Winter 2022
To
Lead
is to
Serve
Currlin takes
the helm as
Chairman of
the Board
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The Official Magazine of Florida Trucking Association
WINTER EDITION 2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS
COVER STORY
20 | To Lead is to Serve
Currlin takes the helm as
Chairman of the Board
By Eric J. Francis
FEATURES
9 FTA and FDOT Secure Truck Parking Grant
IIJA-funded grant will build 120 parking spaces
near Plant City
By Steve Brawner
12 Rhode Island’sTollVictory Also Florida’sVictory
Defeat of Rhode Island truck-only toll a victory
for entire industry
By Steve Brawner
15 ATRI’s Crash Predictor Study Results
By Steve Brawner
19 Op-ed - Recruiting Women to the Industry
By Tra Williams
31 Thank you, FTA Conference Sponsors!
32 2022 Annual Conference Coverage
36 Fall Round-Up
DEPARTMENTS
7 President’s Message by Alix Miller
34 Moves & News
38 Calendar of Events
38 Welcome, New Members
38 Advertiser Resource Index
IMAGES OF CARLOS CURRLIN ON THE COVER AND THIS
PAGE BY NORMA LOPEZ MOLINA.
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President’s Message
VOLUME 81, NUMBER 3 • 2022 Step up – Show up
The Official Magazine of the All eyes are on Florida. Politically, economically, and
Florida Trucking Association in trucking.
Florida Truck News is owned by the Florida One of the major takeaways after American Trucking
Trucking Association and is published by Associations’ MCE in San Diego is that industry leaders
Matthews Publishing Group. To request can’t wait to see what we do next. 2022 was a huge year
additional copies, order reprints of individual for FTA. It’s hard to believe that it was just a few months ago we successfully led the fight
articles or to become a subscriber to in a Florida Supreme Court opinion on paid medical damages. We were one of the first (of
Florida Truck News, please contact FTA at two) to secure federal funding for truck parking from USDOT. We’ve met with Secretary Pete
(850-222-9900. To inquire about advertising, Buttigieg, FMCSA Administrator Robin Hutcheson, Governor DeSantis, FDOT Secretary Jared
please contact the publisher at (501) 690-9393. Perdue and Florida House and Senate leaders. We’re just getting started.
Publisher, Jennifer Matthews-Drake FTA has big plans for 2023, but to reference the feature article on Board Chair Carlos
Matthews Publishing Group Currlin, you can’t just talk the talk, we need you to walk the walk. American Transportation
[email protected] Research Institute (ATRI) sent out a short survey, asking the industry—from drivers to
suppliers, shippers, managers, executives and everyone in between, what the biggest issues
Executive Editor, Alix Miller are for trucking. We sent it out to you. Do you want to guess how many non-drivers in
Florida responded?
Creative Director, Fran Sherman
39.
Graphic Designer, Bárbara Negrón Cadíz Now, not to go all schoolmarm on you, but that just doesn’t cut it. And I know that my last
President’s message (and maybe even the one before that) was focused on engagement.
Photographer, Norma Lopez Molina Florida is big—800 people move here every day. We’re 22 million+ strong. The state lives and
breathes and depends on trucking and what you do.
Contributing Writers, Steve Brawner, Dan Our partnerships with federal and state agencies are the envy of others—members can
Calabrese, Andrew Dunn, Eric J. Francis, Kevin make a call and get solutions before the sun sets. But we’re in trouble if we get complacent.
Jones, Johnny Kampis, Renee Miller, David FTA is positioned to be the voice, and face, of tort reform. We’re (as the kids say these days)
Monteith, Jack Roberts, John D. Schulz … influencers.
Step up. Show up. Let’s make history in 2023.
STAFF
President & CEO, Alix Miller Alix Miller, PhD
[email protected]
President & CEO
Vice President of Operations, Brian Nerland Florida Trucking Association
[email protected] [email protected]
Director of Member Services, Chris Heil
[email protected]
For more information, contact FTA at:
Florida Trucking Association
350 East College Avenue
Tallahassee, FL 32301
www.floridatrucking.org
(850) 222-9900
Florida Trucking Association is an affiliate of the
American Trucking Associations. FTA is a Florida
corporation of trucking companies, private carrier
fleets and businesses which serve or supply the
trucking industry. FTA services these companies
as a governmental affairs representative before
legislative, regulatory and executive branches
of government on issue that affect the trucking
industry. The organization also provides public
relations services, education services, and
operational services and serves as a forum for
industry meetings and membership relations.
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 7
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FTA and FDOT Secure
Truck Parking Grant
IIJA-funded grant will build 120 parking spaces
near Plant City
By Steve Brawner
Contributing Writer
“We are proud that we were the first to receive this state
funding, and I’m not surprised by it. Florida Department
of Transportation has always been a leader when it
comes to innovation and creative solutions, and they
have always been a wonderful partner to us.
—Alix Miller, president & CEO, Florida Trucking Association
A $15 million federal grant will construct came from the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure of the amount of unauthorized truck parking
approximately 120 badly needed parking Investment and Jobs Act signed into law and because of the high utilization rates
spaces near Plant City. last year. of existing parking facilities. Other areas of
concern included urban areas such as the
The grant will pay for parking on a busy Tennessee also was awarded a $22.6 million Miami and Jacksonville areas.
Interstate 4 corridor between Tampa and grant to build approximately 125 parking spots
Orlando that carries an average of 18,000 on I-40 in Smith County. The two were the first Alix Miller, Florida Trucking Association’s
trucks per day, according to American Trucking parking projects to receive grants under the president and CEO, said the east-west corridor is
Associations. Electric charging stations will new funding structure. a trucking hub with a lot of warehousing space.
be included.
The entire I-4 corridor between Tampa and Miller said FTA is “always advocating on
The grant from the U.S. Department of Orlando was labeled an area of concern in a behalf of our drivers for safe parking” and
Transportation is part of the Infrastructure for 2020 Florida Department of Transportation quickly recognized the opportunity the grant
Rebuilding America (INFRA) program. Funding (FDOT) Statewide Truck Parking Study because would provide.
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 9
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FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
“When the grant “It’s unfortunate that we funded through
announcement didn’t get the dedicated 2027 with $58
came through million in National
for truck parking, funding because now Highway Freight
we immediately parking has to compete Program funds.
reached out to Parking projects
FDOT, and they with everything else, on or near the
immediately and there are more National Highway
submitted the needs than money in the Freight Network
grant proposal, highway space, but at least are eligible for
and we were one there’s the potential for such funding.
of the first to get addressing this problem Michael Williams,
the grant money, with all the new money FDOT deputy
so that was a that’s out there,” said Roth. communications
successful effort to director, said the
start,” she said. —Darrin Roth, vice president department seeks
highway policy, American to strategically
She praised Trucking Associations direct resources to
FDOT for its the network, with
quick response The FDOT’s Statewide Truck Parking Study projects selected
to the grant identified 10,093 truck parking spaces in based on freight
announcement. Florida, 30 perent of which were provided mobility factors.
by the public sector and 70 percent offered The study also calls for continuing to develop
“We are proud by private sector truck stops. The FDOT also the state’s Truck Parking Availability System.
that we were the first to receive this state solicited input from internal and external
funding, and I’m not surprised by it,” she stakeholders and conducted an online The system currently alerts truck drivers as
said. “Florida Department of Transportation survey that generated 136 responses, the to the number of spots available among
has always been a leader when it comes to majority coming from the trucking industry. 2,352 spaces at rest areas, weigh stations and
innovation and creative solutions, and they Respondents said parking is lacking in welcome centers.
have always been a wonderful partner to us..” metropolitan areas.
It also calls for developing public-private
The grants to Florida and Tennessee The study was part of an effort by FDOT to partnerships. Darrin Roth, American Trucking
represent small steps in addressing a establish a statewide truck parking program to Associations’ vice president of highway policy,
nationwide problem. The parking issue was replace its past project-by-project approach. It said a number of private developers have
described in a letter dated Feb. 18 to U.S. says parking improvements should be funded become interested in providing parking
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg that at $10 million per year for at least five years. services in parts of the country.
was jointly written by the ATA’s president and Currently, four other truck parking projects are
CEO, Chris Spear, and Todd Spencer, president The five-year Infrastructure Investment
and CEO of the Owner-Operator Independent and Jobs Act did not include any additional
Drivers Association. It noted that the United funding dedicated solely to truck parking, but
States Department of Transportation’s 2019 it made money available for INFRA grants like
Jason’s Law Report found that 98 percent of this one. It also increased highway funding by
drivers regularly have problems finding a safe 38 percent, and state and local governments
place to park, compared to 75 percent in 2015. can use highway funding formula money to
improve parking facilities.
