TRUCK PLATOONING
Explore the myths, truths and speculation about how Driver Assisted Truck Platooning could shape the future of trucking in Iowa. Issue 1, 2018
FEATURES Issue 1, 2018
Driving in Sync p16
Learn more about the myths and realities of truck platooning as this driver assisted technology moves onto U.S. highways.
Strengthening our Political Resources p28 Opportunities available to help us continue to effectively promote a pro-business, pro-trucking environment.
p2 p3 p5 p6 p10 p13 p28 p32 p35 p36 p36 p37 p40
Listening In Chairman's Message President’s Message Up Close & Personal Members in the News IMTA Update Truck PAC Iowa ATRI Update Ask the Members FMCSA Update IMTA Milestone IMTA Events Final Thought
COLUMNS p9 p12 p26
DOT Update Economic Update 2018 Election
OUR STAFF BRENDA NEVILLE, CAE President & CEO
EMILY LUKE Assistant Office Manager
JORDAN BJERKE Marketing Manager
JANELLE STEVENS Director of Communications, Education & Events
brenda@iowamotortruck.com
jordan@iowamotortruck.com
DON EGLI, CDS Director of Safety & Security
don@iowamotortruck.com
emily@iowamotortruck.com
janelle@iowamotortruck.com
SATURDAY MFG. Design & Cover Illustration
IOWA MOTOR TRUCK ASSOCIATION 717 East Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 515.244.5193 | iowamotortruck.com
SPONSORS IFC Great West Casualty p4 Thompson Truck and Trailer p8 IMTA Cornerstone Sponsors Thermo King Sales p14
and Service
p15
Harrison Truck Centers
p24
Renewable Energy Group
p25
MHC Kenworth
p30 McGowen, Hurst Clark & Smith, P.C. Housby Mack CJ Cooper & Associates
p34 Taylor & Martin DKI Bauer Built
p31
Midwest Peterbilt Group Quality Services Corp. Central Trailer Service
IBC
BC
Truck Country Midwest Wheel Companies
ISSUE 1, 2018
1
“Now is the time to get creative and aggressive in setting the stage to make trucking the first choice as people look towards a career.”
“Business people are giddy with excitement as business conditions and confidence are at their highest level since the Great Recession.” TRUCKING INDUSTRY ANALYST DON AKE FTR Transportation Intelligence; Bloomington, Indiana
IMTA PRESIDENT BRENDA NEVILLE
remarks made in an end of the year message to members
“The agency has determined that the waiver is in the public interest and would likely achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be achieved absent such exemption, based on the terms and conditions imposed.”
“It’s time to invest in a 21st century infrastructure to grow the 21st century economy.”
FMCSA SPOKESPERSON defending the Ag and Livestock Haulers 90-day exemption from the ELD rule
US CHAMBER PRESIDENT TOM DONOHUE at press conference proposing raising the federal gas and diesel fuel tax by 25-cents a gallon (5-cents a year for 5 years)
LISTENING IN
“The market is not yet saturated for iPhones.” WARREN BUFFET as he flashed his Samsung flip phone during an interview
“And when that new day finally dawns, it will be because of a lot of magnificent women, many of whom are right here in this room tonight. And some pretty phenomenal men, fighting hard to make sure that they become the leaders who take us to the time when nobody ever has to say “Me too” again.” OPRAH WINFREY concluding sentence in a fiery speech at the Golden Globes award ceremony igniting speculation of political aspirations
“When we started this turnaround, we set up a new mission, a new set of values – we are going to do business in a different way.” NAVISTAR CHAIRMAN AND CEO TROY CLARK highlighting the company’s plan to regain customer’s trust
“America’s economic engine has been ignited.” CHRIS SPEAR ATA PRESIDENT, in reference to Congress passing major tax reform legislation
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE Happy 2018! The new year is officially here and if you are like me, I think about resolutions for a moment, even consider writing them down but when that doesn’t happen, I quickly move on. But having said that, I do give some thought to what I hope to achieve in the upcoming year and obviously as the Chairman of the IMTA, I intend to be even more active with the association … and I hope you will do the same. How involved are you with your association? Believe me, I know how busy life is for anyone that is in the trucking industry. The demands of this industry are intense, even more intense as we now fight with winter obstacles. But there are never enough hours in a day to get everything accomplished so I do innately understand the difficulties of being active and involved in one more thing. But when it comes to getting after priorities, I hope that you consider adding the Iowa Motor Truck Association to that list. IMTA is here for you. As a leader of the association, I recognize that you may not be able to physically show up for an event or a meeting but hopefully you are able to be engaged and active in other ways. The association staff is always looking for ways to help you take advantage of your membership without coming to Des Moines. There are the monthly webinars, not only are these free, they also feature great speakers and cover topics that have been suggested by the members. If you have a topic that hasn’t been covered, let us know and we will get it on the schedule. These webinars will eat up about an hour of your time but believe me, they will be worth it. Are you reading the InfoFlash that comes to you via email? If you are like me, I know your inbox is overloaded with emails and sometimes just deleting all that unwanted mail takes more time than you would like. But I do hope that you are opening the InfoFlash. There is a great deal of time, energy and thought that goes into the production of that newsletter. Every effort is made to provide you with the most current, up-to-date information to help you in your efforts.
The electronic newsletter has been totally revamped and will continue to be a “work in progress” as the staff gathers feedback and input from the membership in ways to improve it. In addition to timely news items in the newsletter, you will also see what is going on at IMTA and trust me, you will see some new and different forums being introduced in the upcoming months. Another way you can get involved with IMTA without ever leaving the comfort of your office is participating in the membership surveys. These are extremely important to our efforts and your opinion does matter. There are a ton of different issues impacting our industry both here in Iowa and in DC. IMTA is the voice of Iowa’s trucking industry and they take that role seriously. In an effort to be that voice however, we need to hear from you. The feedback that we get from the members through these surveys is valuable as we determine our next step. With over 600 members, it is impossible for any one person to know what is best for this industry, so the survey results are an important tool in helping the association leaders get a feel for where the members are on any given topic. The surveys are always a few questions and do not take very much of your time, so I hope the next time one shows up in your inbox you will respond. So there you have it, three simple but effective ways that you can get more involved with IMTA in the upcoming year. 1. Participate in the free webinars. 2. Read your InfoFlash. 3. Participate in the IMTA surveys. How easy is that? As with anything, the more you put into it… the more you will get out of it and I promise that holds true for IMTA. You are important to our efforts and there are many ways you can be involved without leaving your office. Now if only some of the other new years resolutions were that easy to accomplish … Thank you for your support and here is to a wonderful 2018!
KEVIN GASS 2018 IMTA Chairman of the Board
ISSUE 1, 2018
3
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE As I looked at the date on the calendar, it ation and industry in the last few years brought back memories of my earlier days alone are any indication of the future; this at the association. In 1987 when I started ride will continue to be both frightening at the association, we had periods of time and exhilarating. throughout the year that we would classify It was with that in mind that we took yet as “slow times” and that is when we would another important step to ensure that IMTA do some of the menial tasks that we all dis- can be the very best at fulfilling its mission liked, such as cleaning out the storage room, and ultimately serving its members. In early purging files and updating the membership December, IMTA leaders came together and Rolodex. (Yes, we had a giant Rolodex with took part in a strategic planning session. a card for every member. They were color While most people immediately scoff at coded, so we could quickly identify which the mere mention of strategic planning, the ones were first year members and give them IMTA members that participated welcomed extra attention.) the opportunity to invest in the future of As I reflected on the three decades I have IMTA. The discussion was led by Brent been with the association, I fondly remember Henley, a renowned facilitator in strategic the continued progress we made each year planning, and by the end of the day, a plan on so many different levels. I remember our unfolded that will enable IMTA to maintain first cell phones, they were its relevancy and viability big, bulky, and looked like far into the future. something from a Jetson’s While many things have AS I REFLECTED cartoon (really dating myself changed over the course of ON THE THREE with that reference). this association’s history, DECADES I HAVE one thing has remained the I remember when we got BEEN WITH THE our first fax machine and same and that is the conASSOCIATION, the total astonishment the stant and steady commitentire staff had when we ment that IMTA members I FONDLY plugged it in and saw it in have to their association. REMEMBER THE action. I remember our jubiAnd that was once again CONTINUED lation when we boxed up very apparent as our planPROGRESS WE the mimeograph machine ning efforts transpired. MADE EACH YEAR and all the unpleasantries You will continue to hear ON SO MANY that often accompanied the and see our efforts relative production of that weekly DIFFERENT LEVELS. to the strategic vision for newsletter were eliminated IMTA. This was important in the few minutes it took to work and you will find a move that artifact to the dumpster. summary in this magazine (page 40). But Over the years, progress has knocked at more importantly, this exercise demonour doorstep in many different forms. Like strated once again that the strength of the members we serve, embracing change this organization is rooted squarely in the and being open to new ideas and new ways dedicated and passionate members that are of thinking has always been the norm not continually moving IMTA to the next level. the exception. IMTA leaders have always There is no substitute for engagement, insisted that we keep a watchful eye on commitment and passion, something that the horizon and have a solid grasp on what can be found in amazing abundance within lurks in the future, with an emphasis on the membership of IMTA. leading not following. And another reason that IMTA has been And if the great strides and technolog- successful in serving its members for over ical advances we have made as an associ- 75 years.
BRENDA NEVILLE IMTA President & CEO
ISSUE 1, 2018
5
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL
KEVIN GASS, Senior Vice President of Transportation for Perishable Distributors of Iowa (PDI)
1
What motivates you to come to work every day?
My motivation comes from having the ability to make a difference in the lives of our employees as well as our customers. I enjoy seeing the successes of our employees as they take on the challenges of customer service.
2
hat are the three biggest challenges W that PDI faces as an organization at the current time?
an effective organization and voice for Iowa’s trucking industry?
IMTA has a solid understanding of the issues we face day to day. IMTA has developed positive relationships with regulators and legislators over the years that helps us stay in the forefront of any pending legislation that may have a negative impact on trucking.
