2018 Lifeliner Magazine (Issue 4)

RISE OF THE ELECTRIC TRUCK High initial costs, range capabilities and infrastructure challenges bring doubts, but the future of trucking is here to stay.

Issue 4, 2018

Knowledge is Power Not All Trucking Companies Are Alike Trucking is all we do. When you choose Great West to insure your trucking business, you are getting over 60 years of experience in the trucking industry.

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Do one thing, and do it right. Our agents can guide you through the process and customize a plan to provide you the broadest protection possible. You can also feel confident knowing that our agents’ service begins, not ends, with the issuance of your policy.

GREAT WEST CASUALTY COMPANY – No matter where the road takes you, you will discover that at Great West, The Difference is Service®.

Issue 4, 2018

Emerging Technologies Dominate p18 In the last 7 to 10 years, the trucking industry has seen more technological advances than it has seen in the last 25 years.

Special Section: The Extra Mile Relive the moments from the 2018 IMTA Management Conference, including the award winners from the IMTA Awards Gala.

FEATURES p2 p3 p4 p5 p6 p10 p12 p13 p14 p26 p32 p36 p38

Listening In 2019 Chairman's Message 2018 Chairman’s Message President’s Message Up Close & Personal Members in the News Ask the Members IMTA Update Industry News IMTA Image Campaign ATRI Update Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation IMTA Events

COLUMNS p28 p40

Legal Update Final Thought

OUR STAFF BRENDA NEVILLE, CAE President & CEO

brenda@iowamotortruck.com

JORDAN BJERKE Membership & Finance Manager

jordan@iowamotortruck.com

DON EGLI, CDS Director of Safety & Security

don@iowamotortruck.com

MORGAN STEENHOEK Communications, Events & Marketing Assistant

morgan@iowamotortruck.com

JANELLE STEVENS Director of Communications, Education & Events 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

p24

Renewable Energy Group

IFC Great West Casualty p8 MHC Kenworth p9 IMTA Cornerstone Sponsors p16 Thermo King Sales

p25

Harrison Truck Centers

p29

PrePass IMTA History Book

and Service

p17

Thompson Truck and Trailer

p30 McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C. CJ Cooper & Associates Housby Mack p31 Central Trailer Service Donaghy-Kempton Insurors Quality Services Corp.

p34 Bauer Built Tire & Service Midwest Peterbilt Group p35 Counteract Balancing Beads

Northland Insurance IBC

BC

Truck Country Midwest Wheel Companies

ISSUE 4, 2018

1

“This provision ... which passed the House earlier this year – and all of Congress in 1994 – on a bipartisan basis should not hold up the FAA bill. We continue to believe that clarifying Congress’ intent that the federal government – not individual states – should be the sole regulators of drivers’ hours of service should be noncontroversial.”

SEAN McNALLY Vice President of Public Affairs and Press Secretary of ATA as FAA bill continues to be debated in the US Senate.

“It means a lot more to me now in the sense because I didn’t know if I’d ever be out here again playing — doing this again.

I don’t know, 20 years ago, hell, I thought I was going to play for another 30 years ... So yeah, I appreciate it a little bit more than I did because I don’t take it for granted that I’m going to have another decade, two decades in my future of playing golf at this level.”

TIGER WOODS after winning the Tour Championship on Sunday, September 23rd, his first win in five years and the 80th of his career.

“Please at the very minimum remove the 30-minute break. I sit in the driver’s seat for 30 minutes waiting for the clock to tick by.

It is not a break and it causes me to become more tired than I was to begin with.”

TRUCK DRIVER DAVE FREDRICKSON in written comments to the FMCSA as they explore more flexibility in HOS.

LISTENING IN “This provision is about interstate commerce, making sure that you can drive a truck transporting goods from one state to another without having challenges going from a patchwork of states across the entire country.”

REPRESENTATIVE JEFF DENHAM (R-CALIFORNIA) defending the F4A provision in the FAA bill.

“In less than two years, my administration has accomplished more than almost any administration in the history of our country,” Trump said, prompting laughter. Responding to the laughs, Trump said, “Didn’t expect that reaction, but that’s OK.” PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP addressing the UN General Assembly in New York in late September 2018.

“This is a great time to be an Iowan. Companies are growing, the economy is strong and there are literally thousands of rewarding job opportunities available.”

GOVERNOR KIM REYNOLDS in her remarks about the announcement that Iowa has the second lowest unemployment rate in the Nation for the second consecutive month.

CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE

JACK SAWYER, Incoming IMTA Chairman

This starts my year as the IMTA Chairman of the Board. While I have been a member of the Association for many years and sat on the Board for the past two decades, I never thought about becoming Chairman. One day, Kevin Gass showed up in my office, uninvited. He lives close by and we do serve lunch every day, so I suspected he was looking for a free meal.

But no, he was on a mission to recruit me for the IMTA leadership chain to become Chairman. I politely told him NO as I had a trucking company to run and was not a very polished speaker. Well three years later, I am taking over the helm of the IMTA. Fortunately, during the last two years serving as the second and first Vice Chairman, I have had the opportunity to observe and learn from the best. Don Decker and Kevin Gass are as committed to the Association as anyone you will find. They will be there to provide me with guidance and keep me headed in the right direction.

Another Jack Sawyer, my grandfather, was IMTA Chairman in 1956. Now 62 years later, I am following in his footsteps. Back in the first Jack Sawyer’s time, the IMTA was formed in 1942 from a combination of trucking organizations to provide a united front against the serious issues facing our industry. The various trucking organizations were no match against the wealthy railroads’ stranglehold on legislative and regulatory bodies. Now with the IMTA and ATA, we had a chance. We forget about the monopolistic powers the railroads wielded. I must admit, I did work for CSX Railroads in Baltimore, Chicago and Detroit for eight years. Except for those eight years “on the dark side,” as my father called it, I have been in trucking all my life. Albeit, as a janitor, truck jockey, driver, dispatcher, terminal manager, and trucking company owner, I recognize the hard work required to be in this business regardless of which hat you are wearing.

While our challenges today with regulations and legislation differ from my grand-

father’s era, the IMTA’s strong united voice with legislators and regulators is as important today as it was then.

I have come to realize the Association’s value as I run my company. I do not hesitate to call the IMTA and they are always there to help me. Often that help is a referral to another IMTA member who was experiencing similar issues. Although I may not know this member personally I feel comfortable contacting other people in our Association. As I have learned more about the scope of their activities, I realized that the IMTA is not only our voice, but also our eyes and ears. They are very proactive about issues on the horizon and the staff is committed to being on top of things and helping members be successful.

To me, that is a big deal and I hope you feel the same way.

As a member of this Association, your voice matters, your opinions matter, and getting a good return on your hard-earned money matters. We have many good things going on at the IMTA and having a great group of members is one of those things. In the upcoming months, I look forward to meeting members and talking about their membership – we want every member to get the most out of their IMTA membership investment. In today’s busy world, we don’t necessarily expect you to show up at an event, but we hope you feel you can easily pick up the phone or send an email if you have a problem and need help. That is what the IMTA is here to do and I intend to remind members of this throughout my term.

While I am often described as a very “laid back” type of person, I am also very serious about my commitment to the IMTA and what it has to offer. I am looking forward to learning about your issues and why you belong to the IMTA. Thank you for your support and I hope to get better acquainted with many of you in the upcoming year. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (515) 270-7000 or jack@dmtc.net.

JACK SAWYER

2019 IMTA Chairman of the Board

... I LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING MEMBERS AND TALKING ABOUT THEIR MEMBERSHIP – WE WANT EVERY MEMBER TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THEIR IMTA MEMBERSHIP INVESTMENT.

ISSUE 4, 2018

3

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

KEVIN GASS, Outgoing IMTA Chairman

KEVIN GASS

2018 IMTA Chairman of the Board

4

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

As my term as the IMTA Chairman of the early September. From the owners to Board ends, I want to thank you all for this the middle managers to the many award opportunity to serve in this capacity. I have winners to the vendors and everyone been in the trucking industry my entire life else that was in attendance, pride for and it has been an honor to give back to the this industry and our Association was industry through my involvement with the very noticeable.

Iowa Motor Truck Association.

People were excited to be there. It is I know the value of what this indus- a time to reconnect with old friends and try does each day. I know the sacrifices colleagues while also meeting new people that drivers make to ensure that you and and making new contacts. The awards I have everything we need to be com- program was especially touching as every fortable daily. I know the challenges that winner made their way to the podium and drivers face every day as expressed their pride and they deal with distracted love of the industry. Those drivers, unfriendly receivmessages were unexpected THAT IS THE and unrehearsed and were ers, and an intolerance for THING THAT IS prompted purely by pride big trucks. I also know the VERY SPECIAL AND and excitement. It was a challenges that owners and UNIQUE ABOUT senior management deal genuine and sincere tribute with as they try to con- BEING INVOLVED IN to the kinds of people that form and work within the THE ASSOCIATION: truly define our industry. parameters of a regulatory I have always been EVERYONE SHARES environment that is very THE SAME PASSION proud to be in the indusunforgiving and practical try, but the management THAT I DO AND as we move products across conference reignited that WE ALL LOVE THIS pride and reignited a comthe State and Nation.

INDUSTRY DESPITE mitment to the Association This is not an easy industry, and honestly it gets THE CHALLENGES and its efforts. We are all in this together and while harder and harder every AND HARDSHIPS this industry is never going year. But to be candid, I THAT WE KNOW to be easy or without chalcan’t imagine working in COME WITH any other industry either. lenges, it is a heck of a lot THE TERRITORY. Once trucking gets in your easier to deal with the challenges when you know blood, it sort of stays there you aren’t alone. and you become a lifer.

That is the thing that is very special IMTA will always be here for you as will and unique about being involved in the people like me that really have a passion Association: everyone shares the same pas- to serve in a leadership position. We have sion that I do and we all love this industry a great group of new officers and in the despite the challenges and hardships that upcoming year positive momentum will continue. I have loved being the Chairman we know come with the territory.

The passion and dedication that is of this Association and even though my so prevalent in this industry was really term is over I will continue to remain on display at the annual IMTA manage- active and involved … and encourage you ment conference held in Coralville in to do the same.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE A lot of people are now taking a collective sigh of relief to have the elections behind us because that means the campaigning and mudslinging will be over and life will finally get back to normal … or will it?

For someone that has been in involved with politics for over 30 years, the current environment is unlike anything I have ever seen and frankly, it is not something that any of us should be very proud of. Today we are in an epidemic of tactlessness, which is an absence of respect for the other side. Many of our problems can be resolved or made less assaultive by a simple concept that used to exist and dominate America public life. It is called tact. In spirit of exercising tact, also comes the value of listening and conversing in a civil manner. Again something that seems to be quickly disappearing.

I personally believe that differing opinions and listening to the “other side” can be the foundation for some remarkable solutions. History has proven that.

Back in the late 1930s, there were three different organizations that were representing the interests of Iowa truckers. All three groups had different goals, different political policies, and different ways of doing things. The three groups didn’t get along and didn’t work together, even though they all wanted the same outcome, a better environment for trucking. As these groups fought one another, the railroads were making significant legislative progress at the Capitol.

