American Towman Magazine - October 2025 by dortiz-towman

The Walkaround

Dennie Ortiz

Publisher

Stronger Together

In business, it’s not just what you know, but who you know, and the towing industry is no different. While competition can be fierce among local towing companies, forging positive connections with neighboring tow companies can provide lasting benefits. Connecting with people in your field that understand the same rigors and challenges you face can be a valuable asset.

In this issue, we present articles that provide guidance as to how and where to make these connections, and the best

way to get the most from them. First-time contributing writer and longtime tow boss, Joe DiMarco, shares his firsthand knowledge of making connections with fellow towers and suppliers at American Towman shows, and the benefits he’s reaped through the years. Stephanie Marchese reinforces this message with real-world examples of individual towing companies teaming up, ultimately strengthening their businesses both in reputation and financial success.

Building on the past few months coverage of Artificial Intelligence, Jade Fickert offers a tower’s perspective on how it can be advantageous to your business. Jade offers specific applications for this technology that can be put to use immediately for streamlining operations.

On a somber note, which unfortunately occurs too frequently in this industry, Randall Resch pays tribute to a heroic towman from South Africa, Kavish Ramnarayan. Resch reports on the vehicle crash that took this towman’s life, while looking back at two incidents in which Kavish is credited with saving the life of others. Through Randall’s efforts, Kavish’s name will be added to the Wall of the Fallen this year at International Towing Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Safety remains a top priority for our editor, Resch, whose second article focuses on the unique challenges of water recoveries. He cites actual incidents that tow operators encountered, highlighting the pitfalls faced, and shares the recommendations these recovery veterans offered.

In the spirit of this swampy theme, this month’s featured recovery showcases a challenging job where two tow companies joined forces to haul a 196,000-pound casualty from the Ohio River. It was an extraordinary effort that required vast resources and long hours to complete.

This year is going to be very special at the AT Exposition in Baltimore. Be sure to check out what’s happening in the Official Show Program guide beginning on page 35.

Hope you enjoy this issue, and we look forward to seeing you in Baltimore. As always, stay safe out there!

Steve Temple Editor

Contaminated Firebox Water

We recently received a letter from Mr. Howard Dickman of Chandler Tire Center in Chandler, Oklahoma regarding an article in our September, 2025 issue about the Firebox EV containment unit (“Billing With Confidence”, p. 72). While excited to read about what others are doing to store damaged EVs and extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire, Howard noted that he was disappointed that we left out any mention of what to do with the thousands of gallons of contaminated water left in the Firebox.

In response, I thanked him for his observations, and pointed out a brief reference to this aspect in the caption on p. 74. Space limitations didn’t permit going into further detail, but it certainly merits some follow-up.

To sum up, firefighters use the Firebox’s firehose ports to flood the EV to just above the battery line with water, cooling the thermal runaway of the batteries. Firefighters will also quickly douse any flames that may be involved within the passenger area.

The Firebox requires considerably less water to suppress an EV fire, and is much more effective than hosing down the under-carriage from a distance. The Firebox is self-contained and securely holds the contaminated firewater.

A discharge port allows the firewater to be drained by a disposal company for safe removal. Initial testing may be required to establish a waste profile by industry experts such as ESA.

For one possible disposal source, check out www.hazardouswasteexperts.com. Overall, an EV’s hazard containment isn’t just storage. It’s a specialty safety and mitigation service, and absolutely billable by a tow company.

Subscription: Single Copy: $10 1 yr: $60 – 2 yrs: $110 International: $75 & $140 itowman.com americantowman.com

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Stricter Towing Rules Under New Law

Towing companies in Connecticut will soon operate under tighter restrictions as new legislation takes effect October 1, 2025. The law doubles the time operators must hold vehicles valued under $1,500 before sale, from 15 days to 30, and adds extra requirements to notify owners before auctioning. Companies must also accept credit card payments, ending cash-only practices. Other changes include limitations on private property towing. Vehicles with expired permits or registrations can no longer be removed without notice. Towers may only tow immediately if a car blocks traffic, a fire hydrant, or a handicap space.

State DMV chair Tony Guerrera said the law was designed to protect residents, noting that inexpensive cars often serve as a “lifeline.” But for towing businesses, the reforms mean longer storage periods, added paperwork, and new payment processing requirements. Industry leaders warn the changes could reduce revenue and increase administrative costs for operators already facing tight margins.

Source: the-sun.com

High LTV Ratios May Mean More Repos

As auto lenders take on greater risk with soaring loan-to-value ratios (LTV), towing companies could be on the front line of a new wave of repossessions. According to TransUnion’s Q2 2025 Credit Industry Insights Report, 53% of used-car loans now carry LTV ratios above 120%, up from 38% in 2022. Loans exceeding 140% nearly doubled in the same period, from 17% to 31%. Independent finance companies report the highest averages at 139%, followed by credit unions at 128% and banks/captive lenders at 115%. Rising ratios mean buyers often owe far more than the car is worth, creating negative equity throughout much of the loan. Longer loan terms, often beyond 72 months, add to the strain and raise default risks.

For the towing industry, higher defaults could bring more repossession work, but also challenges. Lenders may demand faster recoveries and lower rates, while compliance rules tighten and storage yards face capacity issues. Still, strong lender partnerships could give towers steady repo and transport contracts in a competitive market.

Source: news.dealershipguy.com

Montana Dedicates Towing Memorial

After five years of planning, Montana’s first towing memorial was dedicated in Three Forks, honoring operators killed in the line of duty. The project began after the 2020 deaths of Casey Allen and Nick Visser, two operators struck while assisting at an accident near Columbus.

“This is a big deal for the Montana Tow Truck Association,” said Lori Tribble. “We’ve built a gorgeous memorial with beautiful walls, an eagle sculpture, and most importantly, the names of our fallen operators.”

lives to help others. May it also remind motorists to slow down and move over when approaching stopped vehicles.”

In addition to Allen and Visser, the memorial recognizes three other tow truck drivers lost in Montana. Governor Greg Gianforte, who attended the ceremony, said the site “…stands in honor of tow operators who risk their

Scott Wolff, association president, emphasized the dual purpose: honoring lives and educating the public. “This memorial ensures those taken in the line of duty are not forgotten,” he said.

