Author: Khadejia Hupp

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: 

 

 

 

TCW Receives Grand Champion Award for Safety

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

The Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) is proud to spotlight one of our esteemed members, TCW, for their exceptional achievements in safety performance during 2022. At TTA’s 2023 Annual Convention, TCW secured 1st Place in the 3 to 7 million miles category and also received the prestigious Grand Champion Award of Safety. Here’s a message from TCW team, celebrating their accomplishments and thanking those who made it possible:

 

…Our 2022 safety performance in Tennessee earned us 1st Place in the 3 to 7 million miles category. We also received the prestigious Grand Champion Award of Safety for our continued efforts to make our industry and communities safer. Accepting the award on behalf of all our employees, owners, and owner-operators was the person responsible for creating the safety culture at TCW, Scott George. It’s truly an honor to be part of the TCW legacy. Thank you to everyone for your efforts to make TCW a leader in our industry.

A special thanks to the drivers who went above and beyond to serve as Tennessee Road Team Captains over the years:

Scott Andrews 2008
Dale Davidson 2009
William Spivy 2013
Kyle Beach 2014
Brad Coffey 2015
Darrell Hall 2015
Charles Starks 2015
Christy McClain 2016
John Anderson 2017
John Henderson 2018

Thank you to the following employees/owners for your commitment to the TCW Unified Team:

Cliff Tarbox, 4 years
Gene Casey, 2 years”

The Tennessee Trucking Association congratulates TCW for its outstanding achievements in safety.  Thank you, TCW for exemplifying what can be achieved through a commitment to safety and community.

Be Pro Be Proud Launch, October 12th

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

The highly anticipated Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee Launch is just around the corner, and we’re thrilled to invite you to be a part of it!

When and Where?

Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 12th. The event will take place at Volunteer State Community College. The exhibits will open their doors at 9:00 am, and the main program will kick off at 10:00 am.

Why Should You Attend?

This launch event is more than just a gathering; it’s an opportunity to be part of a movement that aims to elevate our industry. The aim of this program is to bring a new generation of pride, progress, and professionalism to Tennessee’s skilled workforce. 

How to Register?

Ready to join us? Simply register online here, and you’re all set!

See you on October 12th!

 

TEL Supports Veterans with September 11 Donation to Wounded Warrior Project

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

CHATTANOOGA, TN, Sept. 11, 2023 – U.S. veterans launched the Wounded Warrior Project in the aftermath of terrorist attacks against the nation on September 11, 2001, and military actions that followed. Their goal: is to honor and empower wounded military personnel. In preparation for September 11 remembrances this year, Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) has donated $6,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project to support the charity’s important work, said CEO Doug Carmichael.

An Army veteran, Carmichael added that a number of TEL employees and trucking customers are former military personnel, some of whom sustained injuries as a result of their service.

“Having served in South Korea in the 1970s and later as an Army drill instructor and teacher, I have some understanding of the ins and outs of serving our country. I cannot imagine the added burden of bearing the scars of battle and war,” he said. “To our brothers and sisters who served and came home with the scars of war, the least we can do is to donate a portion of the favor that the good Lord has bestowed upon us and our company.”

 

Wounded Warrior Project provides extensive services to assist veterans who served on or after 9/11/2001 and sustained a physical or mental injury or illness. These services include mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care programs, as well as advocacy efforts on behalf of veterans.

The charity invested $247 million last year in programs, and more than 220,000 warriors, family members and caregivers were registered with Wounded Warrior Project as of September 30, 2022. “The need is great and growing. Every month in 2022, more than 1,780 warriors and family members registered with Wounded Warrior Project to receive our free programs and services,” the group website noted.

“From our mental health programs like Soldier Ride and Project Odyssey to our employment and VA claims programs, these are all totally free to participating warriors,” said Sal Gonzalez, a Wounded Warrior Project spokesperson in Nashville. Tennessee offices for the national organization are based in Nashville and also serve parts of Alabama, Kentucky, and neighboring states.

To learn more about the Wounded Warrior Project and donate, please visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.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.