Fortunately, a small group of trucking executives remained steadfast in their desire to have a unified voice.

For several years they worked on bringing the groups together and finally they all agreed to meet, and the historic meeting took place in downtown Des Moines.

The meeting was long and initial conversations were heated, hurtful, and divisive. In fact, some of the organizers of the meeting started to doubt whether a good outcome was possible. But finally, as each group identified their biggest legislative threat, they found a common thread. The conversation shifted and suddenly, everyone in the room realized the value of working together. Of course, there remained differing opinions on how to best move forward, and yes, there were egos, hidden agendas, and some lingering mistrust, none of which went away overnight. But by the end of the day, everyone in the room came together for the greater good and the Iowa Motor Truck Association was formed and finally, there was one unified voice for the trucking industry.

Enthusiasm, optimism, and hope replaced anger, resentment, and concern. All the energy that had been used for fighting among each other could now be directed at building a strategy of defense that could achieve far greater results for Iowa’s trucking industry. And success followed.

Thank goodness those trucking leaders had the courage to seek out solutions despite the challenges they knew they would face.

Fortunately, they set aside their differences and took a break from the bickering to roll up their sleeves and get something done that would benefit the entire industry in both the short and long term. That model of cooperation and building consensus is still intact at the Association today.

I am always very proud of BRENDA NEVILLE the way our volunteer leadIMTA President & CEO ers set policy and do so in a manner that is strategic and effective. These same leaders also demonstrate a tremendous respect for decorum and civility. That’s not to say that we don’t have some emotionally charged conversations or we have some issues we simply can’t tackle as an association because we can’t get to some common ground. But at the end of the day, despite the tremendous competitiveness that prevails among our board members, they all come together and act in a very civil and responsible manner for the good of IMTA and the hundreds of members it represents.

Unfortunately, after seeing so many things unfold recently in politics, the media and communication in general, building consensus and listening and respecting the opinion of the “other side” is quickly becoming a lost art in the broader spectrum. And in my opinion, when we lose civility, tact, and the ability to listen thoughtfully, we lose so much more and the consequences will be significant and long-lasting.

Now more than ever we all need to make some changes in the way we are communicating. What are you going to do to be part of that meaningful change?

ISSUE 4, 2018

5

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

RORY TRIPLETT, 2018 Convention Chairman, Insurance Associates

1

What motivates you to come to work every day?

7

Providing for my family. My wife Megan & my two daughters Finley and Piper.

2

hat motivated you to get involved W with the convention committee and ultimately serve as the 2018 Management Conference Chairman?

The IMTA is such an important association. I want to stay involved as much as I can. The management conference is so worthwhile for a multitude of reasons, so it really was an easy decision. I was humbled to be considered and honored to serve!

hy do you believe the management 3 Wconference is an important member benefit?

It is the ultimate event of the season. Always a huge turnout. If a member is looking to learn more about the industry and strengthen their networking this event is the place to be!

4

hat are the top W three reasons you would encourage someone to attend the IMTA Management Conference?

Networking, relationship building and information gathering.

8

Tell us about your company.

I nsurance Associates is an independent agency with roots in Iowa City dating back to 1927. We specialize in commercial insurance. My primary focus is insuring trucking companies here in the state of Iowa and contractors here in the Iowa City Corridor.

s an allied member of the association, A why do you think it is of value to belong to the Iowa Motor Truck Association?

As someone who has worked at the IMTA I’m very well acquainted with how valuable the advocacy efforts of the Association are. Being a member and being involved makes me feel like I’m closer to the front lines. Closer to the action.

hat is your prediction regarding the 9 Weconomy and the trucking industry in the next 2 to 5 years?

I’m not great at looking that far into the future, but I do know that right now the economy is quite good and strong, and carriers are very busy which is also very good. All we need now is more drivers.

10

hat are some of the biggest W challenges facing the trucking industry?

Again, drivers and too many regulations.

11

hat do you believe is the biggest W barrier of profitability for trucking industry?

One word: drivers!

did you enjoy 5 Wthehatmost ho were some of your mentors about 12 Wand how did they prepare you for your tenure as your current position at Insurance the chairman of the Management Conference?

Working with such experienced professionals from the IMTA and the incredible members on the convention committee.

RORY TRIPLETT

2018 Convention Chairman, Insurance Associates

6

How long have you been involved in the trucking industry?

January 1, 2003 was when my career in the industry began and I’ve never looked back.

6

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Associates and as a volunteer (Chairman) of the management conference for IMTA?

There isn’t enough space in the magazine for me to list ALL the people who have been so important to me. Certainly, I was lucky to get involved with the Association at a time where there was GREAT leadership at the IMTA and within the board. That great leadership continues and is even STRONGER today! I give Brenda a lot of credit for all that she does … even though she will never accept it!

Rory served as IMTA’s Membership Manager for three and a half years.

2016 ALLIED STEERING COMMITTEE (L-R): Dan Schwarz (McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith), Travis Thompson (Thompson Truck & Trailer), Rory Triplett (Insurance Associates), Scott Jones (Cummins Sales & Service), Delwin Van Wyk (Harrison Truck Centers)

Rory welcoming attendees to the 2018 Management Conference.

hat are your guiding principles as a hat motivates you to be so 13 Wbusiness 17 Winvolved owner/partner at Insurance with the Iowa Motor Truck Associates and how do you rely upon those not only while leading members but also your own staff?

Enthusiasm, experience & passion. We are effective because we sincerely care about the relationship with our clients. We stand out because we do a lot of the little things well and we do them often. We like to make our clients happy and appreciative of the business they do with us.

14

ow do you stay on the “pulse” H of the industry and get a good understanding and appreciation of what the “real people” in trucking are going through on a daily basis?

I pick up the phone and talk to my customers every single day. My clients have been quite busy lately which doesn’t allow them much time to visit, but I take that as a good thing.

15 What is your favorite truck?

rucks that drive the speed limit and stay in T their lane!

16

Association?

I make my living insuring an industry that directly benefits from the efforts of the IMTA. By belonging to the Association, I am supporting the Association. The more support the Association receives the stronger and more effective it is … and therefore the stronger the trucking industry is.

18

Tell us one thing that most people don’t know about you.

I have a twin brother. Given the fact that we are identical twins and my last name is Triplett … it can sometimes confuse folks.

bove all else, what do you want 19 Apeople to think or feel once you have met them for the first time?

I hope they consider me to be genuine and sincere.

20

Anything else you want to add?

I am blessed and lucky to be involved with such a vital industry!

What is your favorite IMTA event?

The management conference, hands-down.

ISSUE 4, 2018

7

CORNERSTONE SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR 2018 CORNERSTONE SPONSORS $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

$2,500

ASSOCIATE

COLLEAGUE

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.

Truckers Insurance Associates

TrueNorth Companies

Hanifen Company, Inc.

US Cargo Control

Valley Distribution Corp Wilson Trailer Company

Want to see your company listed as an IMTA Cornerstone Sponsor for 2019?

Contact the IMTA at 515-244-5193 or visit www.iowamotortruck.com

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Midwest Wheel Announces Chief Operating Officer Michael Callison Jr. has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer reporting to John Minor, President and CEO. Michael joined the Midwest Wheel team more than 10 years ago and is a fifth generation of his family to hold a leadership role in Midwest Wheel Companies’ 107-year history.

As Chief Operating Officer he will be responsible to execute the company’s vision and strategy.

His new responsibilities include overseeing Product Management and managing all other areas of the business. As Chief Operating Officer Michael will play a key role in positioning Midwest Wheel for continuous marketplace success.

Keizer Refrigeration and Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales Open New Facility In Sioux City, Iowa Keizer Refrigeration, a distributor for Carrier Transicold, a global leader in transport refrigeration, and Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales, a dealership of Utility Manufacturing refrigerated trailers, dry vans and flatbeds, has opened a new facility at 5220 Harbor Drive, Exit 141 of Interstate 29. As part of its relocation and expansion, the company has added seven new employees to its current staff of fifty and continues hiring service technicians for both Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales and for Keizer Refrigeration.

The new 55,000-square-foot facility includes a two-floor office area for trailer sales, showroom for truckers to purchase truck and trailer parts, drivers’ waiting room and a service center with 16 service bays and a new drive-through wash station. The dealership’s fleet of five fully equipped service trucks are ready to provide emergency road service and on-site repair.

Decker Truck Line, Inc. Receives Hy-Vee’s Transportation Supplier of the Year Award Decker Truck Line was the recent recipient of Hy-Vee’s Transportation Supplier of the Year Award. Decker was selected out of approximately 100 other carriers that provide transportation assistance to the grocery chain outside of its own fleet.

Decker was presented with the award during Hy-Vee’s annual supplier appreciation event, where vendors and suppliers for the grocery chain gather to learn more about the industry and conduct business with executives. The event concludes every year with an awards presentation.

10

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

L-R: Blaine Martin, Regional Sales Manager; Charles Peterson, Customer Service Representative; Michael Erritt, Vice President of Operations; Scott Myers, Customer Service Manager; Steve Elston, Director of Operations – Midwest Reefer; and Jeff Donnelly, Central Customer Service Representative

Hy-Vee’s Transportation Supplier of the Year Award is based on a variety of criteria, including volume and diversity of freight

hauled, on-time performance, freight tender acceptance, driver attitude and work ethic, and communication between the companies.

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Tesla Meets with Ruan During Tour with Electric Truck Representatives from Tesla Motors visited with Ruan team members and several customers for a viewing of the new, wholly electrically powered tractor-trailer. Ruan has reserved five of the trucks for delivery and testing in 2019.

Prototypes of the semi have been traveling the country, making stops with key companies that have invested in the all-electric semis expected to be released in 2019. During the voyage, the trucks have been charged using Tesla’s existing network of Supercharger stations. Tesla expects a 300- or 500-mile range for the trucks, varying by model.

ABOVE: Ruan Transportation CEO Ben McLean in the driver seat of the Tesla electric truck.

The 100 percent electric, battery-powered trucks boast impressive features that could allow them to outperform dieselpowered or hybrid models currently available. Among them are improved aerodynamics (with a drag coefficient of .38), a zero-to-60 MPH speed of five seconds without load, and a 500-mile range per charge.

The semis also come equipped with Tesla’s remote maintenance and diagnostics capabilities. Technicians will be alerted to any issues or regular maintenance needs from anywhere in the country using Tesla’s online portal or app. The truck’s diagnostics system includes the timeline

of needed repairs, allowing teams to plan for scheduled upkeep.

The trucks will have several safety enhancements, such as wrap-around windshields and heads-up displays for improved visibility, as well as Tesla’s

proprietary Enhanced Autopilot system, with automatic emergency braking, jackknife prevention, forward collision warning, and automatic lane keeping capabilities. Other announced features include a near infinite brake life and a drivetrain guarantee of 1 million miles.

Foodliner, Riverland College Partner for Driver Training Program Foodliner and Austin, Minn.-based Riverland College are teaming up to put more truck drivers on the road. The program will prepare students for a career in the transportation industry by offering CDL training courses, as well as additional behind-the-wheel training.