Source: billingsmix.com

Tow Operator Featured on NBC News

NBC News recently featured Roe Atia, the woman behind ABBA Towing in Fairlawn, NJ. Over the last several years, Roe has earned American Towman’s prestigious ACE Award for Achievement in Customer Excellence, which placed her among the top 1% of towing companies nationwide. Known for her bright smile and unstoppable work ethic, Roe is breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated industry.

“People expect the big guy with cigarettes—and you don’t get that in my company,” she joked in the NBC interview.

Roe co-founded ABBA Towing in 2008, named after the legendary Swedish band, with her late husband, building the business from the ground up. After his passing in 2011 from pancreatic cancer, Roe faced a pivotal

choice: give up or take the wheel herself. She chose the latter, balancing the demands of running a towing fleet with raising two children. From pushing stranded vehicles to hauling massive trucks, Roe thrives daily in her role as a tow operator.

“Every day I start all over again,” she said. “It’s going to be a great day.”

Source: nbcnewyork.app.link

The Montana Tow Truck Memorial honors five fallen tow operators.

ABBA Towing’s Roe Atia, a multi-time ACE Award winner, was highlighted by NBC News for her towing excellence.

Indiana Council Approves Towing Changes

West Lafayette city in Indiana adopted new rules governing how towing companies handle after-hours vehicle retrievals. The ordinance, sponsored by Mayor Erin Easter, follows the enactment of Indiana House

Bill 1390 earlier this year.

The change requires towing companies to make vehicles available for pickup outside of normal business hours and sets a maximum fee of $68 for after-hours retrieval. Previously, motorists whose cars were towed late on a Friday, for example, often had to wait until Monday to reclaim their vehicle, incurring multiple days of storage charges.

Easter said the measure is designed to protect residents from unnecessary costs and delays. “Now you don’t have to wait,” she explained. “You can go get your car immediately and reduce potential additional fees. It helps protect customers, which is good.”

Source: purdueexponent.org

California Moves Toward New Towing, Storage Rules

California is close to passing AB 987, a bill that would tighten rules on vehicle towing and storage fees. The measure, authored by Assembly member LaShae Sharp-Collins, recently cleared the Senate’s consent calendar after unanimous committee approval, and is expected to reach Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk.

AB 987 expands the list of “presumptively unreasonable” fees that tow operators cannot charge. These include administrative, security, dolly, and gate fees—except in specific after-hours cases—as well as excessive holiday storage rates. The bill also limits fees for vehicles towed during emergencies, and prohibits charging when repair shops are closed or on holidays.

Under the bill, towing and storage charges must remain “reasonable” and comparable to rates set by public

agencies. Insurers remain responsible for covering reasonable charges, while facilities must release vehicles promptly after payment to avoid extra fees. The legislation follows increased scrutiny of towing practices and aims to protect consumers from surprise charges while ensuring clarity for collision repair and storage facilities.

Source: autobodynews. com and leginfo.legislature.ca.gov

Texas ‘Slow Down’ Law Takes Effect

Starting September 1, 2025, Texas drivers must take extra care when approaching flashing lights on the roadside. Under Senate Bill 305, motorists are required to either move over one lane or reduce their speed by at least 20 miles per hour below the posted limit. On streets with a 25-mph limit, drivers must slow to 5 mph.

This expansion of the long-standing “Move Over or Slow Down” law aims to protect not only police and EMS, but also tow truck drivers, TxDOT crews, utility workers, parking enforcement, animal control, and garbage collectors.

Penalties are steep: a first offense carries fines up to $1,250. If a violation results in injury or death, drivers could face fines up to $4,000, criminal charges, or jail time.

Source: grada3.com

Tow Truck Driver Arrested for Theft of Government Vehicle

A South Los Angeles tower was arrested on a federal complaint charging him with stealing government property by towing a law enforcement vehicle during an immigration-related arrest last month. Bobby Nunez, 33, faces one count of theft of government property and is expected to appear in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles.

According to the affidavit, on August 15, federal officers were arresting Tatiana Mafla-Martinez, 23, a Colombian national, in downtown Los Angeles. Officers used two government vehicles, with lights activated, to block her car near a luxury apartment complex.

Nunez allegedly interfered, pressing Martinez’s car door against an officer and cursing at agents after being told it was a federal investigation. While officers dealt with another man who also intervened, Nunez hooked up one of the government vehicles, which contained keys and a secured firearm, and towed it away.

If convicted, Nunez faces up to 10 years in federal prison. Homeland Security Investigations is leading the probe.

Source: justice.gov

West Lafayette council members (left to right) Nick Schenkel, Michelle Dennis, and Colin Lee listen as towing reforms are approved.

Cardinal Legacy and ATRI join forces to strengthen towing industry training and safety.

haNds-ON Tech

Let’s Get Hitched

But First Know What You’re Getting Into

By Terry Abajeula

It’s critical that tow truck operators understand the basic types of hitches used, and how to choose the appropriate applications for the task at hand. The work we do in the towing and recovery industry boils down to moving loads. We are either towing, transporting, lifting, up-righting or recovering loads back to the roadway. When we attach to these loads, we commonly use slings made of steel or synthetics.

The most common steel options are chain and wire rope. The most common synthetics are rope and/or flat or round straps. Most often the loads we move are vehicles and trailers, but with many tow companies diversifying, the work they do may be moving loads such as equipment, toolboxes, and containers.

There are three basic types of hitches used with variations that affect the Working Load Limit (WLL). These are the Vertical Hitch, Choker Hitch and Basket Hitch.

VERTICAL HITCH

Field Editor Terry Abejuela has 40-plus years of light-duty towing and recovery experience. He is also a light-duty Level 1 instructor for the California Tow Truck Association.

When utilizing a vertical hitch, the load is attached at one end of a straight, single sling leg. and the effort is applied to the other end of the straight, single sling leg. A single leg vertical hitch is generally used when referring to the WLL.