The result is that 70 percent have been forced
to violate federal hours-of-service rules, Spear “It’s unfortunate that we didn’t get the
and Spencer wrote. Drivers lose an average of dedicated funding because now parking has
56 minutes of driving time each day, costing to compete with everything else, and there are
them $5,500 in lost income, or the equivalent of more needs than money in the highway space,
12 percent of their annual pay. but at least there’s the potential for addressing
this problem with all the new money that’s out
They also park in unsafe locations such as there,” said Roth.
interstate ramps. Eighty-four percent of drivers
feel unsafe when parking in these unauthorized Miller said the U.S. Department of
areas. Jason’s Law is named for Jason Rivenburg, Transportation is aware of the truck parking
a truck driver who was murdered while parked issue, which she noted is a major concern for
at an abandoned gas station in 2009. female drivers but also all drivers who deserve a
safe place to park.
It’s no wonder that “Truck Parking” ranked
first among truck drivers in the American “I think people understand the supply chain
Transportation Research Institute’s annual better than ever after the pandemic and after
“Critical Issues in the Trucking Industry” survey, the supply chain crisis, so they’re understanding
which attracted more than 4,200 responses that there are logistical challenges and needs
from drivers, motor carrier executives and that need to be met,” she said. “This is not just
others. It ranked as the third most critical issue an issue of safety, but one of recruiting and
overall, behind fuel prices and the retaining the next generation in the industry—
particularly women.” FTN
driver shortage.
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 11
Rhode Island’s Toll Victory
Also Florida’s Victory
Defeat of Rhode Island truck-only toll a victory
for entire industry
By Steve Brawner
Contributing Writer
Photo credit: FLICKR
A court decision declaring a Rhode Island “We speak as one voice. The trucking industry is more
truck-only tolling scheme unconstitutional powerful when we all come together. The Rhode Island
came after the trucking industry, including tolling is not an aberration. It’s how we operate day-in,
FTA, banded together in opposition. day-out working together when there are challenges,
District Judge William Smith ruled Sept. and the industry is facing headwinds.”
21 that the RhodeWorks plan tolling only
Class 8 trucks at selected bridge sites violated —Alix Miller, president & CEO, Florida Trucking Association
the U.S. Constitution’s dormant commerce
clause because it was discriminatory in the court agreed. To any state looking to target federation would close ranks, and the ATA
intent, discriminatory in effect, and didn’t our industry, you better bring your A-game would do what it did, which was fight on
approximate fair use by charging all because we’re not rolling over.” behalf of all 50 states. We will continue to do
bridge users. so whether it’s truck-only tolling or any
Rhode Island Trucking Association other issue.”
Smith permanently enjoined the state from President Chris Maxwell said the court
continuing the program, though he did not victory demonstrated the power of a unified Alix Miller, FTA’s president and CEO, said
require it to reimburse truckers for tolls already trucking industry. the association financially supported ATA’s
paid. The state quickly closed its toll-collecting litigation center. While there’s been no
facilities. Rhode Island appealed to the U.S. “This really shows the might of how a movement toward truck-only tolling in Florida,
First Circuit Court of Appeals Oct. 19. federation works,” he said. “The country’s she said it’s important for FTA to support
smallest state was attacked, and we fought other states when an issue affects the trucking
Chris Spear, American Trucking Associations like hell locally knowing that in the end, the
president and CEO, declared victory in a press
release, saying, “We told Rhode Island’s leaders
from the start that their crazy scheme was not
only discriminatory, but illegal. We’re pleased
12 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
industry. Trucking “The judge laid out the state officials would
is an interstate facts very clearly, and shift tax burdens to
industry, so Florida- there’s really no question out-of-state residents
based carriers likely who couldn’t hold
will eventually drive that Rhode Island them accountable
through Rhode developed this program in elections. Instead
Island. Other areas with the intent of shifting of having a robust
of the country could its revenue burdens to out- national market for
adopt discriminatory of-state commercial users goods and services,
tolling policies. and all the while protecting the nation could
its own residents from be divided into 50
“We speak as one being burdened. That’s economic units
voice,” she said. “The imposing retaliatory
trucking industry exactly the kind of economic measures
is more powerful concern the commerce on each other.
when we all come clause was included in the
together. The Rhode Constitution to avoid.” “The judge laid out
Island tolling is not an the facts very clearly,
aberration. It’s how —Robert Pianka, general and there’s really no
we operate day-in, counsel, American Trucking question that Rhode
day-out working Island developed
together when there Associations this program with
are challenges, and the intent of shifting
the industry is The state of Rhode Island must clear a high its revenue burdens
facing headwinds.” hurdle if it wants to accomplish that task. to out-of-state
Pianka said the Constitution’s commerce commercial users
In his 91-page clause was written so that Congress would and all the while
ruling, Smith govern interstate commerce. Otherwise, protecting its own
wrote RhodeWorks residents from being
was intentionally burdened,” he said.
discriminatory. An “That’s exactly the
early version based kind of concern the commerce clause was
on a consultant’s recommendation would have included in the Constitution to avoid.”
included Class 6 and 7 trucks, but those classes Rhode Island became the only state with
were dropped in a second draft that also a policy of tolling only Class 8 trucks in 2015
addressed repeat per-day visits to a particular when then-Gov. Gina Raimondo and the
toll gantry. Lawmakers and state officials said General Assembly created RhodeWorks. The
those changes occurred because of local Rhode Island Department of Transportation
businesses’ concerns and to reduce the impact projected tolls would fund about 10% of the
on local industries. Second, RhodeWorks was state’s needed bridge repairs. It included a
discriminatory in effect because 80 percent of maximum toll cap of $20 for large commercial
toll-paying trucks were from out of state, while trucks traveling on I-95 from Connecticut
state-based trucks benefited more from toll to Massachusetts. A truck could be charged
caps. Finally, RhodeWorks didn’t approximate no more than $40 per day. The toll system
fair use because only 3 percent of users paid collected $40 million annually after expenses.
100 percent of the tolls. The plaintiffs – Cumberland Farms, Inc.;
M&M Transport Services, Inc.; New England
“Thus, RhodeWorks operates by design in Motor Freight; and the American Trucking
a way that exempts not only most users, but Associations – sued in 2018, leading to a 12-
nearly all users,” he wrote in his ruling. “Without day trial in May and June this year. Cumberland
looking much deeper, a system that places the Farms, a Massachusetts-based company that
entire toll burden on an extreme minority of services gas stations and convenience stores
users is inherently unfair and fails the test.” in New England states, saw its operating costs
increase by $100,000, Smith wrote in his ruling.
Rhode Island’s Maxwell said winning on Pianka said the ruling sent a message to
all three counts increased the likelihood that other states that were considering singling out
trucking will win the case on appeal. trucks to raise revenues.
“I just think people should bear in mind this
“We only had to prove one of those was certainly about what Rhode Island was doing,
three, and we proved all three, so it’s nearly and that was important in and of itself,”he said.
impossible that the First Circuit is going to “But it was also about the fact that the trucking
overturn a judge’s very, very, very thorough industry is not a piggy bank for states to try and
opinion,” Maxwell said. solve their revenue problems out of.” FTN
Rich Pianka, American Trucking Associations
general counsel, said courts of appeals usually
defer to a lower court’s finding of fact but are
more willing to overturn on findings of law.
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 13
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Truck Crash Predictors
ATRI study finds yield, turn signal failures predict
future crashes
By Steve Brawner
Contributing Writer
How can motor • Improper or erratic lane changes ”I think it’s carelessness
carriers reduce the conviction: 77% or lack of conscientious
likelihood that one of • Reckless/careless/inattentive/negligent that’s sort of wired into
their drivers will be driving conviction: 62% the driver,” he said. “You
involved in a future • Improper lane/location conviction: 61% know, who cares about a
crash? Train them to • A failure to obey traffic signal/light turn signal? It’s not that
yield the right-of-way conviction: 55% big a deal, but it generates
and to use their turn crashes, and so I think
signal. Dan Murray, ATRI’s senior vice president and it’s critical that we rewire
the report’s co-author, said there weren’t any a driver’s attitude about
That’s according surprises in this year’s top 10 list. This year’s what’s important and
to the American most predictive behavior, a failure to yield the what makes a difference.
Transportation right-of-way violation, was the second most And somebody who
Research Institute’s likely predictor of a future crash in 2018. just doesn’t think a turn
recently released study, signal, for instance, is a
“Predicting Truck Crash “Those truck drivers who have these big deal, that’s somebody
Involvement: 2022 behaviors and then have multiple crashes who either needs to stop
Update.” sometimes, it’s really sort of almost a level of driving a truck or needs to
conscientiousness or lack thereof because get retrained.”