Graduates of the program will receive preferred-hiring status with Foodliner.

“When identifying schools to partner with, we have to be selective. We want an organization dedicated to providing top-notch training and education for drivers that may someday be a part of our team. We have found just that with Riverland College. We know that students coming out of this training program are the best of the best.”

“Foodliner is excited to partner with Riverland College to bring this program to Minnesota,” said Jon Stenzel, Foodliner’s director of training.

Foodliner’s agreement with Riverland College marks the fifth such partnership of its kind for the company.

ISSUE 4, 2018

11

ASK THE MEMBERS

Q: What is your opinion on electric trucks?

I am against electric trucks and vehicles due to the emissions that come from the factories that produce the batteries for this type of vehicle. I feel that there will not be enough re-charging facilities available to meet the demands of electric trucks.

Electric trucks would not currently work at Barr-Nunn. They would fit well with fleets that can come home to charge.

DUANE HARNEY Barr-Nunn Transportation

I believe electric trucks need a 600 to 800-mile range for them to be competitive at my company. Being a smaller trucking company, I think we are ways away from seeing them operate here.

BRIAN PYLE Pyle Transportation

CORRINE KIMM Manatt’s, Inc.

12

I don’t think electric trucks are practical yet. I would like to know how long the batteries will last and how close the charging stations will be.

It is too early to have an honest opinion on electric trucks. Too many unanswered questions as far as the operations involved in trucking. The infrastructure would need to be built and supplied long before an electric truck would be beneficial to the trucking industry.

PAUL CROMWELL Mid Continent Trucking

RYLE ROSEKE Wenger Truck Line

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Electric trucks are not a viable solution for long haul trucking currently. There is a place for them in regional short haul where trucks return to the same domicile nightly and routes can be completed with one daily charge.

JEFF ARENS Schuster Co.

IMTA UPDATE

IMTA Announces Additions and Changes to the Staff MORGAN STEENHOEK

JORDAN BJERKE

Morgan Steenhoek joined the Iowa Motor Truck Association on October 1st as our Communications, Events and Marketing Assistant. In this role, Morgan will assist with IMTA’s communications and marketing activities while also helping with IMTA’s many divisions, conferences, and events. Morgan graduated with a degree in Business Management from the University of Iowa in May of 2018 and is excited to be working for the trucking industry.

“We are excited to welcome Morgan to IMTA. We have been impressed by Morgan’s enthusiasm and willingness to jump right in and help on a number of different projects. She is a great addition and we know the IMTA members will

enjoy working with her,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

In addition, Jordan Bjerke was named IMTA’s Membership and Finance Manager on October 1st. While Jordan will continue to assist with IMTA’s membership efforts, his role with IMTA has now been expanded to also include assisting with the financial activities of the Association.

“Jordan has always been involved with the financial oversight of our dues and sponsorship programs, so it was an easy decision to expand his role in this area and further enhance our ability to serve the membership,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

IMTA Show Trailer Redesign Moves to Next Phase Since the early 1990s, IMTA has had a show trailer. IMTA leaders felt that something visible and eye-catching was needed to help elevate the appreciation and understanding of the industry.

And what better way to do that than with a truck. The first show trailer was used extensively by the members and traveled throughout the state. However, over time, the show trailer started to show its age and in 2016, a new “used” trailer was purchased and a plan was developed to convert the trailer into a NEW SHOW TRAILER for IMTA. The first phase was the exterior and in September of 2017, the new IMTA show trailer exterior was unveiled at IMTA’s 75th anniversary.

We are now moving into Phase 2 where the focus will be on the interior. After doing extensive research and consulting with image professionals within the industry, the committee of volunteers settled on a basic concept for the interior. The goal is to create a trailer that has great functionality as well as versatility and can be use with a wide spectrum of audiences.

INTERIOR FEATURES

DRIVER SIMULATOR

»» Hospitality Area

»» TV & Video Capabilities

After polling the membership and conferring with industry experts, it was determined that a driver simulator would be one feature to include in the IMTA show trailer. Benefits include:

»» Air Conditioning

»» Valuable tool for recruiting

»» Refrigerator/Microwave

»» Provides “hands on” experience – looks and feels like a real vehicle

»» Training Center

»» Comfortable Seating »» Industry Display »» IMTA Historical Display

»» Promotes learning and excitement »» Best tool for promoting the industry

»» Driver Simulator Want to be an IMTA Show Trailer sponsor?

Visit IowaMotorTruck.com to learn more.

ISSUE 4, 2018

13

INDUSTRY NEWS Rebranded NAFTA is Good News for Trucking After months of uncertainty over NAFTA, a new deal between Mexico, Canada and the United States was signed on September 30th. This deal is being touted as a revision, not a rejection of NAFTA, an agreement that has been in place since January 1, 1994.

makers the most-- by requiring a larger portion of vehicles to be made in North America, setting a minimum fixed wage for auto workers, and forcing Canada to effectively cap its automobile exports to the U.S.

relations. Trucks move nearly $385 billion in goods between the U.S. and Mexico, and $336 billion in trade across the Canadian border– continuing to have free trade between our three countries will only help our industry well into the future.”

Throughout his campaign, President Trump promised that if he was elected he would renegotiate NAFTA, an agreement that he termed as the “worst trade deal ever made”.

“ATA is pleased that the United States, Canada, and Mexico will continue their nearly 25-year-long tradition of free and open trade among North American neighbors,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “The wide-ranging pact is a positive step for the nearly 50,000 Americans working in jobs directly connected to cross-border trucking– as well as the more than 7 million Americans working in trucking-related jobs.”

“It is a great deal for all three countries,” Trump wrote on Twitter on October 1st.

He added a second tweet that said the new agreement “solves many of the deficiencies and mistakes in NAFTA, greatly opens markets to our Farmers and Manufacturers, reduces trade barriers to the U.S. and will bring all three great nations closer together in competition with the rest of the world.

The USMCA is a historic transaction!”

Many other experts in the field of trade also agreed that the 25 year old deal needed to be revisited and “tweaked” as patterns of trade had changed and evolved.

The new agreement which President Trump has named the United States-MexicoCanada Agreement (USMCA) still must be ratified by the legislatures of all three countries before it can go into effect. The trilateral deal is expected to affect auto

ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello said the new deal will “continue to strengthen our collective economies and improve our

US equity futures, Canada’s dollar and Mexico’s peso all saw upward gains as a result of the news.

Iowa Farmers Approve of USMCA Deal Iowa farmers and business leaders expressed their approval of the new trade deal with Canada and Mexico and hope that the momentum will lead to better trade relations with China. The new deal retains many of the favorable agricultural trade conditions that are good for Iowa’s agricultural base. Iowa economists say agriculture was the big winner under the existing NAFTA agreement and this deal protects those advantages.

“It’s hard to beat zero tariffs,” said Chad Hart, an Iowa State University economist. The NAFTA deal was “about as good as it gets.”

“We had fairly unfettered trade ... between the three countries. That’s hard to improve upon.

So maintaining that is a big deal,” he said.

Iowa farmers and manufacturers question when they would be free from punishing retaliatory tariffs.

U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum from Canada and Mexico remain in effect as

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Republican leaders, some of whom face tough midterm elections, hailed the deal.

“As a steadfast champion for Iowa agriculture and Iowa products, I will continue to advocate for increased opportunities to market our products around the globe,” said Gov. Kim Reynolds. negotiations continue, meaning tit-for-tat tariffs on U.S. pork, ethanol and other ag products will remain in place.

“We continue to urge the administration to remove tariffs on Mexican steel and aluminum imports so that the country will lift its 20 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. and Iowa pork,” said Gregg Hora, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

“Merely ratifying the agreement does not remove the retaliatory tariffs on U.S. pork,” said Hora, adding that the group supports the pact, which would “maintain zero-tariff access” to top U.S. pork markets.

“It is my hope the momentum generated today will provide more certainty for our farmers during this harvest,” Reynolds said.

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst called the new trade deal “welcome news for Iowa farmers and ranchers, who for too long have suffered from the ongoing trade disputes and plummeting commodity prices.”

“This new deal increases market certainty for our farmers,” said U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, “provides strong and effective protection for American intellectual property and strengthens overall relations with our North American trading partners.”

INDUSTRY NEWS IMTA Explores Adding Two New Events to Its Annual Calendar The Iowa Motor Truck Association is always looking for ways to serve the membership and after preliminary polling of the membership in August, it is exploring adding two additional events to its annual calendar. Members showed a strong interest in emerging technologies and the legal environment.

“There are so many different things on the market right now that we could put on our trucks and I would be really interested in seeing all the products and getting some feedback from other truckers as to if these products are good and something I should invest in,” said one respondent on the possibility of attending an emerging technologies event.

Members were also asked about interest in a legal symposium and the response was equally positive for an event of this nature. A panel of attorneys was part of the program at IMTA’s management conference and every session was well attended. Evaluations from the conference overwhelmingly showed an interest in a conference that featured sessions relative to the legal environment.

“We have a large percentage of members that don’t have the time, staff or expertise to be analyzing the various products on the market nor do they have the time to stay up on all the court cases and legal proceedings that could

have a potential impact on their operation. We think that the development of a couple of additional conferences would be very wellreceived by the membership,” said Kevin Gass, 2018 IMTA Chairman of the Board.

IMTA staff and leaders are doing some preliminary work in exploring the development of an emerging technologies event as well as a conference that would focus on the most pressing legal issues.

Initially the conferences would be set up as a one-day event and would be held at the IMTA headquarters. Ideally, work is being done so these conferences could be offered in 2019.

New Technologies Change How Business is Done in Iowa It’s no secret that technology in the last few decades has had a profound effect on various businesses and industries.

Innovation chugs along and doesn’t seem to be slowing down as we move from the information age to artificial intelligence and machine learning. From manufacturing and modern offices to cybersecurity and education, newer products and technologies continue to change the face of businesses and industries everywhere.

As a workforce shortage continues to be a problem for manufacturing companies in Iowa and throughout the nation, organizations continue to push technology to slim down processes and make product lines less labor-intensive.

Iowa’s unemployment rate fell to 2.6 percent in August, giving the state the secondlowest rate in the nation. And the current workforce is an aging one, leading to even more concerns down the road. One in every four Iowans is a baby boomer — about 750,000 people — and will presumably retire soon, if they haven’t already.

In rural counties, where many of Iowa’s more than 5,000 manufacturing companies are located, young people are leaving in droves. The so-called “urban sprawl” has

created a steady population decline in rural counties and the rise of people in metro and suburban counties throughout the state.

The smaller workforce has forced manufacturers to rely on technology, particularly automation, to keep up with production. “People aren’t moving here, and it’s not going to change,” said Ron Cox, director of Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS).

“We have to admit that, and automation, robots and software-assisted machinery are becoming more prevalent. That’s something Iowa manufacturing companies are going to have to embrace if they haven’t yet.

“If you want to keep growing with less people, you’ve got two options: Be a better company than the company next door and steal employees, or automate.” The CIRAS program at Iowa State assists companies in the manufacturing industry through a variety of avenues: consulting work, educational events, access to equipment and much more.