6
What are you looking forward to most as the Chairman of the Board for IMTA?
3. Meeting the demands of our customers.
I am looking forward to representing Iowa’s trucking industry in the utmost professional manner. I am looking forward to working with the staff and the membership to continue to move our agenda forward.
How do you believe the trucking 3 industry will fare under the Trump
7
How will IMTA look in 1 year? In 5 years?
1. Continually looking to be a low cost high performing operation. 2. Keeping ahead of all of the regulatory changes industry wide.
Administration?
I would think we should see some regulatory relief under President Trump. Time will tell. I don’t think there is anyone in our industry that doesn’t think the hours of service needs to be reviewed … again.
4
I n your opinion, what are the biggest barriers to profitability for a trucking company today, and how is IMTA going to help its members deal with those barriers?
1. Down time when equipment breaks down. 2. Turnover, the amount of money spent training new drivers takes away from the bottom line.
KEVIN GASS 2018 IMTA Chairman of the Board
3. R egulations, whether it is environmental or operational.
IMTA is at the forefront of the legislative issues, regulatory issues and any number of issues impacting the industry. Members of all sizes don’t have the time, the desire, or the expertise to stay on top of everything and that is what IMTA does. They are the eyes, ears and voice of the industry. Keeping the membership informed on any issues that could impact us, good or bad, is always of great value.
6
opinion, what does IMTA have in 5 Iitsn your arsenal/toolbox that truly makes it
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
I see the future of IMTA as the following:
1. A member in every county. 2. A diverse board of directors. 3. More value added programs that will not detract from the core mission of the Association.
8
I f you were granted three wishes for IMTA what would those three wishes be?
A $10 million dollar endowment in the Motor Carriers Foundation. 1,000 totally committed and involved members … the raising of dues becomes secondary.
What is your prediction regarding the 9 economy and the trucking industry in the next 2 to 5 years?
The economy will continue to be strong. If the experts are accurate, rates will continue to go up as capacity will be tighter. Allowing 18 year olds to drive will become a reality. Autonomous vehicles and platooning will be upon us. Electric vehicles will become more commonplace.
10
echnology in trucking has T continued to emerge at a level that is unprecedented, what is on the horizon that could potentially have a significant and lasting impact on the trucking industry?
Autonomous vehicles, along with alternate fueled vehicles, will be more prevalent.
FROM LEFT: Elizabeth Gass, Martha Gass, Diane Gass and Kevin Gass.
11
hat is the most frustrating aspect W of your job as the Senior VP of Transportation of PDI?
16
hat are your guiding principles as W the Senior VP of Transportation of PDI and how do you rely upon those not only while leading members but also your own staff?
Having enough help and then dealing with a labor pool that isn’t very committed to doing the job right 100% of the time. That is discouraging on so many levels. Equally frustrating in this business is the regulatory environment and right now, weather is always a factor too.
Always doing the right thing allows one to sleep just fine at night. Treating employees fairly and with respect has been the cornerstone of our success.
12
17
ho were your mentors and how did W they prepare you for your current position at PDI and IMTA?
All of our previous PDI Presidents had the same philosophy, “Be part of the solution and not the problem.” They encouraged involvement in things that could have a positive impact on our company and customers.
13 Describe yourself in 3 to 5 words.
Someone who is committed to doing the right thing.
14
Describe your “perfect” day away from PDI.
A nice warm sunny day either taking a walk with Diane, my wife, or on the trails riding my bike.
f you could have a conversation with 15 Isomeone either dead or alive, who would it be and why?
What is your favorite IMTA event?
18
The annual Truck Driving Championships.
What motivates you to be so involved with the Iowa Motor Truck Association?
Being able to make a difference and more importantly, I like the idea of being with a team of individuals with the same goals.
Tell us one thing that most people 19 don’t know about you. My nickname used by a select group of people is “Jake.”
20
bove all else, what do you want A people to think/feel once you have met them for the first time?
This guy is an honest, genuine person that will do what he says he will do.
Abraham Lincoln. The success he had in managing people and situations in the 1860’s still works in today’s modern world.
ISSUE 1, 2018
7
CORNERSTONE SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR 2018 CORNERSTONE SPONSORS As of February 15, 2018 $25,000
PLATINUM
$12,000
SIGNATURE
$8,000
Harrison Truck Centers
Midwest Peterbilt Group
Interstate PowerSystems
PATRON
MHC Kenworth
McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C.
Midwest Wheel Companies
O’Halloran International, Inc., a Trivista Company
Thompson Truck & Trailer, Inc.
Quality Services Corporation
Truck Country
$5,000
ASSOCIATE
$2,500
BMO Transportation Finance
Allied Oil & Tire Company
Majestic Truck Center
Cornhusker International Trucks
Bauer Built Tire
Northland Insurance Co.
Gatr Truck Center
Bridgestone Commercial Solutions
Renewable Energy Group
Housby
Dave Syverson Truck Centers
Reynolds & Reynolds, Inc.
Lube-Tech & Partners, LLC
Des Moines Truck Brokers, Inc.
RSM US LLP
Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales, Inc.
Donaghy-Kempton Insurors
Thermo King Christensen
Thermo King Sales & Service
Engles, Ketcham, Olson & Keith, P.C.
US Cargo Control
TrueNorth Companies
Hanifen Company, Inc.
COLLEAGUE
Valley Distribution Corp Wilson Trailer Company
Want to see your company listed as an IMTA Cornerstone Sponsor? Contact the IMTA at 515-244-5193 or visit www.iowamotortruck.com
DOT UPDATE
New App for CDL Testing Preparation Unveiled The Iowa DOT in partnership with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) and Higher Learning Technologies (HLT) developed another way for individuals to prepare for the CDL test. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has also approved the app. The Iowa DOT pursued the development of the app in response to the shortage of welltrained drivers and after data analysis showed a large percentage of commercial driver’s license applicants were failing their written exam on the first attempt. “Delivering safe mobility and being customer driven demanded a new approach. Transforming the traditional written manual to an interactive, adult-learning app helps our customers be successful the first time, and helps us more quickly deliver safe professional drivers to the job market and the trucking industry,” said Iowa DOT Director Mark Lowe. The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation partnered with the DOT in setting up focus groups throughout the state comprised of current drivers, potential drivers, safety personnel and senior management to test the app. The online and app versions, which include the full CDL manual, is designed as an interactive study guide tool, and a resource that helps anyone interested in obtaining a CDL prepare for the written and knowledge portion of the exam. The app was created with resource guides and quizzes that help users identify subject areas that help the applicant determine where they need to study more. The app also provides full-length practice tests that further test
the competency of the user. The app is very interactive and has a dashboard feature which tracks the applicant’s progress. The Iowa CDL Testing App is available on mobile devices through iOS and Android app stores, as well as online and is free to anyone who currently holds an Iowa DOT driver’s license or ID card. The app can be downloaded on multiple devices and synchronized ensuring the student’s overall progress is kept up-to-date on all devices. Customers that want to download the app should search for “Official CDL Test Prep” by Higher Learning Technologies in partnership with AAMVA and the Iowa DOT. Please note for app downloads, a one-time simple registration and download is required to unlock the Iowa free content version. You’ll need to input your first and last name, create a username and password, provide your e-mail, date of birth, and last four digits of your current Iowa credential. Once the account is registered and downloaded, you can access the content online or through the iOS and Android app versions as they sync automatically on all platforms. IMTA participated in a press conference with Governor Kim Reynolds and IDOT Director Mark Lowe announcing the availability of this new app. “Nationwide, we’re facing a shortage of licensed commercial drivers. These drivers are essential to the success of both Iowa’s economy and the American economy. We are confident that this new app will ensure that we as a state are preparing our commercial drivers for true competency – not just memorization,” said Governor Reynolds.
Explore the App The Iowa CDL App is available on mobile devices through iOS and Android app stores, as well as online at https://iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/manuals-and-practice-tests PLEASE NOTE FOR APP DOWNLOADS: A one-time simple registration and download is required to unlock the Iowa free content version, and the process can be completed at https://iowacdl. builtbyhlt.com.
ISSUE 1, 2018
9
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Weinrich Truck Line Visits Arlington National Cemetery Every year IMTA members proudly participate in Wreaths Across America, including the Wreath Truck Convoy that arrives at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. This year Weinrich Truck Line participated in the Truck Convoy to not only pay their respects, but to also celebrate the birthday of Donna WeinrichLucht. Donna’s four daughters Brenda Dittmer, Terrie Binneboese, Pam Milton and Ranea Allen, along with the Weinrich Freedom Truck driver Jeff Cody and wife Cindy, made the trek to Washington D.C. to deliver and place wreaths at the National Cemetery. Certainly, a memorable birthday in D.C. for Donna with her family in tow for this honorable event.
ABOVE: The Weinrich Freedom Truck arriving at Arlington. LEFT: L-R: Jeff Cody, Terrie Binneboese, Pam Milton, Donna Weinrich-Lucht, Brenda Dittmer, Cindy Cody, and Ranea Allen
Ennis Corp. Celebrates 50th Anniversary To celebrate 50 years in business, Ennis Corp. hosted an impressive truck show on Main Street in Clarion, with proceeds from the event and silent auction going to the Clarion Fire Department. Leading up to the truck show, Ennis Corp. held an event for the Ennis family, as well as a separate company-wide event. This event not only celebrated transportation, but celebrated the Ennis family and the Clarion community. In September of 1967, Pat Ennis started the company with a straight truck and a semitractor and livestock trailer hauling livestock. Through the years grain hoppers and refrigerated trailers were added to the fleet. Today the company hauls for many major brand shippers transporting goods across America.
10
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Warren Transport, Inc. Schommer Announced as President Warren Transport Inc., announced James Schommer as new President. Effective January 8, 2018, James Schommer joined the Warren team as President.
Administration from Morningside College, Sioux City, IA.
Schommer has nearly 30 years of experience in the trucking industry, including over 18 years in operations and customer service and more than 12 years of executive management. Prior to Warren, he worked at CRST and Heartland Express. He has a bachelor’s degree in Economics & Business
Warren Transport Inc., headquartered in Waterloo, IA., is a van and specialized motor carrier operating in all forty-eight contiguous United States and Canada, with through trailer service to and from Mexico.
