What is the current health of the trucking industry in your province?

DAVE EARLE – The trucking industry in British Columbia is currently facing a challenging time due to several factors. One of the leading causes of the industry’s downturn is the significant contraction in the forestry industry, which historically has been one of the essential sources of demand for trucking services in the province. 

Furthermore, there has been a general decrease in the overall demand for transportation services in the province, primarily due to the completion of important infrastructure projects. This has reduced the need for transportation-related services, further compounding the issues faced by the trucking industry in BC.

As a result, BC carriers operate in an environment where costs are at an all-time high, and profit margins continue to shrink. The rising cost of fuel, maintenance, and labour has made it challenging for carriers to remain profitable. The impact has been felt across the industry, with many carriers needing help to keep up with their operational expenses and grow their businesses.

 TIM BENNETT – Alberta has the fastest-growing economy, so the demand for trucking companies has been great. As it stands, 52% of the province’s GDP is carried on the back of a truck. We foresee continued growth as the Province works to attract more investment from across the country and around the world. The greatest challenge we face is the commercial driver shortage (about 4,000 driver vacancies in Alberta). AMTA is working with the Province to get more Albertans behind the wheel so our economy doesn’t skip a beat.

 SUSAN EWART – Saskatchewan is experiencing a deceleration in freight movement, prompting a shift in priorities for carriers. While the labour shortage was once the primary concern, attention has now turned to the escalating costs of operations. Rising fuel prices, taxes, and inflationary pressures significantly strain the industry, contributing to heightened stress among stakeholders.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – As far as the labour shortage is concerned, we have found a little bit of breathing room as demand slows down a bit; however, the reality is that recruitment and retention remain challenges. We used to say we needed to recruit, train, and retain a new driver every eight hours in Manitoba to meet demand. Based on most current information, it is something like every eleven or twelve hours. So, while the demand has perhaps come out of overdrive, there still remains a huge need, especially for drivers and technicians.

 Looking back at the past year, what lessons were learned as an association and industry?

DAVE EARLE – As an association that has been around for more than a century, BCTA is constantly learning. Over the past year, we have gained valuable insights emphasizing the significance of maintaining regulatory focus and a favourable public image. As we proceed with the transition towards decarbonization, it has become increasingly evident that taking proactive measures and participating actively in efforts to reduce emissions is crucial to maintaining our industry’s credibility. 

Moreover, we have noted the increased public attention to driver training and performance on the road. There is increased scrutiny of the industry’s safety practices, highlighting the need for us to address issues such as driver safety and take the next step in the evolution of driver training. BCTA is committed to meeting this challenge and ensuring that our members are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to deliver the highest levels of safety and performance on the road.

 TIM BENNETT – The past year really drove home the importance of fostering relationships with government and stakeholders. Commercial transportation is transforming rapidly, so it’s critical we’re involved in making the decisions that impact the industry. 

 SUSAN EWART – The past year has undoubtedly presented challenges for both the economy and the trucking industry in Saskatchewan. It’s been a year of lessons learned, highlighting the inevitability of change. Economic fluctuations affect not only nonprofits but also trucking companies directly. The STA is actively reassessing its strategies for the future, including the types of funding required and the value we bring to both industry and government. Moving forward, there’s a clear imperative for us to amplify our voice and advocacy efforts.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – One of our year-end activities at the MTA is our final publication, the MTA Year in Review. Part of that exercise is reviewing what we did well (successes) and where we need to improve (opportunities and challenges). This past year, while not a new lesson, re-iterated the value of flexibility, adapting to change, and building new relationships. We also learned the importance of taking politics out of policy. The world is a tough place these days; kindness and recognizing and appreciating the humanity in others can go a long way.

We continue to learn that Driver Inc. is a more significant issue than we imagined, going beyond shirking financial responsibilities. As we continue to learn about Driver Inc., we are discovering more about immigration abuse. 

Finally, while it’s not a new lesson, we could all use a reminder now and then that there is value in being people-focused and doing the right thing. 

 How has your association collaborated with other associations, stakeholders, and governments to address challenges and obstacles within the industry?