For example, when a 5/16 Grade 70 Transport grade chain has a WLL of 4,700 pounds, this refers to a chain that is in “as new condition” being used in a straightline vertical hitch. For chain, this if often the only WLL provided through a ratings tag or marking on the chain

On the other hand, it is common that the WLL provided on a wire or synthetic rope sling will also be rated as a vertical

The three basic hitches are the vertical, choker and basket hitch. If the WLL of the strap, chain or wire rope in a vertical hitch is 1,000 lbs, the choker hitch will have a WLL of 800 lbs. when the choke angle is a minimum of 120 degrees. If the choke angle is less, the WLL will be reduced.

hitch. The wire or synthetic rope sling may also have a tag that provides the basic WLL for a choker and basket hitch. All flat straps or round (endless loop) straps have a rating tag that provides the WLL for the vertical, choker and basket hitch.

CHOKER HITCH

When utilizing a chocker hitch with any single leg sling, whether it be chain, rope or strap, the WLL will be reduced by at least 20 percent. This 20 percent drop in the WLL applies if the choke angle is a minimum of 120 degrees. (The choke angle is the angle between the strap as it passes through the eye to form the choke.) If the choke angle is less than 120 degrees, the WLL will reduce incrementally as the choke angle becomes smaller. If the load being moved or lifted has a potential to slide in the choke, a double wrap choker should be used. This allows for more contact surface and a compression grip on the load to reduce the potential for the load to slip in the choke. Make sure that the double wrap of a chain, rope or strap is not on top of itself when it crosses under the load.

BASKET HITCH

When utilizing a basket hitch, the WLL for the hitch is double that of the vertical hitch’s WLL if the legs of the basket hitch are parallel, with a 90-degree load-to-sling angle. The WLL limit will be reduced incrementally if the load-to-sling angle is less than 90 degrees. The load does not increase but the

A true basket hitch will have a WLL that is double that of a vertical hitch, where the legs of the strap, chain or wire rope are parallel to each other, creating a 90-degree sling-to-load angle. As the load to sling angle is reduced, the WLL will be reduced. When the angle is only 30 degrees, the WLL of the strap, chain or wire rope hitch is reduced to the vertical hitch rating.

tension on each leg of the basket hitch will increase as the load-tosling angle decreases. This is due to the fact that an operator is not only lifting or moving the load, but also due to the reduced load-to-sling angle increasing the crushing load when trying to bring the sling legs together to the Center Of Gravity (COG) of the load. When the load to sling angle is reduced to 30 degrees, the WLL of the hitch is reduced to the vertical hitch rating. Charts are available to help operators determine the WLL of the chain, rope or strap based on the choke angle on a choker hitch, and the sling-to-load angle on a basket hitch. When there is a potential for the load to slip in the basket hitch, employ a double-wrap basket hitch.

Again, make sure that the double wrap of the chain, rope or strap is not on top of itself when it crosses under the load.

MULTI-LEG SLINGS

Another type of hitch used in our industry is a multi-leg sling or bridle. We commonly use a two-leg bridle for loading vehicles onto a carrier or lifting. It is not as common, but more tow companies are also using multileg bridles for lifting objects such as generators. Load-to-sling angles will significantly affect WLL when using multi-leg bridles.

With multi-leg slings, calculate the load on each leg of the sling. When the load is of uniform shape and weight, the sling legs may be of equal length and share the load equally. However, if the load has an odd shape or weight

distribution, some sling legs may need to have different lengths and support more tension than others. Load-to-sling angles must be taken into consideration as well. Ideally, have no less than a 60-degree angle. Less than 60 degrees will significantly increase the tension on each sling leg, and reduce the WLL of the sling.

NO SHOCKS

Whichever type of material and type of hitch, the WLL is based on the gradual loading of the sling. Avoid shock loads that can increase the tension on the sling by several times the actual load. This can cause damage or failure of the equipment even if the actual load is less than the WLL of the equipment.

It is important for tow truck operators to ensure that the load does not exceed the WLL of the equipment and the type of hitch required to perform the task. Understanding the WLL and how choke and sling-toload angles change the WLL is critical to safely performing the recovery tasks required of tow truck operators.

Note

Operations Editor Randall C. Resch is a retired California police officer and veteran tow business owner, manager, consultant and trainer. He writes for TowIndustryWeek.com and American Towman, is a member of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and recipient of the Dave Jones Leadership Award. Email Randy at rreschran@gmail.com.

The Dangers of Water Recovery

Don’t Get in Over Your Head

By Randall C. Resch

Water recoveries present significant hazards, putting tow operators at considerable risk when working with submerged vehicles. Unlike typical situations towers encounter, they need to be aware of the specific safety practices required before entering floodwaters, washed-out roads, or water involving vehicles that have fallen from bridges.

Rushing into deep waters without preparation and solid planning can result

in disaster. Before recovery begins, it’s critical to obtain as much information as possible about the casualty vehicle, water conditions, and hidden obstacles.

For instance, lifting a half-submerged, luxury motor coach from the water is a challenging proposition, and is certainly not for the untrained or faint of heart.

A soaking wet, 40-foot Class-A RV can weigh somewhere around 12 tons. Pulling it sideways with rotator booms takes careful calculation and skillful finesse.

Just ask Josh Schaefer, co-owner of Pulver Towing, whose fourthgeneration family tow business has served Marshall, Minnesota since 1920.

A retired firefighter tower, Josh is experienced in heavy recovery on land, water, and iced-over environments.

“In every water recovery, tow operators must have experience, or they’ll find themselves in dangerous conditions real fast,” Josh points out. “Towers, use your heads—think before you act!”

Milne Towing, based in Sparks, Nevada, had to build a platform on the rocky shoreline of Lake Tahoe before retrieving a submerged SUV.

TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN

As a prime example of making smart choices, it’s a fact that driving into standing water is risky business and harmful to truck systems. Tow trucks aren’t submarines, and can be swept away by swift moving water from a violent storm, just like any other vehicle. Towers sometimes think they aren’t susceptible to dangers associated with water recoveries. In the last 108 years of towing industry history, as many as 16 operators drowned when overwhelmed by water conditions or other water recovery related factors.

Whether it’s standing water or ocean shoreline, even the most experienced swimmers can be caught off guard when strength and stamina quickly gets sapped by struggling with frigid temperatures or strong currents.

Following are a few tragic accounts:

-In April 2008, a Tennessee tow operator drowned while attempting to extract a vehicle from a rain-swollen creek. After wading into tumbling water and then climbing atop the casualty’s rooftop, the fast-moving current spun the vehicle, sweeping him to his death.