Volunteers Needed: Become a Guest Speaker at McGavock High School

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

The Tennessee Trucking Association and YPC support McGavock High School’s Transportation Academy throughout the school year. The Transportation Academy currently provides a curriculum for over 150 students interested in pursuing a career in a transportation-related field, and unfortunately, they recently lost their primary instructor. 

As a result the Program Director, Asa Bradley, reached out seeking volunteers to help fill their academic schedule as “guest speakers” on transportation-related topics. The time commitment is a half-day or less (it can be as little as 1 period).

Volunteers can be from any background in transportation (drivers, mechanics, brokers, safety, sales, insurance, finance, etc.)… they are just grateful for any help we can provide! Please volunteer or share this with others who may be interested in helping.

     How to Get Started 

If you are interested in volunteering, it is easiest to fill out the PENCIL Background check to become a PENCIL partner. 

Background Checks – PENCIL (pencilforschools.org)

 

PENCIL’s work is to engage groups of volunteers that support initiatives within Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS). As part of this work, they facilitate the background checks for all volunteers who fill certain roles within. 

Volunteer Opportunities : 

10th grade: Guest Speakers, Industry Tour ( field trips to locations) OSHA -10 / Safety Topics

11th grade: Guest Speakers, Job Shadows. Need help with Multi-Meter instruction.

12th grade: Guest Speaker, Internships, Post Secondary Opportunities, On the Job training ( Work Based Learning).  Precision Measurement Instrument Instruction.

Automotive Classes meet A-Day ( 1A,2A, &4A) B-Day ( 1B, 2B, 3B) 

 

You can use the Excel sheet to sign up. Feel free to use the  A/B schedule and the Bell Schedule to find a time that works for you.  For any questions regarding this program please reach out to Asa Bradley, Ed.D. McGavock High School asa.bradley@mnps.org 615-784-5083 Ext.532210.

 

 

 

 

Averitt Named 2023 Top 100 3PL Provider

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

Averitt Express has been named a 2023 Top 100 3PL Provider by Inbound Logistics magazine. The list serves as an assessment of service providers the publication’s editorial team feels are best equipped to meet and surpass its audience’s evolving outsourcing needs.

 

Each year, the team examines submitted data, conducts personal interviews and online research, and aligns this information with supply chain and logistics challenges faced by readers before choosing the best providers.

 

“World-class 3PLs offer innovative and efficient ways to wring every ounce of productivity from enterprise operations,” said Felecia Stratton, editor of Inbound Logistics. “Inbound Logistics is pleased to recognize Averitt Express as a 2023 Top 100 3PL Provider for making the investment in the solutions and expertise that empowered transportation excellence for customers in 2023.”

 

“Being recognized by one of the foremost leaders in transportation and logistics news is a true honor,” said Averitt President and Chief Operating Officer Barry Blakely. “Our associates’ commitment to excellence makes it possible to help shippers overcome their challenges and meet their goals.”

 

Averitt continues to uphold its dedication to provide customers with the advantages of a people-first culture rooted in quality service combined with innovative approaches to transportation and supply chain solutions. From its new dynamic pricing tool, ExactRate, to its ongoing focus on sustainability initiatives, Averitt strives to deliver exceptional value in an ever-evolving industry.

 

Additional recent recognitions Averitt has earned include: 

  • Five 2023 Quest for Quality Awards (Logistics Management) 
  • 2023 Green Supply Chain Partner (Inbound Logistics) 
  • Top LTL Carrier for Service Quality (Mastio & Company)

About Averitt Express 

Serving shippers for over 50 years, Averitt is a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management solutions with an international reach to 100+ countries. Averitt’s LTL, Truckload, Dedicated, Distribution & Fulfillment, and Integrated services provide shippers access to a wide array of services and customized solutions that cover every link in the supply chain. Together, these services and technology offerings provide “The Power of One” to shippers, allowing them access to multiple transportation solutions from a single provider. Averitt’s 9,000+ associates are dedicated to delivering the most reliable services within the industry, and to promoting a company culture that is centered around people, communities and giving back. For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT (283-7488) or visit Averitt.com.

6 Tips to Avoid Road Rage for Truck Drivers

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

 

Professional truck drivers spend much more time on the road than the public. As a result, they are more likely to be confronted with aggressive situations involving other drivers. Here are six tips for avoiding or managing road rage.

  1. Managing road rage starts with a calm and relaxed attitude. Give yourself as much time as possible to make your trip and remember that you’re going to get there anyway, so make the trip safe. Be resilient and don’t overreact to other drivers’ mistakes.
  2. If someone makes an inappropriate gesture, cuts you off, or tries to pull you into some kind of action, don’t react. If necessary, slow down or change your route to avoid the other driver’s anger. You have no control over their behavior. However, you can manage your reaction.
  3. If you notice the another driver starting to show signs of aggression, leave space between your vehicles and avoid eye contact. Don’t engage in the exchange of hand signs or profanity.
  4. Lead by example and show courtesy and politeness on the road. Let your intentions be known. Use turn signals, don’t follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of you, don’t hang around too much in the passing lane, don’t hog the lane, and drive at a steady speed.
  5. A driver who has not had enough sleep will be more irritable and may get carried away more easily. Hunger also has a negative effect on mood, ever been ‘Hangry”? Good rest and good nutrition help you stay calm in the face of bad situations on the road.
  6. If there is a conflict and it seems it may get out of hand, call 911 immediately. Be sure to lock your doors and close your windows. Never get out of your vehicle to try to calm the person who is angry with you. Just wait for the police to arrive. Write down the vehicle’s license plate number, make, type, and color. This will greatly assist the police if the suspect leaves the scene before they arrive.

Behind the wheel – ANGER is one letter away from DANGER.
 
Marty Pollock, Director of Safety

Tennessee Trucking Association

TRUCKING INDUSTRY ASKED TO RANK TOP CONCERNS | ATRI

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 28, 2023
Contact: Rebecca Brewster
(770) 432-0628
RBrewster@Trucking.org

 

TRUCKING INDUSTRY ASKED TO RANK TOP CONCERNS

 

Washington, DC – The American Transportation Research Institute, the trucking industry’s not-for-profit research organization, today launched the 2023 Top Industry Issues Survey. The annual survey asks trucking industry stakeholders to rank the top issues of concern for the industry along with potential strategies for addressing each issue.

Now in its 19th year, ATRI’s annual analysis not only ranks the issues overall but also provides insights into how critical topics are ranked differently by motor carriers and professional drivers. The report also allows stakeholders to monitor issues over time to better understand which issues are rising, or falling, in criticality.

“The annual Top Industry Issues Survey has long been a crucial part of understanding the challenges facing our country’s supply chain. ATRI’s research provides an opportunity for thousands of trucking industry professionals, from drivers to executives, to weigh in on the most important topics that affect trucking and collectively decide on the best strategies for addressing each,” said ATA Chair Dan Van Alstine, Ruan Transportation Management Systems President and COO.
“I encourage my fellow drivers to take a few minutes and complete ATRI’s Top Industry Issues Survey. Whether your top issue is truck parking, driver compensation, detention, traffic congestion or something else, it only takes a few minutes to make your voice heard and for us collectively to let the industry know what drivers are most concerned about,” said Ken Duncan, an America’s Road Team Captain and professional truck driver for Walmart Transportation.
The results of the 2023 survey will be released October 14, 2023 as part of the American Trucking Associations Management Conference & Exhibition to be held in Austin, Texas.

Industry stakeholders are encouraged to complete the 2023 survey available by clicking here. The survey will remain open through September 29, 2023.

ATRI is the trucking industry’s 501c3 not-for-profit research organization. It is engaged in critical research relating to freight transportation’s essential role in maintaining a safe, secure and efficient transportation system.

# # #

Tennessee Trucking Association to Honor Dave Manning with Pinnacle Award

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

 

Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA) is proud to announce that it will be giving the esteemed Pinnacle Award to Mr. Dave Manning, President & CEO of the North American Chassis Pool Cooperative (NACPC), in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the trucking industry. The award will be presented during the 93rd annual Tennessee Trucking Association Convention, scheduled to take place at the Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort & Spa on September 17-19th.

The Pinnacle Award is a testament to Mr. Manning’s exemplary career, which spans more than four decades and includes significant achievements in the trucking business. Starting from humble beginnings, Manning began his journey as a card-carrying Teamster working part-time on the loading dock for his uncle’s regional LTL trucking company during summers and Christmas breaks. What started as a summer job while studying to become an orthodontist turned into a lifelong passion. Mr. Manning found his place in the industry and decided to pursue trucking over dentistry.

Within the first 2 years of working, Dave faced the changes that came with deregulation during the early 80s. Despite the shifting landscape, Manning never gave up on the industry. He attributes this to his love for trucking stating, “Trucking is what interests me more than anything, it’s been a real passion for me.”

In 1985 Manning joined TCW, where he worked his way up the ranks. Beginning as Operations Manager, he wore many hats as TCW began its rapid growth, including occasional dispatcher and driver and leading the safety department, before becoming the President of TCW in 1992. During his tenure, Mr. Manning was instrumental in growing TCW from a single terminal operation to a regional firm with over 600+ employees across the southeastern United States and revenue in excess of $80 million.

In addition to his impressive contributions to TCW, Mr. Manning’s influence extended to the wider trucking community. Dave served as the 73rd Chairman of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) from 2017-18. During this time, he tirelessly advocated for trucking interests on both federal and state levels, actively engaging in government affairs efforts and representing needs to policymakers.

After retiring from TCW in 2020, Dave continues to lead the North American Chassis Pool Cooperative as its President and CEO.  This required a transition from a lifetime of being a part of the motor carrier community to being a supplier of the trucking industry.

When asked about the biggest takeaways from his career Dave said, “Transportation is a people-intensive business and fortunately I find true joy in working together with a group of people to achieve a goal.  I’ve been blessed by getting to work with numerous teams of people who are the ones responsible for any successes I’ve achieved.  I have been blessed by and am thankful for everyone in this industry who has mentored, challenged, motivated, and worked beside me.  And most importantly that includes my lovely bride, Betsy, who has always believed in me, grounded me, and supported me through the highs and lows of my career.”

Manning joins an elite group of previous TTA Pinnacle Award winners, including Governor Ned Ray McWherter (1994), Phillip B. George (1995), Forrest M. Durrett (1996), Tommy L. Wilson (1997), Kelly Wagner (1998), G. Tommy Hodges (2005), Gary Sasser (2006), Tommy Ross (2008), J.B. Baker (2009), David Dortch (2010), Bill Reed, Jr. (2011), Dale Allen (2012), Dave Huneryager (2014), and Pat Marsh (2022). 

The Tennessee Trucking Association Convention promises to be a memorable event, bringing together industry professionals, stakeholders, and esteemed guests to celebrate Mr. Manning’s exceptional career. The Pinnacle Award will be presented to Manning at TTA’s 93rd Annual Convention September 17-19. For more information or to register, visit https://tntrucking.org/2023convention/.

 

 About Tennessee Trucking Association (TTA)

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 400 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.

Celebrating Excellence at the 2023 National Truck Driving Championships

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

The hum of engines filled the air at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio, from August 16th to 19th, as the National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) 2023 unfolded. This annual event, known as the “Super Bowl of Safety,” brought together truckers from every corner of the nation, showcasing their skills, commitment to safety, and dedication to excellence. This year’s event was a beautiful display of the spirit of trucking.

 

History & Purpose of the NTDC

With roots dating back to 1937, the NTDC was first known as the “National Truck Rodeo”. The National Truck Driving Championships have evolved into an annual tradition within the trucking industry. The competition signifies the industry’s dedication to safety, excellence, and continuous growth. It was those first events that laid the groundwork for the 2023 National Truck Driving Championships Winners. 

 

 

A hallmark of the NTDC is the emphasis on safety. To participate, drivers must have excellent records. This requirement reflects the industry’s focus on reducing accidents and promoting safe practices among trucking professionals. Many of the 2023 National Truck Driving Championships Winners have worked for decades to become excellent at their craft. 

 

2023 NTDC Crowns A Champion, James “Gragg” Wilson, UPS

On Saturday, August 19, the American Trucking Association announced James Gragg Wilson, a dedicated UPS truck driver from Nevada, as the Bendix Grand Champion of the 2023 NTDC. Wilson navigated his tanker truck and claimed the number one spot out of 400+ competitors. 

 

This victory is a testament to his commitment to safety and dedication to trucking. Congratulations to James on your achievement and commitment to excellence. 

 

Team Tennesseee Takes 3rd PlacE at the NTDC 

For our Tennessee competitors, the journey to the NTDC 2023 started in April when they claimed first place at the Tennessee Truck Driving Championships.  The following individuals earned first place in their categories, earning the right to represent Tennessee and take their place among the 2023 National Truck Driving Championships Winners.

Tennessee clinched 3rd place as a team with the help of 9 drivers. 

  • Scott Lambert, FedEx Freight
  • Andy Bryant, FedEx Freight
  • Brian Turner, Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
  • Barry Blanton, Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
  • Tim Blair, FedEx Freight – Tim’s attention to detail earned him the Pre-trip award.
  • Covey Thompson, Martin Brower Company
  • Jamie Sowder, FedEx Freight – Jamie secured 3rd in the Flatbed category. 
  • Mike Patterson, FedEx Freight
  • Jeff Barton, FedEx Freight

 

Congratulations to Team Tennessee for your hard work and achieving 3rd place in this year’s competition. 

2023 National Truck Driving Championships Winners

Within the arena of the National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC), the heart of trucking excellence beats stronger than ever. We applaud all of the 2023 National Truck Driving Championships Winners and the drivers who claimed victory in their respective categories.Photo Credit: Marty Pollock, TTA

Setup for the big NTDC event with competitors from across the country. Photo Credit: Marty Pollock, TTA

 

Step Van:

  • 1st – Jerome De La Cruz, FedEx Express, Alaska
  • 2nd – Gregory Long, FedEx Express, Maryland
  • 3rd – Alex Lofgren, FedEx Express, Minnesota

Straight Truck:

  • 1st – David Coffel, FedEx Express, Arizona
  • 2nd – William Colantuone, FedEx Express, Massachusetts
  • 3rd – James Kohr, FedEx Express, New York

3-Axle:

  • 1st – Barry Kraemer, XPO, Wisconsin
  • 2nd – Joseph Hicks, XPO, Rhode Island
  • 3rd – Ritch Fundell, FedEx Freight, Illinois

4-Axle:

  • 1st – Martin McMahon, RIST Transport, New York
  • 2nd – Bruce Quaal, ABF Freight System, Minnesota
  • 3rd – Adam Heim, FedEx Freight, Idaho

5-Axle:

  • 1st – John Greene, FedEx Freight, Connecticut
  • 2nd – James Quarles, Wal-Mart Transportation, South Carolina
  • 3rd – Michael Martin, Wal-Mart Transportation

Flatbed:

  • 1st – Daryl Miller, The Cope Company Salt, Pennsylvania
  • 2nd – Ernest Wagers, Old Dominion Freight Line, Kentucky
  • 3rd – James Sowder, FedEx Freight, Tennessee (Tennessee’s Jamie Sowder achieved 3rd place in this category)

Tank Truck:

  • 1st – James “Gragg” Wilson, UPS, Nevada
  • 2nd – Jason Imhoff, Wal-Mart Transportation, Ohio
  • 3rd – Timothy Vogt, XPO, Georgia

Twins:

  • 1st – Robert Fair, FedEx Freight, New Hampshire
  • 2nd – Jeffrey Langenhahn, XPO, Wisconsin
  • 3rd – Michael Flippin, FedEx Freight, Colorado

Sleeper Berth:

  • 1st – Roland Bolduc, FedEx Express, Connecticut
  • 2nd – Chris Moore, Wal-Mart Transportation, Georgia
  • 3rd – Tyler Rogers, FedEx Freight, Colorado

Rookie of the Year:

  • Myron Means, Old Dominion Freight Line, Flatbed, Wyoming

State Team Award:

  • 1st – Connecticut
  • 2nd – Illinois
  • 3rd – Tennessee

Pre-Trip Inspection Award:

  • Timothy Blair, FedEx Freight, 5-Axle, Tennessee

Highest Written Exam Award:

  • Michael Bills, FedEx Express, North Carolina
  • David Comings, FedEx Freight, North Dakota
  • David Mogler, FedEx Freight, Colorado
  • Michael Flippin, FedEx Freight, Colorado

Neill Darmstadter Professional Excellence Award:

  • Ina Daly, XPO Logistics, Arizona

Lifetime Volunteer Award:

  • Bill Graham

 

the legacy of the NTDC

The National Truck Driving Championships 2023 is a wonderful showcase of the commitment to continuous growth and achievement within the trucking community.

 

From Team Tennessee’s third-place finish to James “Gragg” Wilson’s Bendix Grand Champion triumph, each story reflects the heart of trucking. As the sun sets on another successful NTDC, the legacy will continue, united by a love for the open road.

 

 

Federal Register Notice of Proposed Rulemaking – Heavy Vehicle Automatic Emergency Braking: AEB Test Devices

Posted on by Khadejia Hupp

SUMMARY: This NPRM proposes to adopt a new Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) to require automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems on heavy vehicles, i.e., vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds). This notice also proposes to amend FMVSS No. 136 to require nearly all heavy vehicles to have an electronic stability control system that meets the equipment requirements, general system operational capability requirements, and malfunction detection requirements of FMVSS No. 136. An AEB system uses multiple sensor technologies and sub-systems that work together to sense when the vehicle is in a crash imminent situation and automatically applies the vehicle brakes if the driver has not done so or automatically applies more braking force to supplement the driver’s applied braking. This NPRM follows NHTSA’s 2015 grant of a petition for rulemaking from the Truck Safety Coalition, the Center for Auto Safety, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety and Road Safe America, requesting that NHTSA establish a safety standard to require AEB on certain heavy vehicles. This NPRM also responds to a mandate under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as enacted as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, directing the Department to prescribe an FMVSS that requires heavy commercial vehicles with FMVSS-required electronic stability control systems to be equipped with an AEB system, and also promotes DOT’s January 2022 National Roadway Safety Strategy to initiate a rulemaking to require AEB on heavy trucks. This NPRM also proposes Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations requiring the electronic stability control and AEB systems to be on during vehicle operation.

 

DATES: Comments must be received on or before September 5, 2023.

 

Proposed compliance dates: NHTSA proposes a two-tiered phase-in schedule for meeting the proposed standard. For vehicles currently subject to FMVSS No. 136, ‘‘Electronic stability control systems for heavy vehicles,’’ any vehicle manufactured on or after the first September 1 that is three years after the date of publication of the final rule would be required to meet the proposed heavy vehicle AEB standard. For vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) not currently subject to FMVSS No. 136, any vehicle manufactured on or after the first September 1 that is four years after the date of publication of the final rule would be required to meet the proposed AEB requirements and the proposed amendments to the ESC requirements. Small-volume manufacturers, final-stage manufacturers, and alterers would be provided an additional year to comply with this proposal beyond the dates identified above.

FMCSA proposes that vehicles currently subject to FMVSS No. 136 would be required to comply with FMCSA’s proposed ESC regulation on the final rule’s effective date. Vehicles with a GVWR greater than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) not currently subject to FMVSS No. 136 would be required to meet the proposed ESC regulation on or after the first September 1 that is five years after the date of publication of the final rule.

FMCSA proposes that, for vehicles currently subject to FMVSS No. 136, any vehicle manufactured on or after the first September 1 that is three years after the date of publication of the final rule would be required to meet FMCSA’s proposed AEB regulation. FMCSA proposes that vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) not currently subject to FMVSS No. 136 and vehicles supplied to motor carriers by small-volume manufacturers, final-stage manufacturers, and alterers would be required to meet the proposed AEB regulation on or after the first September 1 that is five years after the date of publication of the final rule.

This proposed implementation timeframe simplifies FMCSR training and enforcement because the Agency expects a large number of final stage manufacturers supplying vehicles to motor carriers in the category of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds). FMCSA’s phase-in schedule would require the ESC and AEB systems to be inspected and maintained in accordance with § 396.3.

Early compliance is permitted but optional.

 

Here is the link to the FR Notice: [PDF]