, President of TTA, expressed her pride towards the young professionals working diligently to support these charities. “It is also very pleasing to see the work the charities are doing in our communities, and I am grateful that we get to play a part in helping them fulfill their mission,” added England.

The YPC invites everyone to join the Haulin’ for the Holidays finale on December 14th, 2023. The event will take place at Adams and Reese LLP, 1600 West End Ave, Unit 1400, Nashville, TN 37203, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring a toy and join in the holiday cheer. Special thanks to Reliance Partners for providing food and beverages.

The ultimate goal for the YPC is to continue growing this initiative. Heffington states, “As for what is to come and how we plan to grow our ‘Haulin’ for the Holidays’ campaign in the years to come, stay tuned. We are working on plans that just may include taking this movement to other state trucking associations in an effort to grow our campaign nationwide!”

For more information about the Young Professionals Council and the Haulin’ for the Holidays initiative, please visit www.tntrucking.org/YPC.

Thank you to the following generous sponsors for the 2023 Haulin’ for the Holidays initiative:

Adams and Reese LLP, Ascend Transportation, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, Christenson Transportation, Cumberland International, Direct ChassisLink, Inc., Dunavant Global Logistics, FirstExpress, Inc., FirstFleet, Inc., Fleetco, Inc., FLS Transportation Services, Fountain Equipment Finance and Bonnie Kilgor Oslonian, HEC Leasing, JOST International, Konexial, Inc., Lytx, MHC Kenworth, Knoxville MHC Kenworth, Nashville, M&W Transportation, Motive, MS Logistics, Ozark Motor Lines, Inc., Pemberton Truck Lines, Inc., Pinnacle Bank, Reliance Partners, R. E. West, Inc., Sadler Brothers, Skyline Transportation, TAG Truck Center, TCW, Inc., Tennessee Freight Company, Tenny Group, Titan Transfer, TT Wilson Company, and Venture Express. We’d also like to thank the personal sponsorship from Tommy Hodges, Phillip Edwards, Pat Marsh, Debra Brake, and Dave Huneryager, your support has made this season an exceptional one. Thank you!

 

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About the Tennessee Trucking Association

Founded in 1930, TTA was forged out of the belief that a strong, unified industry would be essential in remaining effective and profitable in the future. Today, TTA is the driving force and the voice of the trucking industry in Tennessee. As an independent, non-profit trade association representing trucking companies and industry vendors, TTA exists to encourage the healthy growth and betterment of its more than 500 members statewide. TTA represents an important engine of Tennessee’s economy, supporting over 200,000 jobs and the safe transport of goods across the state. The Tennessee Trucking Association is an affiliate of the American Trucking Associations.

Press Contact:
Donna England
Dengland@tntrucking.org
615-777-2882

Averitt Honored with Military Friendly Awards

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

For Immediate Release 

Contact: 

media@averitt.com 

For additional media resources, visit Averitt.com/media.

 

Averitt Honored with Military Friendly Awards

 

Averitt has been recognized as a 2024 Top Ten Military Friendly® Employer and Military Friendly® Spouse Employer by VIQTORY, a veteran-owned organization dedicated to supporting military service members’ transition to civilian life. This is the fifth time Averitt has been selected as a Military Friendly company. The Military Friendly designation is a testament to Averitt’s commitment to the military community and its efforts in providing sustainable and meaningful benefits to veterans and military personnel.

 

“Organizations earning the Military Friendly Employer designation have wholeheartedly invested in comprehensive and impactful initiatives that bring about positive, life-changing results for our valued service members, dedicated military spouses, and esteemed veterans within their ranks,” said Kayla Lopez, senior director of Military Partnerships at Military Friendly. “We salute these exemplary employers who raise the bar and understand that hiring military personnel is not merely an act of goodwill but a testament to a standard that truly embodies sound business wisdom. Their steadfast commitment to integrating military personnel into their workforce not only reflects their compassion but also underscores their business acumen.”

 

Military Friendly is widely regarded as the industry standard for measuring an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. The 2024 Military Friendly survey evaluated over a thousand companies, with Averitt among the top 10 organizations in our revenue bracket recognized for their outstanding support and dedication to military service members. With about 15% of Averitt associates being veterans, this recognition is a significant achievement for Averitt.

 

“We are thankful for all of those who would serve our country and we want to do all we can to thank them for that service,” said Gary Sasser, Averitt chairman and chief executive officer, who served in the Marine Corps Reserves. “We strongly believe in being a company that service members can call home and providing a place where veterans are valued for their service.”

 

The assessment included a rigorous analysis of public data and a proprietary survey, with VIQTORY and the Military Friendly® Advisory Council meticulously establishing methodology, criteria, and weightings. Employers were evaluated across six key categories: Recruiting and sourcing, Policies and compliance, Support and retention, Culture and commitment, Opportunity and advancement, and Hiring and onboarding.