-In October 1942, John Elliott Buell, Chief of the Bethesda, MD Volunteer Fire Department, also served as wrecker operator was responding to frantic requests of a submerged vehicle in the Potomac River. Witnessed by a police officer on scene, Buell was attaching a tow line to the car, when he was suddenly swept away and drowned.

WATERBORNE DISEASES

Another area which deserves critical consideration is polluted water, and avoiding it at all costs is a firstline of defense against illness. Towers are under no obligation to risk injury, life, or even health to conduct water recoveries. Brackish water can include fuel and chemicals, and stagnant or contaminated water might contain pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These infectious agents can lead to severe and fatal waterborne diseases. For instance, cholera, caused by bacterium, can lead to severe dehydration, stomach disorders, diarrhea, and even death in serious cases.

Accessing submerged vehicles requires that towers first analyze the recovery location, especially downstream situations where support boats may be necessary to

deliver chain, straps, cable ends, and even divers in close proximity.

Begin every recovery by having a G.O.A.L.—“Get Out And Look” wherever possible. This safety component is often ignored by towers who willingly drive and dive into flowing water and flooded roadways.

“Because what you can’t see can hurt you,” notes Josh. “Even simple recoveries are dangerous.”

For instance, a news video filmed a tower’s harrowing recovery of a vehicle that crashed atop a fire hydrant. News footage showed the vehicle’s weight had redirected immense pressure from the hydrant’s spewing water, creating a concealed underwater sinkhole. As the operator moved toward the vehicle’s door in the fast churning water, he suddenly dropped shoulder-deep into the water-filled sinkhole, requiring him to scramble to safety.

In addition, fast-moving water typically stirs up sediment, creating a murky, no-vision environment. These waterways can also be populated with gators, spiders and deadly snakes. In this situation, G.O.A.L. is especially important to identify onscene hazards such as unstable cliffs, washed-out roadways, or flooded paths. For obvious reasons, it’s recommended to never take wreckers of any size across roadways covered by water or ice. For cliff and waterside recoveries, always position wreckers well away from unstable or soft cliffside bluffs.

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

In January 2020, a Wisconsin tow business owner/operator responded to a pickup that dropped through the thin ice at a nearby lake. Upon arrival, his wrecker reportedly also dropped through thin ice. Instinctively, the tower reacted by breaking the truck’s window and swimming out of his near-fatal predicament. Local news reported the ambient temperature,

Avoid contact with polluted water from leaking automotive fluids, and other contaminants.

although near freezing, likely caused the ice to become slushy, and not thick enough to bear the wrecker’s weight.

“Special considerations require special equipment if a casualty is being lifted. Using spreader bars helps keep from crushing the casualty’s sides,” Josh Schaefer points out. He added that for ice and water recoveries, “We work side-byside with an area diver who’s a tower and experienced rigger.”

Because of dangers associated with thin ice, Josh explains, “Recovery teams use catamaran-style, twinhulled, gantry-lift boats, capable of hoisting casualty vehicles dropping through thin ice. Ice rigs like these and other designs are used throughout the upper Northeast.”

Be advised that cold water immersion can induce rapid-onset hypothermia. This can result when a body is exposed to 41°F (5°C) for more than five minutes. Accordingly, Josh advises, “Even our personnel wear immersion dry suits for protection— but not for long-term immersion.”

Tow operator uniforms typically include heavy boots, long pants, sweatshirt, jacket, and shirt. However, these clothing items are not conducive to rescue swimming. Soaked clothing gains incredible weight, restricting strokes that are necessary to survival.

Tying rope or garden hoses around one’s waist is an old-

Pulver Towing’s recovery teams use a catamaran-style, twin-hulled, gantry-lift boat, capable of hoisting casualty vehicles dropping through thin ice.

school approach. In today’s rescue environments, using water floatation equipment is a best practice for savvy operators conducting water recoveries. Flotation vests and an attached tether serve as proactive lifesaving items.

At American Towman’s Exposition in Baltimore, a previous pageant’s support truck was outfitted with a plethora of water rescue gear, including personal flotation devices (PFDs), helmets, fall protection

harnesses, rescue throw rings, bags of throw rope, and rope pulleys. Onboard, there was even an inflatable dingy and boat motor.

When water recoveries are a frequent occurrence, experienced tow owners outfit responding trucks with gear specific to water safety, such as a PFD (Personal Flotation Device). For operators working beyond bridge rails and over water surfaces, they also must be outfitted with fall protection and a Helitack harness

and lifting ring. Certain whitewater training employs a rescue technique called, “Live Bait Retrieval”, a proven technique that pulls rescuers to safety.

DIVE-QUALIFIED OPERATORS

It is essential that towers working water recoveries are diving-qualified. If a towing company does not employ any dive-qualified towers, then dispatch should have a certified diver or dive company on-call as a member of water rescue response. While best practices advise divers swim with a buddy, this may not be possible in rural areas.

In big cities, water rescues are conducted by fire department personnel, whitewater rescue teams, and lifeguard units. Dubbed as, “Assets” or “Wet Teams”, these entities are specifically trained and equipped to enter water scenarios. Prior to recovery, tow operators

Pulling half-submerged heavy motor coach sideways with rotator booms takes careful calculation and skillful finesse.

should provide hookup instructions to divers as part of the recovery plan.

As for untrained towers swimming freestyle, Josh points out that, “It’s easy to become trapped underwater when you can’t see anything. It’s important towers have a way out!”

DEADLY OBSTACLES

Situated near California’s border with Mexico is San Diego’s, Cortes Towing. Owner and rotator operator, Johnny Cortes, handles ocean recoveries. This area, well-known for its miles of steep cliffs lining the Pacific, is where Johnny snags submerged vehicles from the Ocean’s bottom, so he is well aware of the inherent dangers associated with water recoveries.

“To ‘dead lift’ a vehicle means 100-percent of the vehicle’s weight gets lifted during recovery,” Johnny says. Dead lifting during critical winching refers to the maximum

weight a winch safely lifts without using snatch blocks. “It’s important towers know that a gallon of water weighs near 8.5 pounds, not including a vehicle’s floorboards full of muck,” he notes.

During a partially or fully submerged water recovery, the process becomes increasingly complicated based on water weight created by submersion. When lifting total weight, including water weight, extreme forces may stress the wrecker’s winches, booms, and wire rope.