The newest members of the workforce have a much different education experience than most current workers, and that’s in part because of how technology is changing the way learning is delivered.

Purdue University Global, a public university operated by the Purdue University system, has been at the forefront, teaching classes online to a wide range of students. The organization has a robust presence in Iowa, with 1,013 graduates, mostly working adults, during the 2016-17 school year.

The trend in education in the last few years has been personalization and easy access, which is aided primarily by technology.

Online learning is nothing new — the Babson Survey Research Group has reported growth in students taking online courses for 14 straight years — but the way learning is delivered on the internet has been refined and improved.

Today’s students have learned more ways to collaborate through technology, which is one of the areas in which incoming employees are lacking, Students work in groups online, which better prepares them for a more technologically equipped workplace. Technology continues to give educational access to people who may not have had the same opportunity 10 or more years ago. Times are certainly changing …and will continue to change at a rapid pace.

SOURCE: Association of Business & Industry (ABI)

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READY OR NOT, ELECTRIC TRUCKS ARE HITTING THE ROAD STORY: BRENDA NEVILLE

18

Photo

by Tesla Inc. IOWA TRUCKING

LIFELINER

n 1957, sketches started to be circulated that depicted the future of the trucks. These sketches were unlike anything that the industry had seen, and a group of researchers predicted that by as early as 1967 the new aerodynamic trucks would be on the market. Even as these sketches emerged, the researchers suggested that at some point soon “alternative sources of fuel would power these trucks” and even then, according to the notes within the IMTA archives, there was mention made of “electric trucks.”

Then on September 23, 1962, an animated sitcom produced by Hanna-Barbera was released and quickly became very popular. The sitcom entitled “The Jetsons” portrayed a family living in 2062, which was exactly 100 years from when the show first aired. This futuristic show further created excitement for the technological changes that were on the horizon.

In its debut season, the intrigue and attraction of the show was the futuristic approach it took with everything from housework to watching TV to flying cars.

In the first original 24 episodes, viewers were introduced to two-way videophones, flat screen TVs that covered most of the wall, robotic vacuum cleaners, moving sidewalks and instant access to the news by simply turning on an electronic device. The show has

proven to be quite accurate in predicting the face of the modern world as we know it today.

While George Jetson never talked about electric trucks, transportation was certainly highlighted in the show. In an episode called “The Space Car”, George Jetson excitedly shows his wife Jane how this amazing car works. Through that demonstration it was concluded that the car uses multiple, separate systems for “generating vertical antigravity and horizontal propulsion.” Was this our first glimpse at a hybrid car?

Now fast forward to the present … or at least the last ten years. Emerging technologies have dominated every spectrum of society. The trucking industry alone has seen more technological advances in the last 7 to 10 years than it has in the last 25 years.

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TRUCKS OF THE FUTURE This sketch depicted what trucks were going to look like in 1967. The artist did the drawing in 1957 and it was predicted that trucks would look like this 10 years into the future. This was presented at an IMTA Board meeting in 1957.

“I personally do not think that an all-electric vehicle will be able to fully replace diesel powered vehicles, due to the range limitation of electric vehicles.

Unless battery technologies make significant advancements in the next few years, electric trucks will be popular in local and regional applications but not in long haul applications.”

JAMES CADE Vice President of Maintenance Operations for Ruan Transportation

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

In a variety of published reports, it was stated that self-driving trucks could be a reality in 2025 and that prediction was shattered when a self-driving truck drove down Interstate 25 in Colorado on October 20, 2016. The 132-mile trip was awarded the “longest continuous journey by a driverless and autonomous truck” by Guinness World Records and catapulted the trucking industry into the spotlight.

While self-driving trucks are still being discussed, the focus has shifted to other technological advances and one application that really seems to have ascended to the top of the list is electric trucks. In a recent IMTA poll, carriers were asked to rate various technological applications that they believe will hit the market first.

The choices ranged from autonomous trucks to level three trucks to electric trucks and 90% of the respondents selected electric trucks as being on the market in the very near future and before most other alternative choices.

“I believe there will be multiple heavy-duty electric vehicles in a pilot project within the next eighteen to twenty four months. The purpose of these projects will be to demonstrate the technology and their potential in replacing diesel powered equipment in short range applications (less than 250-mile range). I am also equally confident that within five years electric trucks will be common in many applications, especially in states such as California,” said James Cade, Vice President of Maintenance Operations for Ruan Transportation.

ELECTRIC TRUCKS ARE HERE On August 29th, a Tesla truck rolled into Des Moines as part of its nationwide tour and over 50 people were given an up close and personal look at the future of trucking. The electric powered truck didn’t look, sound, or smell like a conventional truck.

Last fall, when Tesla introduced its semi electric truck, company founder and CEO Elon Musk proudly and boldly proclaimed that the semi would have a 500-mile daily range with an hour “top-off” charge delivered via a high-capacity Tesla charging station.

However, at the Des Moines presentation the engineers that were traveling with the Tesla truck were reluctant to give any definitive estimates on ranges and generally, most of the truck manufacturers have become much more conservative in their estimates for the first generation of battery-electric vehicles.

“I personally do not think that an all-electric vehicle will be able to fully replace diesel powered vehicles, due to the range limitation of electric vehicles. Unless battery technologies make significant advancements in the next few years, electric trucks will be popular in local and regional applications but not in long haul applications,” said James Cade.

Mike Saxton, Chief Commercial Officer for Orange EV, the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty electric vehicles, remains optimistic that electric trucks will see widespread acceptance sooner rather than later.

“Orange EV’s pure electric terminal trucks were first commercially deployed in 2015, three years ago.

They were the first, and are still the only, commercially deployed, class 8 trucks being deployed and recorded into container and trailer handling operations. These trucks do the same job better, without diesel or emissions, while saving money.”

According to Saxton, getting started now and moving down the path toward vehicle electrification is simpler and more affordable than fleets previously believed.

“It is now a competitive business imperative. Fleets have already started electrifying and are achieving big advantages both organizationally and operationally, understanding and paving the way for broader fleet electrification. Early adopters are already becoming more attractive to their customers as a diesel-free/ emission-free provider, while at the same time establishing a more sustainable and much lower cost of operations. Orange EV’s T-Series is the gateway truck enabling fleets to begin the Class 8 electrification

transition now with electric terminal trucks which makes them better informed and prepared for electrification of their higher speed tractors.”

“Electric trucks are currently being used in Europe and Asia. We are seeing many OEM’s incorporating electric trucks into their lineups and several such as

Tesla have been accepting pre-orders. Implementation has begun mainly on the West and East coast but starting to make way across the entirety of the U.S. OEMs expect electric semis to be on the road viable prior to 2025, assuming affordability and infrastructure availability. If development and deployment remain on schedule, Tesla expects to have all-electric semis on the road in 2019, with other OEMs delivering products at a later date,” said Mark Kosowski, Technical Executive with Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

BOTTOM LINE Fleets of all sizes are intrigued by electric trucks, because of the many advantages specific to electric trucks. The most obvious advantage is that the electric truck is a zero-emission vehicle and that certainly

ISSUE 4, 2018

21

makes the politicians, regulators, and environmentalists happy. But more importantly, electric trucks have the potential to have a positive impact on the trucking company’s bottom line. Fuel costs have traditionally been a major part of a trucking company’s overhead and now there is a solution that will lower that cost.

“For fleet owners the primary advantage of electric trucks will come from the lower cost of energy used to power the vehicle. If you compare the energy costs for five diesel powered and five electric powered vehicles, an electric truck’s annual energy cost is approximately $3,400 per year versus $36,923 per year for the diesel powered truck. For any size of a fleet, that difference is significant. This comparison also assumes that diesel fuel will stay at $3.00 per gallon over the next five years.

With all the volatility in diesel fuel prices over the past few years it is unlikely that fuel will remain constant.

Electricity on the other hand has the potential of being a stable priced energy source for the coming years,” said James Cade.

COST OF THE ELECTRIC VERSUS CONVENTIONAL TRUCK

DIESEL VS. ELECTRIC TRUCKS Metrics

Diesel Project

Electric Project

80,000

80,000

Efficiency

6.5 miles per gallon (average)

2.0 kWh per mile (Tesla truck)

Fuel Cost

$3.00 per gallon (diesel, Sept. ‘18)

$0.085 per kWh (electricity)

5

5

5 years

5 years

307,692 gallons

1,000,000 kWh

$923,077

$85,000

Miles per unit

Unit Count Term Length Energy Consumed Energy Cost

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Industry experts have said the cost of the electric powered vehicle is projected to be anywhere from 30-50% higher than the average diesel-powered truck.

But they are also quick to point out that as with any new technology, that gap narrows as acceptance grows and technology improves. Additionally, as the example above points out, the energy savings on an electric vehicle can quickly offset the additional cost of the truck. Maintenance costs are also projected to be lower with electric vehicles.

“Lower energy costs for electric vehicles will significantly offset the higher acquisition costs. Based on the comparison shown in this article, the electric truck’s energy cost will be more than $167K less than a diesel-powered vehicle over a five-year period. In addition, using the same parameters from the same comparison, the electric truck will require up to $32K less in maintenance dollars during its life than a diesel,” said James Cade.

“Products delivering greater value often cost more.

Startup fleets have purchased Orange EV trucks at full price, clearly affirming the value, however, purchase incentives will be critical to help accelerate awareness, confidence, and the overall market for electric trucks,” said Mike Saxton with Orange EV. The utility companies are also very engaged and involved as electric trucks continue to evolve. Both

“Products delivering greater value often cost more. Startup fleets have purchased Orange EV trucks at full price, clearly affirming the value, however, purchase incentives will be critical to help accelerate awareness, confidence, and the overall market for electric trucks.”

MIKE SAXTON Chief Commercial Officer for Orange EV

Alliant Energy and Mid-American Energy are eager to work with Iowa trucking companies as they integrate electric trucks into their fleets.

“Currently there are no Federal or State tax incentives for commercial/industrial Class 4-8 equipment.

Funding opportunities such as the Volkswagen Settlement Environmental Mitigation Trust (EMT) and Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) from the US Environmental Protection Agency, both administered by the Iowa Department of Transportation, are set to be released in the Fall of 2018. Alliant Energy currently offers rebates to electric customers that implement electric equipment and/or infrastructure such as forklifts or electric-capable truck refrigeration. If your organization is interested in implementing electric technologies into a fleet management plan, Alliant Energy also offers custom rebate incentives depending on project scope,” said an Alliant energy spokesperson.

“MidAmerican Energy believes that its current infrastructure is capable of supporting electric trucks. While system expansions and upgrades may be required depending on the size and location of a customer’s charging project, the grid is currently capable of supporting the widespread adoption of electric trucks. By partnering with us on your charging project, the customer also benefits from MidAmerican Energy’s substantial and continuing investments into wind generation, meaning that a truck’s carbon footprint is increasingly reduced over the life of the vehicle,” said Andrew Lewis, Engineer Electric Distribution, MidAmerican Energy Company.

