3 G Safety
G&D/Ho man, Groendyke, Gemini go deep on their championship success
Pages 10-23
HR Ewell, Hy-Tec thrive with Heil Page 24
Groendyke raises NTTC-record ninth safety trophy—six more than its closest competition
Gemini secures first back-to-back NTTC safety championships in 24 years
HR Ewell—with 155 Super Flo trailers sourced from Hy-Tec— is one of Heil’s oldest tank truck customers
Bulk haulers convene in Charlotte for a pre-election edition of Tank Truck Week
TECHNOLOGY
How to avoid IT outages with a cloud-based TMS
A multi-tenant, off-premise solution can help fleets skip costly disruptions. BulkTransporter.com/55129790
OPERATIONS
How fuel marketers beat their competition
Fleet-fueling software is changing the way marketers manage operations. BulkTransporter.com/55127422
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Seeing red: Avoid misdirection, plan to vote
Jason McDaniel Editor
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Experts have plenty of truck prebuying strategies, but the only path to true victory is a change in policy
I’ve read a lot of stories recently about prebuying trucks ahead of more stringent emissions regulation that will make heavy-duty vehicles significantly more expensive starting with model-year 2027. That certainly makes sense. Equipment prices are high enough already. That’s why ACT Research predicted two years ago the trucking industry would experience its largest-ever prebuy event in 2025 or 2026, and plenty of experts have come forward to offer their advice for formulating prebuy strategies.
But why waste time planning for a game you’ll never play?
Based on what I’m hearing from carriers who recently met with their suppliers, truck manufacturers won’t have enough spare parts to support a prebuy. And any “extra” trucks they do build likely were reserved months ago. That’s why National Tank Truck Carriers prefers a different path—one that requires members to vote Nov. 5. “For those who do want to get into the prebuy, the struggle is with OEMs having the components to be able to deliver on that demand,” Ryan Streblow, NTTC president and CEO, told Bulk Transporter. “So that is a battle they’re facing because more carriers are trying to get in on that.
“But you also have a percentage of carriers across all segments that strongly believe if we have a change in administration, we’re going to have a change in our environmental policy, and I believe that to be the case as well.
“An administration change will directly impact current EPA rulings.”
If that’s true—and it’s increasingly difficult to know what to believe at the modern intersection of polarizing politics, biased media reports, and AI-generated video and images—tank truck industry stakeholders share a compelling reason to say yes to Republicans, regardless of how they feel about Donald Trump. But with the election’s outcome far from certain, NTTC spent the summer preparing for multiple scenarios by continuing to advocate for sensible zero-emission policies, while endeavoring to understand the new “chess pieces” in Congress, where Streblow expects double-digit turnover this fall.
“We want to be involved in the conversation,” Streblow explained. “Let’s have healthy dialogue between the federal government and private sector that allows us to help shape the solution, rather than industry trying to adopt unrealistic timelines, technologies, and costs that trickle down to the American people.”
Of course, emissions and the election aren’t the only legislative and regulatory topics NTTC is tackling for tanker people. The association also is tracking the security screening modernization bill, which cleared a key Senate hurdle in July; creating a test pilot for using electronic shipping papers in hazardous-materials transport; and seeking to extend—or, even better, permanently install—its FMCSA exemption for pulsating brake lamps on tank trailers. “It’s been a busy summer—one that I would label a very productive and positive stretch for the association,” Streblow confirmed.
But nothing is more pressing than the fast-approaching deadlines for adopting exceedingly expensive “zero-emission” trucks—both those with new diesel-emissions technology and the ones powered by batteries and/or hydrogen—especially for bulk haulers, whose operations will be doubly impacted by the current administration’s environmental and energy policies. And we know Vice President Kamala Harris isn’t going to deviate from Democrat lines, unless it’s to push the country further left.
So avoid the pre-buy misdirection, if at all possible.
Washington is playing its own game—and the trucking industry’s best chance for a budget-saving win al-RED-y is clear. BT
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Dana establishes ISO tank depot in Kansas City
Dana Companies is growing its tank container network with the addition of a depot in Kansas City, Kansas, adjacent to a Union Pacific site.
The new ISO tank depot was expected to open in mid-July.
“We’re excited about it,” Shawn Hensley, Dana regional operations manager in Kansas City, told Bulk Transporter.
Union Pacific already approved an expansion of its rail line onto the property, which will allow container operators and shippers to combine tank fleets currently scattered across the region at one central location, Hensley added. “We’re going to bring them all into one site and then start going after more,” he said.
The new depot is strategically positioned near a 7-acre tank cleaning and rail-to-truck chemical transloading facility Dana acquired six years ago; and a newly acquired plastics transload yard
Heniff Transportation acquires TechnoPort
Heniff Transportation recently added TechnoPort to its growing list of bulk transportation and related services providers. Based in Moerdijk, Netherlands, TechnoPort is a provider of ISO tank services.
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“We’re very pleased to welcome TechnoPort into the Heniff family of companies,” Bob Heniff, Heniff founder and CEO, said in a news release. “This deal represents the perfect growth opportunity
with 85 rail car spots.
The overhauled wash rack, which features new equipment from A-One Chemicals and Equipment, currently features two bays with ISO tank cleaning capabilities but soon will add a third; and Dana also plans to add 100 rail car spots at the plastics transload yard, Hensley shared.
“We’re growing,” Hensley said.
“Union Pacific also is getting ready to open a rail yard in Kansas City, close to us, that’s going to serve ISO containers, so it should be a good deal.”
for our company as it is primarily customer driven, complementary to our current suite of services, and an extension of our global footprint into the greater international bulk transportation services industry.”
The acquisition of TechnoPort marks Heniff’s first venture outside of the North American market, Heniff reported. TechnoPort’s operation is located just south of Rotterdam, which is the largest port in Europe and one of the world’s largest container ports. The company is a one-stop ISO tank operation that provides ISO depot services, state-of-the-art cleaning for chemicals and food-grade products, container heating, and maintenance and repairs.
Atlas to deploy autonomous oilfield trucks
Atlas Energy Solutions plans to outfit new high-capacity trucks with Kodiak’s autonomous driving technology. The company recently completed its first driverless delivery in the Permian Basin. The 21-mile delivery moved Atlas’s frac sand from depot to wellsite with no one in the cab.
The companies also report Atlas placed an order for Kodiak-equipped driverless trucks that will deliver frac sand across the region’s existing infrastructure of private-lease roads. Early next year, Atlas plans to launch commercial operations using its first two trucks equipped with the Kodiak Driver. Under the agreement, Kodiak will provide its tech to Atlas via a driver-as-a-service licensing deal. Atlas will own the trucks, and Kodiak will provide its platform-agnostic hardware and software.
Photo: Dana
Photo: Heniff Transportation
Unflappable focus
G&D/Hoffman keeps an eye on safety—whatever blows its way by Jason McDaniel
Jerry Curl, chief operating officer for G&D Trucking/ Hoffman Transportation, was imploring personnel at the plastic transporter’s Channahon, Illinois, headquarters to take cover when the unthinkable unfolded. “The tornado blew up as I was on the phone with them,” he recalled, the July 15 storm still fresh in his mind. “From the time it started to when it was over was less than 10 seconds.”
That’s all it took. The derecho-spawned twister, ruled an EF2 with gusts up to 135 mph by the National Weather Service, struck the facility with unforgiving fury, toppling a tank truck, stacking loaded tankers like sticks, ripping roofing off the shop and tank wash, and demolishing the office building. Then it was gone, leaving only eerie silence—and everything adjacent to “ground zero,”
including INEOS Styrolution to the north and Americas Styrenics to the south, oddly unscathed.
Curl’s next calls that evening delivered the awful news to the Hoffman family.
But Jordan Hoffman, executive vice president, still couldn’t comprehend the scope of the catastrophe until utility crews cleared the power lines off Interstate 55, and he witnessed the devastation firsthand. “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine it would be as
bad as it was,” he said. J. Golden, VP of warehousing and packaging, called the situation heartbreaking. Kolby Golden (Hoffman), director of human resources, was shocked. “I was expecting a little bit of damage but not what I saw,” she said. The daunting recovery was ongoing weeks later. The HQ must be rebuilt— bigger and better G&D/Hoffman leaders vow—which will take at least a year, Curl lamented. But the carrier was operational less than 12 hours later thanks to an information technology (IT) “failsafe” that allowed staff to rapidly pivot business-critical functions to the nearby Coal City terminal. “The tornado hit at 9:20 at night,” Curl said. “By 8:30 the next morning, when employees showed up to work, they sat down at new computer stations, started taking orders and dispatching loads, and carried on. It was remarkable.”
More miraculously, only one of 15 people on location that night was hurt—the driver inside the tipped tractor-trailer, who suffered a broken arm. “This is going to be very costly, but I feel blessed because we didn’t have 10 or 15 people injured or killed,” said Kevin Hoffman, president, CEO, and owner. The faith-fueled family credits divine intervention and fast action for keeping employees safe. But Thomas Edison said good fortune happens when opportunity meets planning—and G&D/Hoffman doesn’t leave safety to chance.
The 43-year-old, for-hire carrier anticipates every risk, including health emergencies, active shooters, and natural disasters, creates detailed response plans, and ensures all 350 employees react “like Navy Seals” in high-stakes situations by relying on deeply ingrained safety training.
That’s why G&D/Hoffman is a reigning and three-time National Tank Truck Carriers safety champion—and the only carrier with two NTTC Drivers of the Year.
“The way we do one thing is the way we do everything,” Curl said.
“You make plans you hope you never use, but when you have good plans in place that come together, this is the result.”
Safety-oriented values
G&D/Hoffman’s meticulous safety culture starts with Kevin, who founded the carrier in 1981 with the same values he learned growing up in a small farming town. The company now provides dry bulk and liquid transport, transloading, and warehousing and packaging from six locations utilizing 170 trucks, 400 tank trailers, and 155 company drivers— and Kevin still knows them all by name. “We’re a tight-knit group, and being able to work for my dad is great,” Kolby said.
From left to right are VP J. Golden, HR Director Kolby Golden (Hoffman), CEO Kevin Hoffman, EVP Jordan Hoffman, and COO Jery Curl.
Photo: Jake Carr | G&D/Hoffman
An EF2 tornado struck G&D/Hoffman’s Channahon, Illinois, headquarters July 15.
Photo: Jake Carr | G&D/Hoffman
“He’s an incredible man. I’m proud to be his daughter, and to call him boss. He treats every one of his employees like family.
“Not many companies can say that.”
Even fewer can match G&D/Hoffman’s driver retention record, especially among trucking companies. “Turnover is a giant loser for us,” said Jordan, Kevin’s son. “We’re proud of our turnover statistics because our numbers are unheard of in transportation. In 43 years in business, we’re under 3%, and the last two years we’re at 0.6%.” With near-zero attrition, G&D/Hoffman drivers boast an equally impressive résumé, averaging 35 years of experience—and 3.5 million safe miles. “Nobody else can say that,” Curl asserted.
“They’re the elite of the elite—the top .001% of the entire driver pool.”
G&D/Hoffman rewards its employees with exceptional benefits, including matching 401K contributions and 100% company-paid health insurance; uniform messaging via Paylocity’s payroll system, a driver wellness app, and electronic logging devices (ELDs); and an employee appreciation event that annually attracts up to 1,300 people. This year’s Sept. 21 celebration in Coal City features country artist Chris Cagle, motivational speaker Ben Newman, and activities for kids. “A job is a job,” Kevin said. “We work for our families, and families need to see what their spouses do every day.”
The Hoffmans are “simple country folk at heart,” Jordan says, and he and Kevin stay true to their roots by
growing corn and soybeans for Hoffman Farms—a 3,000-acre operation that began with an 80-acre parcel the family acquired through the 1862 Homestead Act—in their free time. So hard work, loyalty, and equipment care are second nature for the company’s leaders; and Curl—a former NTTC Safety & Security Council national chair—is the ideal spokesperson for their message.
“We couldn’t ask for a better guy,” Kolby said. “He makes this place run.”
Championship mentality
G&D/Hoffman collected its third Heil trophy in seven years with an accident frequency of 0.174 while covering 12 million miles in 2023. The carrier also won North American safety championships in 2017 and 2019, and Ron Baird and Kenneth Tolliver earned Driver of the Year honors in 2020 and 2023, respectively. But intentional focus on safety excellence has been part of the company’s culture for 43 years.
“Average people can be great once in a while,” Curl explained. “It’s the continuous safety efforts that lead to these recognitions—and makes you extraordinary. I don’t want to be average. Average is my enemy. I want to be extraordinary when it comes to safety and continue raising the bar.” That philosophy extends to a warehousing business with more than 80 employees across three locations. G&D/Hoffman’s 420,000-sq.-ft. Coal City facility, which packages up to 1 million pounds of plastic pellets every day, boasts zero OSHArecordable incidents since opening its doors six years ago.
“That’s really unheard of in a warehouse,” Golden said.
He credits the company’s efforts to “mirror” everything it utilizes as a bulk transporter in its warehousing operation, including regular, “zeroed-in”
is expected to be a long recovery.
Only one person was injured in the storm.
Photo: Jake Carr | G&D/Hoffman
Jerry Curl, at left, supervises cleanup at the start of what
Photo: Jake Carr | G&D/Hoffman
safety meetings and cameras for coaching and limiting liability. G&D/ Hoffman equips every truck with Bendix Wingman Fusion forward-facing cameras, and side- and rear-facing cameras that always are recording—and installs cameras on every forklift. “I don’t care about winning awards,” Kevin said. “They’re the result of how we conduct business every day.”
Still, Heil and Usher trophies are worthy rewards for G&D/Hoffman drivers—who Kevin insists establish “a model for the industry as to what can be accomplished”—that come with boundless benefits for growth-minded bulk haulers. “Winning these awards put us on the map as a place where people want to work,” Kolby said. Exhibit A: Long-time Carbon Express driver Bill McNamme, a highly decorated twotime NTTC Driver of the Year finalist with 3.2 million safe miles, joined G&D/ Hoffman in July.
“Great people attract great people,” Curl said. “And shippers want to do business with great companies and leaders who are experts in their segment and prioritize safety. That pushes us to maintain that same level of excellence, and keep raising that bar. I want to set the standard for the industry.”
That’s why they’re already targeting the next championship.
“That evening at dinner, Jerry, my dad, and I were talking about the next steps, and how we continue building on this,” Jordan said.
Moving safety forward
Unceasing improvement includes the carrier’s recent decision to upgrade ELDs with Isaac Instruments devices after testing them in five trucks. “Isaac can take what we want to do with our strategic vision, especially in our dry and liquid bulk niche, and tailor it with new ideas that currently aren’t out there in our space today, which I truly believe will be innovative, and we’ll be one of the first to do it,” Jordan predicted.
G&D/Hoffman also is investing in technology that supports continuity and data reporting capabilities that maximize efficiency—with help from an expert IT staff that includes Andrew Braga and Joshua Tirado—while pursuing steady organic growth, which Kevin prefers to acquisitional expansion. The carrier’s only add-on was the 2019 acquisition of plastics packager Major-Prime Plastics in Villa Park. “We have no interest
whatsoever in being the biggest,” Kevin said. “We grow because we’re good at what we do. All I care about is doing our best for our customers and employees.”
The company currently is looking to establish an operation in Columbus, Ohio, to support a customer, while preparing for a long rebuild in Channahon. “You have to embrace the challenge,” Curl said. “These are the times that expand your abilities.” Kevin is ready. He’s still in it for the long haul despite turning 66 in November. He loves trucking (and farming) too much to take off. And the Hoffmans are determined to overcome any obstacles—from rising equipment and liability expenses forcing many companies to seek private-equity funding to costly tornado-induced disasters—to preserve the business for future generations, including Kevin’s five grandchildren: Brayden, Amelia, Larkin, Wyatt, and Knox.
“That’s the hope,” Kolby said. “People think my dad is crazy for not cashing out and enjoying retirement somewhere nice and warm and sunny. But that shows how much he cares, because he knows if he ever did, whoever came in wouldn’t put the same time, effort, and care into our employees.”
And they keep repaying G&D/ Hoffman with award-winning safety performance. “We’re constantly trying to better ourselves—better our people, and our processes—and improve in the name of safety excellence, so we can continue to put an elite service on the road,” Jordan concluded . BT
COO Jerry Curl meets with logistics and service personnel after relocating to Coal City.
Photo: Jake Carr | G&D/Hoffman
The Hoffman family visits with motivational speaker Ben Newman, at left, in Las Vegas.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
WE BUILD QUALITY TANKS
Cloud Nine
Groendyke wins NTTC-record ninth safety trophy—six more than its closest competition
by Jason McDaniel
Groendyke Transport executives believed they could claim one of National Tank Truck Carriers’ 2023 North American safety championships after posting the company’s lowest recorded accident frequency. But for the first time in Groendyke’s storied safety history, they weren’t certain until hearing their name on stage.
That’s because up until the 2020 awards, NTTC notified winners before making the public announcement at its Annual Conference, and the 92-year-old bulk hauler last claimed a Heil trophy in 2018. “When you don’t know you’re going to win, it feels more like the Oscars,” quipped Groendyke CEO Greg Hodgen.
He would know. Hodgen, who joined Groendyke the year it secured its fourth outstanding performance trophy, now has played a role in five of the carrier’s record nine safety championships (1973, 1975, 1990, 1991, 1999, 2000, 2016, 2018, and 2023), a feat that will be hard for anyone to match. Dan Dugan Oil Transport, which won seven of the first nine trophies, and Manfredi Motor Transit Company, which won five, no longer exist, leaving Gemini Motor Transport, G&D Trucking/ Hoffman Transportation, and Trimac Transportation as the closest active competition with three apiece.
And Groendyke shows no signs of slowing down.
“We got started on it earlier than a lot of companies, and we’ve just always felt like it was our mission to get our drivers home, do it the right way, and do the job safely—no matter what it takes,” explained Chris Pape, vice president of safety and training, who accepted the award May 7 at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Now the pursuit of safety is ingrained in Groendyke’s culture, which drivers proudly internalize, and leaders reinforce with advanced technology, “world-class” training, and growth-oriented operations.
“Having nine wins puts more pressure on us,” Hodgen contended. “We have to figure out how to stay on top of the
Groendyke Transport claimed the first of its NTTC-record nine safety championships in 1973.
Photo: Groendyke Transport
mountain and keep getting better every year, and I like that motivation. It keeps us hungry and forces us to be creative.”
Safety ‘storm’
Groendyke’s 800 professional tank truckers traveled 56 million miles and delivered more than 400,000 loads with only nine DOT-recordable crashes in 2023 for an accident frequency of 0.162 per million miles. The Enid, Oklahoma-based carrier won its previous three trophies with frequencies of 0.462 (2018), 0.373 (2016), and 0.269 (2000). “We’ve never had a better year, as long as we’ve been keeping the statistics,” said Joe Morrissey, who succeeded Hodgen as president in January.
“It was the perfect storm.”
Groendyke fended off stiff competition from Trimac, Service Transport Company, and Slay Transportation to win the trophy, according to Pape, who was allowed to review judges’ scores anonymously. “The tank truck industry identifies so closely with safety that everybody digs in and tries hard,” Hodgen said “So being recognized, and then winning, really is cool.”
The presence of long-time chairman John D. Groendyke, who accepted NTTC’s Lifetime Achievement award, made it cooler. “He’s very proud,” relayed Hodgen, John’s son-in-law. “His name is on the tanks. And the whole family, everyone who was there, truly feels connected to this company, and knows what it means to be safe and win these awards—but they hadn’t all been there to see one presented.
“So it was a very emotional day for everyone.”
Drivers and safety personnel watching from Panama City, Florida, via live stream were equally excited, said Robbie Parrish, VP of operations. “It’s our Super Bowl trophy, so they were stoked,” he said. Parrish, a player in three wins, insists each is special, with new and familiar obstacles for drivers to overcome. Groendyke’s centralized load planning centers help drivers stay safe, reducing stress by increasing efficiency. Leaders’ willingness to adopt novel technologies and build training programs and materials in house also plays a critical role—as does the full support of every Groendyke employee.
“It takes a whole village to achieve something like this,” Parrish said.
Safety technology
Groendyke was the first carrier to secure an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to use auxiliary pulsating brake lamps on the back of trailers to reduce rear-end crashes. FMCSA renewed the original five-year exemption, which expired April 26, through Oct. 26 while noting Groendyke had equipped 93% of its 1,440 tank trailers with pulsating brake lamps as of 2023 and achieved “a notable reduction in rear-end accidents since 2018” following widespread implementation.
Still, Hodgen hopes to see further brake lamp technology evolution.
“We need to provide passenger cars more information about what’s going on ahead of them because they’re not always
paying attention,” he said. “I’d really like to see something on the light that’s speed actuated.”
Hodgen, who expects artificial intelligence to play a role in safety in the future, points out Groendyke also was an early adopter of electronic logging devices and driver vehicle inspection reports; advanced driver-assistance systems like roll stability, blind-spot detection, and adaptive cruise control; and cameras, which the carrier last year upgraded to a Samsara system that delivers real-time “nudges.”
“All of the technology we’re able to put on trucks today helps us avoid or mitigate accidents, and we’re big adopters,” Hodgen said. “We’re not always first, but when something
Groendyke employs 800 tank truck drivers, including 2024-25 America’s Road Team captain Rodney McNew.
Photo: Groendyke Transport
Groendyke uses a converted sleeper for elite hands-on instruction. Photo: Groendyke Transport
works, we’re in completely. And it’s helping the entire industry. It has elevated all of us to a higher level of performance.”
Technology innovation extends to the carrier’s Workday learning management system, and the Adobe Captive software that dedicated staff use to create educational courses. Groendyke boasts over 500 custom-made video presentations and assessments—with only a handful of “off-the-shelf” content purchases.
“We’re proud of those programs and we’re constantly rolling out new ones,” Pape said.
Safety training
Safety leaders also are proud of Groendyke’s training trucks, three late-model Freightliner and Kenworth sleepers with three extra seats instead of a bunk, allowing trainers to teach four drivers simultaneously. “It grows their knowledge quickly and exponentially,” Pape said. “As they learn from someone else, they don’t want to be the guy who gets in the seat next and messes up the same task.”
Groendyke also boasts two training bays for simulating loading, unloading, and other tanker activities at its Enid headquarters, where all drivers receive classroom instruction. “It gives people a sense of the culture and organization, and leaders meet them face-to-face.” Orientation typically lasts three weeks, with online and in-cab instruction included, but every training is unique. “It’s not about days or loads,” Pape said. “Everybody learns differently, and we let each employee learn at their pace. But you also need to manage the program well, and make sure they’re continuously improving.”
The carrier also recently “gamified” improvement with scores for harsh braking, cornering, speeding, and other behaviors; and bolstered its driver feedback program. “We have a great review program that gives drivers a real-time understanding of how they’re performing and their safety habits,” Pape said. And managers make sure to celebrate what drivers are doing well. Hodgen said. “By and large, they actually look forward to that review because they want to know how they’re doing,” he said.
Coaching and continuing education reinforce training, ensuring drivers stay up to date on regulations and the rules of the road. “We practice to proficiency every day because we must take responsibility for everyone around us, and those messages resonate with our drivers after they leave the classroom,” Pape said.
Safety success
A room filled with championship trophies is equally impactful.
“They’re proud to work for a company that is known for safety and consistently puts energy and resources into protecting drivers,” Pape said.
The same goes for all 1,200 employees spread across 40 terminals. Parrish, a Marine Corps veteran, picked Groendyke because his values align with the company’s culture of “relentless integrity, courageous leadership, and continuous
innovation;” and Morrissey—who left his dream job as CEO of CTL Transportation to join Groendyke—insists they stay focused on safety no matter what is going on.
“Safety never takes a day off,” he said.
Groendyke’s chosen approach to the market also resonates with customers and potential acquisitional targets, leaders agree.
Many shippers today are “rationalizing” their carrier bases, Morrissey said, and companies of Groendyke’s size, scale, and capability, who also prioritize safe fuel and chemical deliveries, stand out. “The value proposition we’re selling, with service, safety, and capacity assurance, has resonated well with shippers,” he said. “So the trophies do matter. They align with the values of our customers.”
Other carriers see it, too—and want to be part of something special.
Groendyke currently has several acquisitions in the works that Hodgen—who’s in line to serve as American Trucking Associations’ 80th chairman—expects to close within the next six to 18 months. “I’ve been in this business for 33 years now—I’ll be 60 years old this year—and I have a strong urge to give back,” he said. “That’s why I like the opportunity I’m getting. And it’s an interesting, even pivotal, time for trucking.” BT
The Groendyke team celebrates its 2023 Heil trophy in Las Vegas.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
CEO Greg Hodgen, at right, speaks during NTTC’s annual meeting.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
Against the odds
Gemini secures first back-to-back NTTC safety championships in 24 years
by Jason McDaniel
Gemini Motor Transport recorded a lower accident frequency last year than in 2022, when the primary fuel hauler for Love’s Travel Stops earned the first private-fleet championship in National Tank Truck Carrier’s North American safety contest. But Gemini executives didn’t expect to repeat, believing the competition was too stiff, and judges were unlikely to celebrate the same fleet in consecutive years.
They were happily mistaken.
“Frankly, I was quite shocked,” said Brent Bergevin, Love’s executive vice president of transportation.
“Very seldom does anybody win these things back-to-back.”
Gemini beat the odds with an accident frequency of 0.255— which is lower than the 0.282 it recorded in 2022, despite covering nearly 7 million more miles in 2023—to secure its third Heil trophy in seven years and become the first two-time reigning safety champion since Groendyke in 1999 and 2000. And Groendyke’s leaders, who view Gemini and Phillips 66 as fellow petrochemical “royalty” in Oklahoma—Groendyke was founded in Enid, Gemini in Oklahoma City, and Phillips in Bartlesville— weren’t surprised.
“They have built one heck of a safety record, and they’ve done it pretty quickly,” said Greg Hodgen, CEO of nine-time champion Groendyke. “More power to them. They look like they are head-and-shoulders above their peers in the private-fleet category. So I wouldn’t be surprised if they caught us at some point.
“They’re really good and they should be proud of that effort.”
Safety culture
Gemini’s mixed fleet of 1,000 daycabs, 175 sleeper trucks, and 1,300 tank trailers traveled almost 130 million miles in 2023; and its 1,800 drivers combined for 2,300 loads per day while serving 646 Love’s locations and third-party customers with gasoline, diesel fuel, biodiesel, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), jet fuel, and ethanol. And Gemini’s drivers did all this while posting 12 fewer DOT-recordable incidents than in 2022.
“We did pretty much everything right,” said Jim Dillon, truck assets manager.
“Everybody on the Gemini team is dedicated to safety and we’re constantly looking for new technologies and procedures to make us safer. When you drive as many miles as we do, accidents are going to happen, but the education, constant communication about safety, and the technologies we keep adding to our drivers’ arsenal are minimizing their impact and reducing our accident frequency.”
Gemini claimed its first Heil trophy in 2017 while competing in NTTC’s Harvison division for large for-hire carriers. But the work began much earlier, Bergevin said. “We started this journey 15 years ago, when we started applying every year, really digging into safety, and tracking our progress. So, to win the first one seven years ago was hugely satisfying. And then, like anything, it was like, ‘OK, I want another one.’”
The key to Gemini’s success is recruiting elite drivers, establishing expectations early—the company maintains a strict code of conduct and no re-hire policy—and then retaining drivers by treating them fairly. Gemini’s turnover hovers around 15%, and it was down 5% in the first half of 2023. “If we say we’re going to do something, we do it,” Bergevin said. “There are a lot of drivers out there who’ve been mistreated.
Primary fuel hauler for Love’s is the first two-time reigning champion since Groendyke in 2000.
Photo: Gemini Motor Transport
We give them everything in writing, so if we make an offer, it’s all right there.
“There’s no second guessing.”
With trust established, safety culture ingrained, and satisfied senior drivers on staff, Gemini is building momentum— and looking for a championship three-peat. The last company to earn three straight was Dan Dugan Oil Transport, which collected five from 1952 to 1956. “We’ve always been safety-focused, but the awards are affirmation we’re doing something right,” said Andy Lash, general manager of logistics. And they’re doing it without terminals. Instead, Gemini’s slip-seat
to make autonomous safety decisions—serve delivery points typically within a 300-mile radius, and park trucks at Love’s stores or designated areas.
“Drivers going home every day is the real reward for what we do,” Lash said. “The awards are the cherry on top.”
Safety supports
Gemini supports its driver workforce with in-depth training, premium equipment, and innovative safety technology. It recently was the first fleet to secure an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to use Intellistop’s pulsating brake lamp module on the back of its trailers to
Achieve 100% Safety
The Gemini team celebrates its 2023 Heil trophy in Las Vegas.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
reduce rear-end crashes. “Any time a new safety technology comes out, we jump on it,” Dillon said. Gemini also uses Lytx cameras combined with artificial intelligence technology, Geotab GPS and electronic logging devices, and IMMI RollTek seats. “We’ve always been big believers in taking advantage of all the safety technologies in the marketplace,” said Jeremy Gravely, director of operations.
“And if it’s not out there, we’ll figure out how to develop it ourselves.”
Forward- and driver-facing cameras, mirror-mounted side-facing cameras, and trailer-rear, blind-spot cameras “have been an absolute gamechanger” for Gemini, Bergevin maintained. “They show you exactly what happened,” he said. “And if we did something wrong, at least we know it’s our responsibility.” Lash agreed, saying cameras and real-time notifications continue to pay dividends. “They’ve become a vital tool, not only as a source of truth in a chaotic event, like an accident, but also as a way to figure out the root cause.
“Then, instead of putting out blanket trainings, we can zero in on real issues.”
New International and Kenworth trucks feature Bendix Wingman Fusion systems, and new Freightliner trucks boast Detroit Assurance safety technology. Gemini aims to trade in used trucks at four years or 450,000 miles, but they’re “catching up” this year after falling behind, Bergevin said. Gemini has 550 trucks on order, and Dillon expects to receive all the trucks and more than 100 trailers this year. Love’s Truck Care and Speedco, with 435 locations nationwide, handle Gemini’s maintenance and repairs.
Leaders also are “progressive” in how they leverage data—while maintaining an old-school belief in drivers’ professionalism.
“We have a lot of respect for our drivers,” Lash said. “We are not going to push them to do something they feel is unsafe. And we’re always working with them. We don’t use them like a truck. They’re not just a tool for us in logistics. They’re team members and partners—and we want their input.
“That’s a big part of our success.”
Safety bonus
Safety success unlocks bonus benefits, not the least of which is assuring Love’s—Gemini’s most valuable customer—it’s up for the job. “The Love family’s mission when they started Gemini was to be the safest hazmat carrier on the road,” Lash said, adding that drivers receive cash bonuses through the company’s “Gemini Loves Drivers” program for every five years without a DOT-recordable incident.
“They didn’t want us delivering fuel if we couldn’t do it safely.”
As long as Gemini continues to prioritize safety, it will grow “side-by-side” with Love’s—which regularly establishes new locations every year—Gravely predicted. The fuel haul already is “running hard and using every asset,” Lash said, and Bergevin sees no end to diesel demand, despite small upticks
in renewable diesel volumes—and the enthusiasm for electric vehicles in California and Washington. “We’re a long, long way from getting out of the diesel truck market,” Bergevin said. “Quite frankly, I don’t think we’ll see it commercially, in any viable way, in my career. So it’s a ways out there yet.”
A reputation for safety also increases third-party inquiries, and Heil trophies are a powerful recruiting tool. “People do their research now, and there are a lot of options out there,” Gravely said. “So winning helps us in recruiting, and more so from a tenure standpoint. When people come here, they realize we are what we say.
“Gemini’s the real deal—from the safety culture to the family environment.”
The company plans to ensure all 2,000-plus employees share in the success with celebratory lunches and other “goodies” throughout the year, said Bergevin—who intends to keep the good times rolling for North America’s safest private fleet as long as he’s in charge. “I eat and breathe this stuff,” Bergevin said. “I love doing it, and I love being part of this company and leading the Gemini team.
“So I’m not planning on going anywhere anytime soon.” BT
EnTrans CEO Ryan Rockafellow presents Gemini’s Heil trophy.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
From left to right are Gemini leaders Todd Singleton, Andy Lash, Brady Conine, Brent Bergevin, Jeremy Gravely, and Jim Dillon.
Photo: Gemini Motor Transport
Super story
HR Ewell—with 155 Super Flo trailers sourced from Hy-Tec—is one of Heil’s oldest tank truck customers
by Jason McDaniel
Everybody has a story. The one bulk transportation veteran Calvin Ewell—president of Pennsylvania-based H.R. Ewell—likes to tell suggests his family might be Heil Trailer’s oldest existing tank truck customer. It starts with a new batch of petroleum trailers Heil builders couldn’t roll off the assembly line.
“They were having trouble finding axles, so my father [who was 13 at the time], his brother [who drove], and a friend delivered axles to Heil’s old Milwaukee plant for my grandfather [John S. Ewell, then affiliated with Matlack] so they could finish the trailers.
On the way home, they went to the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair.
“So I know my grandfather was buying Heil tanks at least as far back as 1933.”
Calvin’s dad, Herman R. Ewell, continued that relationship after founding food-grade hauler H.R. Ewell in 1946; and Calvin solidified it in 1988 when he helped three former Heil employees establish Hy-Tec after Heil closed the repair shop at its old Lancaster facility. Today, H.R. Ewell transports sugar, oil, chocolate, and flour with 280 power units and 630 liquid and dry bulk tank trailers, including the largest modern fleet of Heil Super Flo trailers in the U.S.; and Hy-Tec is the biggest tank trailer sales and service specialist in the Northeast—and a key distributor in Heil-parent EnTrans International’s nationwide network of 45-plus dealers.
“Our long-running partnership with Hy-Tec and H.R. Ewell is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision,” said Jake Radish, chief commercial officer at EnTrans. “From the early days of Ewell’s interaction with Heil’s manufacturing facility to the creation of Hy-Tec, our journey together has been marked by innovation and excellence. This long-standing relationship has driven significant advancements in tanker design and functionality, particularly with the Super Flo trailers.
“The mutual trust and respect we’ve built over the decades continues to fuel our collective success and industry leadership.”
HR Ewell legacy
The Ewell family’s transportation roots date to 1905, when Calvin’s grandfather
From left to right are HR Ewell president Calvin Ewell, Hy-Tec president Cindy Fittery, and HR Ewell VP Scott Ewell.
Photos: HR Ewell & Hy-Tec
started hauling canned milk with a horse and wagon. The company he founded, John S. Ewell, Inc., operated until 2002. Herman briefly joined his dad after World War II, then started H.R. Ewell as a fuel hauler before transitioning to milk in 1951. H.R. Ewell was one of the first tank truck carriers to pull liquid sugar loads out of New York City refineries in the mid-50s. Liquid sweeteners led to syrups and granulated sugars, then edible oils, chocolates, and more. The company now employs 210 company drivers and 50 owner-operators and serves Northeast and Midwest customers from 13 terminals and satellite locations.
The trailer fleet, with extra units for pre-loads and drop-and-hooks, includes 475 stainless steel liquid tanks for sweeteners, chocolates, and oils; and 155 aluminum pneumatics for dry sugar and flour. The dry bulk fleet, which includes 20 vacuum pneumatics, expands regularly—and all but seven are distinctive Super Flo trailers. “I run them forever,” said Scott Ewell, vice president of vehicle maintenance, and Calvin’s son.
“I haven’t really sold any. We just keep adding to the fleet.”
With Scott’s help, H.R. Ewell continues to expand. And he’s one of three children who all are determined to further the family business—as Calvin always dreamed. Steve serves as VP of sales and Mark oversees dispatching. “Different people have approached me to sell, but I wanted to offer my sons the same opportunity my father gave me—to take over the company, run the operation, and grow the fleet,” Calvin said.
Food-grade hauler HR Ewell, based in East Earl, Pennsylvania, runs 280 power units and 630 liquid and dry bulk trank trailers for sugars, oils, and chocolates.
Hy-Tec proficiency
Bob Maser, who was a Heil salesman, founded Hy-Tec in 1986. Calvin; two other Heil-trained partners, Phil Butt and Ray Preiss; and real estate agent Cindy Fittery helped jumpstart the operation two years later with the opening of their Lancaster facility. Fittery ended up staying on and rose to president in 2012.
Hy-Tec stocks more than $1 million in parts, sells over 200 new and used tank trailers each year, and is one of 17 active Super Flo dealers in Heil’s network. And with 10 employees from Heil’s old Lancaster manufacturing facility—which closed in 2003—Hy-Tec’s ASME- and R-stamp-certified, code and non-code maintenance and repair services, and DOT-approved HM-183 cargo tank inspections, are second to none. “Our techs are the best in the country because they trained with Heil,” Fittery said.
H.R. Ewell performs routine PMs at its four shops but sends major jobs to Hy-Tec, which boasts 13 bays. “If someone drops a trailer and bends the dolly or dings the barrel, we send it over there. They can cut off the frame or remove an entire section of a tank and weld in a new piece, and make it good as new,” Calvin said.
Hy-Tec also offers routine component installations, and precision customization.
HR Ewell runs 20 Heil Super Flo vacuum pneumatic dry bulk trailers for transloading operations.
The carrier runs 155 Super Flos for dry sugar and flour—all sourced from Hy-Tec.
“We do everything from changing out probes in gas trailers to full suspension work and complete tank restorations,” Fittery said.
Super Flo advantage
Hy-Tec sells about 20 Super Flos annually, with many of them going to H.R. Ewell, which purchased six in 2023 and 18 this year. “You don’t see many people in our industry running the Flo, but it’s
been around for years, and the longevity of the vessel itself is amazing,” Scott said. “I’m running Flos from the late 80s, and they still go up and down the road every day with no problems—and zero downtime.”
Scott is unsure why more fleets don’t run Super Flos. He credits savvy marketing for the early proliferation of the more recognizable J&L-style dry bulker adopted by larger, well-known tank truck carriers. Fittery figures regional distribution played a role. In any case, J&L’s pneumatics and vacuum pneumatics—now part of Heil—maintain steady production and sales volumes, reflecting enduring demand.
But supporters say modern Super Flo trailers are underappreciated.
The cargo tank’s frameless, monocoque structure adds strength, Fittery contends, allowing it to withstand twisting and turning; and its rounded design eliminates exposed piping and components—cannisters are enclosed on vacuum units—boosting fuel efficiency, discouraging corrosion, and simplifying cleaning, Scott insists. “They’re indestructible,” Calvin agreed. “They cost more, but they hold up well on the streets of New Jersey and New York, with the rough terrain. They do a fantastic job.”
The Super Flo weighs more than other pneumatic dry bulkers, but lightweighting efforts have reduced the difference; and with 53,000 lbs. of capacity, H.R. Ewell is hauling the same load weights as its competitors, Scott shared. The trailer also is more expensive than competing options, but continuous improvements at Heil’s facility in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico— where the OEM produced 340 Super Flos last year—have decreased trailer build times and expenses, increasing the vessel’s overall value.
“When I spec trailers, I don’t really look at price,” Scott explained. “I’m not going to buy the cheapest trailer in the market. I want a good-looking trailer, the quality, and the relationships I have with dealers and trailer builders. We’re not all price-driven here like you see with some larger companies.”
Productive
relationship
Their long-standing connection continues to benefit H.R. Ewell, Hy-Tec, and Heil.
H.R. Ewell began buying Super Flos in the late 1960s, when Butler still made the trailers, so its expertise runs deep, and the carrier has helped Heil perfect the trailer’s design since it purchased the line from Penske in 1983. The partners recently worked together to integrate Super Flo light boxes in the rear head for protection and weight savings. They’ve also joined forces to advance aerator lines and hopper valves; improve walkway, ladder, and manhole configurations; and custom-build equipment.
Additionally, Heil can quickly work in smaller runs for priority customers thanks to flexible production lines in Juarez.
“It’s not a cookie-cutter operation like some of their competitors run,” Scott asserted.
Hy-Tec provides H.R. Ewell with equally valuable services, including equipment spec’ing consultation, warranty work, and trailer repairs that
allow the carrier to operate safely and profitably. “Buying and maintaining all the equipment you need for major cargo tank repairs would be cost prohibitive for us, because we’d only use it once in a while,” Calvin said. “Over there, it’s utilized daily.”
So is Heil’s network of dealer service centers—a key perk for Hy-Tec, and tank truckers with over-the-road operations. “It’s a productive collaboration of knowledge between Hy-Tec and Heil,” Fittery said.
“And that, in turn, strengthens the relationships with our customers.”
Their mutually beneficial association also is helping the Ewell family— one of Heil’s oldest patrons—continue to thrive. They’re currently building a state-of-the-art new facility at their East Earl, Pennsylvania, headquarters with upgraded amenities, 20,000 sq. ft. of office space, four 200-ft.-long bays, and two 100-ft.-long bays with service pits. “It’s a very good relationship that my grandfather started, my dad continued—and my brothers and I intend to preserve,” Scott concluded. BT
HR Ewell is building a new HQ facility, above, in East Earl in a two-phase project expected to take several years. Heil built the liquid sweetener tanker at left in the 1980s at its old plant in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
New horizons
Bulk haulers convene in Charlotte for pre-election edition of industry’s biggest show
by Jason McDaniel
This pre-election edition of Tank Truck Week is so pivotal that National Tank Truck Carriers secured an appearance by Chris Spear, president and CEO of American Trucking Associations, who will share his thoughts on key legislative and regulatory issues, and how they could impact bulk haulers post-Election Day.
Tank Truck Week 2024 runs Sept. 29-Oct. 2 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Spear’s first trip to the event is set for Oct. 1 at the Charlotte Convention Center.
“It’s great to have him come in and provide an overview of the greater trucking industry, and the issues they’re focused on, and then dovetail that into our segment of the industry, and what ATA is anticipating coming out of this election,” Ryan Streblow, NTTC president and CEO, told Bulk Transporter.
NTTC welcomed 900 stakeholders to the tank truck sector’s largest gathering last year in Indianapolis. Association leaders are aiming for at least 1,000 attendees—a target they hit two years ago—in Charlotte, and pre-registration numbers that were up 300%
year-over-year in August are a positive sign. “We’re going to have another solid event, and solid showing,” Streblow predicted.
“I’m really looking forward to it.
“The city of Charlotte did a great job of improving its offering, so it could bring in an event of our size, while maintaining a reasonable footprint. They have an excellent convention center, and great downtown attractions.”
The conference and trade show are packed with segment-specific content, including the presentations by Spear and keynote speaker Brian Kilmeade, a co-host on Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends; beefed-up educational track sessions; critical committee meetings; and eye-opening supplier exhibits—all
National Tank Truck Carriers will host Tank Truck Week 2024 at the Charlotte Convention Center.
newly aligned for maximum utility.
“Tank Truck Week has exploded into an event that attracts not only maintenance folks, but executives; owners; purchasers; safety, maintenance, and operations personnel; and tank cleaning professionals,” Streblow said. “So, what we’ve done is bundle sessions and committee meetings to allow carriers to bring in people on different days.
“Now, it’s executive-oriented on the front end, and as we go through the week, it picks up a maintenance, tank wash, and safety-and-security flavor.”
The “Navigating New Horizons in Tank Trucking” agenda boasts 12 educational sessions that offer “tremendous value,” including a mock roadside trailer inspection, a live demonstration of how a criminal can hack a trailer’s brake controller, an update on pulsating brake lamp exemptions, and a roundtable discussion on enhancing confined-space safety. “We’ve had challenges within our industry the last couple of years, so our association and membership want to place a major focus on assisting individuals with confined-space entries— to make sure accidents don’t happen,” Streblow said.
Most of the committees, including the Cargo Tank Risk Management, Dry Bulk and Food Grade, Chemical, and Workforce committees, convene on the first two days; and the general and educational sessions take place on the last two days. The exceptions are the Tank Maintenance and Cleaning Council and Safety and Security Council meetings slated for Oct. 2, just before the event’s
Photo: Charlotte Convention Center
Grand Award winners celebrate during last year’s safety banquet.
finale: The annual Safety and Security Council awards banquet, where NTTC will celebrate this year’s elite safety professionals.
NTTC also reserved 200,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space inside the Charlotte Convention Center, where 80 vendors were registered by Aug. 15. “We opened
the floor April 2, and half the booths sold out in 24 hours, so we went back to the city to expand our footprint,” Streblow said. “It’ll be bigger than it was last year.” The revised schedule also allows suppliers and sponsors to spread out meetings with prospects at all levels, from chairmen and CEOs to
2024 Agenda schedule
Sunday, Sept. 29
• 4-6 p.m.: Cargo Tank Risk Management Committee (CTRMC) meeting
• 4:15-5:15 p.m.: Young Executives Committee and first-time attendee meeting
• 5:30-7 p.m.: Political Action Committee (PAC) reception
Monday, Sept. 30
• 8:30-9:0 a.m.: Dry Bulk and Food Grade Committee meeting
• 9:45-10:45 a.m.: Chemical Committee meeting
• 11 a.m.-noon: Workforce Development Committee meeting
• 1-2 p.m.: Energy Services Committee meeting
• 2:15-3:15 p.m.: Advocacy Committee meeting
• 3:30-4:30 p.m.: General session
• 4:30-6:30 p.m.: Exhibit hall open, Act 1 grand opening reception
Tuesday, Oct. 1
• 8:45-9:45 a.m.: Regional Safety and Security Council meeting
• 10-10:45 a.m.: General session— Trucking industry update with
Chris Spear, American Trucking Associations president and CEO
• 10:45-11 a.m.: General session— Keynote speaker Brian Kilmeade, co-host of Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends
• 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Exhibit hall open
• 2-3 p.m.: Board of Directors meeting
• 3-3:45 p.m.: Educational sessions—“Rear Pulsating Amber Light Exemption Success: The Groendyke Transport Experience and Path Forward” with Chris Pape and Elle Slattery; “Enhancing Confined Space Safety Culture: A Roundtable Discussion” with Jerry Curl, Ed Wickham, and Doug Vineyard; and “How to Get Involved With Your Local Schools: It is Easier Than You Think!” with Lindsey Trent and Tyler Bones
• 4-4:30 p.m.: Educational sessions—“DataQs: How to Analyze, Create, and Successfully Navigate the Process” with Adam Murphy; Accelerating Success with ACE Services: Innovative Entry-Level Driver Training Solutions for a Safer Culture” with Andrea Pavon; and a tank wash and maintenance sessions TBD
vice presidents, managers, and sales reps, Streblow maintained.
“Everyone’s time is incredibly valuable, and we want to give people the biggest bang for their buck—in an adequate amount of time—while still meeting the industry’s needs across the board and providing valuable content.” BT
• 4:30-6:30 p.m.: Exhibit hall open
Wednesday, Oct. 2
• 9:45-10:30 a.m.: Educational sessions—“Tank Trailer Mock Roadside Inspection” with Sgt. Joe Berrong; “A Gallon of Diesel Costs How Much?!: Trucking Faces Inflation” with Lytx; and a tank wash and maintenance session TBD
• 10:45-11:30 a.m.: Educational sessions—“Exposing Vulnerabilities: A Live Hack Demonstration on Tank Truck Trailers” with Ben Gardiner; “Underride Protection and Beyond: A TTMA Update” with John Freiler; and “Set the Stage for Change in Your Company” with McLeod
• 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Exhibit hall open
• 1:30-2:30 p.m.: Tank Maintenance and Cleaning Council meeting
• 2:45-3:45 p.m.: Safety and Security Council meeting
• 6-8:30 p.m.: Annual Safety and Security Council banquet (reception 6-6:30 p.m., dinner and awards 6:30-8:30 p.m.)
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
ATA President and CEO Chris Spear will make his first trip to Tank Truck Week. Photo: Jason McDaniel | Bulk Transporter
2024 Exhibitors list (as
Berrys Technologies
Betts
BTI (See ad p. 5)
Cloud Sellers (a division of Spraying Systems) 913
Comptank 902
Corrosion Companies 1602
Cottingham and Butler 1513
Cygnus Instruments 1012
D&W Diesel 918/920 Dixon Bayco (See ad p. 33)
Exosent
EQUIPMENT NEWS
Hendrickson acquires Reyco Granning business
Hendrickson recently acquired Reyco Granning’s suspension business, which is based in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, from Reyco Granning and its private-equity parent, MAT Capital. Reyco Granning specializes in manufacturing and marketing suspension solutions for heavy and medium-duty vehicles. The acquisition includes close to 100 employees, Hendrickson reported.
“We are excited about this acquisition, as it provides a platform for Hendrickson to expand our reach and manufacturing footprint,” said Matt Joy, Hendrickson president and CEO. “Reyco Granning will enhance our overall product portfolio and ultimately better serve our customers in the commercial vehicle industry. We look forward to promoting the Reyco Granning brand.”
Reyco Granning’s primary product lines include suspension solutions for motorhomes, commercial trucks, emergency response vehicles, specialty trailers, buses, and the aftermarket sector. The Reyco Granning brand will continue to operate independently under its existing name for the foreseeable future, maintaining its market identity and ensuring continuity in operations and customer service, Hendrickson said.
OPW adds new overfill monitoring system
OPW Engineered Systems recently introduced the 8800 Series Overfill and Ground Monitoring System.
The 8800 Series is an advanced solution for terminal operators looking to make their filling processes safer and more intuitive, OPW said. It offers features that can be integrated into existing terminal-automation systems.
“Terminal operators are seeking solutions that optimize their loading processes,” David Jacobson, OPW global product manager, said in a news release. “The 8800 Series Monitoring System achieves this by utilizing pictograms and LED lights to quickly communicate the loading status, regardless of language.
“Additionally, the 8870 model is engineered utilizing the latest hardware and software technologies, providing advanced features that can be incorporated into today’s terminal-automation systems.”The 8800 Series monitoring system uses “state-of-the-art” electronics and software technology, which are housed in a sleek cabinet up to half the size and weight of other monitor products. It also possesses an IP68 weatherproof rating. Three models are available for users to address overfill-prevention and ground-monitoring requirements:
■ 8870: Uses an industry-first OLED display and LED indicator lights for a simpler and intuitive loading process. The 8870 can be integrated into existing terminal-automation systems
■ 8851N: Utilizes easy-to-understand LED indicator lights to communicate ground and overfill status, which provides the driver with a simple, intuitive loading process
■ 8814: Provides ground verification through a simple solution with intuitive LED indicator lights that easily communicate ground status to the driver
Gardner Denver expands liquid bulk transfer solutions
Gardner Denver recently launched the new GD360 liquid bulk package, a bolt-and-go solution designed to elevate the efficiency of liquid transfer processes. The GD360 integrates the GD70 piston compressor, a hydraulic cooler, and either a gear or vane product pump—all in one easy-to-install package.
The GD360 delivers powerful performance and gives operators flexibility, with an optional auxiliary model capable of up to 30 gpm and 3,000 psi for running additional hydraulically driven equipment on the tractor/trailer.
Key features and benefits of the GD360 package include:
■ Forward and reverse variable speed pump control as standard with easy-to-grip control handle.
■ Quiet, all-stainless-steel enclosure for up to 5 dBA of noise reduction and elite corrosion resistance.
■ Simultaneous pump/compressor operation capability for faster offloading; no need to stop pumping to re-pressurize.
■ Staggered, spacious pump connections for easy hook up and detachment.
■ A compressor airflow indicator allowing the operator to adjust to known positions.
■ Simple push/pull compressor activation knob.
■ Lightest-weight package on the market, as light as 402 lbs. (standard package with HGP125 gear pump).
■ Drill or no-drill mounting options.“The GD360 was designed for cost-effective installation and hassle-free serviceability,” the company said in a news release. “The GD360’s boltand-go design drastically reduces installation time to under four hours—far less than traditional systems that can take up to 36 hours. Traditional systems often require brackets and hydraulic hoses made for each system component, accumulating numerous hours of shop labor.”
The GD360 also is easy to service, Gardner Denver said. Routine maintenance like air filter replacement and hydraulic oil filling requires no tools, and a socket wrench is all that is needed for the hydraulic oil filter. No draining is necessary. An annual service kit also is available for purchase. Each kit includes a relief valve, synthetic compressor oil, a hydraulic oil filter element, and an air filter element.
The GD360 comes with a standard warranty consisting of 12 months from date of initial use or 18 months from date of shipment from the company’s manufacturing facility, whichever occurs first. This warranty covers all major components such as the compressor, hydraulic cooler, and product pump, as well as all other package components.
CUSTOM AIR MANIFOLDS
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• Up to 10 compartments
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• Standard or air-actuated product returns
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Auxiliary package
Standard package
EVENT CALENDAR
■ September 15-17, 2024
2024 Trimble Insight Tech Conference + Expo, The Venetian Resort, Las Vegas, Nev. transportation.trimble.com/insight
■ September 15-19, 2024
ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Fall Meeting and National Technician Skills Competition (TMCSuperTech), Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, N.C. trucking.org/events
■ September 15-21, 2024
ATA’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week trucking.org/events
■ September 17-18, 2024
International Milk Haulers Association (IMHA) Leadership Summit, Middleton, Wis. milkhauler.org
■ September 28-October 2, 2024
National Tank Truck Carriers’ 2024 Tank Truck Week, The Westin Charlotte and Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, N.C. tanktruck.org
■ January 20-23, 2025
Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week
2025, Gaylord Texas Resort & Convention Center, Grapevine, Texas hdaw.org
■ January 29-31, 2025
National Tank Truck Carriers’ Executive Forum, Trump National Doral Miami, Miami, Fla. tanktruck.org
■ February 6-7, 2025
PACEshow Petroleum and Convenience Expo, Kansas City paceshow.com
■ February 18-20, 2025
Western Petroleum Marketers Association (WPMA) Expo, TBA wpma.com
■ March 2025
National Tank Truck Carriers’ Call on Washington tanktruck.org
ADVERTISERS INDEX
■ March 4-7, 2025
National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) Work Truck Week 2022, Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Ind. worktruckweek.com
■ March 10-13, 2025
ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition, Music City Center, Nashville, Tenn.
trucking.org/events
■ March 27-29, 2025
Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Ky. truckingshow.com
■ April 23-25, 2025
NISTM’s 27th Annual International Aboveground Storage Tank Conference & Trade Show, Orlando, Fla. nistm.org
PEOPLE IN THE NEWS
Fleets
Colonial Group recently promoted two members of its executive leadership team, naming Bob Kenyon chief operating officer and Ryan Chandler chief commercial officer. Kenyon also retains his position as president of Colonial Oil Industries, and Chandler retains his position as president of Colonial Terminals. Kenyon boasts nearly 30 years of experience in fuel operations, most recently serving as VP of sales and marketing for Renewable Energy Group before joining Colonial in 2022. Chandler joined Colonial as VP of business development in 2011.
Eagle Transport Corporation recently named Scott Rose terminal manager for the team in Greensboro, North Carolina. Rose brings almost three decades of petroleum transportation industry experience to Eagle. In his new role, Rose will help grow Eagle’s presence in Greensboro, where the carrier hauls chemicals, dry bulk, and petroleum.
Suppliers
Grote Industries recently added Andrew Grose to its executive team as vice president of Grote Networks. With over 14 years of experience at Whirlpool, Grose has held various leadership positions, most recently serving as COO and general manager of Yummly, a Whirlpool subsidiary. Before joining Whirlpool, Grose spent five years at Nissan Automotive in various engineering roles for passenger vehicles.
OPW recently named Chuck Liebal the new general manager of OPW Propane Energy Solutions In this role, Liebal will be responsible for developing and managing the integration of the RegO Products brands into the OPW organization and OPW PES business unit. Liebal, who has more than 20 years of experience in the retail fueling industry, moves to OPW PES after working at OPW Retail Fueling since 2010, most recently as manager of product management from 2017-23. Additionally, Chad Thomas will continue as vice president and GM of OPW Clean Energy Solutions.
Rob Sandlin, president of Florida Rock and Tank Lines, recently celebrated 40 years with the Jacksonville, Florida-based tank truck carrier. Sandlin joined Florida Rock in 1984 as a management trainee in the pricing department after graduating from the University of Tennessee. He spent 10 years in sales and operations, moved to Jacksonville as a senior vice president in 1993, took over as president in 2003, and added CEO to his title in 2017. Sandlin served NTTC’s 2021-22 chairman and the Florida Trucking Association’s 2018 chairman before joining United Petroleum Transports (UPT) as Florida Rock president last year after UPT agreed to acquire the formerly publicly traded company for $65.9 million.
Associations
The American Trucking Associations’ National Accounting and Finance Council recently selected Melissa Ruby, Melton Trucks Lines director of finance and corporate controller, and Juli Dorrough, J.B. Hunt vice president of tax, to serve as the council’s chair and vice chair, respectively. Ruby joined Melton in 2010. She manages relationships with lenders, handles compliance reporting, oversees financial reporting and tax requirements, streamlines processes, and optimizes internal controls. Dorrough has over 30 years of experience in many areas of tax compliance and audit management, including state and federal corporate income tax, sales/use tax, property tax, state excise taxes, federal/state payroll taxes and equity compensation.
Trelleborg recently names Juergen Bosch the business area president for Trelleborg Sealing Solutions. He will work with Trelleborg experts to continually strengthen the company’s presence in the markets and industries it serves. Previously, Bosch headed global aerospace and industrial Europe within Trelleborg Sealing Solutions and has held various senior positions in the business area since 2010.
Andrew Mulvey recently returned to Tremcar USA as the regional sales manager for the manufacturer’s Midwest region. Mulvey previously served as a parts manager at Tremcar before spending two years as a sales executive with Girard Equipment.
Government
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently named Vinn White deputy administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration White also will serve as the agency’s acting administrator, FMCSA said. He follows Sue Lawless, who served as deputy administrator and interim head after Robin Hutcheson—the first Senate-confirmed FMCSA administrator since Raymond Martinez resigned in 2019—left her post in January.
Grose
Kenyon Chandler
Rose
Ruby Dorrough
Sandlin
White
Liebal Bosch
Mulvey
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