World’s Largest Truckstop Moves Forward with Expansion
Hawkeye Community College Receives FMCSA Grant
JAMES SCHOMMER
Iowa 80 Truckstop has begun a $10 million expansion and remodel project that will add 23,000 square feet to its already 100,000 square foot main building. The massive undertaking is being completed in three phases. Phase One includes infrastructure Artist rendering of the remodel to be complete by the end of 2018. upgrades, which are mostly complete. Phase Two extends the building to the west toward new gas islands that were installed last year. In Phase Three of the project drivers will be welcomed onto a boulevard that leads them to the diesel islands, truck service center, Truckomat truck wash and truck parking areas. Truck parking areas will also be reconfigured to pull-in, pull-out spaces to provide better organized traffic flow for drivers. The 900 truck parking spaces will be retained with the likelihood of expanding. All phases of construction and remodel are scheduled to be finished by the end of 2018.
Hawkeye Community College is one of seven colleges across the country to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration program to train current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their spouses and children for jobs as commercial bus and truck drivers. Hawkeye received $100,524 from the Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator Safety Training grant program for Trucking with the Troops, which will provide financial assistance to a minimum of 30 qualified students to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and enter the trucking and transportation industry.
Lube-Tech Hosts 12th Annual Troop Box Event As both an acknowledgement of gratitude and a hope to spread holiday cheer, Lube-Tech hosted their 12th annual Troop Box event where care packages were made for active service members overseas. Packages included toiletries bag, magazines, games, food, letters written by children, and a thank you note from sponsors of the event.
Lube-Tech employees and volunteers alongside the items that make up each care package.
Employees volunteered over 540 hours of their own time to conjure up the brain power to prep and execute the event. With the excessive help from employees, friends, and families, LubeTech was able to pack a total of 1,350 boxes.
ISSUE 1, 2018
11
ECONOMIC UPDATE
Abolition of NAFTA Looming Economic “Black Swan” Mid-America Agriculture and Trucking Would Suffer Just as the farmer with one hand in the freezer and the other in the fireplace is “on average” doing well, the state economies of Mid-America are likewise “on average” thriving. However, the average masks the difference between rural areas, dependent on stagnant agriculture, and urban economies, reliant on booming construction and manufacturing. For example, the latest U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis income data show that between 2013 and 2017, in non-inflation adjusted income, Mid-America’s farm economy slumped by 40.8% percent, while the rest of the Mid-America economy expanded by 13.9 percent. Since 2006 Creighton University has conducted two monthly surveys of manufacturers and banks in Mid-America-one based on responses from bank CEOs in rural areas of 10 states, and one centered on surveys of manufacturing supply managers primarily in urban areas of 9 states. Surveys states include Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. The surveys have consistently indicated that rural areas of the states have suffered from four straight years of weakening agriculture commodity prices, and declining farm income. On the other hand, manufacturers among the states indicate that production is surging, economically speaking, with our monthly survey pointing to improving growth for
12
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
ERNEST P. GOSS, PHD
Creighton University MacAllister Chair in Economics
the Mid-America economy outside agriculture in 2018. Looking ahead to 2018, the 2017 tax reform plan, which provides for the immediate write off of plant and equipment purchases, will stimulate both agriculture and manufacturing sectors. However, the bellicose tone of the Trump Administration toward trade and the potential abolition of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) are real threats to the regional economy, particularly the region’s agriculture sector. Trade may be the next “black swan,” (i.e. an economic event with a low probability of occurring, but with a high cost). For example, agriculture exports, including processed food, as a percent
of total exports ranged from Wyoming’s 0.7 percent to Nebraska’s 53.6 percent. Overall, food, both commodity and processed, represented approximately 20 percent of total regional exports in 2016. Furthermore, in 2016, businesses and farms in the region exported $59.7 billion in goods to Canada and Mexico, supporting more than 477,000 total jobs and 12,000 trucking jobs in the 10-state region. In the 10-state region, the three states most dependent on NAFTA sales were North Dakota at 8.7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), Illinois at 3.2 percent of GDP, and Iowa at 3.1 percent of GDP. Rounding out the 10 states, NAFTA sales as a percent of GDP were: Missouri at 2.6 percent, Kansas at 2.4 percent, Nebraska at 2.3 percent, Minnesota at 1.9 percent, South Dakota at 1.6 percent, Colorado at 0.8 percent, and Wyoming at 0.6 percent. The Trump Administration must recognize that trade is not a zero-sum economic activity where one nation’s gain matches another’s loss. All parties, Canada, Mexico and the U.S. benefit from NAFTA. To paraphrase Robert Frost, before you build a wall, you better find out what you are walling in and walling out. Dr. Goss is the director of the Institute for Economic Inquiry and a professor of economics at Creighton University Heider College of Business where he holds the Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics. He is also director of The Goss Institute for Economic Research in Denver, Colorado, a bipartisan think tank conducting business and economic research and providing innovative, practical recommendations that affect change and public policy.
IMTA UPDATE IMTA Leadership Roles in 2018 Each year IMTA’s Leadership Team reviews the priorities for the year and in that process, standing committees are named and then their work begins. Below are the individuals that will be serving on some of IMTA’s key committees.
IMTA Executive Committee
IMTA Finance Committee
The IMTA Executive Committee oversees, assists, and directs the operations of the association and can act on behalf of the board if needed. The core areas of their oversight are in government relations/public policy issues, finance, membership activities and non-dues revenue programs.
The IMTA finance committee provides oversight, counsel and direction to all aspects of IMTA’s finances. Murry Fitzer Florilli Transportation, LLC
Don Decker Decker Truck Line, Inc.
Mark Olson Olson Explosives Inc.
Brenda Dittmer Weinrich Truck Line, Inc.
Jack Sawyer Des Moines Transportation Co.
Murry Fitzer Florilli Transportation, LLC
Steve Schuster Schuster Company
Kevin Gass Perishable Distributors of Iowa
John Smith CRST International, Inc.
Mike Gerdin Heartland Express
Steve Sukup Sukup Manufacturing Co.
KJ Hueneman Hueneman Farms LC
Dan Van Alstine Ruan Transportation
Allied Steering Committee
Jackie Johnsrud Johnsrud Transport, Inc.
Jeff Wangsness JMT Trucking Company
The purpose of the Allied Division is to create an avenue of involvement for the vendors that served the trucking industry.
Greg McCoy Foodliner, Inc.
Kevin Gass Perishable Distributors of Iowa Jackie Johnsrud Johnsrud Transport, Inc. Jack Sawyer Des Moines Transportation Co. Steve Schuster Schuster Company
Jerry Bender Midwest Wheel Companies
Truck PAC Iowa Committee
Scott Jones (Chairman) Cummins Sales & Service
The Truck PAC Iowa Committee’s main responsibility is to provide assistance and oversight with the advocacy efforts of the IMTA. This committee plays an important role in several different areas which include; advocacy, fundraising efforts through Truck PAC Iowa and legislative efforts.
Bill Roth Truck Country
Mike Bagg Central Trailer Service
Dave Neuwohner All Seasons Trucking
Adrian Dickey (Co-Chairman) Dickey Transport
Mark Olson Olson Explosives Inc.
Brenda Dittmer (Chairman) Weinrich Truck Line, Inc. Fred Grask Cedar Rapids Truck Center Brad Kohlwes Argee Transport
Dustin Petersen Harrison Truck Centers Steve Sukup Sukup Manufacturing Co.
Dan Schwarz (Treasurer) McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C. Mike Spalla (Co-Chairman) Kunkel & Associates Delwin Van Wyk Harrison Truck Centers
LEAD IMTA Council
Nick Thummel Keane Thummel Trucking
The LEAD IMTA Council is comprised of the future generation of up and coming leaders in the industry.
Jeff Wangsness JMT Trucking Company
Melinda Anderson Ennis Corp. Brad Bailey Central Trailer Service, Ltd.
Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Board
Jennifer Brim Decker Truck Line, Inc.
This board oversees all the activities of the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation, an organization that operates separately than IMTA.
Adam Clark Midwest Wheel Companies
David Boyer Lube-Tech & Partners, LLC Dave Dickey Dickey Transport Murry Fitzer (Chairman) Florilli Transportation, LLC
Steve Schuster (Co-Chairman) Schuster Company Pat Storey Motor-Ways, Inc. Dave Van Wyk Van Wyk, Inc.
Gary Handley BTI Special Commodities, Inc.
Delwin Van Wyk Harrison Truck Centers
John Minor Midwest Wheel Companies
Jeff Wangsness JMT Trucking Company
Jack Sawyer Des Moines Transportation Co.
IMTA Compensation Committee As required by the IRS, IMTA must have a committee that conducts an annual review and implement a set of procedures specific to the oversight of the IMTA President & CEO. Kevin Gass Perishable Distributors of Iowa Jackie Johnsrud Johnsrud Transport, Inc. Jack Sawyer Des Moines Transportation Co.
Steve Schuster (Co-Chairman) Schuster Company John Smith (Chairman) CRST International, Inc.
Iowa Council of Safety Management Steering Committee The Iowa Council of Safety Management (ICSM) is a division that was created for the promotion of professionalism and safety in the trucking industry. Kenny Bauman JMT Trucking Company
Allison Meiners Ruan Transportation
Keith Lamfers Schuster Company
Jen Wilson Sully Transport
Marvin McGinnis Casey’s General Stores
Mallory DeZwarte Ruan Transportation Adrian Dickey Dickey Transport Christina Grissom United Natural Foods, Inc. Lindsay Kearse Hanifen Co., Inc. Corey Murphy MHC Kenworth Tyler Todd Thompson Truck & Trailer Justin Walters West Side Transport, Inc.