DAVE EARLE – BCTA is committed to working collaboratively with various trucking and cross-sectoral associations to create a supportive environment that promotes economic growth in every jurisdiction. Our primary objective is to ensure the success of our members by actively engaging with stakeholders and partner organizations in a wide variety of settings.

This collaboration was evident in the success of BCTA’s ‘Zeroing in on ZEV’ event in February. Over a dozen manufacturers, hundreds of fleet representatives, provincial and federal government officials, and representatives from associations across Canada (and California) were in attendance. The purpose of the event was to share real-world experiences and explore opportunities and solutions for the adoption of zero-emission vehicles in the trucking industry.

 TIM BENNETT – AMTA has forged a constructive relationship with the Government of Alberta, rooted in mutual trust and respect. We’ve been invited to sit on several government committees and subcommittees dealing with commercial transportation (e.g., Transportation and Economic Corridors’ commercial driver shortage, retention and attraction, training and transferability committees, and Advanced Education’s Commercial Driver Working Group). 

We also meet regularly with other Western Canadian associations to discuss ideas and collaborate on various initiatives. These valuable working relationships allow AMTA to understand what issues other partners are facing and how that could affect the industry in Alberta. They also better enable us to work together with the government and other associations to advocate for industry.

 SUSAN EWART – The Saskatchewan Trucking Association actively seeks collaboration opportunities with other associations, industry partners, and government stakeholders. We maintain regular dialogue with our counterparts in Western Associations to address industry challenges and foster mutual understanding collectively. Open communication channels with government stakeholders ensure the trucking industry’s concerns are effectively conveyed and understood.

Through a spirit of compromise and a thorough understanding of all perspectives, we have achieved notable success in driving positive changes within the trucking industry in Saskatchewan. One notable example is our collaboration with a member carrier to address various obstacles related to LCV permits with the Saskatchewan Ministry. While it required perseverance, our collaborative efforts with industry and government stakeholders significantly improved the Saskatchewan LCV permit system.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – With a new provincial government elected in the fall of 2023, we have spent considerable time and effort introducing ourselves and our mission to new cabinet ministers, deputy ministers, and other officials. We are pleased with how those discussions are going, and we look forward to working together on future projects, including addressing Driver Inc. in Manitoba and improving rest areas and winter road maintenance.

We have also been working closely with the City of Winnipeg to ensure that commercial goods movement is not overlooked as transportation plans are built. Active transportation and pedestrian access are important, but so are deliveries and other freight movement. There must be a balance without sacrificing one mode for another.

We always enjoy and appreciate opportunities to work with the other trucking associations. While there may be regional differences related to regulations and compliance, we all want a safe and healthy trucking industry.

 With data-driven decision-making becoming increasingly important, how can your association better equip members with the resources and training to effectively utilize trucking analytics in their operations?

DAVE EARLE – We are working with a wide variety of broader industry and transportation organizations to learn about new analytic technologies, so BCTA is better positioned to advise stakeholders and regulators about how these new tools can be embedded in our sector, and to help our members better understand and incorporate them in their operations. 

There are misconceptions about the practicality and utility of some technologies in our industry. While many BCTA members are piloting and deploying artificial intelligence (AI) in various applications, many regulators have a misconception about the granularity of data available for supply chain analysis. For instance, the development and deployment of digital twins will rely, in part, on comprehensive telematic data. However, the usefulness of this technology across different companies is limited despite its potential for larger fleets. Nevertheless, it is an exciting time for our industry, with many possibilities on the horizon.

 TIM BENNETT – To equip our members with resources in trucking data analytics, AMTA will offer high-level statistics that will enable members to view and understand relevant trucking analytics data and make informed data-driven decisions about their specific operations. AMTA is committed to working with our members to identify specific data and analytics knowledge gaps and construct educational/training material to address these gaps. AMTA will support empowering our members to leverage existing data effectively in their operations and stay ahead in an increasingly data-centric landscape. 

