Pub. 1 2020 Issue 3

12 Kentucky Trucker Kentucky Trucking Association What is the importance of being a KTA member; what makes it beneficial? We’re a voice for the industry — state and national. We’re a direct voice, if you will. KTA is the place to find answers and resources. They go to bat for us on regulatory and economic issues — they are our voice at the Capitol. Here’s the thing; over the years, I’ve heard some say that they don’t see a need to join because they can be the bystanding beneficiary — for free — from KTA’s efforts. I bite my tongue because there’s some truth to that. When KTA goes to bat for the industry, every- one benefits. However, I think these bystanders are missing the big picture, which is the relationships that are formed and the resources that come with being a member in good standing. I have used the relationships that I have formed over the years through my membership in KTA for advice, as sounding boards and as mentors. We don’t know everything about everything. What inspired you to serve as a leader within the association? No one else would volunteer! KTA and I go back to 1996. I attended my first meeting as a guest speaker when I was an enforcement officer with Kentucky Vehicle Enforcement. After I changed careers, Donnie Carroll suggested I become involved. The KTA has a safety council, and Donnie suggested that I join and become actively involved. His then-encouragement to me speaks to the heart of why membership is so important, quite frankly. People learn from each other. We gain insights, and we form relationships that will impact us personally and professionally throughout our lives. I found a professional niche. I like to lead. I like to influence, and being a part of and making a difference in my professional industry is important to me. In looking back at this year, what stands out for you? Are there any accomplishments that you are especially proud of? I was just joking about this last week. As chairman- ships go, I think it was the worst term ever! Over the last couple of years, we transitioned some association staff and just about got us stable and moving forward, when COVID hit. Events were canceled and as an asso- ciation, we were dealing not just with the fallout of our internal operations, but with our industry as a whole. Our board didn’t get golf tournaments and banquets; we got a pandemic and the opportunity to reinvent a lot of what we do and how we do it. On a positive note, membership grew — that is good. I can’t take the credit, but I am pleased that we’re growing. This past October, PHMSA’s deputy administrator invited me to participate as an industry panelist in the agency’s inaugural executive leadership program. That was a big honor. continued from page 11