These details are equally important to critical rigging. Because dead lifting requires technical skills, the recovery process is not at all similar to a typical load-and-go operation. Johnny tells his operators, “Have patience and open car doors, if possible, to empty that water from the car’s interior.”

Overloading often leads to winch line failure. To that point, in July

1935, a California mechanic was working a four-person fatality after a vehicle plunged into the ocean off San Diego’s renowned Sunset Cliffs. As the wrecker labored to pull the car containing the deceased victims 45-feet up ragged cliffs, the small wrecker’s single winch line snapped during hard pull. The garageman died instantly due to head injuries from the recoiling cable striking him.

For obvious reasons, extreme resistances create dangerous, “hard pull” angles of recovery, based on the slope, water weight, rocks, trees, or other obstacles at the recovery site. Any snags or resistances created during recovery can create disconnect, tear through, or suffer winch-line separation. Always choose proper tools and rated rigging for the job. A light-duty wrecker may not be capable of overcoming resistances created by water-soaked recovery.

Equally important is ◀

strategically keeping wreckers and rotators from sinking or tipping over. In rain-swollen environments, flood zones, and saturated cliffs, select solid ground to position stabilizer pads or cribbing that increases wrecker stability. To increase stability, use outriggers, downriggers, spades, or metal “Scotch Blocks” positioned under the wrecker’s rear tires.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Water rescues require that towers evaluate all conditions and possibilities, especially when operators choose to enter water environments. Towers should ask themselves whether risking injury or death over an insurance job is worth the hazard, and consider the best practices to initiate a safe water recovery. Don’t fall victim to an accidental drowning! Know your limits, as a water recovery is a hazardous job that demands specific training. Never attempt water recovery without gaining proper experience or expert assistance.

Dallas of Horton’s Wrecker Service. What an honor to receive a trophy at American Towman’s Wrecker pageant! Judges pick winners in a number of classes, but the Best of Show trophy is solely determined based upon the voting cast by the attendees of the show.

Brian J. Riker is a thirdgeneration towman, with 30 years of experience in the ditch as a tow operator, and president of Fleet Compliance Solutions. He specializes in helping navigate the complex world of federal and state transportation regulatory compliance. He can be reached at brian.riker@ fleetcompliancesolutions.net

Pageant Prep What it Takes to be a Trophy Winner

By Brian Riker

One thing that separates towing from most other professions is the desire to have not only a highly functional vehicle, but also attractive equipment. Sure, clean trucks that look good are an effective marketing tool, but many towers go above and beyond, making their daily drives truly show-worthy, rolling works of art. Then again, somewhat unique to the towing

industry, is that towers that have a passion for preserving and showcasing the history of the industry by restoring and displaying the trucks and equipment of yesteryear.

One of the coolest aspects of working with American Towman, besides meeting and learning from all the expert towers that attend our shows each year, is judging the trucks entered into the various wrecker pageants. Especially at the renowned American Towman Exposition in Baltimore, scheduled for November 20-22, 2025. It is a thrill to look at these trucks, knowing all the hard work and countless hours that went into making them show ready.

MAKING THE GRADE

So, what makes one truck stand out

against so many great competitors?

In short, it’s the attention to detail that usually makes the difference, at least for the trucks that win any

category except Best of Show (which is solely determined based upon the voting cast by the attendees of the show).

While the judges don’t distinguish between paint or vinyl wraps, as each is graded the same without any difference in weight, they do look at the quality of the application of the paint or wrap. Orangepeel in the paint, or runs or scratches in the finish, can cost precious points, just the same as harsh edges, bubbles, bad splices/seams or peeling wraps. Whichever application is used, it must be installed properly, appear neat and clean, and look good up close, not just from 50 feet away.

Overall cleanliness is critical as well. A quick rinse and wipe down simply won’t cut it. Show-winning trucks have been thoroughly detailed from top to bottom, including the undercarriage, the nooks and crannies that are hard to reach, engine compartment, and even inside the toolboxes. Even the inside wheel wells, the frame, and underneath the trucks are thoroughly inspected, and when the points are close between pageant entrants, these areas can become the tie-breaker.

Speaking of appearance, are the wrecker’s graphics clear and concise, with an easy-to-read company name and other required regulatory information (US DOT number, TDLR, PUC, etc.)? Or is it hard to make out the company logo and message?

CABIN CONCERNS

A show-winning truck is more than just skin deep, though. The interior of the truck must be clean, clutter free, with a sense of organization that is seen as making the operator’s job easier and safer. Things like loose items, illegally mounted cell phones, tablets that obstruct the windshield, or stuff ◀

Every truck has a story to tell, and the AT judges want to hear it. Many pageant trucks have a storyboard on a stand, describing it in detail, and sometimes displaying photos of an interesting recovery.

that can move and become caught under the driver’s feet, are all carefully scrutinized. Is the cab “customer ready” or would an operator be ashamed to take his or her mom for a ride in the truck? Speaking of the windshield, is it clean and clear (both inside and out)? That goes for the side windows as well.

RIMS AND RUBBER

Chrome, aluminum or painted wheels are all judged with the same weight, and yes, a nicely painted steel wheel can earn as many points as a highly polished aluminum wheel. This is an area where the level of preparation can vary widely.

First and foremost, the tires must be matched, and properly rated for the truck’s intended purpose, as well as street legal. Judges are also unyielding in their expectations that a working class truck is fully DOT compliant.

Next, don’t just spray the outside sidewall with tire shine. Make the extra effort to spray the inside sidewall, tread, and even between the dualies. And don’t forget to cleanup the exhibit hall floor when you are done spraying tire shine. No judge wants to see the remnants of a quick shine marring the floor in front of the showpiece.

How about picking out the rocks and other debris stuck in the treads? Are there valve stem covers on each wheel?

Yes, all these items matter when selecting between two trucks that are both otherwise exceptional.

WE MEAN BUSINESS

Since this is a tow truck pageant, the business end of the truck is just as important as the chassis and interior of the cab, and maybe even more so in some categories. Some things judges look for on the business end of the truck include properly rated, well maintained, and appropriate rigging, tools, chains, accessories, and more. It may seem picky, but the difference between winning and losing can come down to having all the straps and chains

◀ CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

Properly staging the look of the truck on the show floor enhances the chance of winning a trophy.