OTHER OBSTACLES As with any new technology, there is still a long list of issues that need to be tackled. Some of the more common obstacles identified by the carriers include range, infrastructure, and charging times. Additionally, carriers expressed concerns with the regulatory and legislative environment.

“The biggest regulatory challenges facing electric trucks today is the lack of harmonization between the states on the regulations concerning the dispensing of electric power,” said James Cade.

The Iowa Department of Transportation has formed a committee to work on electric trucks in Iowa and legislators have also come to the table. Legislators have already started to address the issue of declining tax revenues that come from gasoline and diesel sales. Infrastructure funding is the cornerstone of some of Iowa’s most important economic work and electric vehicles in general will soon force legislators to address this issue. How will electric vehicles be assessed so they too can pay their fair share in taking care of the highways they are using?

THE ROAD AHEAD Industry leaders and equipment experts believe electric trucks are here to stay. The most important job now is to continue to educate a broad-based group of constituents from fleet owners to drivers to legislators to regulators.

While electric trucks are not for everyone, industry experts continue to predict electric trucks will eventually be very mainstream for fleets of all sizes.

When that happens remains to be seen, but given the speed in which technology is evolving, anything is possible.

Just ask George Jetson.

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IMTA IMAGE CAMPAIGN

Promoting Iowa’s Trucking Industry with the IMTA Image Campaign Participants Carrier Companies C.H. Wilson Transport Inc Decker Truck Line, Inc. Don Hummer Trucking Eldon C. Stutsman, Inc. Ennis Corp Foodliner Green Products Company

The summer months certainly heated up the competition amongst the 35 IMTA Image Campaign 2.0 participants. Parades and Share the Road events proved to be the popular summer activities; however, there was no shortage of new, unique activities that earned companies points as well. No matter what the activity was, the trucking industry was well represented and we are appreciative of everyone’s willingness and dedication to spreading the good word about trucking.

Hueneman Farms

The IMTA Image Campaign 2.0 concludes in November with the winners being announced at the fall Board of Directors meeting on November 9. The overall carrier division winner and the overall allied division winner will each receive $1,000 cash prizes.

To see who is leading the charge, be sure to visit www.iowamotortruck.com where points are updated regularly!

DECKER TRUCK LINE, INC. Brown’s Shoe Fit’s “3rd Thursday Shoe Fit Night”

Johnsrud Transport Keane Thummel Trucking, Inc. Nebraska Coast

Employees of Decker Truck Line took part in the Brown’s Shoe Fit’s community walk around the town’s trail that takes place on the 3rd Thursday of the month.

Not only did Decker employees take part in and help sponsor the event, they also gave away goodies and food to other attendees throughout the event.

Panama Transfer PDI Pyle Transportation Quest Liner Ruan Schuster Co. Simon’s Trucking, Inc. Sukup Manufacturing Van Wyk, Inc. Weinrich Truck Line West Side Transport Allied Companies Des Moines Truck Brokers Hanifen Co., Inc. Harrison Truck Centers Hawkeye Community College Kings Material (Dakota Red) Kirkwood Community College MHC Kenworth Midwest Insurance Alliance Midwest Peterbilt Group Midwest Wheel Companies O’Halloran International Truck Country TrueNorth Companies

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

NEBRASKA COAST, INC. Career Exploration Class

KEANE THUMMEL TRUCKING Girls T-Ball Sponsor

Nebraska Coast, Inc. recently hosted students from the Council Bluffs Community School District’s Summer Career Exploration Program to talk about careers in trucking and how important trucking is to Iowa and the economy. Students were shown how vehicles get lost in the “no-zone” and they even got to jump inside the truck to see this first hand.

Summer is the perfect time to support local activities and Keane Thummel Trucking is doing just that. Keane Thummel Trucking sponsored a local girls t-ball team, which provided the girls with shirts, socks and support throughout the season. And the even better news … the girls placed 1st in their tournament!

PANAMA TRANSFER Senator King Visit U.S. Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) stopped by Panama Transfer to meet with owners Dean Kloewer and Mark Crall. King learned more about the business and Panama Transfer trucking routes.

RUAN TRANSPORTATION Founder’s Days Celebration

PERISHABLE DISTRIBUTORS OF IOWA Congressman Young Visit Congressman David Young visited Perishable Distributors of Iowa recently to see how their zero-waste program works. PDI is recognized as one of the few distributors in the nation with this designation.

Every July, Ruan Transportation celebrates Founder’s Days to honor John Ruan and all Ruan team members for their dedication to their work, families, and communities. To honor and celebrate this philanthropic spirit in which Ruan was established, Ruan team members are encouraged to participate in volunteering opportunities and community service events during the month of July. One notable opportunity was playing baseball with disabled children through the Kiwanis Miracle League.

FOODLINER, QUEST LINER & TRUCK COUNTRY Key West Fire Department Parade Foodliner, Quest Liner & Truck Country recently participated in the Key West (Iowa) Fire Department parade.

They created special, and bright, shirts for the event and passed out goodies along the parade route.

DON HUMMER TRUCKING Veterans Job & Wellness Fair Don Hummer Trucking recently participated in Congressman Rod Blum’s 4th Annual Veterans Job and Wellness Fair in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

SIMON’S TRUCKING Governor Reynolds Visit

(ABOVE) KIRKWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE Iowa Skills to Employment Staff Retreat Kirkwood Community College hosted the Iowa Skills to Employment staff for training on truck driving so they have a better idea of what their potential students go through. The staff went through pre-trip inspections and were even allowed to take the truck for a spin around the training course.

Governor Kim Reynolds and Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg recently visited Simon’s Trucking in Farley, Iowa, during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Governor Reynolds and Lt. Governor Gregg were shown the facility and learned about the great perks of being a truck driver. But most importantly, they learned firsthand how trucking affects communities in Iowa.

(RIGHT) SCHUSTER CO. Truck Driver Appreciation Every year, during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Schuster Co. serves up a BBQ feast for their drivers to show their appreciation for the miles and hours they log. This feast includes ribs, brisket and all the fixings!

ELDON C. STUTSMAN, INC. 4th of July Parade This truck is very much like ones used by Eldon C. Stutsman, Inc. to deliver animal feed ingredients when the business started many decades ago. Now, this truck gets to participate in parades throughout the year, specifically the Hills 4th of July Parade.

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LEGAL UPDATE

Independent Contractor Operating Agreements THE APPEAL:

Transportation professionals need to be aware of a case involving “Independent Contractor Operating Agreements” going before the United States Supreme Court.

If the decision stands, all of the arbitration agreements companies have with independent contractors will be unenforceable. The United States Court Appeals for the First Circuit recently held that under the Federal Arbitration Act (“FAA”) arbitration agreements cannot be enforced if the arbitration agreement applies to an independent-contractor relationship. The case is contrary to the position taken by other federal circuit courts including the Eighth Circuit (which is the appellate court for the federal district courts in the region including Iowa).

THE FACTS: After completing an apprenticeship program with the defendant, New Prime, Inc. (“Prime”), the plaintiff, Dominic Oliveira (“Oliveira”) entered into an “Independent Contractor Operating Agreement” with Prime, under which Oliveira agreed to drive for Prime as an independent contractor.

Under their agreement, the parties agreed to arbitrate any disputes that arose under or related to the contract. Of course, problems followed regarding pay and expenses.

Under the FAA, parties who enter into arbitration agreements may put court proceedings on hold, and courts may send the parties to arbitration in an effort to promote alternative dispute resolution. Prime did just that; after Oliveira filed suit, Prime asked

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Prime appealed this decision on two grounds. First, Prime argued that an independent-contractor relationship does not fall within the Section 1 because it is not a “contract of employment.” Second, Prime argued that whether the agreement with Oliveira was a “contract of employment” was a question for an arbitrator, and not one for the court.

THE RULING:

JOHN F. FATINO

Chair of Whitfield & Eddy, P.L.C.’s Transportation Practice Group

the court to send the proceeding to arbitration pursuant to the parties’ agreement and under the terms of the FAA. The district court denied Prime’s request and ordered the parties to produce more evidence to determine whether Oliveira was actually an independent contractor or a company employee.

This determination was important because Section 1 of the FAA provides some parties, including employees, are not required to arbitrate their case but may proceed in court. It was a commonly held belief that independent contract agreements did not fit the definition of a “contract of employment” as defined by the FAA. Thus, if Oliveira was an independent contractor, the agreement would not fall within Section 1, and the court could order arbitration. The district court also held that the applicability of Section 1 was a question for the court, not an arbitrator, to decide.

First, the Court of Appeals held that questions regarding the applicability of Section 1 to a particular agreement are threshold questions for the lower court to decide—not an arbitrator. Second, the Court held that a transportation-worker agreement that establishes an independent-contractor relationship is a “contract of employment” under Section 1 because it is an agreement to do work. Thus, the contract between Oliveira and Prime could not be arbitrated and the district court’s refusal to send the case to arbitration was correct.

On February 26, 2018, the Supreme Court of the United States granted review of this case to determine both issues on appeal. The decision of the Supreme Court will be binding on all federal courts in the United States. Consequently, managers are advised to pay close attention to the oral argument before Supreme Court the fall of 2018; a decision is expected in 2019.

John F. Fatino, a 1991 graduate of Drake University Law School, presently serves as Chair of Whitfield & Eddy, P.L.C.’s Transportation Practice Group. He is licensed to practice law in Iowa, the United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa, the United States Courts of Appeals for the Seventh and Eighth Circuits, and before the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Fatino is the author and co-author of several articles regarding the transportation industry. Contact John F. Fatino for more information about this matter in progress at 515-288-6041 or fatino@whitfieldlaw.com

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This special history book was put together for IMTA’s 75th Anniversary and is available to purchase today! As you page through this 304-page book, you will see the people, the places and read the stories that have made IMTA the organization it is today. And as a bonus, you will see photos and highlights from the 75th Anniversary Gala.

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ATRI UPDATE ATRI Research Quantifies Benefits of Hours-of-Service Flexibility: Reduced Driving Time and Lower Costs

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.

The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) recently released the results of a new analysis on the potential benefits of allowing commercial drivers additional flexibility when they take required hours-of-service (HOS) breaks.

ATRI utilized empirical truck GPS data to model the application of split rest beyond the current 8 and 2 hour increments allowed under the existing HOS rules. Through this analysis it was found that drivers could spend less time and money, driving the same distances behind the wheel.

ATRI’s study utilized a congested 40-mile stretch of urban highway in Atlanta, Georgia to quantify the operational impacts of congestion. The initial assessment using the truck GPS data showed that the time it took to traverse the corridor ranged from a low of 40 minutes to over 90 minutes during rush hours, a more than doubling of driving time and related operational costs.

ATRI then modeled scenarios where a representative driver operated under the current HOS rules and a flexible 6/4 split rest time. Under the flexible hours, the driver was able to avoid congestion, and completed a 585 mile trip with 45

fewer minutes of drive time. Similar results were also found for 7/3 and 5/5 split scenarios.

When replicated across the industry, a conservative estimated savings in annual drive time of more than 2.3 million hours could be realized with flexible HOS options, along with over $150 million in annual operational cost savings.