Researchers they’re just egregious enough that you sort of
analyzed 583,805 truck get nervous about the top behaviors,” he said. Combining the four
drivers who had 38,797 “Can those behaviors be trained out of a driver? reports starting in 2005,
FMCSA-reported It’s hard to say. Most of them can, and that’s reckless driving was the
crashes between Jan. where there’s hope.” most stable predictor
1, 2017 and Dec. 31, at 114%, followed by failure to use/improver
2018. ATRI conducted previous crash predictor A failure to use/improper signal conviction signal conviction at 89%, past crash at 88%,
studies in 2005, 2011 and 2018. was the second most predictive behavior in failure to yield right-of-way violation at
2022 after it was fourth in 2018 and first in 85%, and improper or erratic lane changes
This most recent report saw an increase in 2011. Murray said that behavior is indicative of conviction at 79%. A past crash and an
the strength of the relationship between driver a larger attitude toward safety. improper or erratic lane changes conviction
history and crashes. have ranked in the top 10 in all four ATRI
studies, the report said.
It found that a failure to yield the right-of-
way violation was associated with a 141% Other high-ranking crash predictors were
increase in the likelihood of a future crash. That as follows:
was a 39.6% increase in likelihood over the
most recent report in 2018. • Disqualified driver violation: 53%
• A false or no log book violation: 49%
Three other behaviors were associated with • Speeding 1 to 15 miles over the speed limit
a future crash likelihood increase of more than
100%. Second was failure to use/improper conviction: 48%
signal conviction. It increased crash likelihood • Hours-of-service violation: 47%
by 116%, which was a 41.5% increase from • Speeding violation: 47%
2018. A past crash was associated with a 113% • Any conviction: 46%
increase, which was an increase of 28.4%. A • Improper turn conviction: 45%
reckless driving violation was associated with • Following too close violation: 44%
a 104% increase, which was an 8.8% decrease • Any moving violation: 43%
from 2018. • A speeding more than 15 miles over the
speed limit conviction: 40%
The rest of the top 10 statistically significant
predictors of future crash involvement included The report found that of the 38,797 crashes
the following behaviors: analyzed, 65.6%, or 25,451, were towaway
crashes, while another 32.3%, or 12,538, were
• Failure to obey traffic sign conviction: 85%
• Failure to keep in proper lane conviction:
78%
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 15
injury crashes and 2.1%, or 808, involved Female drivers were 14% less likely than males to
a fatality. be involved in a crash. At the same time, females were
The report comes as fatal truck-involved less likely than males to be guilty of 12 behaviors.
crashes have increased 7.2% since 2016, while Males were 221% more likely to have an improper lane
fatal truck-involved crashes per 100 million conviction, 91% more likely to have a medical certificate
vehicle miles traveled have increased 2.8%. violation, 76% more likely to have a seat belt violation,
Fatal large truck-involved crashes had fallen to
about 3,000 per million vehicle miles traveled and 57% more likely to have a driving too fast for
in 2009, but they have been on an upward conditions conviction.
trajectory since then, reaching 4,479 in 2019.
That number was higher than the average of —ATRI Crash Predictor Study 2022
4,334 between 1975 and 2019.
the sample size of younger drivers is small. drivers were 14% less likely than males to be
Murray noted that the vast majority of truck However, Murray said the research shows involved in a crash. At the same time, females
drivers – nearly 94% – were not involved in promise for an industry dealing with a driver were less likely than males to be guilty of 12
a crash during the two-year period studied, shortage. Drivers’ average age in the report is behaviors. Males were 221% more likely to
while 5.8% were involved in one and .32% 46, which is three years older than the average have an improper lane conviction, 91% more
were involved in two. Eighty-nine drivers were age in the 2005 report utilizing data from 2001- likely to have a medical certificate violation,
involved in three or more crashes. Murray 04. In this latest report, 52.7% of the drivers 76% more likely to have a seat belt violation,
noted that most crashes involving a passenger were ages 41 to 60. and 57% more likely to have a driving too fast
vehicle are not the fault of the commercial for conditions conviction.
truck driver. Murray said other data has shown that
young drivers of four-wheelers are more Among the other behaviors males were
He said that of the hundreds of federal likely than older ones to take risks and act more likely to be involved in were
motor carrier safety regulations on the books, impetuously. But that’s not what the data says the following:
only a small number are statistically related to for young truck drivers, who already can legally
safety and crash preventability. The report tells drive intrastate in most states but generally – Failure to obey traffic sign conviction: 51%
fleets what behaviors they should really care are barred from crossing state lines. Looking – Hours-of-service violation: 42%
about and how they should focus their training. at those numbers, Murray said, “The safety – Failure to obey traffic light or sign
Ideally, the report also should inform regulators concern seems to be more emotional than it is
about which rules are really necessary, he said. empirical, to be honest.” conviction: 39%
– Any out-of-service violation: 34%
Elsewhere, the report found that drivers Murray said that combining those numbers – False/no logbook violation: 33%
under age 21 were statistically less likely than with the active safety systems being pushed by the – Failure to obey traffic control device
drivers over age 24 to be involved in a crash. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration could
It found 42 of the 1,723 drivers under age 21, allow younger drivers to be“some of the shining violation: 29%
or 2.4%, were involved in a crash, compared stars on the road in the right driving conditions.” – Any conviction: 23%
to 6.9% of the 475,052 drivers over 24 years – Speeding more than 15 miles over speed
old. Murray said drivers ages 21-24 were not Meanwhile, the report found that female
included to create a buffer between the two limit conviction: 19%
groups being compared.
The results invite further study because
16 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
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This year ATRI celebrates 20 years of leadership in critical data and analysis to improve the
BOTTLENECKS 2021trucking industry’s safety and productivity. From the truck stop to the executive suite, to the
ANALYSsItSate house and Capitol Hill, ATRI’s reputation for providing objective industry analyses means
data-driven decision making on the industry’s biggest issues.ince 2002, the American Transportation Research Institute
S(ATRI) has collected and processed truck GPS data in support
truck GPS dataset, ATRI found average truck speeds at some of the
worst truck bottlenecks improve by 100% or more as car drivers
of numerous U.S. DOT freight mobility initiatives. Using truck GPS sheltered in place and trucks kept moving to deliver essential goods.
data from over 1 million freight trucks, ATRI develops and monitors In a separate analysis in April 2020, ATRI found state-level truck
a series of key performance measures on the nation’s freight activity increased in early February as panic-buying drove consumer
transportation system. Among many GPS analyses, ATRI converts demand, followed by a decrease in truck activity as more businesses
its truck GPS dataset into an ongoing truck bottleneck analysis that were closed. However, by April and into May, ATRI’s Truck Activity
is used to quantify the impact of traffic congestion on truck-borne Index began to improve across the states analyzed, signaling a
freight at over 300 specific locations. While other datasets may return to pre-pandemic freight demand.
identify congested corridors, no dataset available today specifically
identifies granular chokepoints in the nation’s truck freight An additional impact on traffic congestion in 2020 was the number IMPROVING SAFETY
transportation system. of roadway construction projects that were able to commence and/ AND LOWERING RISK
or advance at a faster pace due to fewer vehicles on the road during
ATRI’s annual Top Truck Bottleneck Analysis uses a full year of the pandemic. Once traffic levels increased in the second half of
truck GPS data to calculate the top chokepoints. However, 2020 2020, those construction projects became even more congested.
was by all definitions a different year with pandemic-related impacts As such, this year’s Top Truck Bottleneck list reflects a rise in
intersecting with traffic patterns. In a March 2020 analysis using its ranking in a number of locations impacted by roadway construction.
2021 TOP TRUCK BOTTLENECKS • BY THE NUMBERS On topics as wide-ranging as predicting future crash
involvement to safety technology cost-benefit analyses to
AVERAGE PEAK 33.9%up year-over-year TOP 100 BOTTLENECKS 25% 29NUMBER OF STATES obstructive sleep apnea, ATRI’s research provides a blueprint
WITH AVERAGE TRUCK for managing risk and improving roadway safety.
43.0HOUR TRUCK WITH AT LEAST ONE
mphSPEED: SPEEDS <45 MPH: TOP 100 BOTTLENECK:
WA
9# Rye, NY OPERATIONAL DATA
1-95 at I-287 YOU CAN COUNT ON
NY Whether you’re looking to route your drivers around congestion or
CT benchmark your costs against your peers in the industry, ATRI’s
analyses combine real-world data with a deep understanding of
6# Chicago, IL PA industry operations.