AD INDEX

THE MAIN EVENT

WORLD’S LARGEST TOW SHOW

The world’s largest tow show and the heartbeat of the towing industry! For three unforgettable days, the floor lights up with massive trucks, cutting-edge gear, and nonstop action. It’s where deals get done, skills get sharper, and connections spark into opportunities. With over 250 exhibiting suppliers including the biggest names in towing all under one roof, this is more than a show, it’s an experience you can’t afford to miss.

EXHIBIT HALL

HOURS

Thursday, November 20

1:00 - 5:00pm Friday, November 21 11:00am - 5:00pm Saturday, November 22 11:00am - 5:00pm

Over 250 Exhibitors

Call Providers & Motor Clubs

AAA

*Agero

*Allstate Roadside

Copart Auto Auction

FleetNet America

*GEICO

Honk Technologies

IAA Insurance

Mach 1 Services

Motorcycle Towing Services

*Nation Safe Drivers (NSD)

National Automobile Club

Peddle

Penske Truck Leasing

Prof. Exch Service/24/7 Dispatch

Roadside Protect

Tesla Roadside

*TrxNow

Uhaul Roadside Assistance

Urgently

RIVIAN

TTN Fleet Solutions

Manufacturers

Custom Built Mfg.

Dual-Tech Wreckers & Carriers

Dynamic Tow. Equip. & Mfg.

Jerr-Dan Corp.

Metro Tow Trucks

Miller Industries

(Century, Chevron, Holmes, Vulcan)

NRC Industries

Zacklift

Trailer/Body Manufacturers

Contral Trailers

Doepker Industries

Kalyn Siebert

Landoll Corp.

Morgan Truck Body

Talbert Mfg.

Trail King Industries

Chassis Manufacturers

Hino Trucks

Isuzu Commercial Trucks

Wrecker/Carrier/ Trailer Distributors

Akins Body & Carrier Sales

All American Jerr-Dan

All Roads Trucks

Alpha HD Trailers

Battelini Wrecker Sales

Chevron Commercial

Crouch’s Wrecker Equipment

DeFalco’s Service Center

East Coast Truck & Trailer Sales

East Penn Truck Equipment

Hale Trailers

HD Trailers

Horizon Motor

Jutland Truck Bodies

Lift & Tow

Lucky’s Trailers

Lynch of Chicago

Maryland Wrecker & Carrier

Matheny Towing Equipment

Pine Hill Trailer

Pinnacle Trailers

Purpose Wrecker Sales

Robert Young’s NRC Sales/ Service

Royal Truck & Equipment

Worldwide Equipment Sales

Wrecker & Carrier

Zip’s / AW Direct

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 19

7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Registration Open

Pratt Street Lobby - Level 3

Baltimore Convention Center

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

WreckMaster

Rotator Training

Level 3 Meeting Rooms & Hands – on in Camden Yards

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Exhibitor Reception

Exhibitors ONLY

Phillip’s Seafood Restaurant

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 20

7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Registration Open

Pratt Street Lobby - Level 3

Baltimore Convention Center

8:00 am – 12:00 pm

American Towman

Academy & Independent Courses

Level 3 Meeting Rooms

Baltimore Convention Center

9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Towman Hunt Skeet Shoot (Ticket)

Prince George Skeet & Trap Club

Shuttle leaves promptly at 9am from Pratt St. entrance of Baltimore Convention Center Sponsored by American Towman

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Donnie Cruse Recovery Luncheon (Ticket)

Morton's The Steakhouse

Sponsored by WreckMaster, Zips/AW Direct, B/A Products Co., American Towman

1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

EXHIBIT HALL OPEN!

Baltimore Convention Center

Allstate Roadside Education Booth 753

SAFEALL Roadside Safety Clinics Booth 5711

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Captains of Industry Dinner (Ticket)

Phillip’s Seafood Restaurant Sponsored by American Towman

6:00 pm

1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

American Wrecker

Pageant Open

Exhibit Hall B

Baltimore Convention Center

1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

American Wrecker

Pageant Voting

Exhibit Hall B- Adjacent

Wrecker Pageant

Baltimore Convention Center

Welcome Dinner Cruise / The Spirit of Baltimore

Boarding 5:15 pm, departs at 6:00 pm -returns 8:30 pm

Baltimore Inner Harbor

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21

7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Registration Open

Pratt Street Lobby - Level 3

Baltimore Convention Center

8:00 am – 12:00 pm

American Towman Academy & Independent Courses

Level 3 Meeting Rooms

Baltimore Convention Center

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

EXHIBIT HALL OPEN!

Baltimore Convention Center

Allstate Roadside Education Booth 753

SAFEALL Roadside Safety Clinics Booth 5711

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

American Wrecker

Pageant Open

Exhibit Hall B

Baltimore Convention Center

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

American Wrecker Pageant Voting

Hall B - Adjacent Wrecker Pageant

Baltimore Convention Center

7:30 pm

Miller Rocks! Bull & Pig Roast (Free)

PBR Cowboy Bar:Power Plant Live! Sponsored by Miller Industries and American Towman

9:00 pm

Calitri’s Cuba VIP Cigar Smoker (Ticket)

Luckie’s Tavern – Power Plant Live Sponsored by American Towman

FESTIVAL

SATURDAY

NOVEMBER 22

7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Registration Open

Pratt Street Lobby - Level 3

Baltimore Convention Center

8:00 am – 11:00 am

American Towman Academy & Independent Courses

Level 3 Meeting Rooms

Baltimore Convention Center

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

EXHIBIT HALL OPEN!

Baltimore City College

Marching Nights

Special Entertainment

Baltimore Convention Center

Allstate Roadside Education

Booth 753

SAFEALL Roadside Safety Clinics

Booth 5711

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

American Wrecker Pageant Open

Baltimore Convention Center

11:00 am – 3:00 pm

American Wrecker Pageant Voting

Hall B - Adjacent Wrecker Pageant

Baltimore Convention Center

2:00 pm ACE Awards (Free)

Exhibit Hall B

Adjacent Wrecker Pageant

Baltimore Convention Center Sponsored by Allstate Roadside, GEICO, Nation Safe Drivers, Agero, TrxNow

ACE’S receive ACE Glove

Carvers Delight & Saturday Pie (Free) Exhibit Halls

Baltimore Convention Center Sponsored by American Towman

4:00 pm

American Wrecker Pageant

Winner Ceremony Band Stage in Food Court

Baltimore Convention Center

6:00 pm Ceremony of The Order of Towman

Renaissance Harbor Place Hotel

7:00 pm

Festival Night (Ticket)

March of the Heroes, American Towman Medal

6:30 pm Cocktail Reception

Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace

Hotel - Grand Ballroom

INNER HARBOR & FELLS POINT

Founded in 1763, Fells Point, combines the historic charm of its cobblestone streets and 18-th century architecture with the energy of a modern waterfront, home to eclectic restaurants, unique shops, and some of Baltimore’s trendiest bars and nightlife. On Thursday and Friday morning, American Towman provides shuttle service from the Baltimore Convention Center to Fells point where you may breakfast or brunch!

November 20-22, 2025

AAA

A Network of industry leading organizations offering exclusive benefits and savings on services and products service providers use every day.

All American Jerr-Dan in Old Bridge

All American Jerr-Dan in New Jersey is one of the largest distributorships in the country selling wreckers and carriers.

1514 & 1519

Arrowhead Winch

Arrowhead Winch planetary and worm gear recovery winches have delivered proven performance in towing and trailer applications for 100 years and counting!

Page 24

Auto Data Direct

Auto Data Direct streamlines towing operations with real-time vehicle records, NMVTIS title checks, and certified letter tools.

Access Tools

Access Tools is the undisputed leader in Specialty Tools. Our automotive lockout tools have achieved the respect of professionals worldwide.

Akins Body & Carrier Sales

All Roads Trucks

We are your one-stop shop for all of your towing, recovery, and all makes needs. Sales, parts & service.

616 See Page 72

Ascentium Capital

Ascentium Capital, of Regions Bank, offers financing up to $2.5MM, terms to 84 months and app-only to $750K (total exposure).

towing and recovery solutions including Towing Management Software, GPS and dashcams, digital lien search, payment processing, and auction marketplace.

Allstate Roadside

Drive your success with the network that makes it easy! Visit tow-providers.allstate. com to learn more about joining the Allstate Roadside Provider Network.

Austin Insurance

Specializes in the towing and recovery industry. We provide our clients with the best coverage and most competitive rates possible.

Booth

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

24/7 Dispatch

Your reliable dispatch specialists. We answer your calls and dispatch them how you want.

360 Payments

Fully integrated systems, advanced analytics, and secure processing, tailored to meet your unique needs.

5Star Specialty Programs

Insurance coverage for tow trucks, roadside assistance, auto repair & body work companies at competitive insurance rates.

AAA

AAA serves more than 62 million members with roadside, travel, insurance and retail services.

Access Tools

The undisputed leader in car opening tools.

Acrisure

Commercial insurance.

Agero powered by Swoop

The largest provider of B2B disablement assistance in the U.S.

Akins Body & Carrier Sales

Provider of quality towing equipment for Miller Industries.

ALKEME Automotive

Insurance built for the towing industry.

All American Jerr-Dan in Old Bridge

All American carries the largest and best selection of wreckers and carriers.

All Roads Trucks

We are your one-stop shop for all of your towing, recovery needs. Sales, parts & service.

Alliance Funding Group

Truck & equipment financing.

MILLER INDUSTRIES

Allstate Roadside

Join the network that supports you with leading technology, network support and technical information.

Alpha HD Trailers

Alpha HD is a manufacturer of customengineered heavy haul semitrailers.

American Key Supply

We purchase automotive remotes - we pay top dollar - in cash.

American Towman Magazine

Leading publication serving the towing and recovery industry for over 49 years.

Amur Equipment Finance

Amur, a top independent equipment lender with 30 years of experience, provides expertise in financing solutions.

AP Equipment Financing

Financing solutions for towing companies, dealers, and manufacturers.

Armor Body

Custom bodies that will last a lifetime.

Arrowhead Winch

BRADEN manufactures recovery winch solutions for trailers and towing as part of the Arrowhead Winch family.

Ascentium Capital

Flexible equipment financing for the towing industry up to $2.5MM. Request pre-approval: Ascentium.info/ATExpo25

AT&T Business

Wireless, broadband and internet services, managed networking, and cybersecurity solutions for your business needs.

Atlanta Wrecker Sales

Jerr-Dan’s top distributor of light and medium duty tow trucks for over 2 decades.

Aurora Payments

Providing credit card processing, text-topay, ACH payments, website payments, and other payment solutions.

Austin Insurance

Austin Insurance sells truck insurance

Auto Data Direct

ADD offers real-time motor vehicle inquiries, vehicle history reports, salvage reporting tools, and certified mailing.

Autura

Towing software

Axle Covers

Parts for heavy duty wreckers, rotators, and tow trucks.

Azuga, A Bridgestone Company

GPS fleet tracking and dual-facing dashcam solutions to keep your vehicles, assets and drivers safe.

B/A Products Co.

The Gold Standard in towing, auto transport, fire & rescue.

Bad Dog Tools

Lifetime guaranteed specialty and multipurpose tools for cutting and drilling.

Battelini Wrecker Sales

Distributor of NRC Industries, Dynamic, Trail-Eze trailers & Reitnouer trailers. Full sales, service & custom fabrication facility.

BBK Billing & Dispatching

Expert Motor club billing and dispatching services for the towing industry.

Beacon Funding

Equipment financing solutions.

Benchmark Payment Networks

Merchant services and credit card processing.

MILLER ROCKS! PBR COWBOY BAR

How can “Miller Rock’s!” get any better? By cranking up the festive vibe with Bull Ridin’, perfect for all you cowboys and cowgirls, and even city folk looking to give it a try! This year, “Miller Rocks! Bull and Pig Roast” is moving to the PBR Cowboy Bar in Power Planet Live! Known for being the hottest country spot with an “Electric Cowboy” feel and hosting a dance floor fit for line dancing. Same fun, just with new music, great food, and a chance to watch your buddies take on the bull…best time ever! Be there Friday night at 7:30 pm and make sure you’re around to get your exclusive Miller t-shirt while they last! Free event sponsored by Miller Industries and American Towman.