“One of our biggest challenges with the HOS rules is the lack of flexibility. Under the current rules, when traveling through congested cities like Atlanta, I really have no choice but to sit stuck in traffic and watch my available hours tick away. As ATRI’s study shows, with flexibility in the HOS, I could choose to rest during the worst congested times and make my delivery schedules with less time behind the wheel,” said Gary Helms, an over-theroad driver for Covenant Transport and an America’s Road Team Captain. ATRI’s Updated Crash Predictor Model Sheds Light on Driver Behavior.

SOURCE: Transport Topics

Catch ATRI on the Dave Nemo Show ATRI is a regular, monthly feature of the Dave Nemo Show on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio. The sessions, designed to discuss the approach and findings of different ATRI research initiatives, as well as how they impact truck drivers and motor carrier operations, airs on The Road Dog Channel 146 the second Thursday of every month at 9 a.m. Eastern.

Monthly, 9:00am EST, SiriusXM Channel 146

The Dave Nemo Show has broadcast to the professional drivers of North America continuously for nearly forty years. The show’s mission is to keep drivers and stakeholders informed of current and pending issues that affect the trucking industry, ranging from transportation legislation to health and wellness. Dave Nemo Entertainment is proud to be a trusted source of both entertainment and information to more than one million daily listeners. The Dave Nemo Show can be heard daily throughout the United States and Canada from 7-11AM ET on Sirius/XM 146 and on the Sirius/XM iPhone, Blackberry, and Android smartphone apps. For more information, visit www.davenemo.com.

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

ATRI UPDATE ATRI’s Crash Predictor Model Sheds Light on Driver Behavior Violations for reckless driving and failure to yield right of way are the top two behaviors for predicting future crash involvement, according to analysis yielded from the American Transportation Research Institute’s updated Crash Predictor Model.

The Crash Predictor Model quantifies the likelihood of future crash involvement for truck operators based on certain driving behaviors. ATRI announced an updated model and presented new findings from that model.

ATRI’s analysis is based on data collected from more than 435,000 U.S. truck drivers over the course of two years and reveals about a dozen behaviors that raise by more than 50% a driver’s risk of getting in a crash.

ATRI found that if a driver had a reckless driving violation, the likelihood of a crash increased by 114%.

If a driver had a violation for failing to yield right of way, the likelihood increased by 101%.

The analysis also identifies violations marking failure to MURRAY, ATRI remain in the proper DAN VICE PRESIDENT lane, failure to use signals, improper passing and erratic lane changes as behaviors that increase the likelihood of a future crash. ATRI’s model is meant to help trucking firms mold training courses for their drivers.

“ATRI’s Crash Predictor Model is a key input to our driver hiring and training practices. Safety is our first concern, and by understanding how driver histories relate to future crash probability, we can develop targeted solutions for minimizing safety risks,” said John Prewitt, president of Tideport Distributing Inc., a tank truck company based outside of Houston.

This latest update marks the third iteration of ATRI’s model. The first was introduced in 2005, and a subsequent version was released in 2011. ATRI Vice President Dan Murray said that some of the new analysis offered in the

current model includes the impact of age and gender on crash probability.

On the whole, the research found that women were safer truck drivers than men.

Men were 88% more likely than women to have a reckless driving conviction. Gender also bore an impact on the likelihood of crash involvement. For example, men were 20% more likely to be involved in a crash than women.

“For years we’ve ascertained that women were safer drivers, but until now we haven’t been able to statistically quantify how much safer,” Women In Trucking Association President Ellen Voie said. “This supports our mission to increase the percentage of women employed in the trucking industry while showing the positive benefits women bring as professional drivers. Safety is this industry’s No. 1 priority and by attracting more women we can positively impact the safety of our highways.”

Women constitute just 6% of all truck drivers, according to WIT. Murray said the gender analysis was particularly intriguing because ATRI identifies women as a potential target market for the industrywide driver shortage. American Trucking Associations last year reported the shortage at more than 50,000 drivers.

Murray said these findings should encourage more recruiters to consider women as a labor source. He also mentioned improvements that have been made to

make the industry more female-friendly, such as improved lighting in rest areas, ergonomically correct drivers’ seats and automatic transmissions in trucks.

“I think it’s going to become more compelling to pursue that target market now that we know there’s a safety benefit,” Murray said.

The age analysis revealed that a lot of the behaviors that have future crash probabilities are occurring among younger drivers. For example, drivers between the ages of 20 and 29 were more likely to have convictions for speeding more than 15 miles over the speed limit than other age groups.

Murray said young drivers, like women, could potentially redress the driver shortage.

He also said that the analysis, which outlines which violations and convictions are the most common among certain age demographics, may offer trucking companies an idea of how to shape driver training programs.

“The good news is that it allows us to target very specific behaviors to reduce that future crash probability,” Murray said. “One of the big opportunities with this report is that we can now customize safety training based on age, gender and type of behavior, and then potentially reduce the future crash probability.

There’s just no more room anymore for generic safety training when we can develop customization targeting very, very specific behaviors depending on who you are.”

SOURCE: Transport Topics

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SAE and TMC type II tests The only tire and complete wheel assembly balancing product proven to improve fuel economy in independently run SAE and TMC type II tests.*

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Perfectly balanced wheel ends reduce tire rolling resistance by minimizing sidewall flexing, tire squirm, and road-shock rebound.

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IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION BIG Thanks to our Auction Winners Melinda Anderson Ennis Corp.

Jeff Baedke Jim Hawk Truck-Trailers, Inc. Mark Crall Panama Transfer, Inc. Adrian Dickey Dickey Transport Jeff Dickinson Ten D, Inc. Chad Hotz Cornhusker International Dean Kloewer Panama Transfer, Inc. Doug McCoy Truck Country Trent Murphy CJM Financial, Inc. Dave Neuwohner All Seasons Trucking, Inc. Dustin Petersen Harrison Truck Centers Mike Riggan TanTara Transportation Corp.

Pat Storey Motor-Ways, Inc. Nick Thummel Keane Thummel Trucking Dan Van Alstine Ruan Transportation Dave Van Wyk Van Wyk, Inc. Don Vogt West Side Transport, Inc. Donna Weinrich-Lucht Weinrich Truck Line, Inc. David Welsh Quality Trailer Sales

Annual Foundation Fundraisers Another Success – $70,300 Raised Once again, IMTA’s members showed their generosity and support of the Foundation at the annual live and silent auctions that are held in conjunction with the annual management conference. The live auction was held at the opening reception at the Kinnick Stadium press box. At the end of the live auction, which only lasted approximately 45 minutes, $62,500 has been raised.

“Every year we are extremely gratified by the support that is shown at this auction. Every dollar raised for the Foundation helps us move forward with so many of the important goals we have

Jeff Baedke (Jim Hawk Truck-Trailers, Inc.) selects his prize box.

established for the Foundation, all of which ultimately have a very positive impact on the Association too. This auction is our biggest fundraiser and we are very appreciative of the IMTA members for stepping up and helping in this important way,” said Murry Fitzer, Chairman of the Foundation.

The LEAD Council also gets involved and once again sponsored the silent auction that was held on the following day.

Several nice packages were donated to the Silent Auction and when the bidding was stopped at 5:00 PM, $7,800 had been raised.

Bret Smith (Johnsrud Transport) was the official auctioneer of the live auction.

L-R: David Welsh (Quality Trailer Sales), Don Vogt (West Side Transport, Inc.), Bobby Seivert (Panama Transfer, Inc.), Donna Weinrich-Lucht (Weinrich Truck Line, Inc.), Nick Thummel (Keane Thummel Trucking), Doug McCoy (Truck Country), Jeff Baedke (Jim Hawk Truck-Trailers, Inc.), Chad Hotz (Cornhusker International), Dustin Petersen (Harrison Truck Centers), Trent Murphy (CJM Financial, Inc.), Dave Van Wyk (Van Wyk, Inc.), Adrian Dickey (Dickey Transport)

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

IOWA MOTOR CARRIERS FOUNDATION

Why I Contributed to the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation WHY DID YOU MAKE THE DECISION TO MAKE A $250,000 DONATION TO THE FOUNDATION? In light of the fact that our company was founded in 1931 and my family, as well as myself, have been in the trucking industry for many years, I wanted to give back to the Association for the many benefits that I have received from being a member since 1982. Also, serving as Chairman of the Board on two different occasions, I am an avid supporter of the IMTA and want to see it continue to grow and serve the trucking industry for many years to come. I am proud to be able to give this contribution in the Decker name. And, the fact that another long-time member of the IMTA offered to match our contribution of $250,000, it just seemed like the right time to give back.

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST EXCITING ABOUT THE FOUNDATION AND ITS ONGOING EFFORTS? As an advocate for the trucking industry, I think it is important that the Foundation be

funded so it can continue to represent our interests here in the state of Iowa as well as on a national level. The Foundation represents us on very important matters and it is important that we support all of its programs, for example, the Scholarship Program, this program helps us to bring more qualified people into our industry.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL AN IMTA MEMBER THAT MAY BE CONSIDERING A DONATION TO THE FOUNDATION? I would tell any IMTA member who is considering making a donation to the Foundation that it is imperative that we support this very viable organization to represent our interests and to portray the trucking industry in a positive manner.

Funds are required in order for the Foundation to maintain its four pillars of focus - maintaining our building, research, image and the scholarships.

DON DECKER

President of Decker Truck Line, Fort Dodge

The Decker Family (L-R): Nick Cua, Don Decker, Ashley DeckerCua, Maxx Cua, Tammy O’Tool, Tracy Cua and Dianne Decker

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IMTA EVENTS

ABOVE: LEAD IMTA Conference attendees during the team building activity.

LEAD IMTA Conference Tests Teamwork & Leadership Skills Since 2014 the LEAD IMTA Conference has provided educational and networking opportunities for the future leaders of the association. Each year the event continues to gain popularity and support thanks to the guidance of the LEAD IMTA Council.

This Council plans the conference and meets regularly to discuss different opportunities for IMTA members to get involved and stay engaged with the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

This year’s event certainly did not disappoint, and these 35 registered leaders were put to the test right from the beginning when they had to put their best ‘feet’ forward during the team building reception. Participants embarked on the ultimate teamwork challenge of pedaling their group across downtown Des Moines on The Big Yellow Bikes. We’re happy to report everyone successfully completed the challenge!

FRONT ROW (L-R): Jeff Martin (Green Products Company), Greg Edwards (Don Hummer Trucking), IMTA President Brenda Neville, Dave Weber (Harrison Truck Centers) BACK ROW: Ben Couch (Reynolds & Reynolds, Inc.), Charles Greth (O’Halloran International), Tim Leuck (Holmes Murphy & Associates), Clint Larby, (Britton Transport)

The following day, attendees were engaged with various panel discussions involving Iowa legislators, as well as IMTA board members. In addition to the panels, two breakout sessions were offered for attendees to learn more about cybersecurity as well as to learn what the future outlook looks like for the economy.

Attendees also had an interactive session where they broke into groups to discuss real-world scenarios and present the scenario and problem-solving tactics to the full group of attendees.