Towing & Recovery Professionals of Iowa Steering Committee Towing and Recovery Professionals of Iowa are dedicated to safety and compliance and committed to professionalism and the on-going promotion of a positive image for the towing and recovery profession. Jeff Bussanmas Bussanmas Towing & Recovery Tony Carr Arrow Towing Carmela Darrah-Chiafos Darrah’s Jeff Day Meier Towing Service Andy DeBoard Perry’s Service John Kearse Hanifen Co., Inc. T.J. Newberry Newberry, Inc.
ISSUE 1, 2018
13
DRIVER ASSISTED TRUCK PLATOONING
Dispelling the
Myths of DATP
E
INTRODUCTION: BRENDA NEVILLE, PRESIDENT & CEO, IMTA
merging technologies for the trucking industry are flooding the market place at a dizzying pace. Any time I address an outside business group about the trucking industry, the Q & A session is dominated with questions about the wave of technology that is emerging in
the trucking industry. People are curious, fearful, excited, and understandably apprehensive about what the future trucking industry will look like. When I talk with IMTA members, the diversity of opinions on the truck technology such as driver assisted trucks and truck platooning is as equally vast. Carriers of all sizes have weighed in and have closely watched the many developments that continue to emerge. Legislative and regulatory leaders are also very engaged on this topic. As states struggle with infrastructure funding and other challenges surrounding the movement of freight, they have been forced to think “outside the box.” These emerging technologies are of interest because they have the potential to offer some possible solutions to these major challenges. Universities are involved because research is at the heart of their transportation centers. This is exciting stuff for them and given the amount of freight that is moved here in the heartland, the University of Iowa and Iowa State have always been involved with research relative to the trucking industry. So, what is our role as an association? Without question, we must be at the table because regardless of what you personally think about these emerging technologies…. they are here to stay. A tremendous amount of time, energy and financial resources have been invested in these technologies and the trucking industry will undoubtedly be impacted. Because of that, it is incumbent that we (IMTA) stay on top of this. We do that by educating and informing the membership. Before we can dive into policy discussions, we must have a good understanding of the
technology and its potential impact on the industry. IMTA leaders will continue to make this a priority in their discussions and we will look for opportunities to engage the membership. We also continue to play a leadership role with our legislative and regulatory partners as this technology evolves. We will continue to share our insight, our concerns and as always, be the voice, the eyes and ears for our many members throughout the state. Additionally, we must continue to encourage discussion and engagement from the membership. Your input in critically important. Fortunately, IMTA members have never been afraid to share their opinion, so now more than ever we need your input. This is some of the most important work we can do because the potential to change the industry through technology is tremendous. To start that process, we are focusing on truck platooning. The folks at Peloton have provided this article and it is well worth your time to read. Also included in this section is feedback from IMTA members. As with anything we do, it is important to present all sides of the issue. Then, and only then, can we move forward with a meaningful discussion as to what the role of IMTA should or shouldn’t be. As we continue to navigate through the maze of change that will continue to prevail in this industry, we need you every step of the way. So stay engaged, informed and be a part of the conversation.
DATP: Platooning trucks may soon be driving down a highway near you STORY: STEVE BOYD, NANDI CHHABRA AND ADAM HEALY PELOTON TECHNOLOGY
F “We see intelligent vehicle technologies like driver assistive truck platooning as smart solutions that significantly advance our mission to get you there safely, efficiently and conveniently. Solutions like this make transportation more cost effective, improve safety, and reduce congestion, and they’re actually an important part of our long-term infrastructure strategy, because they can build capacity without building new lane miles. Our long term plans and operational strategies embrace technologies like this and envision a transportation system that’s open to and accommodates them.” MARK LOWE Iowa DOT Director
18
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
rom autonomous two-seater pods to driverless big rigs, there has been a lot of discussion recently about the impacts vehicle automation technology will have on nearly every aspect of our lives. But while experts spend time debating the pros and cons of a world without drivers, the growing consensus is that it will be quite some time before such systems are ready to overcome the technical and regulatory hurdles that exist. And even then, many situations will still require the expertise and skill only a professional driver can provide. As ATA President and CEO Chris Spear has said, “we are not looking at a future with driverless technology but rather driver-assist technology.” Often overlooked amidst the “driverless truck” cacophony is Driver Assistive Truck Platooning (DATP). Unlike driverless trucks, this technology will be ready for fleet drivers to begin using in the coming months. But what exactly is it, and how will it affect drivers?
WHAT IS DATP? At its core, platooning is technology that enables vehicles to be driven closer together safely to draft and save fuel. It’s a concept that has been studied for over a decade in the U.S., Europe, and Japan with cars and trucks, sometimes with two vehicles and sometimes with more. The concept of platooning drew a lot of attention a few years ago when the European Union organized the “Truck Platooning Challenge,” which featured every major European truck OEM using prototype systems to platoon from origin points in Sweden, Germany, and Belgium to the port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands. Back here in the U.S., several companies have been hard at work bringing DATP systems to market.
DISPELLING MYTHS There is a fair amount of misunderstanding about what DATP is and isn’t. So here are the facts: With DATP systems, drivers are always required and are in control. The experience of a follow truck driver is similar to adaptive cruise control, with hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, but feet off the pedals. The lead driver continues to drive as normal. Both drivers must agree to form the platoon, and either one can end it at any time. And while there has been research into platoons of three or more trucks, the first commercial systems will be limited to two trucks.
HOW IT WORKS There are three main elements to a safe “commercial-grade” DATP system. First, each truck needs the right equipment. This includes sensors that are aware of what’s on the road and secure, and reliable vehicle-to-vehicle communications so the follow truck can automatically link acceleration and braking with the lead truck. Platooning systems are also built on top of the latest safety technology, including air disc brakes, which reduce stopping distance, radar-based collision mitigation systems to prevent common types of highway accidents, and lane departure warning. This ensures individual DATP-capable trucks are among the safest trucks on the road, even when they aren’t platooning. Second, there needs to be a supervisory system to help match trucks and coordinate platoons. A supervisory system can also continuously monitor truck and DATP system health and limit platooning to approved roads. This provides certainty that the system can’t be used in unsuitable conditions, such as severe weather, heavily congested traffic, arterial roads, or steep grades. Like any precision tool, a DATP system should be used for its intended task: saving fuel on long stretches of wide open multi-lane, divided, limited-access highways and interstates.
“As new technologies emerge, platooning is one that has the potential to create efficiencies for the carriers along with fuel savings. Platooning testing has demonstrated that this can be accomplished without compromising the safety of the motoring public.” CHIEF DAVE LORENZEN Iowa DOT Motor Vehicle Enforcement
INDEPENDENT
T ESTING has shown fuel savings of about
4.5% 10% on the lead truck &
on the follow truck
when platooning
ISSUE 1, 2018
19
“Iowa is a freight state, and Iowa DOT is always exploring ways to better move goods and services throughout Iowa and the region. We are actively reviewing advanced vehicle communications and platooning technologies; the potential safety benefits, coupled with projected fuel savings, could directly affect the bottom line of carriers. Our goal is to help carriers move their products and services to market as safely and reliably as possible.” SCOTT MARLER Iowa DOT Bureau Chief, Operations Bureau
ABOUT PELOTON Peloton is a connected and automated vehicle technology company dedicated to improving the safety and efficiency of U.S. and global freight transportation. Peloton partners with customers to deliver innovative tools that save fuel, avoid crashes, and improve operational insight through connectivity, automation and advanced data analytics. Peloton’s flagship driver assistive platooning system links the active safety systems of pairs of trucks, enhances driver teamwork, and connects trucks to a cloud-based Network Operations Center which limits platooning to appropriate roads and conditions.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, a DATP system has to be built around the driver. It should be intuitive to use and always put the driver in control of what’s happening. You would never want your cruise control system to override what you think is the safest course of action and a platooning system shouldn’t either. When these elements are combined, it’s possible to have two trucks operate safely with a gap of around 40 feet to generate fuel savings. Independent testing has shown savings of about 4.5 percent on the lead truck and 10 percent on the follow truck when platooning. In an industry where fuel is about a third of total operating costs, these numbers are certainly getting the attention of fleets across the country. And because platooning creates real cost savings on fuel over the lifecycle of a truck, more fleets will be able to afford the required air disc brakes and collision mitigation systems, improving overall highway safety.
IS IT REALLY SAFE? So how can the trucks be safe when operating so closely together in platoon? A professional driver takes on average 1.5 seconds to react to the slowing of a vehicle in front, or about 121 feet at 55 mph. Distraction or fatigue can significantly increase this distance to over 200 feet. In comparison, a platooning truck takes approximately one-tenth of a second to engage its brakes in reaction to the lead truck braking, or about 8 feet of traveling distance at 55 mph. The system never gets tired or distracted and reacts as soon as the brake pedal is pressed on the lead truck, which is even before the lead truck begins to slow due to brake lag. Additionally, the follow truck knows the braking force of the front truck, so it is able to respond with the degree of braking necessary to maintain a safe gap between the trucks. This all means trucks can safely follow at closer distances and save fuel. Of course, drivers know it doesn’t matter how well a system is designed if it’s not reliable. Commercial-grade DATP systems are built with redundancies and cyber security measures that don’t exist in consumer products. We’ve all had a computer crash on us at an inopportune time. DATP systems have redundancies that will safely end platooning if any errors are detected.
IS IT LEGAL? State following distance laws can pose a hurdle to commercial deployment of truck platooning. In 21 states, a numeric following distance for commercial
20
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
vehicles--ranging from 100 to 500 feet--is found in statute. In contrast, the majority of states have a flexible “reasonable and prudent” standard governing the following distance for commercial vehicles instead of a fixed following distance. Under existing Iowa law, truck drivers must keep at least 300 feet between them and the vehicle in front. In order for f leets to take advantage of the safety and fuel efficiency benefits of truck platooning, Iowa will need to amend current laws to allow a follow truck in a platoon to follow closer than the current 300 foot rule. This simple, straightforward change would enable Iowa fleets and truck drivers to benefit from this new technology. As of January 2018, nine states (Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas) have allowed for commercial deployment of truck platooning, while one state (Ohio) has a provided for an administrative allowance for platooning deployment. Midwestern states including Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin are considering the issue this year..