I-290 at I-90/I-94
LEADING WITH DATA,
1# Fort Lee, NJ NOT EMOTION
1-95 at SR 4
ATRI’s research uses data and analyses to dissect the true
CA 2# Cincinnati, OH impacts of policies and regulations across a range of critical
I-71 at I-75 topics including Hours-of-Service, autonomous vehicles, CSA,
8# St. Louis, MO tolling, and nuclear verdicts.
I-64/I-55 at I-44
10# San Bernardino, CA 7 TN
I-10 at I-15 # Chattanooga, TN 3# Atlanta, GA
I-75 at I-24 I-285 at I-85 (North)
GA
STATES WITH THE 4# Atlanta, GA
HIGHEST NUMBER OF I-20 at I-285 (West)
TOP 100 BOTTLENECKS: TX
Texas.................. 12 Georgia ................ 7 5# Houston, TX
California ............. 8 Pennsylvania....... 7 I-45 at I-69/US 59
Washington ......... 8 New York .............. 6
Connecticut......... 7 Tennessee ........... 6
For more information on ATRI’s Top Truck Bottleneck analysis, including a detailed description of the methodology, visit www.TruckingResearch.org.
WHERE THE RUBBER
MEETS THE ROAD
ATRI has a long history of research focused on the issues and
concerns of professional truck drivers. From involvement in over
40 national, state, and regional truck parking studies to quantifying
the impacts of detention, ATRI’s analyses provide a key input to
advancing the safety and productivity of the industry’s workforce.
We rely on YOU to make our research successful. Help secure ATRI’s future for
the next 20 years with a charitable contribution from you or your organization!
Visit us today online at TruckingResearch.org
to learn more about our research and commit to
supporting ATRI through a charitable contribution.
There was no statistical difference in are waved through at inspection stations more 7,291 to 911, while 60/70/80 hours violations
six behaviors in which women were safer frequently than males; that they drive better- decreased 59% and 10/15 hours violations
in 2018: reckless/careless/negligent driving maintained trucks; that they avoid winter decreased 50.7%. “No log book – log not
conviction; speeding 1 to 15 miles over conditions; and that they are more cautious. current” violations fell 31.8%. Overall, hours-of-
the speed limit conviction; following too The research didn’t seem to support any of service violations fell from 268,801 to 203,532.
closely conviction; improper lane or location these theories.
conviction; speeding violation; and any In this most recent report, the most
moving violation. Instead, the most likely explanation is the common violation involved lighting, which
type of routes females drive. ATRI’s data found accounted for 16.3% of all violations. However,
While women were 14% less likely to be that females made up only 2.69% of drivers lighting violations fell 17.6%, from 352,928 in
involved in a crash in this most recent update, who operate on roadways involving inspection the 2018 report to 290,899 in this most recent
they were 20% less likely in the 2018 report. stations. Instead, women were more likely to one. The report theorized that the increased
Murray said the gap appeared to have closed hold Class B licenses (5.1%) and Class C licenses use of longer-lasting LED lights could be an
because women had fallen back, not because (4.3%). ATRI along with the Women in Trucking explanation.
male drivers were catching up. Association collected surveys from 92 female
drivers along with 21 male drivers. According Brake violations also decreased. “Brakes
Still, the 14% difference is significant. to survey responses, female drivers were more – out of adjustment” violations fell 15.3%,
Women are a mostly untapped labor pool of inclined to seek jobs where they would be while brakes – all others fell 6.2%. The report
statistically safer drivers, but to attract them home at the end of the day. theorized that the increased use of disc brakes,
to the industry, more safe truck parking with which are harder to inspect, may be a reason
fencing, lighting and convenient bathrooms is The report measured changes in why violations have fallen.
needed, Murray said. violation%ages between the 2018 report,
which utilized data from 2013-14, and the 2022 Alix Miller, Florida Trucking Association’s
The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that report, which used data from 2017-18. Traffic president and CEO, said FTA will incorporate
in 2019, females comprised 6.7% of U.S. truck enforcement violations increased 288.3%, the study’s findings in the training
drivers, but they comprised only 2.7% of the vehicle suspension violations increased opportunities it offers.
inspected drivers in 2019 that were used for 125.5%, and wheels/studs/clamps violations
ATRI’s analysis. ATRI researchers looked at increased 35.5%. Hours-of-service violations “ATRI’s studies always inform what we
hundreds of thousands of inspection records fell between the two results. State/local hours- do at an association level in training and
and considered numerous theories – that of-service violations decreased 87.5%, from communicating with our members,” she said.
female drivers work for safer carriers; that they “They always provide vital information to keep
the industry strong.” FTN
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 19
To Lead is to Serve
Currlin takes the helm as
Chairman of the Board
By Eric J. Francis
Contributing Writer
Photography By Norma Lopez Molina
As he begins his term as chairman of the board of Florida Trucking Association, Carlos Currlin knows he’s
following in some well-respected footprints.
Currlin is managing director of Rechtien International Trucks, the South Florida dealership founded 40
years ago by Dick Rechtien, who also served as FTA chairman.
“Rechtien International was always a member of FTA. Dick Rechtien had been involved with the board and
had been chair, as well,”said Currlin.“I always wanted to serve and be a part of the industry as well – I believe to
lead is to serve, not just your employees and your customers but your industry.”
Currlin walked that walk, joining the board and serving as treasurer and secretary, before stepping into the
role as board chair.
20 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
“I grew up here, studied here, got married here, have friends
here – I consider the Miami area home. I like the warm
weather, the diversity in the area.”
—Carlos Currlin, manager director, Rechtien International Trucks
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 21
Currlin’s mission “He’s very ethical, very continuing to educate
respected in the business the public on the
Currlin is quick to lay world, a true gentleman. central role of trucking
out what he sees as the Everybody just loves him in the economy.
Association’s mission:
Advocate, communicate, here in the office.” “More than 80
and educate. percent of goods
—Millie Mejia, director of are transported by a
“We advocate and business operations truck,”noted Currlin.
work on trying to “The general public
advance public policy & administration, Rechtien may not realize that. I
in the interest of the International Trucks think that was actually
trucking industry,” highlighted – and the
he said. great jobs and opportunities that exist in trucking industry really
transportation – whether it’s drivers, technicians, shone – during the
And he knows what logistics – there are a lot of highly rewarding jobs COVID pandemic and
one of his top priorities and we’re trying to raise awareness.” the supply chain crisis.
will be, not just at the The industry in general
state level but also Backing from the state is going to be critical rose to the occasion,
for the industry at the to such endeavors and Currlin said Gov. Ron continuing to deliver
federal level. DeSantis has been supporting recruitment and goods around the
training efforts, including securing dedicated country and the
“Right now, the key funds to help with expansion at private CDL economy growing.”
focus is working on training schools. There’s also a digital and
lawsuit abuse reform, social media marketing campaign highlighting It was much the
working at the state opportunities in the industry. same after Hurricane
level and with industry Ian hit the Fort Myers
stakeholders,” Currlin “There’s a whole plan to expand the number area in October.
said.“That’s a major impact on trucking and of CDL schools going on right now,”he said. “Trucking companies were already positioned
distributors and the industry in general. Florida “You’ve got to attract people when they’re beforehand with trailers and trucks that were
is considered one of the worst legal climates in young into the industry, because once they’ve available to transport supplies and materials to
the country because of the amount of frivolous selected a certain job, they go down a different start helping people and helping the rebuilding
lawsuits and excessive verdicts. It’s significantly career path. We need to be attracting 18- to efforts”he said.
impacting the cost of insurance, and all citizens 21-year-olds, and military veterans with a lot of FTA President and CEO Alix Miller said the
and consumers are paying for that.” experience who might have CDLs or mechanical association is excited to have Currlin stepping
experience already.” into the role of chairman of the board.
He also wants to build on the membership “He has great energy,”she said,“and it’s
growth efforts of the past and see how FTA can Certainly not least on his to-do list is important to have representation from the
improve engagement among its members, too. Miami area, South Florida being a region where
It’s a key ingredient in the association’s advocacy the association wants to grow membership.”
efforts, said Currlin:“The more people you get
involved, the louder your voice, the more impact Leadership style
you have with the state.”