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“I would recommend the LEAD Conference to anyone that wants to learn more about themselves, the legislative process and the industry. Hearing from the IMTA board members was very insightful and interesting. I learned a great deal from them on leadership qualities and how to grow,” said Greg Edwards, Don Hummer Trucking.

Just one of The Big Yellow Bikes maneuvering through downtown Des Moines.

L-R: Jeff Dickinson (Ten D), IMTA President Brenda Neville, Jason Smith (TrueNorth Companies), Steve Sukup (Sukup Manufacturing Co.)

L-R: Representative Jake Chapman, IMTA President Brenda Neville, IMTA Lobbyist Dave Scott, Senator Chris Hall, Jeff Kaufmann, Senator Liz Mathis

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

IMTA EVENTS Eight Drivers Represent Iowa at National TDC Eight of Iowa’s finest drivers represented IMTA and their employers recently at the National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC). The event was held in Columbus, Ohio.

In order to qualify to compete at the NTDC, drivers must place first in their respective divisions at the Iowa Truck Driving Championships.

During the NTDC, the drivers spent four intense days competing in a variety of ways. They were required to go through an orientation session, a driving skills test, a vehicle inspection, and perhaps their least favorite part of all, a written test.

REPRESENTING CASEY’S GENERAL STORES (L-R): Cie McGinnis, Marvin McGinnis, Dallas Williams, Scott Delaney

The eight drivers from Iowa included: Adam Stroup (FedEx Express); Jerry Beckman (Walmart Transportation); Dean Key (Ruan Transportation); Scott Delaney (Casey’s General Stores); George Foster (Casey’s General Stores); Rich Meimann (Casey’s General Stores); George Lundahl (Schuster Co.); and Jim Stinemates (Walmart Transportation).

REPRESENTING SCHUSTER CO. (L-R): Vicky Lundahl, George Lundahl, Keith Lamfers

Congratulations to these drivers who represented Iowa at the NTDC. We’re proud of you!

ICSM Celebrates National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

L-R: Officer Darrin Reed, John Holt (Ruan Transportation), Kenny Bauman (JMT Trucking), Sarah Winfrey (Ruan Transportation), Marvin McGinnis (Casey’s General Stores), Aaron New (Solar Transport), Jeff Martin (Green Products Company)

To honor our Nation’s truck drivers in recognition of Truck Driver Appreciation week, several members of the Iowa Council of Safety Management (ICSM) served donuts, orange juice, and bottled water to truck drivers as they came across the Dallas County scale.

Over 10 dozen donuts were served, along with 150 bottles of orange juice and water. In addition, each driver was personally thanked for their professionalism and dedication by the ICSM members and the Iowa Department of Transportation representative, Officer Darrin Reed.

ICSM members who participated include: Marvin McGinnis (Casey’s General Stores); Kenny Bauman (JMT Trucking, Co.); Jeff Martin (Green Products Company); Aaron New (Solar Transport); Sarah Winfrey (Ruan Transportation); and John Holt (Ruan Transportation).

John Holt and Sarah Winfrey (Ruan Transportation) thanking one of their own Ruan drivers.

Kenny Bauman (JMT Trucking) providing a JMT driver with a donut and a drink to thank him for a job well done.

Thank you to our ICSM members who assisted, and a special thank you to the truck drivers of America.

After all, they are the ones that keep American moving forward by moving our Nation’s goods and products.

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FINAL THOUGHT

The True Meaning of Service Recognizing 2018 President’s Service Award Winner, Delwin Van Wyk Organizations like the Iowa Motor Truck Association are built on the involvement of volunteers. While there has always been a paid staff at the Association, the heart and soul of the ongoing success of IMTA always has been and always will be our volunteers.

Individuals that are willing to donate their most valuable asset…. their time… is the difference between a good and a great organization.

IMTA is a GREAT organization because member engagement and volunteerism have always been very strong. Most recently at IMTA’s annual management conference an example of this exemplary volunteerism was recognized when Delwin Van Wyk was called to the stage to receive the prestigious President’s Service Award. (So prestigious it isn’t given out every year.)

This is an award that was established decades ago as a tribute to long time IMTA executive Roy Crowley. Over time it has been renamed but its original intent remains and that is to recognize and honor an individual that is clearly in a league all their own when it comes to support and involvement as a volunteer to the Association.

Delwin easily falls into that category.

For over four decades, he has been a visible and steady presence at virtually every IMTA event. Throughout his career he has worked in trucking companies as well as supplier companies. He has served on committees and filled many chairmanship roles. He has spent time at the Iowa Capitol on behalf of IMTA and proudly waved the f lag on numerous trips to Washington DC on behalf of Iowa’s trucking industry. He has very deep

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

ABOVE (L-R): Karen Van Wyk, Delwin Van Wyk (Harrison Truck Centers), IMTA President Brenda Neville, Gary Handley (BTI Special Commodities) LEFT: Delwin thanking individuals in the crowd during his remarks

understanding and appreciation of the Association, as well as the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation (IMCF), because of his involvement and commitment to constantly giving back to an industry he loves deeply.

While Delwin has certainly written his fair share of checks to IMTA and IMCF, the greatest gifts he has given to this Association is his time and his unwavering sense of duty to always step up, be active, be involved, be engaged, be on time, and set an example of what it means to truly support a cause, an industry, and an association.

Delwin is a humble and thoughtful individual. Throughout his career in the trucking industry he has gained the respect and trust of friends and colleagues by letting his actions speak louder than words. He walks the walk and truly believes in treating people the way he would want to be treated. His love of life, people, and the trucking industry are sustained because of his strong faith in God and acknowledgment that there is someone bigger than him calling the shots.

We are all better by our work and time with Delwin. The industry is better because of people like Delwin who understand and value the importance of giving back and do so in a manner that is visible and impactful. And the Association has been the biggest beneficiary of Delwin’s involvement. He has left an indelible mark on IMTA and so many of our efforts.

We have all been very fortunate to have this individual in our corner and we are happy to be able to honor, recognize and thank this treasured friend for everything he has done for IMTA and Iowa’s trucking industry.

Lifeliner Special Section

The

EXTRA MILE

2018 Management Conference

SIMPLY THE BEST For 76 consecutive years, the Iowa Motor Truck Association has held this annual conference and members from across the state and beyond have gathered not only as an association but more importantly as an industry. Iowa’s trucking industry is respected, resourceful, and renowned for its leadership and professionalism, and that proved true with the nearly 450 attendees during this two-day event.

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

This year’s event returned to the Coralville Marriott where it was last held in 2009 and featured a much earlier date than usual. This earlier date certainly did not deter attendees from showing up for the two-day event to learn, listen and network.

Early on in the conference schedule, Mother Nature wasn’t on our side when it came to playing golf at Finkbine Golf Course, but everyone made the most of the rainy situation and didn’t let the weather put a damper on their socializing with fellow members and business partners. In fact, it created even more of an opportunity to network!

Whether a Hawkeye fan or not, the atmosphere at Kinnick Stadium for the welcome reception was electric and brought along excitement for the conference. Over 300 attendees, dressed in their best Cyclone or Hawkeye attire, filled the press box area for an evening of fun interaction and, of course, the annual Foundation Auction. This popular blind auction raised $62,500 for the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation, which is the second largest amount raised to date.

FRONT ROW: Adrian Dickey (Dickey Transport), Ryan Bastian (Truck Country), Rory Triplett (Insurance Associates), Dustin Petersen (Harrison Truck Centers) BACK ROW: Don Vogt (West Side Transport, Inc.), Adam Hermsen (TrueNorth Companies), Lance Votroubek (Warren Transport, Inc.), Mitch Davis (Midwest Wheel Companies), Scott Szymanek (Eldon C. Stutsman, Inc.)

2018 IMTA Management Conference Committee The following day featured speakers, educational sessions, special award recognitions and opportunities to engage with other IMTA members. This year the breakout sessions focused on the current legal environment, the future of electric trucks, and the current performance of the economy under President Trump. The keynote address featuring Kevin Brown brought tears, laughter, and a standing ovation from 250 luncheon attendees.

The conference capped off with the IMTA Awards Gala where the “Best of the Best” were celebrated and recognized for their professionalism and dedication to not only their company, but to the industry. As an unexpected, welcomed surprise, the overall award winners in each category felt compelled to step up to the microphone and make remarks. Their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude were evident, and it really underscored the reason this awards gala is so important.

“I was very appreciative of their very honest and heartfelt comments. It served as a valuable reinforcement of the fact that we are all in this together and it involves commitment at all levels of our companies,” said IMTA board member Murry Fitzer, Florilli Corporation.

RYAN BASTIAN Truck Country

SCOTT SZYMANEK Eldon C Stutsman, Inc.

MITCH DAVIS Midwest Wheel Companies

RORY TRIPLETT Chairman Insurance Associates

ADRIAN DICKEY Dickey Transport ADAM HERMSEN TrueNorth Companies DUSTIN PETERSEN Co-Chairman Harrison Truck Centers

DON VOGT West Side Transport, Inc. LANCE VOTROUBEK Warren Transport, Inc.

By The Numbers »» 443 overall registrations ­— 236 carrier attendees & 207 vendor attendees »» 160 soggy golfers made history as this year’s golf outing was only the 2nd in the last 30 years to be rained out. »» Over 300 attendees at the Kinnick Stadium welcome reception participated in our own version of the Wave to the Children’s Hospital. »» $62,500 was raised at the annual Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation Auction, with an additional $7,800 raised during the LEAD IMTA Council Silent Auction. »» 86 dedicated IMTA members were honored during the Leadership Graduation and the IMTA Awards Gala. »» A special thanks to the 66 sponsors who helped financially support the conference.

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2018 Award Winners

Celebrating the Best of the Best Numerous men and women in the trucking industry have made some very significant contributions not only to their individual companies but to this association and industry. These same individuals are the talented and dedicated workers that give 100% every day to their specific area of expertise.

Through this awards program, the IMTA recognizes and honors these individuals for their persistence and dedication. The trucking industry wouldn’t be able to operate without the countless individuals in the trenches doing the work that most take for granted.

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Dispatcher of the Year Jeff Wood PERISHABLE DISTRIBUTORS OF IOWA

Jeff has over 19 years of experience in the trucking industry, and 4 years as a dispatcher. Jeff was described as consistently demonstrating tremendous commitment to the job and has a tremendous knack for covering many details that are required in his position. As a dispatcher, Jeff is adamant about making sure all the details are covered and communicated to the driver, the shipper or the consignee.

JEFF WOOD PERISHABLE DISTRIBUTORS OF IOWA

Special thanks to the Iowa Council of Safety Management for sponsoring these awards. The award-winning dispatchers received a $100 cash prize to accompany an award recognizing this important achievement. The dispatcher of the year received $500 in cash, a commemorative IMTA watch and a framed letter from Governor Kim Reynolds.

Congratulations to the 2018 Dispatcher of the Year Nominees

DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

DAVID BLONDIN Simon’s Trucking, Inc.

NICO MUTH CRST Expedited, Inc.

TERESA REGENSBURGER Barr-Nunn Transportation, Inc.

TONY TRIPP Heyl Truck Lines, Inc.

MATT MCCONAUGHEY Decker Truck Line, Inc.

