Over the past two years that I’ve served as Chair of American Truck Dealers, I have come away knowing that our organization is built on a solid foundation of passion, commitment, and vision.
When I started as your ATD Chair, I knew this was more than just a job. This role, which I’ve been entrusted with, is the progression of years of work in this business. But it also reignited my inner fire. I’ve always been an advocate but having the privilege to advocate for my industry on a national level, as did the 25 chairmen who came before me is life changing. Passion is the common thread among the ATD leadership and the truck dealers of the country. And every dealer I’ve ever met is incredibly intense in what they do: selling our products and serving customers to the best of their ability.
But the fire could easily be extinguished if not for commitment. Commitment keeps us steadfast despite the ups and downs of our industry—and there are plenty. But if you remain committed, giving up is not an option and our businesses will continue to thrive despite ups and downs in the economy, or a changing dealership landscape, or even a workforce shortage. The spirit of commitment keeps us honest and requires that we follow through on our goals. So even after this week, I will remain committed to ATD not just as your immediate past chair, but as your Kenworth line representative.
And, finally, we cannot progress together in this new year—and in this new decade—without the right vision. When ATD implemented the strategic action plan a few years ago, it’s because we wanted to cement our vision and solidify our goals for the future. Since then, our presence has never been stronger—whether it’s fighting for our industry on Capitol Hill or building bridges with our manufacturers. We must always be forward-thinking.
In just a few days, I will pass the ATD torch forward to our Incoming Chair Steve Bassett. I’m confident he’ll continue to lead us with a renewed sense of passion, commitment, and vision. It was my privilege to serve as ATD’s 26th Chair and I look forward to helping move the torch forward with all of you in the years to come!