What is Currlin’s leadership style apt to be
“More companies need to understand what a during his tenure? One person who’s got insight
great team and resource the FTA staff members on that question is Millie Mejia, who has worked
are in Tallahassee, available to help any carrier with Currlin for 25 years.
with a variety of everyday challenges, from
regulatory issues to licensing to plates and In fact, she can answer that question with just
more. There are also opportunities to serve four words:“He leads by example.”
on committees, as well as the networking and
education available at conferences. “He is a class act,”said Mejia, who is director
of Business Operations and Administration at
“It’s all about getting involved,”he said.“We Rechtien. The standard that he sets for himself in
have a 2.0 Leadership committee as well, where business dealings emanates throughout
if you have young leaders in your company who the office.
have high potential, you get them exposure to
the entire industry.” “If you’re going to write an email really quickly,
and you’re having one those days and you’re
And, of course, you can’t be an executive in going to write back something, you say,‘Would
the trucking industry today without having part Carlos write this email?’”she said.“You always
of your brain focused continuously on perennial have him in the back of your mind. He’s very
issue of employee recruitment and retention. It’s ethical, very respected in the business world, a
not surprising that, as a truck dealer, Currlin hears true gentleman.”
this from his customers regularly.
The two have a very close relationship in
“The other priority we have right now is a leading Rechtien, despite what Mejia describes
trucking industry recruitment initiative and as fairly disparate personalities.
public safety campaign, with a grant allocated
by the Florida legislature this year,”said Currlin. “I’m a quick person, very,‘Let’s just do it!’He’s
“We’re working to highlight these high-paying,
22 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
Rechtien International Trucks is a full service commercial truck dealership
serving South Florida for more than 40 years and representing some of
the best brands in the industry. Backed by quality parts and service and a
comprehensive package of connected vehicle solutions that’s built for how
you do business. With 11 locations across South Florida and South Carolina
we are dedicated to keep you moving forward.
rechtien.com
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 23
more analytical, he kind of waits first,”said Mejia. but before it existed,”his parents – Francis and sales, he felt it was time to establish roots and
But while he takes his time when considering Dolores Currlin – moved the family to El Salvador have an impact in the community where he
when he was 10 and to Miami when he was 16. lived.. His experiences working with dealers
business decisions, that doesn’t mean he’s around the country had given him an inkling
cooling his heels, she added. He has a penchant “I grew up here, studied here, got married that he’d like to try that side of the business.
for not standing still. here, have friends here – I consider the Miami Currlin joined Rechtien in 2014 when the
area home,”said Currlin.“I like the warm weather, company was acquired by a privately held
That suits his reputation as a dedicated boss the diversity in the area.” diversified conglomerate, Bepensa.
and a workaholic, but Mejia said it’s important for
people to know his other side – that of an equally A graduate of the University of Miami, where What was the big change like, going from
dedicated family man. When he was working as he studied Finance, Currlin started out as a the manufacturing to the dealership side
managing director of Navistar Mexico in Mexico commodities broker specializing in options on
City, she said, Currlin made a point to go home futures contracts. But after a couple of years, he of things?
every weekend to be with his family in Chicago. decided it wasn’t for him. “Most of my career was working with global
“His son was real young, his daughter had “I wanted to focus on selling tangible products markets,” he said. “I was vice president of
recently been born,”she said.“I’ll never forget that added value to operations, and on working global sales and distribution, so we handled
knowing that he’d be going home on Friday and with people,”he said. sales of trucks with dealers outside of North
travel back to see his family. He did this for like America – in Latin America, Asia Pacific, Africa,
three years.” So, he joined Komatsu, a Japanese the Middle East. I worked with dealers and
manufacturer of construction and mining competed with other manufacturers from
One of the biggest strengths Currlin will bring machinery, starting in sales and eventually around world. It was a great experience.
to his FTA term, said Mejia, is his penchant for managing equipment sales in Latin America.
in-depth research. And after seven years with Komatsu, he joined “But I always felt like I wanted to be able to
Navistar, where he spent his first 18 years in the establish roots in my community,” he added.
“He is so in tune with everything going on in trucking industry. “To work in the community and feel like I had
the industry,”she said.“He’s always informed. He’s more of an immediate impact in what I was
going to read a lot, research a lot, and he’s going Over that time the job would take Currlin and doing. I worked with dealers around the world
to understand the issues and the market. He’s his family far and wide, including his three years and I always liked the pace in a dealership, and
going to be phenomenal because he doesn’t go in Mexico City. They also spent seven years in the most especially the relationships. The trucking
in blind.” Chicago area, while he worked at the Navistar industry is all about relationships with your
headquarters. Life in the Chicago suburbs was a customers and becoming a trusted partner
Establishing roots great experience, he said. by adding value and helping them succeed.
Being part of the community as well. I wanted
Currlin and his wife Gloria have been married “Our daughter was born there,”he pointed to have that.”
for 20 years and have a son, Alexander, and out.“We consider that our second home and go
daughter, Giselle. They live in city of Weston near back at least twice a year. My kids actually miss it That includes building on the strong
Ft. Lauderdale. It’s familiar territory, since from his so much – they prefer the changing seasons and, company culture at Rechtien, what he calls a
mid-teens on his family lived in the Miami area. if you ask them, they’d like to live there again.” “high-performance culture with strong values
Born in California“where Silicon Valley is now
Eventually, though he enjoyed international
24 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
“He is so in tune with everything going on in the
industry. He’s always informed. He’s going to read a lot,
research a lot, and he’s going to understand the issues
and the market. He’s going to be phenomenal because he
doesn’t go in blind.”
—Millie Mejia, director of business operations
& administration, Rechtien International Trucks
and a focus on people.” As it happens, the are surveyed on different competencies
number of people he’s focusing on doubled to measure culture in the company, and
back in the spring, when Rechtien completed you’re scored in different areas. We publish
its acquisition of Carolina International Trucks. those results so that our employees can see
With its six locations in South Carolina that where we’re doing well and where we can
brings the total number of dealerships to 11 keep improving. We have a great group of
and the employee count to 450. employees, a great team, highly dedicated,
working every day really hard to serve
But even though the company is now twice
the size it was last year, Currlin doesn’t feel like our customers.”
a lot is really going to change: They’ll still focus And what is the lesson he takes from those
on being a trusted partner for their customers
and a great place to work for their employees. survey results? The same lesson he took to
heart when he got into the trucking business.
“Every year we participate in the Great Place
to Work Institute’s employee satisfaction and “It is a journey about building relationships
trust index survey,” he said. “All employees and trust while adding value by serving
others.” FTN
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 25
10,000+
READERS STRONG
Spring 2022 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Winter 2021 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Spring 2021 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Summer 2021 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association
Is Your Fleet
Protected from
Cyberattacks?
At theScott Perry: At the At the
Heart of Heart of
His Lifelong Trucking Trucking
Heart ofPassion for
Trucking
Trucking
ALSO INSIDE:
• SMC Awards
• FTA Annual Conference
• 2022 Political Outlook
Fall 2020 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Summer 2020 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Spring 2020 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Fall 2019 The Official Publication of the Florida Trucking Association, Inc. Summer 2019 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association
At the RUTAHANHtEDDTetArEhauRRrectkoifng At the
Heart of Heart of
Trucking Trucking
MOVING FORWARD
ALSO INSIDE: ALSO INSIDE: ALSO INSIDE:
SMC Awards The Disruptors
Herman Fauss Scholarship
Trucking Day at the Capitol Historic Legislation
Message from Rep.
Chip LaMarca FTA and the Florida Florida Leading Autonomous
Supreme Court Technology
Getting Back on Track
during COVID-19
Spring 2019 The Official Publication of Florida Trucking Association Fall 2018 The Official Publication of the Florida Trucking Association, Inc. Summer 2018 The Official Publication of the Florida Trucking Association, Inc. Spring 2018 The Official Publication of the Florida Trucking Association, Inc. Fall 2017 The Official Publication of the Florida Trucking Association, Inc. Spring 2017 The Official Publication of the
Florida Trucking Association, Inc.
At the At the The Technician Issue More than the Mission- Friend of
Heart of Heart of Minded the Family
Trucking Trucking Recruiting, Training and Retaining the Next Sum of its Parts
Generation of Fleet Maintenance Technicians FTA’s new Board Chair ROB SANDLIN plays an CHRIS DUDLEY advocates
Our Industry is about so much more than trucks. Taking a look under the hood to see how each important role in trucking and industry advocacy for the trucking industry
And it’s driven by a lot of heart. ALSO INSIDE: part works together to drive FTA down the road with a passion all his own
Fighting for the Health ALSO INSIDE:
ALSO INSIDE: ALSO INSIDE: of the Trucking Industry ALSO INSIDE: Cultivating Relationships with FHP ALSO INSIDE:
Trucking Day at the Capitol The Drive to Give Back FTA’s legislative process 2017 Legislative Issues
Leveraging Your Getting to know FTA’s new VP Florida’s 2017 Driver of the Year
Message from CFO FTA in the Wake of Brand on Social Media Truck Parking Help Apnea’s Biggest Cost
Jimmy Patronis Hurricane Michael “Going the Extra Mile:” Thinking Beyond Pay
FTA Out and About Florida Road Team Remembering Rountree
Social Media Tips The Potential
for Your Company of Blockchain
FTA’s Florida Truck News reaches more than 10,000 leaders in transportation
throughout Florida and beyond. That makes advertising in Florida Truck News an
excellent business decision.