 SUSAN EWART – One of the most valuable advantages a carrier can gain from their provincial trucking association is access to an extensive resource network and educational opportunities. Through our affiliation with industry experts and extensive networks, members can tap into expert insights on effectively leveraging technology. We offer up-to-date educational resources both online and through partnerships, allowing members to make the most of these offerings. It’s our nationwide network of expertise that underpins our commitment to supporting members’ data-driven operations and ensuring success in their businesses.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – The opportunities to access data for the decision-making process are endless these days. Even within our own organization, it can be almost overwhelming to see the amount of data at our fingertips! We work to ensure that our members – carriers and associated trades division (ATD) – have the chance to come together to discuss needs and resources. This includes opportunities such as our Spring Gala, golf tournaments, newsletter advertising, and the Buyer’s Guide. These are chances for ATD members to communicate with carrier members, ensuring carriers have the resources and training needed to use analytics in their operations effectively.

 Cargo theft has been an important issue, so how is your association committed to advancing safety and security in the trucking industry? How is your association working with members to best leverage emerging technology developments like sensors to equip members with the most effective tools for preventative maintenance, cargo security, and accident prevention?

DAVE EARLE – BCTA is committed to empowering its members to make the most of the technology provided by our supplier members. To foster closer collaboration between our carrier and supplier members, we offer a range of platforms to showcase the latest offerings. These include in-person events and virtual lunch and learns, which allow carriers to engage directly with suppliers, gain insights into the latest advancements in safety and security technology, and explore how these solutions can be tailored to meet their specific needs and challenges.

Our initiatives serve as a valuable resource for BCTA members who want to stay current with industry trends and learn about new technologies that can benefit their businesses. 

 TIM BENNETT – AMTA has supplier members with new technologies supporting cargo protection and security, including temperature control, visibility, cameras, and open-door sensors. Members can also participate in the Canadian Border Security Program Partners in Protection.

 SUSAN EWART – As a small association, we recognize that our resources and manpower may not always cover every need our members have. However, the Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) boasts an extensive network of industry experts whom we can tap into to aid members in mitigating risks. While risk management hasn’t traditionally been a focal point for the STA, we fully grasp its significance to our members’ operations. Leveraging the STA as a resource provides members with access to expertise, and we stand ready to facilitate connections to the specific support they require.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – Safety and security related to cargo theft are certainly issues in the industry. Much like ensuring that members have the resources and training needed to effectively utilize trucking analytics in their operations, we provide opportunities for Associated Trades Division (ATD) members to connect with carrier members through events, newsletters, a Buyer’s Guide, and more to ensure carriers can keep their cargo safe from theft.

 Canada has committed to net-zero emissions by 2050. With sustainability as a primary focus in the trucking industry, what is your association doing regarding specific GHG-reducing policies and initiatives that would be most beneficial for your members, considering factors like infrastructure and economic feasibility?

DAVE EARLE – BCTA has developed a comprehensive strategy to help the Province achieve its short-term climate targets, which is outlined in our white paper, Pathway to Achieving BC’s Heavy-Duty Trucking 2030 Climate Targets. Our strategy is intended to help various stakeholders play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty trucking, including government, shippers, original equipment manufacturers, carriers, and the public. Looking specifically at recommendations directed to government, BCTA asks for an expansion of financial incentive offerings and the increased use of long combination vehicles (LCVs) in BC. We also ask government to implement an idling-reduction mandate, as idling is one of the significant sources of emissions from heavy-duty trucks. Furthermore, the government can develop better infrastructure, such as terminal electric charging and hydrogen infrastructure, to facilitate the transition to zero-emission vehicles. These are all proposed initiatives that BCTA will continue advocating for.

 TIM BENNETT – AMTA’s Industry Advancement team has been working on research and innovation related to reducing GHG emissions through low- and zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) for several years. We are leaders in collaboration, bringing diverse industry, academic and government project partners together, and currently, AMTA is involved in various aspects of the emerging hydrogen ecosystem for transportation in Alberta. Some key initiatives that have been beneficial to our members include: 

• Providing opportunities for real-world ZEV testing under the Hydrogen Vehicle Demonstrations project. 

