Buckle up for TCA's annual convention

Jim Ward Headshot
Updated Mar 10, 2022

As I’m sure you’re aware, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) is headed back to the Wynn Las Vegas next week for its annual convention, Truckload 2022: Las Vegas.

The staff has been working diligently the last six months preparing for truckload’s premier event of the year and let me warn you, buckle up!

This jam-packed event offers something for everyone, even spouses. Among the new offerings that we’re excited to debut March 19-22 are unique networking opportunities such as the TCA Tip-Off Watch Party and Lounge in the exhibition hall; informative attendee orientation; robust educational sessions: Express Talks, Workshops, and Discussion Groups; Sip & Paint event for spouses; and stand-alone committee meetings and more.

The event is on track to exceed 1,400 registrants; the most in 10+ years. We don’t just want to tout this historic number, but we want to tout their engagement.

One way to ensure your team makes the most of the event is to attend one, or a few, of our committee meetings. This year, we wanted to prioritize engagement in the committees, so we have allotted each meeting its own time on the schedule.

This is the time to have your voice heard, and to learn about how your company can get involved in programs and initiatives that matter to you. Make plans to join us for the following:

The Communications & Image Committee oversees TCA's programs and communications aimed at enhancing the industry's public image, such as the Driver of the Year Contests, Highway Angel program, and truckload’s imperative role in transporting the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund's The Wall That Heals, and Wreaths Across America.

The Highway Policy Committee is responsible for developing TCA policies and solutions relating to issues affecting the efficient movement of commercial vehicles on the highways.

The Independent Contractor Practices Policy Committee is responsible for developing TCA policy and solutions involving issues relating to independent contractor drivers.

The Membership Committee oversees TCA's membership development and retention programs and activities.

The Recruitment & Retention Human Resources Committee is responsible for developing TCA policies and solutions relating to driver recruitment and retention, and human resources and labor issues.

The Regulatory Policy Committee is responsible for developing TCA's policies and solutions relating to federal and state legislation and regulations.

The association prides itself on being the trusted source for education in the trucking industry. It’s imperative that our members educate and train their skilled workforces to develop a safer, smarter, more profitable industry. In addition to Keynote Speaker Ben Carson, Featured Speakers Hector Monsegur and Chris Tarbel and two panels of executives speaking on critical issues, Truckload 2022: Las Vegas will offer the following:

• Express Talks: These 15-minute, live presentations will offer a quick take on an operating plan, tool, idea, or technique to help improve your operations.

• Workshops: Our staple workshops offer insight on hot topics from leading industry experts; and

• Discussion Groups: With the help of our expert moderators, small groups will delve into questions, issues, and solutions that are at the top of the group participants minds.

And lastly, before boarding your plane to Las Vegas, remember to pack a new children’s book. Yes, that’s right. As part of TCA’s Truckload Strong image initiative, TCA’s Communications & Image Committee is encouraging attendees to give back to the Las Vegas community – bring new children’s books (ages newborn to 18), to help UMC Children’s Hospital kick off its literacy program.

Talk about leaving a lasting impact! Knowledge is power and I feel confident our industry can deliver. To learn more email [email protected] to learn how you can donate.

For those of you registered, I look forward to spending time with you during the event.

For those of you who are not registered, it’s not too late. View the schedule, meet our speakers and industry supplier partners, and more www.truckload2022.com.

TCA remains committed to helping you increase your profitability, educate your skilled workforce, and help bring about the regulatory and legislative changes the trucking industry needs. By attending Truckload 2022: Las Vegas, you can see this in action, and contribute to the cause.

I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas!

Jim Ward is president of D.M. Bowman, a 382-truck fleet based in Williamsport, Maryland. Under his direction, the company has transitioned from truckload carrier to a full-service transportation company, offering its customers dedicated fleet services, short haul, linehaul, brokerage, logistics and warehousing for dry van, flatbed, bulk and specialty services. Ward is the 2021-2022 chairman of the Truckload Carriers Association.