WHAT’S NEXT Several companies in the U.S. and abroad are working to bring truck platooning to a road near you. Having trucks enabled for platooning enhances the safety of each tractor by requiring that they are equipped with best-in-class collision avoidance and air disc brakes on all axles, features that are found on a very small fraction of U.S. freight trucks today. Commercial deployment of DATP will allow fleets to realize the financial benefit of increased efficiency, which will incentivize fleets to add these features, making each truck safer than most trucks on the roads today.
“Automated and connected vehicle technologies, such as truck platooning, have the potential to provide benefits in the areas of safety, environment, productivity, efficiency, and driver health and wellness. States should take steps toward removing existing barriers that may stifle innovation, testing, and deployment of these advanced technologies.” MICHAEL CAMMISA ATA Vice President, Safety Policy, Connectivity & Technology
ISSUE 1, 2018
21
DATP: Right for Iowa?
Driver Assistive Truck Platooning may soon be a reality in the U.S., but many have doubts about the technology. Iowa’s carriers and IMTA members discuss DATP’s future in Iowa.
“I would venture to say at this point truck platooning is not something we would be supporting at Ennis Corp. I fail to see the benefits of this and see it creating larger traffic problems as a result of trucks platooning. While there may be areas it will work well I don’t see it being very effective in our area. We have many more serious issues within our industry to deal with and need to focus on those issues. I do not see my fleet investing in the technology nor do I see many other fleets investing in this at this time. I feel there may be advantages in some areas of the country but as I stated I feel it will result in greater accidents and traffic congestion as a result of trucks traveling in platoons. I think a major hurdle will be more added expense for the carriers which are already burdened with expense from all the safety features we have in place on our vehicles already and I feel it will be a hard sell to many of our drivers.” MELINDA ANDERSON Ennis Corp., Clarion, Iowa
“I’m not a believer in truck platooning for the majority of the industry. If it does find a sustainable home, it will be in niche’ situations for larger fleets that have a heavy volume of lanes of similar destinations. I don’t see truck platooning being a fit for our fleet. I also don’t see this being a positive for drivers. I believe that truck platooning is another level of loss of control & independence for the driver, safety concerns on winter roads, finding ways inside your operations to synergize log hours, customer needs, & planning. The saved costs would need to be substantial to justify moving forward with platooning in my opinion. For me, the largest hurdle is a clear return on investment. Good trucking CEOs will invest in technology that saves dollars, increases safety, offers a better option for the driver. Platooning is a theory, an experiment at this point, not a proven solution for the majority of the industry.” NICK THUMMEL, Keane Thummel Trucking, New Market, Iowa
“I see platooning as a scheduling nightmare. It is hard enough to get appointments to maximize the usage of equipment and this would just aggravate that situation. I could see it working for line haul drivers running the same route daily. To some extent you have a lot of platooning occurring now with the truck speed limits set close to each other and not being able to pass one another in a reasonable amount of time. Perhaps that’s why it may work? I don’t understand the HOW or WHO would align the trucks from different companies. Does that automatically occur with the proper technology? Or is it company specific to platooning? Just like the ELDs, another large expense with little return. I suspect they think it would save fuel and make the highways safer? Help to fill the seats in trucks with steering wheel holders? Bottom line, I think platooning is just one more thing that takes away the individuality of driving a truck.” MARK OLSON, Olson Explosives, Decorah, Iowa
“I just don’t get truck platooning. I see absolutely no relevance in this technology and think it is a waste of time, money and energy that our state and federal regulators are making this such a big deal.” * 22
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
“While I don’t think I would ever use truck platooning because I am a small trucking company in rural Iowa, I think the technology has some real potential in certain situations.” *
“Regarding platooning, maybe I’m just old fashioned, but I just don’t see any gain in the concept, at least for us smaller carriers. I know the video that we viewed showed two trucks, supposedly not connected to the same company, hooking up and running together. In the real world, truckers are way too independent to sync together. One will always want to run faster or slower, stop more or less frequently, or take a different route. That leaves platooning more suitable for larger companies that run heavy lane density. It would simplify platooning if the same company operated two or more trucks. In either case, platooning still requires a driver in the cab. So, helping the driver situation really isn’t improved with the use of platooning. It MIGHT make their job less stressful and easier to recruit drivers, but it will not require any fewer. I still see some issues that need to be addressed before platooning or autonomous trucks can hit the road and one of those is liability exposure. Just who is going to be responsible WHEN this technology malfunctions and there are incidents. I think this technology will have a lot of unintended consequences to deal with before it is fully functional.” DAVE VAN WYK Van Wyk, Inc., Sheldon, Iowa
“First, truck platooning is a reality. It is viable. The technology is very much in place and available. Regulations, impact on infrastructure, and importantly, the effect on the driver are significant questions that need to be thoroughly addressed before wide level adoption and implementation. At Ruan, we have a People First culture, and professional drivers are the foundation of our company - we do not see technology like this ever changing that The applicability, most likely will, initially, be intra-company. Carriers with volume density on longer haul lanes, where they have a number of units are likely to see the benefits. Its importance goes beyond platooning, as this is a development, a movement toward broader autonomous, driver assist adoption. The learnings gleaned from platooning will help shape the thinking, regulations, and parameters of autonomous vehicle use overall so we need to watch this closely.” DAN VAN ALSTINE, Ruan Transportation, Des Moines, Iowa
“I believe platooning could be a reality in the future if certain issues can be resolved. A big hurdle would be Insurance Companies and Technology signing off on the liability coverage. Another issue would be road and weather conditions affecting the truck. We are a short haul carrier with multiple trailer changes daily, so it would not benefit us as much as long haul carriers. I feel we need to continue to explore the Platooning possibilities due to our severe shortage of available, qualified CDL drivers.” DON VOGT, West Side Transport, Inc., Cedar Rapids, Iowa
“I know that truck platooning is getting a lot of hype right now, and I know that as an industry and as an association we need to be involved with this, but I personally believe there are way more important issues we should be focusing on … like flexibility in the HOS and figuring out a way that we can get 18-year-olds behind the wheel.” * *Responses in green from an Anonymous Member Survey
ISSUE 1, 2018
23
Over 100 Locations in 16 States NEW & USED TRUCK SALES | PARTS | SERVICE | BODY SHOP
LEASING & RENTAL | FINANCE | TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION
LOCAL LOCATIONS
Des Moines MHC Kenworth (844) 438-5899 Cedar Rapids MHC Kenworth (844) 435-5789 Dubuque MHC Kenworth (833) 268-2922 Quad Cities MHC Kenworth (844) 435-5785 Omaha MHC Kenworth (844) 438-5906
Dealership Leasing & Rental Truck Source Carrier RoadReady
Lincoln MHC Kenworth (844) 438-5903
mhc.com
2018 ELECTION
Democrats Will Make Big Gains in 2018 JANUARY 19: FINANCE REPORTS BECOME AVAILABLE FOR STATE RACES, INCLUDING THE GOVERNORSHIP
MATT PAUL
Cornerstone Public Affairs Senior Vice President for Public Affairs
“Cynically optimistic.” It’s my current state of mind when it comes to the 2018 mid-terms. It’s a make or break year for Democrats in many ways. We must make progress in every corner of the state if we want to wrangle Iowa back from recent Republican domination. The marquee race is the one for Governor—bringing with it a packed primary field and many activists hungry for change. Iowa Democrats and candidates appear to be ready to fight for that change, but they will also have strong national tailwinds to help them out in a state that is typically ground zero for national swings. History tells us that the sitting President’s party is usually in for a very bumpy election night when it comes to Congressional mid-term results, and, so far from special election results and early polling, it looks like 2018 will be no different Seasoned observers will be looking to see how this early enthusiasm plays out over several key milestones:
26
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
This is really the first stress test for every campaign and a few telling surprises likely are hiding within the spreadsheets detailing how much each of the candidates has raised and how quickly they are spending those resources. This just isn’t about who can raise money, these reports indicate a candidate’s ability to run big operations. This likely will be the most expensive governor’s race in Iowa history and the management of staff and budgets gives you an insight to how well these folks might manage a state budget and thousands of employees. Cash on hand matters. Dollars raised demonstrates discipline and organization. With just under 300 days to election day, those in the race should be holding their cash so they can engage their message and organization when voters are paying maximum attention. Campaigns caught with a lackluster report will spin mightily to show strength and momentum, but with very few exceptions, it will be difficult for them to bounce back.
FEBRUARY 5: PRECINCT CAUCUSES Yes, the two major parties in Iowa do hold caucuses every election year. You just usually only hear about those that take place in presidential primaries. Caucuses will take place around the state on February 5. With a packed field running for the Democratic nomination for Governor, these caucuses are extremely important in determining who is ultimately elected to the party’s state convention in June. Like their presidential primary “big brother,” the off-year caucuses are all about organization. It takes
a skilled politico to get their friends and neighbors to turn out in the blistering cold of an Iowa February evening.
LAST REGULAR DAY OF THE 2018 IOWA LEGISLATIVE SESSION Expect this meeting of the Iowa General Assembly to be a painfully political rush to adjournment. The state budget is in tough shape, leaving little if any new resources to fund priorities. Democrats will demand increases in education, job training, and health care expenditures. Huge policy challenges like mental health loom, and even the simplest of legislation can be tough to pass in an election year. Democrats expect to make gains in the House and have a bumper crop of strong candidates. Considering that Democrats won three of the four special elections in 2017 with huge swings in districts President Trump won handily in 2016, it’s looking more and more likely that the Republican House Majority may be in big trouble On the Senate side, it will be interesting to watch Senator Janet Petersen of Des Moines take over as Minority Leader. She is experienced, tough and knows how to win races. Her potential impact on the statehouse is not to be underestimated.
JUNE 5: PRIMARY DAY Soon the cold will lift, and Iowa will welcome another spring season and primary candidates will sprint towards that first Tuesday in June. And on June 10, the general election of 2018 will be underway. Buckle Up! Matt brings nearly 20 years of experience of working in public affairs at the local, state and federal level. Matt served on the administration for Governor Vilsack and Senator Harkin. He also worked for the Obama Administration in 2011 in the US Department of Agriculture. In 2016, he was the State Director for Hilary Clinton and has now moved into the private sector as well.