• Sourcing fuel cell grade hydrogen and developing hydrogen fueling infrastructure for Alberta hydrogen vehicle trials (trucks, buses, dual fuel vehicles) through the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Demonstration program. 

• Collaborating to launch Alberta’s first commercial hydrogen vehicle fueling station at Blackjacks Roadhouse in Nisku. This station was unveiled in March 2024 and is expected to be operational in Q2 2024. 

• Developing and delivering ZEV education and awareness initiatives, including driver and mechanic training, first responder awareness, and even specific towing procedures for these new trucks. 

 SUSAN EWART – Saskatchewan is in the early stages of exploring initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the province. The Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) has played a pivotal role in facilitating discussions regarding implementing such initiatives, particularly concerning heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). Our current focus revolves around educating stakeholders and fostering conversations on policies that strike a balance between environmental goals and practical business considerations, ensuring they remain achievable.

One significant concern is infrastructure readiness to support these initiatives effectively. Presently, our province is advancing a renewable diesel strategy alongside the construction of several canola-crushing plants. Renewable diesel holds promise as a viable solution for reducing GHG emissions in heavy-duty vehicles. As such, the STA remains committed to advocating for and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable practices within the trucking industry.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – We have undertaken quite a bit of work in this area:

• The Efficient Trucking program has been offered in Manitoba since 2020. This program helps offset the costs of investing in GHG-reducing products such as APUs and low-rolling resistance tires, among many others. The result has been tens of millions of dollars invested in retrofitting equipment in Manitoba. For example, the most recent intake resulted in approximately $13.1 million in expenditures on GHG-reducing devices.

• We have been working closely with various partners, including the University of Manitoba, to determine the best plan for Manitoba, considering our infrastructure, weather, and other resources. A survey was shared with carrier members earlier this year to help make those data-driven decisions. The goal of this survey is to better understand how zero emissions vehicle awareness varies among carriers.

Our priority in this area is ensuring that the decisions made now will work for industry in the future. We don’t want to start down a path of no return; we want to make informed decisions that work for as many industry members as possible within the greater context of a national and international industry.

 Looking ahead, what other challenges do you anticipate for the trucking industry, and how do you plan to tackle them?

DAVE EARLE – Technology will undoubtedly continue to pose challenges for our industry regarding adaptation. As new advancements emerge, carriers and drivers must embrace change to remain competitive. However, among these challenges lie significant opportunities for innovation and growth. As we continue to prioritize environmental sustainability in our industry, technology will play a key role in shaping its future. 

An exciting technological development in the industry is the deployment of bio-supporting exoskeletons in warehouse settings. These wearable devices enhance worker safety and productivity by reducing physical strain and fatigue. They can also help prevent workplace injuries, which is a significant concern. 

We cannot ignore the growing trend towards automation in the transportation sector. While it’s inevitable that some degree of automation will be introduced, we need to ensure that it’s done safely and responsibly. We need to consider the impact it will have on jobs and workers, as well as the potential benefits in terms of efficiency and safety. 

BCTA will address the challenge of technological adaptation by prioritizing education and knowledge-sharing among our members. We recognize that knowledge is key to unlocking the potential of new technology and leveraging it for greater efficiency, safety, and growth. Through a variety of initiatives, including workshops, webinars, and industry events, we will provide our members with the resources and information they need to stay informed. Additionally, BCTA will continue to work closely with government to advocate for financial support and infrastructure development that will facilitate the adoption of these advancements across the industry. By making these technologies as accessible as possible and ensuring the necessary support systems are in place, we can empower our members to seize the opportunities that arise. 

 TIM BENNETT – The driver shortage continues to be a challenge for industry. We’ve been working with the provincial government through committees and other channels to tackle the issue. We are looking forward to next year’s implementation of the Government of Alberta’s Learning Pathway for Class 1 Drivers. This pathway is being designed as an apprenticeship-style model to increase driver skills, improve safety, and enhance training for current and prospective drivers.