 

For more information about Averitt and its commitment to the military community, please visit AverittSalutesYou.com. Averitt will be showcased in the 2024 Military Friendly ® Employers in the Winter issue of G.I. Jobs ® magazine and on MilitaryFriendly.com.

 

About Averitt

Serving shippers for over 50 years, Averitt is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management solutions with an international reach of over 100 countries. Averitt’s “Power of One” service structure provides shippers access to LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated services that cover every link in the supply chain. Averitt’s team has been awarded the highest honors in the industry in the past year, including five Quest for Quality Awards, numerous customer awards, and a No. 1 overall ranking in MASTIO & Company’s shipper survey. Averitt’s 9,000+ associates are dedicated to delivering the most reliable services within the industry and promoting a company culture centered around people, communities, sustainability, and giving back. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT (283-7488) or visit Averitt.com.

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2023 Fall Conference

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

 

 Tennessee Trucking Association Fall Conference 2023

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR October 25th – 27th 

Join us at the highly anticipated Tennessee Trucking Association Fall Conference on October 25th – 27th, 2023, hosted at the Hilton Knoxville in the heart of Knoxville.

The conference offers an opportunity to network with peers and gain valuable insights. Immerse yourself in the city center with other trucking industry professionals to foster connections, exchange ideas, and stay ahead of the latest industry trends. Sign up below for the Fall Conference. 

 

 

 

 

About The Keynote Speaker

Tim Richardson

Tim Richardson is a nationally recognized leadership, sales, and service speaker who’s been entertaining and engaging audiences for over 30 years. In his dynamic presentations, Tim weaves the lessons he’s learned working on a sales team with IBM, working in management with an award-winning resort, and from years of consulting with clients in financial services, healthcare, hospitality, insurance, telecommunications, and many other industries into his presentations.

He’s been a key speaker to hundreds of associations and companies around the globe. Tim is the author of Jump Starts, Wit, and Wisdom to Super Charge Your Day and co-author of Transformation Thinking.  He’s a member of the National Speakers Association and earned the coveted CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) designation over 20 years ago. 

He founded the Bill Walter Melanoma Research Fund and served as President of the foundation for 20 years. Tim is the proud father of six kids and proud husband to his superhero wife, Adele for whom he has been married 27 years.​

Keynote  – The Power of the Pause: How a Reset Brings Sanity to the Workplace

Our workload, pace, and schedules are so fast and ever-changing that we are losing ground at work. Most of us simply haven’t taken enough pauses in our work and personal lives to maintain positive momentum. Over the last few years, you have likely experienced fear, fatigue, staffing challenges, low morale, and poor self-care. Regaining our sanity while rebuilding morale, teamwork, and a highly engaged staff are all more critical than ever. This presentation will provide tools and strategies to bring your workplace back – back to do what you do best: serving your customers, supporting each other, and operating at peak levels.

 

Fall Conference Schedule of Events

 

 

Wednesday, October 25
3:00-5:00 – Maple Hall Bowling Networking Event

Thursday, October 26
7:30-8:00 – Registration
8:00-8:15 – Welcome & Self-Introductions
8:15-8:30 – Opening Remarks
8:30-9:30 – The Power of the Pause: How a Reset Brings Sanity to the Workplace -Tim Richardson
9:30-9:45- Break
9:45-10:15 – Chris Woody – Trucking Parking Panel discussion with Ken and Donna Wheeler, Tom Frain
10:15-10:45- Truck Parking/Build with Us – Dan Pallme
10:45-11:15- Towing & Recovery – Rates, Towing Policies, Best Practices, THP Wrecker Lt. Ruskey
11:15-11:30 – Table Sponsor Spotlight
11:30- 12:00- FMCSA Updates- Dan Horvath, ATA
12:00-1:00 – Lunch
1:00-1:30 – Driver Recruiting Discussion, Jeremy Reymer;
1:30-2:00 Next Gen – Lindsey Trent
2:00-2:15 Break
2:15-2:45- Driver Safety, Fleet Management, True Digital Ecosystem Integration- Andy Dishner, Konexial
2:45-3:15 – Break
3:15-3:45- Tires
3:45-4:15 – Super Truck Project- Scott Curran, Oak Ridge Labs
4:15-4:30- Wrap Up/Elect Officers
6:00 – Banquet

Friday, October 27
8:00-8:30 – Project K-9 Hero – Jason Johnson
8:30-9:00 -Panel of Professional Drivers Today, Road Team Captains Tim Blair, Tom Frain, and Ken Wheeler Moderated by Ronnie Holland
9:00-9:15 – Break
9:15-09:45 – Roadside Stats & Inspections – THP
9:45-10:00 – Break
10:00-10:45– FMCSA Updates, Audits, SMS Changes – Stephanie Mann, FMCSA
10:45-11:15- Leading Edge Group
11:15-12:00– Closing

Hotel – Hilton Knoxville

Book your hotel room for the Tennessee Trucking Association Fall Conference now! We have reserved a hotel block exclusively for conference attendees.