2018 ELECTION
Republicans Will Remain Strong in 2018 Elections Iowa, historically a state whose residents split their tickets between Democrats and Republicans, will find out in 2018 if the state is now reliably Republican. Consider these facts: Iowa has two Republican U.S. Senators. Three of four of our congressmen are Republican. We have a Republican governor, a Republicancontrolled Iowa House and a Republicancontrolled Iowa Senate. And, to top it off,
President Trump won Iowa by a larger margin than he won conservative Texas. Presidential midterm elections are historically awful for the party that controls the White House — in this case, Republicans. So, if Iowa Democrats are unable to make gains in the Iowa House, Senate, in congressional districts, and at least make the governor’s race competitive, our state will be seen as a conservative stronghold.
JIMMY CENTERS
Cornerstone Public Affairs Vice President of Strategic Communications
IOWA RACES TO WATCH RACE FOR GOVERNOR Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds is widely expected to win the GOP primary versus former Cedar Rapids Mayor Ron Corbett. The front running Democrats to take on Reynolds are: businessman Fred Hubbell, union leader Cathy Glasson, Des Moines State Sen. Nate Boulton and former Iowa Democrat Party Leader Andrea (Andy) McGuire. For Gov. Reynolds, a successful 2018 Iowa legislative session will be critically important heading into a competitive general election. Reynolds will likely focus her efforts on balancing a tight budget, passing tax reform, implementing workforce training programs, funding water quality, and strengthening human service areas (such as Medicaid and mental health). The reality is Iowans typically give the governor-in-power another term if they feel confident about the economy and feel they’re personally better off on Election Day than they were four years prior. The fact that Iowa’s unemployment rate is at a low three percent is good news for the governor. The governor’s campaign team will have to keep a watchful eye on the national
political mood, which they can’t control, but as of now, she can be considered a favorite to win.
LEGISLATIVE RACES In the Iowa Senate, Democrats face a difficult map, meaning most Senate seats that are up in 2018 are in Republicanleaning districts. With 29 Republicans, 20 Democrats and one Independent in the Senate, it’s highly unlikely Democrats can retake control of the upper chamber. In all likelihood, Democrats are looking at a multi-election cycle rebuild, which will likely last through redistricting after the 2020 U.S. Census. The Iowa House presents similar challenges for Iowa Democrats. With 58 Republicans and 41 Democrats (Note: the chamber had one vacancy at the time of publication), Iowa House Democrats will need a large political wave in order to ride into the majority.
CONGRESSIONAL RACES
Nearly all political observers believe Rep. Steve King (R, IA-04) and Rep. Dave Loebsack (D, IA-02) will be easily re-elected in November. Congressman David Young (R, IA-03), who visits every county in his district every month, should win re-election. His constituent work is second-to-none and he is accessible to the voters of his district. Because the district looks competitive on paper, Democrats will pour resources into the race. In IA-01, Rep. Rod Blum will take on the winner of the Democrat primary between State Rep. Abby Finkenauer and Thomas Heckroth. Many believe Finkenauer will emerge to challenge the congressman in a district that leans Democrat. Expect this race to be the focus of national attention and be considered a toss-up, especially if the national political environment favors Democrats. Jimmy Centers was the communications director for former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad and current Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds from 2013-2015. Centers can be reached at JCenters@CGAgroup.com.
Because Iowa has nonpartisan redistricting, the state usually has at least one competitive congressional district.
ISSUE 1, 2018
27
TRUCK PAC IOWA
Strengthening our Political Resources Since the early ’50s, IMTA has been raising money for its political action committee as a part of its ongoing governmental relations program. For many years the association has worked closely with its PAC committee to develop and implement programs and events to raise money for PAC.
WHAT IS TRUCK PAC IOWA? A Political Action Committee (PAC) is formed by an industry or an issue-oriented organization to raise money and contribute money to the campaigns of candidates that will advance the interests of the group’s interests. Truck PAC Iowa is dedicated to advancing the issues of importance to Iowa’s trucking industry. Through the funds raised through Truck PAC Iowa, we make contributions to the legislators and candidates that support a pro-trucking, pro-business agenda.
PROTECTING IOWA’S TRUCKING INDUSTRY IMTA reviews all legislative initiatives that may impact your bottom-line and your business in Iowa. As a part of IMTA’s ongoing advocacy efforts, IMTA keeps you up to speed on any and all legislative proposals that may impact your business. Through Truck PAC Iowa, contributions are made to state elected officials of any party that supports IMTA’s legislative priorities. Truck PAC Iowa is not aligned with any political party. We support those who are helpful and supportive of Iowa’s trucking industry.
HOW IS MONEY RAISED FOR TRUCK PAC IOWA? Our biggest and longest running fundraiser is our spring golf outing. This event raises almost $25,000 and continues to be very popular among the membership.
IMTA leaders (Board of Directors) are asked to contribute on a voluntary basis and we have almost 100% participation by the board to our PAC. The rest of the money is raised through smaller events throughout the year and by member contributions. Only PERSONAL CHECKS can be accepted, and any amount is appreciated and welcome.
WHY SHOULD I CONTRIBUTE TO TRUCK PAC IOWA? Laws that negatively impact your operation and Iowa’s trucking industry can be made at any time. To protect your future, we need legislators in office that support, understand and appreciate our industry. Your contributions help us continue to be effective in our efforts to promote a pro-business, pro-trucking environment.
BECOME A 2018 MEMBER OF TRUCK PAC IOWA ADD YOUR NAME TO THE GROWING LIST OF SUPPORTERS COMPLETE THIS FORM AND SEND A COPY TO IMTA janelle@iowamotortruck.com • Fax (515) 244-2204
MEMBER LEVEL Place a check mark in the box with your desired membership level. Dollar amounts represent yearly contributions.
28
NAME HOME ADDRESS CITY, STATE & ZIP
BRONZE $100
SILVER $250
GOLD $500
PHONE
DIAMOND $1000
Truck PAC Iowa will send you an invoice
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
TRUCK PAC IOWA
2018 Truck PAC Iowa Committee Announces New Event – IMTA Culinary Fight Night The 2018 Truck PAC Iowa Committee chaired by Brenda Dittmer, Weinrich Trucking and Adrian Dickey, Dickey Transportation is excited to announce a new event in 2018. The Culinary Fight Night will be held on Friday, March 2nd at the Des Moines Social Club. This PAC fundraiser is open to all IMTA members and promises to be an event that you won’t want to miss. The committee is focusing on raising awareness as well as raising funds for IMTA’s political action committee. The committee is excited to offer this new event which they believe will be fun for IMTA members of all ages.
“IMTA members have always been very generous in their support of the PAC and we are excited to offer a new event for the membership. Not only do we want to create something that will appeal to the members but also raise some money for our PAC and we believe the cooking competition will do just that,” said Adrian Dickey, co-chairman of the 2018 committee. In addition to creating this new event, the committee will also be implementing a more aggressive communication plan to the membership. “We need to improve and raise the
Truck PAC Iowa Presents
Cu inary Fight Night FRIDAY, MARCH 2
$100
PER PERSON Personal Contribution Only No Corporate Checks
6:00 PM Reception 6:30 PM Challenge Begins
Des Moines Social Club Culinary Loft // 900 Mulberry Street // Des Moines
awareness among the membership regarding Truck PAC Iowa. Our PAC is extremely important to our advocacy efforts and we want to do a better job promoting and informing the membership on our PAC. Our goal in 2018 is to get more people involved with the PAC and we think we can reach that goal through improved communications. We need to underscore the relationship of our PAC to overall advocacy efforts and I am confident members will respond,” said Brenda Dittmer, co-chairman of the 2018 committee.
The Main Event Whether or not you know your way around the kitchen doesn't make a difference at Truck PAC Iowa's Culinary Fight Night. All experience levels are encouraged to participate because it's not all about how well you perform in the kitchen, it's about having an evening of fun and networking with fellow IMTA members in support of Truck PAC Iowa! This Chopped-like event will divide attendees into teams during a timed culinary competition. With a professional chef as a mentor, each team will discuss a strategy to create a dish consisting of items in the kitchen -- protein, vegetable, starch, pantry staples, etc. Creativity, division of tasks and effective communication within each team are critical for the win. Throughout the event a panel of judges will be evaluating your teamwork, and will then be the official taste testers of all the final products. Members of the team that dishes up the best dish will win prizes based on presentation, teamwork, and most of all, the ability to have fun during the event! This Truck PAC Iowa fundraiser is sure to be an event you don't want to miss, and you are encouraged to register coworkers, spouses, friends, etc. In addition to the culinary competition, food and beverages will be available throughout the event!
MORE DETAILS @ IOWAMOTORTRUCK.COM
YOUR FULL-LINE SALES & SERVICE CENTER
Conveniently located off I-80/Exit 143, Altoona, IA
Visit us online at: • Trailer sales new & used ctsdesmoines.com • Skilled workforce to service all makes & models • Authorized Warranty & Repair Center for: Strick - Merritt Morgan - Fontaine - Wabash - Wilson - Delta Waseca - Landoll Transcraft - Benson • Fully stocked parts department with statewide delivery • Major Parts suppliers for: New Life - Aurora Parts - Merritt - Wilson Morgan - Shur-Co. • Full line of pickup & SUV accessories 316 Adventureland Dr., NE • Altoona IA 50009 Ph: 515.957.0300 Toll-free: 800.288.3032
7 a.m. to 12 a.m. Monday - Friday
|
8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday
IF YOU WANT IT DONE RIGHT YOU WANT IT DONE RIGHT HERE
ATRI UPDATE Driver Shortage Returns as Trucking Industry’s Top Concern ATRI’s annual Top Industry Issues survey is a key indicator of current trends and future issues for the trucking industry. The annual survey is launched every August and asks trucking industry stakeholders to select their top issues of concern and identify key strategies for addressing each issue. The 2017 Top Industry Issues Survey provides an important road map for what the industry can expect in 2018.