Companies that misclassify workers to avoid paying taxes and their employees who wrongfully file taxes as personal service businesses – colloquially known as Driver Inc. – is another challenge. These misclassification schemes are fuelling the growth of the underground economy in the sector. AMTA recently formed a working group to develop solutions and pressure governments to act.

 SUSAN EWART – As we progress through 2024, an analysis of the recent Labor Market Information (LMI) data provided by Trucking HR Canada reveals a concerning trend: the escalating operations costs are beginning to eclipse the challenges posed by labour shortages. Factors such as mounting fuel expenses, carbon taxes, wage hikes, inflationary pressures, and the ongoing Driver Inc. crisis are exerting significant strains on the trucking industry. Saskatchewan, despite its unique landscape, is not immune to these pressing challenges.

In response, the Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) has embarked on numerous initiatives and engaged in discussions with various governmental stakeholders overseeing the trucking sector. These ongoing dialogues aim to address the multifaceted issues confronting the industry head-on. Encouragingly, progress is being made in tackling the Driver Inc. problem in Saskatchewan through collaborative efforts involving multiple government ministries. This progress instills confidence that we are moving in the right direction to safeguard the viability and sustainability of the trucking industry in the province.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – The Manitoba Trucking Association exists to advocate, support, and educate to ensure a safe and healthy business environment for the trucking industry. Our work is rooted in the needs of our members: the challenges they face are the challenges we address. As such, we will tackle upcoming challenges by being member-focused, listening to and understanding their challenges and needs as they evolve on several fronts, including the environment, technology, labour, and human rights.

 Are there any particular safety programs or offerings in training that your membership should keep in mind for this coming year?

DAVE EARLE – Given the recent attention towards driver safety training, we have taken steps to ensure that drivers receive the necessary training and resources to perform their tasks safely and efficiently. BCTA is working with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to promote safety videos and materials designed to equip drivers with the knowledge and skills required to accurately measure loads and obtain appropriate permits for oversized loads. 

Additionally, SafetyDriven, our occupational health and safety partner association, offers a Certificate of Recognition (COR) program designed to provide guidance on creating an efficient operation that meets the safety standards for a COR audit. By adhering to the strict requirements of the COR program, carriers can ensure that their employees are trained in the best practices for safety and health while working on the job. 

 TIM BENNETT – This year, AMTA’s Education department released Health and Safety System Building (HSSB) and Self-Evaluator as online courses. Now, small employers (10 or fewer employees) have the option to complete their SECOR training requirements as 100% online self-paced courses. In 2024, AMTA resumed in-person classes and continues to see successful responses in class sizes.

 SUSAN EWART – The Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) continues to provide the Certificate of Recognition (COR)
Program for the trucking industry in Saskatchewan. While engagement from the industry has presented some challenges and falls short of our desired level, we are committed to addressing this issue. Notably, the trucking sector ranks as the second-highest industry for injuries in the province, underscoring the importance of our support for all companies, whether they are members or not.

Furthermore, recognizing the evolving needs of our industry professionals, we have made significant investments in a Learning Management Software (LMS) platform. This platform facilitates the delivery of a wider array of professional development courses available on-demand and self-paced. To enhance accessibility, the STA is currently working on transitioning the majority of our instructor-led courses online, eliminating the need for carriers to incur travel expenses for employee training.

In line with our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive industry, we have developed a specialized course on Diversity, Equity, and inclusion (DE&I) tailored for supervisors, managers, and employees within the trucking sector. We are currently in the process of integrating this course into our LMS platform. With these initiatives in place, we encourage industry stakeholders to leverage the resources and support offered by the STA to nurture employee development across all organizational levels.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – Three years after the federal government passed the Workplace Harassment and Violence legislation, it’s time to retrain those who were initially trained when the program rolled out (training certification lasts for three years). I would encourage federally regulated companies to review the requirements to ensure they are operating in compliance.

We will continue with the New Entrant Training requirement for safety compliance officers in Manitoba. This program is helping ensure that new and established carriers better understand their obligations regarding the safe operation of a trucking company.