If you want to reach this highly targeted and influential group of industry decision-
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Please contact our publisher, Jennifer Matthews, at [email protected]
26 | WINTER 2022 or call (501) 690-9393 — if she doesn’t call you first!
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
The Times They Are a ChanOpg-edin’
Common sense leads to recruiting female drivers
By Tra Williams
Guest Writer
The first time I visited Washington D.C., I “Women comprise only 13% of the transport
was in my late teens and filled with youthful and logistics industry. This means that among the 3.5
rebellion. The pomp and circumstance of it all million commercial drivers in the U.S., less than half a
made me think of Bob Dylan’s lyrics, “Come
senators, congressmen please heed the call. million are female.”
Don't stand in the doorway; don't block up
the hall. For he that gets hurt will be he who —Tra Williams, president, FleetForce Truck Driving School
has stalled.” I stood next to the Washington
Monument and was underwhelmed. It felt first to truly appreciate its significance. This There are roughly 160 million people in
blank and stale and boring. Over the days happens to us all. When we are too close to the American workforce. Which means there
that followed, I became aware that no matter something, we cannot fully perceive it, and are roughly 80 million females and 80 million
where I was in the city, I could still see the we allow our inherent and unconscious biases males. However, women comprise only 13
Washington Monument, even when other to skew our perspective. I won’t use the old percent of the transport and logistics industry.
icons were hidden from view. It pierced the forest for the trees adage, but the message This means that among the 3.5 million
horizon from every borough and served as a rings true. Familiarity breeds complacency, and commercial drivers in the U.S., less than half
marker for orienting myself. immersion eliminates perspective.
continues
In my mind, what I had at first thought to
be a boring, blank monolith grew into the
benchmark by which I measured everything
else. I had simply stood too close to it at
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 27
a million are female. However, the landscape of workforce suggesting that any
This is not news; it has participation is evolving, and employers of us is consciously
always been this way. must evolve with it. We can’t sustainably eliminating women
In fact, 13 percent is eliminate half of the U.S. workforce and based on their
the highest level of expect to meet our recruitment goals. I’m not gender. What I am
female participation saying is that we
the industry has have not effectively
ever seen. communicated
the merits of this
The quick math industry to everyone
tells us that 79.5 in the workforce. And
million females in the that narrative has
American workforce hamstrung our ability
either haven’t been to attract, train, recruit,
attracted to or let hire, and retain drivers.
into the industry. And So, how do we change
logistics and transport that narrative?
aren’t the only trades
with this disparity. As with the
Today in America, Washington Monument,
women represent we must step back and
just 8 percent of see the opportunity for
electricians, 5 percent of linemen, and 3 what is from every angle to truly appreciate
percent of diesel mechanics. The homogeny its significance.
of it is both reassuring and self-perpetuating. The male labor participation rate of prime
We are all immersed in it, so we don’t really working age, those age 25 to 54, is roughly 88
notice it. percent. Females comprise 75 percent. Among
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those females who have children 17 years old “Collectively, we need to recognize that stereotypes
or younger, 67 percent still participate in the are inherently limiting and that the methods by which
workforce. That’s more than 22 million potential
drivers who are mothers. So, the idea that women we once operated must evolve as the world evolves.
with children can’t or don’t work is just a myth. Any employer who lacks the willingness to evolve will
Also, you may not be aware of this, but the eventually go extinct.”
workforce participation rate for men has declined
substantially since the 1960s. The —Tra Williams, president, FleetForce Truck Driving School
decline has even begun to accelerate in recent
years. As you might expect, the economic industry which appeals to those seeking a Florida has declined year-over-year.
consequences of men’s nonparticipation in the second or third career. Ironically, our industry simultaneously
labor force are dire.
CDL training is short relative to other took the blame for and benefited from the
From 1996 to 2016, the nonparticipation rate careers with similar entry-level compensation. empty shelves brought on by pandemic-
increased the most for younger men, those age It varies greatly by lifestyle, accommodating induced panic. People became aware of just
25 to 34. Each year, fewer and fewer men on the virtually every preference in one way or how vital professional drivers are to our day-
younger end of the prime working age spectrum another. And professional driving is not to-day lives. Some joined us; others still plan
are participating in the workforce. By 2029, regional or seasonal. It is the great connector, to. But to bring about the comfort they need
participation rates of men are expected to decline the golden ticket. Anyone with a CDL license to take that plunge, we need to mold
the 2 percent. That may not sound like a lot, but it can move to just about any town in America the narrative.
means 1.6 million fewer male workers. This does and quickly find a job. As a result, many of
not bode well for recruitment within a growing, those who were deemed unessential during We need to embrace that the world
male-dominated industry. the pandemic found a home behind the isn’t what it was just two years ago.
wheel, and millions of former desk-jockeys left COVID changed everything. It opened the
Fortunately, female participation rates their cubicle behind last year during the great eyes of many who discovered their job
are expected to climb by 2 percent. In fact, resignation. Still, the number of CDL holders in stability was a house of cards. People of
participation rates in women of all ages are
on the rise. More women are working, and continues
they are working much later in life. This
is exactly the type of trend that serves an
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www.DowntimeClaims.com Millions upon millions of eager, female, aspiring
drivers are knocking on our door. But we must
(904) 278-7688 | [email protected] open it…we have to let them in. Collectively, we
need to recognize that stereotypes are inherently
Based in Fleming Island, FL limiting and that the methods by which we once
operated must evolve as the world evolves. Any
employer who lacks the willingness to evolve will
eventually go extinct.
Female job seekers represent the
largest previously untapped recruitment
opportunity for the transport industry. Each
week, 1200 professional drivers retire. The ATA
estimates that we need 1.1 million drivers in
the next ten years. During that time, 1.6 million
fewer men will be participating in the workforce.
The answer to our driver shortage (at least in
part) is obvious when you aren’t standing too close,
when you aren’t immersed in it.When you step
back and see it from every angle, the enormity
of the opportunity becomes apparent.We must
immediately and
aggressively start
recruiting female
entry-level drivers. As
Bob Dylan said,“Your
old road is rapidly
agin'. Please get out
of the new one if you
can't lend your hand
for the times they
are a-changin'.”FTN
30 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
2022
Annual Conference
CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE SPONSORS
DIAMOND+ SPONSOR
DIAMOND SPONSORS
PLATINUM+ SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
AngelTrax GOLD SPONSORS Penske Transportation Solutions
Assured Partners Pilot Travel Centers
Boulevard Tire Center Guardian Fleet Services Quality Carriers
Carroll Fulmer Logistics Corporation Gulf Coast Business Credit Rowland Transportation
Cottingham & Butler Transportation Group Hancock Whitney Suddath Global Logistics
Drug Free Workplaces Love's Travel Stops Trimble Transportation
Florida Rock & Tank Lines Lytx TVC Pro-Driver
Great West Casualty Company Mack Trucks Volvo Trucks NA
Meritor
ORBCOMM Sunstate Carriers
TA-Petro
Breakthru Beverage Florida SILVER SPONSORS Taylor Johnson PL
Bridgestone Commerical Solutions The Southern Group
C.H. Robinson Great Dane Trailers Walmart Transportation
Eaton Corporation GreenRoad Insurance
Exxact Transport Groendyke Transport
Florida Utility Trailers New Line Transport/CEMEX
People's Capital and Leasing
Signature Financial
FTA’s 2022 Annual Conference
The Westin Cape Coral at Marina Village was Friday started early with a full program. First up to continue to grow the state’s Workforce and the
sold out—with every room booked by members was American Trucking Associations’President and Talent Pipeline.
of FTA. The 2022 Annual Conference had record CEO Chris Spear, who shared the industry’s recent
attendance, with top leaders in the industry taking successes, and reiterated the important role FTA Wiley Deck from Plus updated membership
to the lectern to share their knowledge. has in the Federation. State agency partners FDOT on autonomous trucking and the regulatory
Jared Perdue and FHP Troy Thompson and Jeff landscape, before local state representative Bob
The event began with our Golf Tournament, Dixon provided briefings on what the future holds Rommel spoke to the crowd.
where teams gathered together at Palmetto Bay for Florida.