DANNY NEMMERS CRST Expedited, Inc.

BRANDON RIPPENTROP CH Wilson

JACOB WITTE CRST Expedited, Inc.

JEFF WOOD Perishable Distributors of Iowa

Master Driver of the Year Danny Jewell WARREN TRANSPORT, INC.

Growing up, Danny never gave any thought to being anything but a professional truck driver. As a child he loved going to a truck stop near his home because he loved seeing all the trucks and knew in his heart that he wanted to do nothing other than drive a truck. His love for trucking carried over into his family life as well where he taught his wife Sharon how to drive and they spent 17-years as a team.

Danny has accumulated 52 years of total driving experience and 48 years without a single accident.

DANNY JEWELL WARREN TRANSPORT, INC.

Special thanks to the Iowa Council of Safety Management for sponsoring these awards. The award-winning master drivers received a $250 cash prize and a commemorative IMTA watch recognizing this important achievement. The master driver of the year received $1,000 in cash and a framed letter from Governor Kim Reynolds.

Congratulations to the 2018 Master Driver of the Year Nominees

MASTER DRIVER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

STEVE ALLIGER Decker Truck Line, Inc.

DANNY JEWELL Warren Transport, Inc.

DENNIS MAHER Solar Transport

JIM STINEMATES Walmart Transportation

GEORGE HEISLER Simon’s Trucking, Inc.

EDWARD KNUTSON Heyl Truck Lines, Inc.

STEVE MILLANG Ruan Transportation

ARMIN STRUTZENBERG Barr Nunn Transportation

GARY TEEL Weinrich Truck Line, Inc.

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2018 Award Winners

Fleet Maintenance Professional of the Year Don Goldman DICKEY TRANSPORT

Don is an excellent example of what it takes to run a first-class maintenance operation. He has been the Shop Foreman and Head of Maintenance at Dickey Transport for over 35 years. Don sets himself apart from others in the industry due to his loyalty, his dedication to the safety of the industry, his willingness to assist diesel techs from other companies in troubleshooting their problems, and his vast understanding of the multiple systems that are in today’s trucks.

Special thanks to Midwest Wheel Companies for sponsoring these awards. The award-winning maintenance professionals received a $100 cash prize to accompany an award recognizing this important achievement. The maintenance professional of the year received $500 in cash, a commemorative IMTA watch and a framed letter from Governor Kim Reynolds.

DON GOLDMAN DICKEY TRANSPORT

Congratulations to the 2018 Fleet Maintenance Professional of the Year Nominees

FLEET MAINTENANCE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

NORMAN “DOUG” BURGESS Heyl Truck Lines, Inc.

DON GOLDMAN Dickey Transport, Inc.

STEVE MADLOM CRST Lincoln Sales, Inc.

CHAD PESKA JMS Transportation

NATE DEININGER Hirschbach Motor Lines, Inc.

KYLE JACKSON Decker Truck Line, Inc.

RODOMIR MANDIC Barr-Nunn Transportation, Inc.

GARY SAMS Greenbelt Transport

Fleet Maintenance Company of the Year Greenbelt Transport GRAND CHAMPION

Special thanks to Midwest Wheel Companies for sponsoring these awards. The award-winning fleets each received an award recognizing this important achievement. The fleet of the year received $1,000 in cash to throw a celebration, as well as a banner to proudly display.

Congratulations to the 2018 Fleet Maintenance Company of the Year Nominees

GREENBELT TRANSPORT

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

BARR-NUNN TRANSPORTATION, INC.

SCHUSTER CO.

DECKER TRUCK LINE, INC.

SULLY TRANSPORT, INC.

GREENBELT TRANSPORT

WALMART TRANSPORTATION

OLSON EXPLOSIVES, INC.

WEINRICH TRUCK LINE, INC.

Professional Driver of the Year Greg Sharp GREEN PRODUCTS

Throughout Greg’s 30-years at Green Products Company, he has always given 100% and his customer service skills have been described by many as “impeccable”. He is a recognized leader in the fleet and always goes out of his way to mentor the younger drivers and encourage and support the veteran drivers. During his career with Green Products, Greg has driven approximately 3.6 million accident free miles. Not only is his commitment to safety and professionalism evident but his genuine love for the trucking industry puts Greg in a category of his own.

Special thanks to the Iowa Council of Safety Management for sponsoring these awards. The award-winning professional drivers received a $100 cash prize and a commemorative IMTA watch recognizing this important achievement. The professional driver of the year received $500 in cash and a framed letter from Governor Kim Reynolds.

GREG SHARP GREEN PRODUCTS

Congratulations to the 2018 Professional Driver of the Year Nominees

PROFESSIONAL DRIVER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

OSCAR AMADOR Nebraska Coast, Inc.

DANIEL ERICKSON Nebraska Coast, Inc.

MICHAEL LUNDBERG Walmart Transportation

CHARLES BAILEY Pyle Transportation

JUAN ESCOBAR Nebraska Coast, Inc.

LEO MONTIEL-GUARNEROS Nebraska Coast, Inc.

KIM BAILEY Pyle Transportation

MARK FOREST Kwik Trip

ERNIE RODRIGUEZ Nebraska Coast, Inc.

KENNETH BLAIR Barr Nunn Transportation, Inc.

CHAD HAZELTON Decker Truck Line

GREG SHARP Green Products

VERN BOYD CH Wilson

KEITH KAUFMAN Heyl Truck Lines, Inc.

DEAN SOUCEK Decker Truck Line

DOUG BREESE Walmart Transportation

DEAN KEY Ruan Transportation

RON TOURTE Perishable Distributors of Iowa

JEFFREY CODY Weinrich Truck Line, Inc.

GEORGE LUNDAHL Schuster Co.

CLAYTON WILDRICK, JR. Nebraska Coast, Inc.

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2018 Award Winners

Great West Casualty Fleet Safety Awards

Heyl Truck Lines, Inc. GRAND CHAMPION

Special thanks to Great West Casualty Company for sponsoring these awards. The award-winning fleets each received an award recognizing this important achievement. The fleet of the year received $1,000 in cash to throw a celebration, as well as the Great West Casualty crystal truck award.

HEYL TRUCK LINES, INC.

Congratulations to the 2018 Great West Casualty Fleet Safety Award Nominees

GREAT WEST CASUALTY FLEET SAFETY AWARD NOMINEES

AMHOF TRUCKING

WARREN TRANSPORT, INC.

SOLAR TRANSPORT

JERICO SERVICES, INC.

10 - 20 million miles

5 - 10 million miles

2 - 5 million miles

0 - 2 million miles

PANAMA TRANSFER

WEINRICH TRUCK LINE, INC.

SULLY TRANSPORT, INC.

WALMART TRANSPORTATION

5 - 10 million miles

0 - 2 million miles

5 - 10 million miles

5 - 10 million miles

General Commodity- Truckload

HEYL TRUCK LINES, INC.

0 - 2 million miles

General Commodity – Truckload

2 - 5 million miles

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RUAN TRANSPORTATION

General Commodity – Truckload

General Commodity – LTL

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Flatbed Carrier

Tank Truck – Bulk

Tank Truck – Bulk

Tank Truck – Bulk

Private Carrier

Private Carrier

2018 Management Conference

ISSUE 4, 2018

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2018 Management Conference

Save the Date

2019 MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE September 24 & 25, 2019 Hilton Downtown Des Moines

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IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

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Round of Applause

Thank you to our Sponsors

PLATINUM SPONSORS Harrison Truck Centers MHC Kenworth Midwest Wheel Companies Thompson Truck & Trailer, Inc. Truck Country Freightliner Western Star

GOLD SPONSORS Cummins Sales & Service Great West Casualty Company HELP Inc. Interstate PowerSystems J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. Joe Morten and Son, Inc. d.b.a.

Motor-Ways, Inc. McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C. Midwest Peterbilt Group Northland Products Company, Inc. O'Halloran International, Inc., a Trivista Company Quality Services Corp.

Quality Trailer Sales, Inc. UPS SILVER SPONSORS American Trucking Associations BMO Transportation Finance Central Trailer Service, Ltd. Cornhusker International Trucks EFS LLC Gatr Truck Center Housby I-State Truck Center Lube-Tech & Partners, LLC Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales, Inc. Pilot Flying J Thermo King Sales & Service TrueNorth Companies

S12

IOWA TRUCKING LIFELINER

Valley Distribution Corp.

Wilson Trailer Company BRONZE SPONSORS Allied Oil & Tire Company Altorfer Inc. Bauer Built Tire Bridgestone Commercial Solutions Cedar Rapids Truck Center/ Quad Cities Peterbilt Comdata Cottingham & Butler, Inc. Craftsmen Utility Trailer Dave Syverson Truck Centers Des Moines Truck Brokers, Inc. Donaghy - Kempton Insurors Engles, Ketcham, Olson & Keith, P.C. Eastern Iowa Tire, Inc. FSSolutions Hanifen Company, Inc. Insurance Associates Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. Iowa Council of Safety Management Jim Hawk Truck-Trailers, Inc. Kwik Trip, Inc. Lytx Majestic Truck Center Northland Insurance Company PeopleNet Renewable Energy Group Reynolds & Reynolds, Inc. RSM US LLP Sioux City Truck & Trailer, Inc. TAB Bank Thermo King Christensen Truckers Insurance Associates US Cargo Control Wilshire Insurance Company/IAT Insurance Group Ziegler CAT

717 East Court Ave Des Moines, IA 50309

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Ask Us About Turbo Solutions Remanufactured Products Today!

In Stock Many Applications Same Day Availability Genuine Parts Electronic Actuator 100% Calibrated Industry Trained/Technical Support 1 Year/Unlimited Miles Warranty

P/N DR 904-7240

Turbocharger Speed Sensor

P/N DR 904-7441

Intake Air Temp/Boost Pressure Sensor

Exhaust Backpressure Sensor

2003-2009 CUMMINS OE # 4032068

VOLVO D13 engines 2010-2016 OE # 21508269

Mack 2018-11, Volvo 2018-11 OE # 21097978

International 2009-04 OE # 1850351C1

IOWA

DES MOINES

1436 E. Ovid Ave. office 515.265.1491 fax 515.265.4120 parts fax 800.314.4329 parts 800.888.0248

TRUCK PARTS SUPER STORETM

MIDWESTWHEEL.COM

P/N DR 904-7704

CEDAR RAPIDS

CLEAR LAKE

200 50th Ave. S.W. main 319.365.4453 fax 319.365.6327 parts fax 877.706.6085 parts 800.332.5435

840 Hwy. 18 W. 641.357.7101 fax 641.357.8190 parts fax 800.548.9674 parts 800.397.5630

DAVENPORT

SIOUX CITY

8502 Northwest Blvd. main 563.322.2671 fax 563.322.5940 parts 800.553.1886

P/N DR 904-7520

main

1819 E. 4th St. 712.252.7969 fax 712.252.6149 parts 800.943.3534 main

MISSOURI

Turbocharger Speed Sensor

KANSAS CITY 5801 E. Front St. 816.471.1552 fax 816.471.0813 parts 800.821.7402 main