I encourage all carriers who operate in Manitoba to join the RPM: Trucking Industry Safety program. With some dedication and focus, a carrier can achieve the SAFE Work Manitoba Certificate of Recognition through RPM: Trucking Industry Safety within a year. Certification results in financial benefits, but even more importantly than that, it ensures that employees know they are working for a safe company that values their lives.

 What initiative(s) will your association be working on this year?

DAVE EARLE – As we move forward this year, BCTA will continue to focus on sustainability, offer education and training opportunities, and continue to work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoTI) to increase the visibility of the National Safety Code (NSC). We are thrilled that MoTI is planning to release data pulls from the provincial NSC database this summer. This move aims to increase transparency, allowing customers to access the necessary information to make an informed decision when choosing a carrier to hire. BCTA is also excited to share that the public will have full access to the NSC database this fall. This will enable customers to view carrier safety ratings in real time. By providing access to this data, we are empowering customers to make more informed decisions about the carriers they choose to work with, taking a significant step in the right direction toward creating a safer transportation industry.

 TIM BENNETT – First, AMTA will continue to devote resources to initiatives addressing the driver shortage. This will include the Government of Alberta’s Learning Pathway, mentioned above. Second, AMTA continues to work towards an apprenticeship program that will ideally lead to a national red seal recognition for professional drivers. 

In addition, AMTA continues to test new lower emissions technologies to help support industry understanding of technological capabilities.

AMTA continues to enhance our ability to communicate and engage with membership and provide better supports. With the launch of an updated website, it’s aiming to make it easier and more impactful for members to access resources.

Recently, this December, AMTA launched a unique communication technique to industry in what they call the Steering Change podcast. This enables them to communicate areas of interest and concern to industry and expand the reach of our offerings. 

AMTA continues to develop Micro-Learns videos, which can be accessed and utilized by industry as quick resources for their health and safety programming. Lastly, AMTA is working on a long-term project to become an educational hub for industry-leading training, testing industry technologies in the northern Canadian climate, and more. The AMTA Campus would house training facilities and provide miles of track to test technology and train drivers.

 SUSAN EWART – The Saskatchewan Trucking Association has recently revised its Strategic Plan, maintaining our Association’s foundational cornerstone goals and objectives. Our commitment remains steadfast to enhancing the business landscape of the trucking industry in the province of Saskatchewan. We will persist in focusing on advocacy, safety, and driving the economic prosperity stemming from the industry.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – Obviously, there are a number of irons in the fire, including our advocacy efforts and environmental projects. As an association, we have seen considerable growth over the past few years. The Human Resources Sector Council has elevated our industry outreach to a level we have not previously been able to achieve. The New Entrant Training course has resulted in hundreds of people trained over the last 16 months. Growth is excellent, and we welcome it, but the focus this year is on further developing those initiatives to ensure they meet the needs of our industry. 

 What is the value of membership, and what is your association doing to improve the value continuously?

DAVE EARLE – BCTA continues to be the influential voice for the trucking industry in British Columbia. It is crucial to provide a platform for our members to contribute effectively to industry discussions, shape policy decisions, and participate in committees focused on key issues that affect the industry. 

Our commitment to our members is evident in the variety of channels BCTA provides for their input, which includes surveys, working groups, informational sessions, and events with opportunities to engage in discussions on relevant topics. Our members’ input is critical and invaluable when developing our policies and advocating for the industry. BCTA understands the importance of anticipating our members’ needs, and we are consistently working to meet them. Our member-driven approach ensures that we are always in touch with our industry’s challenges and opportunities. By providing a platform for our members to share their views, we empower them to contribute to the growth and success of the trucking industry in BC.

 TIM BENNETT – For me, the value of membership is access to resources, training, credentials, networking, and advocacy for change in our industry. To expand, courses and resources for health and safety training, aiding our members in reducing workplace incidents and severity, including providing training to obtain designations such as our Certified Transportation Safety Professional (CTSP) and our employer Certificate of Recognition programs (COR & SECOR). We also work with membership to develop and improve our training library to ensure we develop the suitable courses for industry needs. 