REBECCA BREWSTER ATRI President & COO
Want to get more involved with ATRI? There are a number of ways you can be part of this vital industry organization: »» P articipate in ATRI’s research. When ATRI puts out a call for carrier data or asks for responses to an industry survey, take the time to participate. More is always better when it comes to research and we encourage you to join the growing number of motor carriers, professional drivers and industry suppliers who all regularly take part in ATRI’s studies. »» C ontribute to ATRI. Join your peers in the industry and STEP UP with a charitable contribution to support ATRI’s research. Giving is easy and can be done online at www.atri-online.org. »» S uggest a research topic. ATRI is always looking for new research ideas for the RAC to evaluate. »» J oin the RAC. Want to be involved in setting the trucking industry’s research agenda? Send us an email letting us know you want to be considered for a nomination to serve on the RAC. »» S pread the news. When ATRI releases research results, please Tweet, Facebook and otherwise share the findings with your colleagues and peer network so that everyone benefits from our work on behalf of the trucking industry.
For the first time since 2006, the Driver Shortage topped the list of industry concerns. Improving economic growth in the U.S. has many concerned that the demand for truck drivers will further outpace the supply of qualified drivers. Survey respondents believe the top strategy for addressing the driver shortage is to work with state and federal authorities to develop a graduated CDL program to attract safe younger drivers to the industry. This is a top research priority for ATRI as well and work is underway at ATRI to develop and test a younger driver assessment tool (see article on Younger Driver Assessment Tool on page 33). Number two on the list was the ELD mandate. While many of the concerns surrounding the ELD mandate derive from the lack of flexibility in the Hoursof-Service rules. While 2017 saw a final determination and permanent removal of the more restrictive 34-hour restart provisions in FMCSA’s HOS rules, the lack of flexibility in the rules kept HOS as the number three industry issue in the 2017 survey. The top strategy identified by survey respondents for addressing the HOS concern was to push for flexibility in how drivers split their driving, on-duty and rest time. Many in the industry believe that with additional flexibility drivers would be able to rest when tired and could provide an opportunity for drivers to adjust their driving schedules to avoid some
32
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
2017 Top Trucking Industry Issues 1. Driver Shortage 2. ELD Mandate 3. Hours-of-Service 4. Truck Parking 5. Driver Retention 6. CSA 7. Cumulative Economic Impact of Trucking Regulations 8. Driver Distraction 9. Transportation Infrastructure / Congestion / Funding 10. Driver Health and Wellness
of the worst congestion choke points. FMCSA’s pilot study to assess the benefits of allowing split-sleep will be underway throughout 2018 and based on its results (expected in 2019), it may provide what motor carriers and drivers are looking for in terms of additional HOS flexibility. Driver turnover surged through the first half of 2017 after falling for the duration of 2016, indicating that the driver market has tightened considerably and will likely continue to do so in 2018. To combat driver churn, which dramatically increases recruitment and training costs, motor carriers have begun to compete with one another using sign-on/stay-on bonuses. As documented in ATRI’s annual Operational Costs of Trucking research, other carriers are focused on safety performance and on-time delivery bonuses as a way to improve their driver retention numbers. The 2017 report, Critical Issues in the Trucking Industry, is available from ATRI’s website at TruckingResearch.org. The report includes the results of the annual survey from its launch in 2005, providing an indicator of rising, falling, and emerging priorities in the trucking industry.
ATRI UPDATE Younger Driver Assessment Tool According to the latest numbers from the American Trucking Associations’ Truck Driver Shortage Analysis, the industry will need to hire an estimated 90,000 drivers annually over the next decade to replace retiring drivers and to keep pace with freight growth. One way to expand the industry’s labor pool is to attract younger individuals, aged 18-24, to drive commercial trucks. In support of that goal, ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee identified as a top priority research the development of a Younger Driver Assessment Tool - one that would identify younger drivers who exhibit many of the same characteristics as safe, older commercial drivers. ATRI recently released the first report in this multi-phase research initiative.
To assess the feasibility of identifying safe younger drivers, ATRI reviewed existing scientific literature on driver characteristics and the associated safety outcomes. The report summarizes the psychology literature on early adulthood, and how characteristics of this age group relate to driving safety. The research was conducted in conjunction with Dr. Monica Luciana, Professor of Psychology at the University of Minnesota. Individual traits that can reliably predict driver safety outcomes - personality, health, and cognition - are identified and discussed in this latest ATRI report. The next phase of ATRI’s research will involve assembling the relevant measures of the identified predictive factors and conducting a beta test
of the Assessment Tool on a small sample of both veteran and entry-level drivers. Results of the beta test will determine if a larger scale study is warranted. The beta test will commence in early 2018. “The potential to screen for the safest candidates among younger new entrants is an exciting step in the industry’s workforce expansion. We look forward to working with ATRI in the development and testing of the Younger Driver Assessment Tool,” said Greg Koepel, Vice President, Workforce Development and Administration, Roehl Transport, Inc. A copy of this report is available on ATRI’s website at TruckingResearch.org.
Industry CEOs Appointed to ATRI Board and RAC
L–R: Andrew Boyle, Co President, Boyle Transportation; Benjamin McLean, CEO, Ruan Transportation; Dennis Nash, Chairman and CEO, Kenan Advantage Group; James Reed,President and CEO, USA Truck; Karen Rasmussen, President and CEO, HELP, Inc.
ATRI recently announced the appointment of four new members to its board of directors. ATRI Chairman Judy McReynolds, ArcBest Corporation Chairman, President and CEO, appointed the following to serve on the ATRI Board: Andrew Boyle Co-President, Boyle Transportation Billerica, Massachusetts Benjamin McLean CEO, Ruan Transportation Des Moines, Iowa
“Our board plays a critical role in guiding and shaping the priorities for ATRI,” said ATRI President and COO Rebecca Brewster. “We benefit from a very engaged group of Board members and are pleased to have these gentlemen join that group.” Additionally, the ATRI Board of Directors has appointed Karen Rasmussen to chair ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee, replacing Scott Mugno who was nominated to lead OSHA. Karen is the president and CEO of HELP, Inc., Phoenix, Arizona.
Dennis Nash Chairman and CEO, Kenan Advantage Group North Canton, Ohio James Reed President and CEO, USA Truck Van Buren, Arkansas
ISSUE 1, 2018
33
FLEETS & OWNER OPERATORS CHOOSE MICHELIN RETREADS SMART FOR BUDGETS MICHELIN速 casings provide multiple retreads so you get more from your investment by maximizing your assets.
Call Bauer ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY Supports sustainability/green initiatives by reusing Built for quality MICHELIN casings. Your Retread HIGH QUALITY MICHELIN Retread Technologies process is Tire Needs The consistent, audited and backed by MICHELIN . 速
速
速
LOCATIONS ACROSS ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MINNESOTA, NEBRASKA, NORTH DAKOTA AND WISCONSIN CARROLL, IA 1227 W US Hwy 30 712-792-4378
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA 628-58th Ave Ct SW 319-366-1608
DAVENPORT, IA 3116 W 73rd St 563-386-8470
DES MOINES, IA 2040 Hull Ave 515-266-7128
DUBUQUE, IA 2220 Kerper Blvd 563-582-3102
MASON CITY, IA 11228 265th St 641-423-5164
WATERLOO, IA 2086 Howard Ave 319-232-6448
W. BURLINGTON, IA 1207 S Broadway St 319-753-2895
bauerbuilt.com
ASK THE MEMBERS
Q: What are your company’s goals for 2018?
“Improving our brand and strength in the marketplace. Although I feel the economy is strong I will be cautious in my decisions that will affect future years cash and tax effects. We are going to benefit from the federal tax reform that was passed but I am hoping the State of Iowa is going to work through the section 179 deduction that was drastically decreased.”
“Working to expand our engine sales throughout our OEMS and continue to provide outstanding service to our customers at our repair facilities.” JASON VAN HOOZER Cummins Sales & Service
“Diversifying our customer base and commodities, while effectively lowering our operational costs of delivering the highest quality produce to our customers. Where you want it, when you want it and how you want it.” MARC NEWMAN Capital City Fruit
ARREN WETZEL Central Lighting & Equipment, Inc
“For 2018, we are focused on profitable growth with new and existing customers while improving all of our key performance indicators.” BRIAN KOHLWES Hirschbach Motor Lines, Inc.
“We are focused on superior customer experience, empowered by a family of dedicated employees that constantly improve and grow. We will provide greater value to our customers well into the future with advances in technology, delivery, product offering and training.”
“Continue to be an agency that exemplifies a strong passion and knowledge of the trucking industry, while maintaining and developing new relationships within the IMTA.” BEN COUCH Reynolds & Reynolds, Inc
ALEX STEIN Midwest Wheel Companies
ISSUE 1, 2018
35
30 Years of Service to IMTA IMTA President & CEO Brenda Neville completed 30 years of service to the association as of December 31st, 2017. Brenda started her career at IMTA on January 3, 1987 as the communications manager and within a few months, she was asked to assist with event management and the 1987 Iowa Truck Roadeo was her first assignment. From that point on, she worked in several different areas from membership, to government relations to fundraising and marketing. In 1994, she was named the Vice President of IMTA and was further involved in every aspect of the operation until being
named President & CEO of the association on May 8, 2008. “It doesn’t seem possible that I have been here 30 years. I have had the remarkable privilege to work with and for some of the finest people you will ever find. When I started this job, my father told me that it would be challenging yet rewarding because trucking was always going to be the dominant mode of delivery and he was spot on. I look forward to my continued work with association leaders and members and strive for continued excellence in our service to the membership,” said Brenda.