 

 

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Still AVAILABLE!

Email Carol Foster (Cfoster@tntrucking.org) to become a Conference Sponsor. 

Sponsor the 2023 Fall Conference

Discover sponsorship opportunities at the Tennessee Trucking Association Fall Conference! 

Choose from a range of packages designed for any budget. To secure your sponsorship, contact Carol Foster at cfoster@tntrucking.org.

 

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Thank You 2023 Sponsors

 

by Donna England/div>
 

 

Maple Hall Bowling 

Join us on Wednesday, October 25th for the opening networking event from 3-5 p.m. at Maple Hall Bowling. This is the perfect way to kick off the conference. 

This opening networking event is just the beginning of the Fall Conference experience. Don’t miss this chance at this conference in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee. 

Register today and join us at Maple Hall Bowling! 

Address:  414 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902

 

 

 Knoxville is a vibrant city that offers a blend of history, modern attractions, and breathtaking natural beauty. Feel the charming Southern hospitality as you stroll through the lively downtown area, brimming with unique shops, entertainment, and more!

To explore the diverse and captivating city of Knoxville, check out this map:  Click to view the Knoxville Map.

 

2023 Fall Conference Recap

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

This past week, safety was the topic at hand in Knoxville at TTA’s Fall Conference on October 26th and 27th. The conference kicked off with a networking event the evening before at Maple Hall Bowling. Attendees mingled, shared experiences, and set the tone for the two-day conference that was to follow.

 

 

 

 

The following day was packed with a full day of 30-minute sessions from industry experts. From discussions on critical topics such as Truck Parking with the Road Team Captains to Driver Safety, Fleet Management, and updates from FMCSA. It was a great combination of education and serious discussions about regulations, what’s working in the industry, and what can be re-evaluated. 

While all the presentations provided a great resource, one person who’s words echoed throughout the first day was that of the keynote speaker, Tim Richardson, who gave an inspiring talk on “The Power of the Pause: How a Reset Brings Sanity to the Workplace.” In our busy industry, it’s so easy to keep pushing forward, but he reminded attendees of the importance of maintaining balance amidst our busy lives. While the fall conference was a full-day event, we like to think that the door prizes, evening banquet, and poker night helped attendees “pause” before diving into the final day of learning.  

 

 

 

 

Day two of the conference started on a high note with a session by Jason Johnson from Project K-9 Hero. It was a great opportunity to witness the loyalty and intelligence of the K-9. Being able to see the work that’s done to give a new life to the service dogs that once served our community was incredible. After project K-9 the rest of the day was filled with a great variety of speakers before closing out the Fall conference for the afternoon with a few closing door prizes. 

This year’s Fall Conference was a testament to the industry’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation and we’re grateful to everyone who made it happen. Each year is only possible because of the sponsors, speakers, attendees, and staff who make this event a success. Your support made this conference not only possible but also a memorable one. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this exceptional event. 

With the conclusion of this year’s conference, we are already looking forward to next year. We hope to see you all again and continue to provide a platform for learning, networking, and celebrating the industry we all love. 

 

Thanks again for your support. Click here to see all photos from the Fall Conference 

 

Thank You Fall Conference Sponsors! 

Be Pro Be Proud

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

Thursday, October 12, 2023, marked the launch of the Be Pro Be Proud initiative in Tennessee, which aims to highlight the role skilled trades play in our workforce and build a new generation of professionals. Initially kickstarted in Arkansas, the BeProBeProud initiative now spans Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Each BeProBeProud trailer is outfitted with interactive simulation experiences, enabling students to try out different trades and find a field that aligns with their interests.

This event reflects a more comprehensive narrative —the growing demand for skilled trades professionals. With over 3.5 million truck drivers in operation, moving 10.5 billion tons of freight annually, the trucking industry is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. However, a pressing need remains in the industry.

In a proactive response, Governor Bill Lee and the TN General Assembly recognized this upward trend and allocated $1.5 million in appropriations on May 12, 2022, to kickstart the project. The initiative was then spearheaded by Sarah Burnett with the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce, alongside countless volunteers and sponsors who rallied together to make this possible.

McGriff Tire Company, Inc., Titan Transfer, Inc., McKee Foods Transportation, LLC, and Rush Truck Center make up the sponsors from the trucking industry along with Jill Sito from McKee Foods who donated her skills to design the Tennessee Be Pro Be Proud Trailer. To everyone involved we say thank you for making this possible. 

While the kickoff event is now behind us, the opportunity to join this program is still open. To learn more, book the trailer, or join the mission, visit BeProBeProudTn.com. 

 

Watch the WKRN video report on this event below: