The American Trucking Associations announced that Larry Davis, president of the Ohio Trucking Association, was awarded the ninth annual ATA President’s Annual TAEC Leadership Award at ATA’s Management Conference & Exhibition Oct. 16-19 in Phoenix. ATA also announced winners of the fourth annual Mike Russell “Good stuff” Trucking Image Award.
The TAEC Leadership Award recognizes the state trucking association that has gone above and beyond in its support of ATA, its members and the industry at large. “Our state trucking associations are vital to the success of the American Trucking Associations,” says Bill Graves, ATA president and chief executive officer. “Larry has worked for nearly 45 years to improve safety on our highways, and has tirelessly advocated on behalf of the entire trucking industry. From his annual visit with the ‘Call on Washington’ program, to hosting Share the Road and America’s Road Team events, to his work in securing uniform speed limits in the state, Larry is recognized as a strong advocate of ATA and the industry.”
ATA and J.J. Keller created the award to honor a state trucking association leader and create an enduring legacy for that leader and for the industry. A $10,000 grant also will be awarded to a nonprofit 501(c)(3) trucking education or research organization chosen by Davis. “It is wonderful to see Larry receive the recognition he deserves,” says TAEC National Chairman Dale Bennett. Larry has always been a staunch supporter of the ATA federation and the industry. My colleagues and I wish him the best and congratulate him on this much-deserved award.”
This year’s Mike Russell “Good stuff” Trucking Image Award, sponsored by Qualcomm Inc., marks the highest participation yet, with more than 100 nominations. Three recipients were named this year, with UPS winning the motor carrier award; Michelin North America winning the industry supplier award; and the Florida Trucking Association winning the state association award. “We are pleased to recognize these three industry leaders,” Graves says. “Their efforts in enhancing and promoting the positive image of the trucking industry are significant.”
The UPS media campaign highlighted their safe professional drivers across the United States and not only showed that there is a face behind the wheel, but why the industry is essential. Michelin North America’s campaign focused on the industry’s sustainability efforts and what the industry is doing to improve safety, as well as their support and involvement in the ATA Share the Road program. The Florida Trucking Association’s campaigns focused on the state legislature, professional drivers, the teen population, the state’s safety record and the future of the highway program.
The award is named in honor of the late Mike Russell, a trucking industry supporter and media official who helped develop the “Good stuff. Trucks Bring It.” campaign as vice president of public affairs for the American Trucking Associations. “We are honored to be sponsoring the ATA’s Mike Russell ‘Good Stuff’ Image Awards,” says Norm Ellis, vice president of sales, services and marketing for Qualcomm Enterprise Services. “It is our pleasure to participate in recognizing those who have helped elevate the visibility and image of our industry through their outstanding contributions and leadership.”