Through our advocacy efforts and our national affiliation with CTA, we work with provincial and federal governments to support and liaise on legislation and regulations impacting our members, their companies, and employees. AMTA serves as the voice of membership in communicating with government on topics such as MELT.

Lastly, AMTA allows members to see and experience emerging technologies firsthand through hands-on testing while gaining insight through education and resources. 

 SUSAN EWART – Membership in our trucking industry association is a cornerstone of collective strength, support, and opportunity within our sector. By actively engaging with the association, members wield the power to drive positive change, foster industry growth, and ensure their voices resonate in crucial decision-making arenas. With the chance to influence advocacy efforts and contribute to causes close to their hearts, members collectively amplify their impact on the challenges confronting the trucking industry. This spirit of collaboration fortifies our association, cultivating a vibrant community of networking where members seamlessly exchange ideas and best practices, forging valuable collaborations, connections, and friendships. At the heart of membership lies a sense of belonging and active participation in a cause one believes in, striving to enact positive change for the trucking industry. Moreover, staying informed through regular updates on legislative developments, achievements, and sector opportunities further enriches the membership experience. These core values resonate throughout our Strategic Plan, championed with unwavering enthusiasm and strength by our dedicated team and Board of Directors.

 

AARON DOLYNIUK – We’ve often described ourselves as “the extra person in your office,” and in this age of misinformation and disinformation, the services we provide as that extra person are invaluable. Having an association as a resource, providing accurate information and valuable tools to help ensure compliance, is of great worth. Beyond that, there are opportunities to connect with other members, ensuring members have the tools needed to do what is required safely and efficiently.

 What continues to make you proud of your association?

DAVE EARLE – BCTA is working diligently with regulators to ensure that the outcomes of our advocacy work are not just practical but also meaningful. Our efforts have been met with real success and have led to some promising developments. BCTA has been successful in securing realistic mandates and has been addressing long-standing policy requests, such as speed limiters, with notable progress. 

Our members are an integral part of our work, and their engagement is evident in their active participation in over ten committees. Our events have been attracting more and more participants each year, and we are proud to see an increase in attendance. This is a testament to the relevance and importance of the topics that we cover and the quality of our events. We are also pleased to report that BCTA membership continues to expand. This clearly indicates the trust and confidence our members have in our association and the value we provide to them. 

But, at the heart of BCTA’s success, is our staff. They work tirelessly and are committed to our mission of ensuring the success of our members. Their dedication and hard work are the driving force behind our achievements, and we are grateful for their contributions. In short, we are proud of the progress that BCTA has made and are confident that our continued efforts will enable our members to thrive in 2024 and beyond.

 TIM BENNETT – For over 86 years, our association has collaborated on industry challenges and barriers while also taking action on a multitude of opportunities to garner a global competitive edge for the future. Our relationships with our membership, all levels of government, and industry are key to our ongoing success, and AMTA excels at this.

 SUSAN EWART – Employment within a nonprofit, particularly in collaboration with the trucking industry, presents its own set of challenges. Yet, our dedicated team and volunteer Board of Directors remain steadfast in their commitment to the industry. They exemplify the values outlined in our mission and vision, striving to serve as the unwavering voice of the industry in Saskatchewan. I take great pride in our collective efforts to amplify these voices and remain resolute in my commitment to advocating for the trucking community.

 AARON DOLYNIUK – As always, it is our members who make us most proud. They come together on the Board of Directors, Associated Trades Division, Safety Council, Sector Council, Vehicle Maintenance Council, and other committees. They share their knowledge and expertise, all in an effort to make the association and industry better for everyone. Their continued support of our events ensures we are able to provide a great time out for our members. 

I am also proud of the relationships we have developed with many other groups, including the Province of Manitoba, the City of Winnipeg, and more. Our message that trucking is the industry that drives the nation is being heard and appreciated. Our industry’s contributions to Manitoba’s economy cannot be overstated, nor can our contributions to the social fabric of this province. I think I speak for everyone at the MTA when I say I look forward to what the future holds.