to network and outshine one another on the links. Despite the long day, members, families and
At the same time, early-birds gathered at Marina As FTA members prepare for the 2023 legislative the Westin staff crowded into the ballroom for a
Village to fish. As members began to arrive in session, a panel imparted the importance of standing-room only keynote by Governor Ron
Cape Coral, they were able to attend committee a multi-prong approach to moving positive DeSantis, who joined FTA for the third conference
meetings, a new program to engage and recruit growth in trucking by combining Politics + Public in a row.
members into their areas of expertise. Relations. Moderated by Holly Brooks, ATA’s Bill
Sullivan and Sue Hensley joined The Southern Members gathered for a casino night and
Dr. Bill Kanasky offered a special seminar Group’s Chris Dudley on what FTA members can enjoyed it so much staff started folding up tables
on lawsuit abuse, sharing his knowledge on do to help. before the crowd left for the evening.
deposition and trial preparation, as the industry
mobilizes to combat settlement mills and Lunch was served and the crowd was 2022 Annual Conference was bursting at
nuclear verdicts. thoroughly entertained by CEO of Stuckey’s, the seams throughout the event—calling for
Stephanie Stuckey. She told the story of her multi- extending the event to ensure committees can
After FTA’s Board of Directors convened, generational family business and how she bought meet, leaders can present and members can
first-time attendees got to know each other at the business back and has successfully rebranded network. Next year, we’re back to The Breakers in
their reception, hosted by Wabash of Florida and and grown their famous pecan logs. Palm Beach. We’ve got a lot of fun already planned,
Netradyne, before moving on to the Chairman’s including adding an extra day and shifting the golf
party on the lawn, overlooking the marina, After Tra Williams presented FleetForce Truck tournament to Saturday morning. But we don’t
hosted by Shelton Trucking and TenStreet. Driving School’s scholarship, Chancellor Kevin think you’ll mind—it is The Breakers, after all!
Frozen drinks, flip-flops and a live musician got O’Farrell, who brought his father-in-law (recently
members in the spirit of Annual Conference, with retired from driving for Publix Super Markets) Stay tuned for the hotel link—we anticipate
a laid-back atmosphere. provided Florida Department of Education’s plans selling out early and offering an overflow hotel.
The word is out on our Annual Conference. People
know this is the place to be in July. FTN
Miller presents outgoing Chair Scott Perry with his magazine cover Scott Perry with outgoing SMC Chair Laura Lamson
32 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
The Passing of the Gavel--Scott Perry hands the Chairmanship over to Carlos Currlin Alix Miller and former FHP Chief Derek Barrs of HNTB at the first-timer reception
Governor DeSantis with members of the Florida Road Team-Annual Conference
FTA Members at the Golf Tournament Mimosa Morning at the Pool during Annual Conference
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 33
MOVES AND NEWS
Update on people and places in
FTA membership
FLEET ADVANTAGE WALPOLE INC. the list, are available on the SmartWay
website: https://www.epa.gov/smartway/
Fleet Advantage is Proud to Announce Ryan Walpole, Director of Maintenance smartway-high-performer-lists.
Three Female Leader Recipients of Supply and Purchasing
& Demand Chain Executive’s 3rd Annual “We are working very hard to reduce our carbon
Women in Supply Chain Award Some people fall into footprint as a company. We have reduced it by
trucking, and others 45 percent in the last 5 years.“– Ted Brozanski,
Award Honors Top Female Supply Chain Leaders and grow up in it. owner, president/COO, Lake Trucking
Executives Whose Accomplishments, Mentorship and As a fourth-generation
Examples Set a Foundation for Women In All levels of “trucker”Ryan Walpole You can view, print, and save your SmartWay
a Company’s Supply Chain Network has spent his entire life High Performer Acknowledgement using
caring deeply about the SmartWay Portal. You can login into the
Fleet Advantage, a leading innovator in truck trucking and wanting SmartWay Portal by going to https://app4.
fleet business analytics, equipment financing, to see the industry erg.com/smartwayweb/portal/login.cfm and
and life cycle cost management (LCCM), succeed. But more than entering the email address of your SmartWay
announced today that Vice President of that, he wants people outside of the world of Working Contact or Executive Contact and
Marketing and Business Development, Katerina trucking to understand and care about it too. your company’s SmartWay ID: 01030524. For
Jones, Senior Fleet Transaction Analyst and security purposes, enter the four-digit random
Project Manager, Jackie Jacobs, CLFP, and When he’s at work he’s the director of number displayed into the empty box below it.
Marketing Manager, Elizabeth Gomez, were maintenance and purchasing for family-owned The Working or Executive contact will receive
recipients of the Supply & Demand Chain and -operated Walpole Inc., and when he’s not at an email from SmartWay with a secure link to
Executive’s 2022 Women in Supply Chain Award. work he’s proudly representing the industry. the Partner Portal. Once you have logged into
the SmartWay Portal, select the“High Performer
Every year, the Women in Supply Chain Award He is a graduate of the American Trucking Acknowledgement”option, which will display
honors female supply chain leaders and Associations’LEAD class — a program designed the document in your browser as a PDF file.
executives whose accomplishments, mentorship to develop the next generation of trucking
and examples set a foundation for women in all leadership, sits on the Martin County Metropolitan Again, congratulations. EPA commends Lake
levels of a company’s supply chain network. This Planning Organization, and is actively involved Trucking Company for its continued efforts as a
year’s list includes individuals across multiple in the Florida Trucking Association. He’s a SmartWay Partner and its contribution to a more
industries, including trucking and transportation, board member, the founding member of the efficient, productive, and sustainable freight
who have all helped supply chain clients and the association’s 2.0 Leadership class — which industry.
supply chain community at large prepare to meet supports emerging leaders in the industry, and
many of today’s—and tomorrow’s—challenges. serves as FTA’s vice president to the ATA. If you have any questions or suggestions about
Source: Originally published in Heavy Duty Trucking, SmartWay’s High Performer recognition, please contact
Oct. 11, 2022, https://www.truckinginfo.com/10182982/ Joann Jackson-Stephens at (734) 214-4276 or
meet-the-2022-hdt-emerging-leaders [email protected].
USDOT Pete Buttigieg meets with FTA drivers after LAKE TRUCKING TOTAL DISTRIBUTION, INC.
Hurricane Ian.
Based on the performance of Lake Trucking Total Distribution, Inc. (TDI) has been honored
Company’s freight transportation operations, with a 2022 Business Growth Award and
EPA has named your company a 2022 SmartWay Family Business Achievement Award by Smart
High Performer for the second year in a row. Business Magazine.
Lake is rated in the top 10 out of 4000 SmartWay
members for 2022.
For the sixth year, EPA will publish a list
of SmartWay High Performers, and I’m
pleased that Lake Trucking Company made
the list. A complete list of all 2022 SmartWay
High Performers, and the criteria for making
34 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
The Business Growth Awards Program, presented $10,000 to Local Teachers Baley Fowler
by Cascade Capital Corporation, recognized Laura Hartley
TDI and the other honorees that have achieved The start of a new school year brings excitement Lynn Etheredge, Mary Beth Morris & Michelle Brooks
superior growth in sales and/or employment over for students, parents, and teachers. But in
the past five years at the Business Growth Awards the midst of the excitement, teachers usually
on October 18, 2022, at John S. Knight Center. themselves digging deep into their personal
All were also featured in a special editorial report pockets to purchase classroom supplies.
in the October edition of Smart Business North- Four State Freightliner’s mission statement
east Ohio. specifies that the company has a responsibility
TDI was recognized for the 2022 Family to be good stewards and leaders. Recognizing
Business Achievement Award with the other the teachers’need for assistance, Four Star
honorees at the Family Business & Business Freightliner wanted to honor its commitment
Longevity Conference on September 29, to the communities where its businesses are
2022, and featured in a special editorial located which includes seven cities in three
report in the September edition of Smart states.
Business Northeast Ohio. Jerry Kocan, Four Star Freightliner’s dealer
“On behalf of Total Distribution, Inc, we are principal, authorized the donation of more than
so grateful for all of our employees that have $10,000 worth of gift cards to local teachers
demonstrated their dedication and exceptional in school systems near Montgomery, Dothan,
skills, and became part of our family,”said Doug Valley, Ala., Albany, Valdosta, Tifton, Ga., and
Sibila.“Having such incredible employees is the Midway, Fla. Forty-two teachers were selected in
key to the success of family-owned businesses. total, and each given a $250 gift card.