BRENDA NEVILLE IMTA President & CEO
FMCSA UPDATE
Former State Trucking Association Executive Named FMCSA Deputy Administrator Cathy F. Gautreaux has been named the Deputy Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. As the Agency’s second-ranking official, Cathy is principally responsible for overseeing FMCSA’s dayto-day operational programs and activities, which are performed by more than 1,100 employees located in its Washington, D.C., Headquarters, four regional Service Centers, 52 Divisional Offices and 31 Field Units. Prior to being asked by President Trump and by Secretary Chao in November 2017 to join FMCSA in an executive leadership role, Cathy had a long and distinguished career working in law enforcement, regional and national commercial trucking and in transportation safety. As Deputy Administrator, Cathy believes that compliance is first and foremost, and she wants to help motor carriers run safe and successful truck and bus operations. Cathy brings a State’s perspective to FMCSA. A graduate of Louisiana State University with a degree in criminal justice, Cathy initially began her career working as a
36
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
CATHY GAUTREAUX
Deputy Administrator of FMCSA
detective in the Ascension Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office for four years. She later joined the Louisiana Motor Transport Association serving as its Executive Director for more than three decades. Cathy is a past National
Chairman of the Trucking Associations Executive Council (TAEC). During her career, she has been selected to serve on numerous prestigious national and regional boards, commissions and task forces addressing the full spectrum of intermodal transportation issues, including: homeland security, emergency disaster relief, incident management, commercial vehicle safety technologies, alternative fuels, oversized/ overweight vehicles, commercial driver’s licenses, railroad grade crossings, work zone safety, distracted driving and other topics. Whether it is the movement of freight or the transportation of passengers, Cathy’s experience has taught her that, at their core, these industries are ultimately about the people: the drivers, the small business owners, and the motoring public. With a thorough comprehension of FMCSA’s unique responsibilities, Cathy is committed to keeping our nation’s transportation-dependent economy vibrant and strong while ensuring that our highways and roads remain the safest in the world.
IMTA EVENTS Iowa Council of Safety Management Tours National Advanced Driving Simulator The Iowa Council of Safety Management recently had the opportunity to visit the National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS), in Coralville, Iowa. The National Advanced Driving Simulator is a transportation research center at the University of Iowa’s Research Park. NADS utilizes a suite of world-class driving simulators and instrumented vehicles to conduct research studies. They are best known for their high-fidelity ground vehicle driving simulator, which utilizes an actual vehicle in the unit and projects scenery 360 degrees around the driver on the interior walls of the dome that houses the vehicle. Vehicles can be changed out and include various cars and a full-sized semi-tractor cab.
ABOVE: NADS Director Dan McGehee discussing the research center to ICSM members LEFT: Simulator dome and track
IMTA Members Show Support for Combat Hunger The Iowa Motor Truck Association once again assisted with Star 102.5’s annual Combat Hunger event, which kicked off the week prior to Thanksgiving. Combat Hunger is a community-wide food and fund drive to provide hungry Iowans with food during the harsh winter months and to increase awareness of Iowa’s critical hunger problem. The IMTA provides support by enlisting straight trucks and drivers to travel throughout the Des Moines metro to pick up donations from businesses and schools that host a food and/or fund drive that support the Food Bank of Iowa. The largest food drive in the state of Iowa was able to raise over 250,000 meals for Iowans in need thanks to the 2017 event. Mike Goodwin, Perishable Distributors of Iowa, and event volunteer Orval Byrd
A special thank you to IMTA members who volunteer trucks and drivers for this very worthwhile project: Casey’s General Stores, FedEx Freight, GATR Truck Center, Hy-Vee, Perishable Distributors of Iowa and Two Men and a Truck. FAR LEFT: Roger Smith, Casey’s General Stores, and event volunteer Bob Forte LEFT: Tom Goddard, Hy-Vee
ISSUE 1, 2018
37
IMTA EVENTS
IMTA’s 2017 Platinum Cornerstone Sponsors were recognized for their continued support. Dustin Petersen, Harrison Truck Centers, John Minor, Midwest Wheel Companies, Bill Roth, Truck Country, and Travis Thompson, Thompson Truck & Trailer, Inc.
IMTA Board of Directors Meet for Annual Fall Meeting IMTA leaders and invited guests gathered in Des Moines for their annual fall board meeting. US Senator Chuck Grassley was one of the featured speakers and informed the group that he continues to “proudly represent Iowa in Washington D.C.” Senator Grassley updated the group on several topics relative to trucking and was especially interested in feedback specific to ELDs. Grassley has been very sympathetic to concerns raised by livestock haulers and feels that more flexibility is needed in the HOS rules. Senator Grassley praised IMTA for their continued leadership in Iowa and in DC, and thanked the industry for their valuable services. Other featured speakers included Mark Lowe, Scott Marler and Mitchell Dillavou all from the Iowa Department of Transportation, as well as Representative Chris Hagenow and Senator Jack Whitver. Additionally, the IMTA board of directors’ welcomed newly elected board members, approved the 2018 IMTA budget and heard an association update from IMTA President Brenda Neville.
38
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
ABOVE: John Smith, CRST International, Donna Weinrich-Lucht, Weinrich Truck Line, Senator Chuck Grassley, and Brenda Neville, IMTA LEFT: Iowa Senate President Jack Whitver BELOW: Mark Lowe, Iowa DOT, IMTA Chairman Kevin Gass, Perishable Distributors of Iowa, and Mitchell Dillavou, Iowa DOT
IMTA EVENTS Celebrating the Holidays The Iowa Motor Truck Association kicked off the holiday season during a December holiday open house with members and various supporters of the trucking industry in Iowa. This popular event serves as a thank you to our members for their tremendous support throughout the year, and going forward into the new year.
ABOVE: Delwin Van Wyk, Harrison Truck Centers, IMTA President Brenda Neville, and Jeff Moe, Solar Transport
Pat Storey, Motor-Ways, Diane Gass, Perishable Distributors of Iowa, Pam Storey, Motor-Ways, and IMTA Chairman Kevin Gass, Perishable Distributors of Iowa
LEFT: Allison Meiners, Ruan Transportation, and Gary Handley, BTI Special Commodities
Julie Hanifen, Hanifen Company, Ryan Lloyd, Schneider Graphics, IMTA Director of Safety Don Egli, Sgt. Brett Tjepkes & Captain Nathan Fulk, Iowa State Patrol, Mike Sullivan, and Scott Jones, Cummins Sales & Service
*An inadvertent error was discovered in the previous Lifeliner after the publication was printed. We apologize for the incorrect listing of the 2017 winners.
Congratulations to the 2017 Fleet Maintenance Professional of the Year Nominees Chris Brauch Barr-Nunn Transportation
Anne-Maria Long Decker Truck Line, Inc.
Jim Van Ryswyk Hy-Vee, Inc.
Bill Hixson Walmart Transportation LLC
Malaki Bulten Decker Truck Line, Inc.
Nate Deininger Hirschbach Motor Lines
Tracy Tibboel Perishable Distributors of Iowa
Jerry Roth Walmart Transportation LLC
ISSUE 1, 2018
39
FINAL THOUGHT
Preparing for the Future What is the future of IMTA? How do we continue to be a relevant and viable association? How do we continue to attract members? Volunteer leaders? And even qualified staff? These are just a sampling of questions that IMTA leaders have continued to address over the last several years. And while strategic planning has always been a priority to the association, this year, it was taken to a whole new level. Brent Henley, an experienced facilitator in association strategic planning from the Pyramid Group, led a group of IMTA members through a valuable planning process. The day included a lot of valuable discussion, interesting revelations, and thoughtful consideration as IMTA’s road map into the future was laid out. By the conclusion of the session, priorities for 2018 were outlined, as was a clear vision of where IMTA should be by the year 2021. The good news, this session reinforced that IMTA is certainly doing a lot of things right, but more importantly, this session created some very clear and concise goals for 2018 that will only strengthen our ongoing efforts to serve a diverse and committed membership. Here is a quick summary of the strategic planning efforts, but more information will continue to be shared with the membership as we work towards these important goals. Do we have our work cut out for us? Absolutely, but the end result will be an association that continues to be respected, relevant and relentless in its efforts on behalf of Iowa’s trucking industry.
40
IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER
Our 2018 Priorities
Our Strategies
1. Form a task force to develop an ongoing program targeted at Maintenance Professionals.
• Relentless grass root activities involving regulatory and legislative bodies.
2. Implement a membership campaign to get members in all 99 counties.
• We believe in a win-win relationship with legislative and regulatory partners.
3. Begin to explore the possibility of offering a group coverage plan for IMTA members.
• We promote IMTA and the entire industry.
4. Explore virtual technology options to enhance IMTA communications efforts. 5. Continue to strengthen and support LEAD IMTA efforts.
2018 Metrics • Add 5 new counties with a member campaign. • Maintain 96% retention rate. • One event for maintenance professionals and establishment of an official group overseeing and directing these efforts. • Virtual technology plan is developed.
• We build awareness and knowledge. • We provide tools and resources. • We sponsor events and promote peer groups. • We focus on advocacy and protection.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SESSION PARTICIPANTS: »» Jennifer Brim Decker Truck Line (representing LEAD IMTA) »» Adrian Dickey Dickey Transport (representing the Foundation and LEAD IMTA) »» Brenda Dittmer Weinrich Truck Line
Our 2021 Vision
»» Kevin Gass PDI
1. Have a leadership succession plan in place for the board, LEAD IMTA and internally.
»» Jack Sawyer Des Moines Transportation
2. Have a member in all 99 counties (this further strengthens our position at the Capitol).
»» Jason Smith TrueNorth Insurance (representing Allied Division)
3. Formalize the member satisfaction and revenue metrics.
»» Dan Van Alstine Ruan Transportation
4. Group health insurance as a value-added member benefit.
»» Justin Walters West Side Transport (representing LEAD IMTA)
5. Have a Super Tech Maintenance Competition on the annual calendar of events.
IMTA STAFF
6. Have a strong virtual technology component added to our communications efforts. 7. Foundation fundraising goals are met and conversion of west wing to a conference center is on the calendar. 8. We are considered the “gold standard” of state trucking associations.
Brenda Neville, Janelle Stevens, Jordan Bjerke, Don Egli
TAKE THE WHEEL and take the road at any Truck County location.
For locations and hours, visit truckcountry.com.
TRUCK SALES | EXPERT SERVICE | PARTS | LEASING
717 East Court Ave Des Moines, IA 50309