We are so honored to receive these awards.” Kocan’s goal was to help local teachers and
Douglas Sibila, a third-generation family member students, but to also honor educators in his own
and President and CEO of TDI, has first-hand family that made an impact on so many people.
experience in knowing what it takes for a family My wife’s grandfather, Stacey Hughes was
business to become successful. In 1914, Ray Sibila a teacher and principal,_Kocan recalls.“His
purchased the company in Massillon, OH as a daughter and my mother-in-law, Bonnie Ely,
moving. Today, TDI operates in eight states, with was an educator and so was my godmother,
47 different warehouses dedicated to providing Charlotte Sirianni. I know the personal
3PL services that specialize in handling chemicals, dedication that it takes in the way of time,
plastics, food grade, and consumer goods. resources, and their own money to supply their
classrooms.”
Throughout the years, the Sibila family has been Laura Hartley, who is entering her 15th year of
active in many community services. Whether teaching, said she thankful for what she describes
it is volunteering or sitting on boards in the as“much needed help.
community or in trade associations, they have “School funding is always limited, and a lot of
had continuous representation and leadership the expense of classroom supplies and cleaning
roles in local development agencies for products fall on the teachers and parents,”
decades. These include the Stark Development Hartley said.“Having this help from Four Star
Board Team NEO, The Massillon Development Freightliner will do so much with providing a
Foundation, American Trucking Association, safe, clean environment for the students along
Stark County Port Authority, Stark State College, with the supplies they need to learn and enjoy
The Boy Scouts of America and NEOTEC – just to learning.”
name a few. Teachers completed a form online and were
randomly selected as winners. Four Star was
For more information, visit www.peoplesservices.com. also able to help teachers who have a personal
connection to Four Star Freightliner.
FOUR STAR FREIGHTLINER
Visit us online at www.fourstarfreightliner.com.
Four Star Freightliner Donates More than
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 35
FTA’s 2022 Fall Round-Up
By FTA Staff
Leadership Class at Fall Round Up
FTA’s 2022 Fall Round-Up in Lake Mary started together under the helm of co-chairs Lori Strategies for Today’s Market, Michael
earlier than usual, as veteran and potentially Ann Chaussinand of Pilot and Mike Wojcik Moyski, C.H. Robinson
new Florida Road Team members were able of Oakley Transport. The record number of
to reconnect during the selection process. The emerging leaders are an impressive and Improving Your Security an Protection
group started on Monday afternoon at a local energetic group: with Transportation Security,
high school for a Share the Road presentation, Inspectors, Department of Homeland Security
and then were able to get to know one another Byron Hamilton (Pilot), Jennifer Levesque
during dinner at Tin & Taco. (Quality Carriers), Savanah Campioni (Florida Strategies and Best Practices for DataQs, Jay
East Coast Railway/Raven), Liliana Baquero Whealton, Exxact Transport
The next morning started bright and early for Calvera (Quality Carriers), Bryan Nelson (Taylor
presentations and a regulatory interview with Johnson PL), Caitlyn Salters (Exxact Transport), The Future of Florida: Truck Parking and Data
FDOT’s Paul Clark and FHP’s Captain Amos Josh Campbell (Ajax Paving), Joshua Collection, Paul Clark, FDOT
Santiago. The finalists were an impressive Schleicher (Walmart), Jessica Minaya (C.H.
bunch—both in personality and commitment Robinson), Ryan Parker (Whitney Logistics), FMCSA Q+A: Mickey Davis, FMCSA
to safety. Just minutes after the final interview, and Samantha Hauser (Quality Carriers).
managers and drivers were contacted to Fuel Briefing: Diesel and Alternative Fuels, Joe
announce that all six finalists were invited to Wednesday morning started with a hearty
be a part of the 2022-2025 Florida Road Team. Southern breakfast, before Road Team members Butler, Pilot Company
(Their names and bios are below.) took part in an orientation and media training
class. Meanwhile, attendees participated in Tort Reform Update, Alix Miller, FTA President
As members started to arrive for Fall Round- both general and breakout sessions:
Up, the new 2.0 Leadership Class gathered and CEO
Market Insights: Considerations and FTA Preferred Partners presentation: AmFed
and FleetForce Truck Driving School
Optimizing Replacement Cycles for
Fleets, Brian McMahon, Fleet Advantage
36 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
Rep. David Smith delivers the lunch keynote The new Florida Road Team members Fall Round Up
Florida Road Team dinner during the selection process FRU
Wrapping up the event was a luncheon with a • Sheldon Brown with FedEx Freight. Sheldon has Leadership Award and serves as a mentor for
keynote address from state Representative David been driving for FedEx Freight for 22 years and newly hired drivers. Congratulations Omar.
Smith (R-28). Before members departed, FTA has been a professional truck driver for 33 years • Anthony Tirone with Walmart Transportation.
honored the Florida Road Team members who total. Sheldon finished first place in the 2022 Anthony has been driving for Walmart
are“retiring”from active duty, new members Florida TDC Tank Truck class. Congratulations Transportation for 7 years and has been a
introduced, and the 2.0 Leadership Class was Sheldon. professional truck driver for 25 years total.
presented to membership. Anthony finished first place in the 2022 Florida
• Chevelle Walker with Werner Enterprises. TDC Sleeper class and first place in the Pre-Trip
The 2022-2025 Florida Road Team members: Chevelle has been a professional truck driver competition. Congratulations Anthony.
for over 20 years and has driven 1.4 million • Mihaly Ramirez with FedEx Freight. Mihaly
• Michael Cherry with Walmart Transportation. accident-free miles. Chevelle recently served as
Michael has driven 724,707 safe miles in his a Werner Enterprises Road Team Captain and has been driving for FedEx Freight for 24 years
9-year career with Walmart Transportation Co-Leader of the Werner Advisory Committee. and has been a professional truck driver for
and has been a professional truck driver Congratulations Chevelle. 29 years total. Mihaly has received an Army
for a total of 28 years. He has served on Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, and
the Accident Review Committee, and as a • Omar Stebbins with XPO Logistics. Omar has an Army Achievement Medal. Mihaly also
Driver Mentor for Walmart Transportation. been driving for XPO Logistics for 18 years and serves as a mentor for newly hired drivers.
Congratulations Michael. has been a professional truck driver for 21 years Congratulations Mihaly.
total. Omar recently received the XPO Quarterly
FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS WINTER 2022 | 37
Calendar of Events ADVERTISING
RESOURCE INDEX
JANUARY
WINTER 2022
6 Fauss Scholarship Application Online (due April 7)
13 Safety Management Awards Online (due March 10) AmFed Insurance..................................... 8
FEBRUARY American Transportation Research
Institute.................................................... 19
1 FTA Safety Summit (Orlando)
27 ATA TMC Meeting (Orlando) Drivers Legal Plan.................................. 25
MARCH Eckert & Associates, Law Offices of....30
7 Fla. Legislative Session Begins FleetForce Truck Driving School...........14
10 TDC & Herman Fauss (registration online)
Annual Safety Management Awards DUE Florida Trucking Show...........................17
APRIL Florida Truck News.................................26
All month Pinwheels for Prevention Tour Great West Casualty Company
7 Herman Fauss Scholarship Applications DUE ........................................Inside front cover
18-19 Trucking Day at the Capitol Guardian Fleet Services.........................29
SAVE THE DATES Kingpin Specialists................................... 4
JUNE Nextran................................... Back cover
14 Herman Fauss Scholarship Golf Tournament Paddock Transport International..........10
15-17 Florida Truck Driving Championships (Daytona Beach)
PrePass Safety Alliance.........................28
JULY
Publix Super Markets
26-28 FTA Annual Conference (The Breakers) ....................................... Inside back cover
OCTOBER Rechtien International............................23
25-26 Fall Round-Up Southern Tire Mart................................... 3
For more information on attendance registration, sponsorships, and more, please call (850) 222-9900 or
visit floridatrucking.org Sun State International............................ 6
Welcome, New FTA Members weguard................................................... 30
CARRIERS SUPPLIERS This publication was made possible with
the support of these corporate advertis-
Beilling Site Prep and Reforestations, Inc. Argos ers. They support the trucking industry by
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. Auxilior Capital Partners enabling FTA to provide this publication
Gemcap Trucking to its member, prospective members,
CameraMatics elected officials and Florida’s business
Gresco Utility Supply Inc. DDC FPO community at large. They deserve your
R.D.H. Trucking ERTS consideration and patronage when mak-
ing your corporate purchasing decisions.
Rowland Truck Lines HNTB Corporation
Southern Pride Transport LogRock Please visit floridatrucking.org to see the
digital version of Florida Truck News with
LST Groups, LLC live weblinks and nifty sound effects.
SafetyFirst
Stoneridge, Inc.
Targit
The Rig Hut
Transportation Tax Consulting
38 | WINTER 2022 FLORIDA TRUCK NEWS
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