TOWMEN TAKE OVER POWER PLANT LIVE!

There’s nothing anywhere like Calitri’s Cuba VIP Cigar Smoker, “where towing’s generals” kick back and share conversation and enjoy a great cigar. Held Friday night at 9:00 pm at Luckie’s Tavern in Power Plant Live! It’s a perfect way to end your day and create an experience you’ll savor. Situated downstairs from Miller Rocks!, below the PBR Cowboy Bar. $40 gets you two premium cigars and one top-shelf drink. Offering Winston Churchill’s favorite cognac. Advance register today!

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

“THE DONNIE” RECOVERY LUNCHEON

Join WreckMaster’s recovery specialists as they recognize and critique the recoveries that earned “The Donnie Award” – in honor of Donnie Cruse, the trailblazing legendary trainer. Gain tips and advice on the strategies, techniques, and equipment utilized by operators as they navigated these extreme recovery situations. Thursday from

12 noon to 2:00 pm at Morton’s The Steak House located inside the Sheraton Hotel and next door to the Baltimore Convention Center. The best steak in town…don’t miss it! Sponsored by B/A Products and Zip’s/ AW Direct. Presented by WreckMaster and American Towman Magazine. All welcome! $75 per person.

ACE AWARDS ORDER OF TOWMAN

When you’re stuck on the road in your neighborhood, who ya’ gonna call? A Towman ACE! Recognized by national motor clubs for on-time performance and customer service excellence, ACE Awardees rank in the top 1% of towing operations for service and reliability. For 32 years, the legendary ACE Buckle has been

“Intendo Fidelis” a latin phrase meaning “Aim True”. These are the words inscribed on the medal bestowed upon towman of the “Order of Towman” recipients, nominated by their local police or fire chief for exemplifying professionalism, going the extra nine yards to service incidents and performing extra functions that support their town and community. The “Order of Towman”

Ceremony, being held Saturday at 6:00 pm at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel, is like no other; the raising of the sword, the Oath of the Order, the pinning of the Cross of the Order, and the traditional salute and embrace. Following the ceremony, they will join in the “March of Heroes” at Festival Night. Nominations are open and the nomination form is available in this issue.

presented to this distinguished group of towers from across the US and Canada. The ACE Ceremony will be held Saturday at 2:00 pm on the exhibit hall floor as a part of Festival Saturday. Awarded by American Towman Magazine and sponsored by Allstate Roadside, GEICO, Nation Safe Drivers, Agero and TrxNow.

2025 ACE Buckle Design

Big D’s Fabrication

Page NS121

The innovative manufacturing leader of the heavy-duty dollies. We offer capacities of 25K, 40K, 44K and 25K Camper. Dollies created for the towing industry professionals by towing professionals.

# 1435

Copart Transportation

Start or grow your business with Truck in a Box. Learn more at TruckInABox.com

# 4010 See Page 7

Doepker Trailers

The Doepker ReCon Sliding Axle Recovery trailer is designed to maximize both your payload and road life. Visit us in Booth #546 to learn more.

# 546 See Page 96

See Inside Back Cover

GEICO

Come see how you can join the elite in providing exceptional customer service to GEICO’s 19 million policies and 24.4 million vehicles.

Booth # 1136

Chevron Commercial

We carry chains, hooks, straps, toolboxes, lighting, dollies for Chevron & Vulcan, plus patented towing equipment & accessories.

Crouch’s Wrecker & Equipment Sales

Crouch Tow Trucks honors our towing families, lowers inventory prices, and delivers trusted, custom-built, premium equipment—with unmatched value and support.

# 1118

dp Winch

American-made, military-grade line of winches, capstan drives and bumper winches for the towing and recovery industry for more than 55 years.

DewEze Mfg.

On demand engine-driven hydraulic solutions preferred by wrecker and carrier experts in the work truck industry.

Dual-Tech

The Dual-Tech “Roll Back” carrier is known by its users as a high quality, durable, and easy to operate system. Our motto is, “Built Stronger Than It Has to Be”.

This universal vehicle mounting system is designed to safely mount and move vehicles with missing or damaged tires and wheels.

# 602 See Page 15

Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel

Largest independent trailer dealership in North America, offering new and used trailers, rentals, parts and service. Vast inventory and strong partnerships, we provide quality solutions for your transportation needs.

948

Booth

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

Big D’s Fabrication

Heavy duty emergency truck dollies.

Bloom Mfg.

Custom winch manufacturer.

Breg Environmental

Manufacturer of sorbents, spill kits and spill containment products.

Brown & Brown Insurance

Services

Insurance, products & captives for the towing, recovery, and repair industry.

CameraMatics

Event organizers.

Car-Part.com

Car-Part.com is the largest online recycled parts marketplace (with 200 million parts from 4,000 suppliers).

Chevron Commercial

Your one-stop shop for Chevron and Vulcan car carriers, wreckers, and parts.

Collins Collins has been the industry leader and towers choice since 1972.

Colstan & Associates

Comprehensive insurance agency protecting your shop, trucks, dealer plates, transport plates, and roadside operations.

Contral Trailers

Tilt deck trailers for recovery, containers and equipment. Pull with a semi or pickup.

Copart

Transport vehicles for Copart and other clients.

Crouch’s Wrecker & Equipment

Sales

Your full line Miller Distributor since 1989, offering sales parts and service across 4 locations.

JERR-DAN CORP.

Custer Products

Wireless tow lights, safety lighting.

Custom Built MFG

Heavy wrecker manufacturer.

Customers Commercial

Finance

We provide financing for tow & recovery equipment from any dealer or private entity.

Cutco

Household cutlery. Culinary bbq, garden tools, cookware, flatware, scissors, sporting/hunting knives, wellness mats.

CVVFA/Responder

Safety Institute

Provide free handout materials on distracted driver, move over slow down laws, materials on training.

Davis Recycling Scrap metal buyer.

DeFalco’s Service Center

Landoll + Travalong + Deloupe dealer. Full service truck + trailer repair facilitytowing/hauling/transport storage.

DewEze Mfg.

On demand hydraulic systems preferred by wrecker and carrier experts in the work truck industry.

Doepker Trailers

High quality sliding axle tilt deck recovery trailers.

Dom’s Wrap-A-Wreck Collision film, transport film, perforative collision film.

DOT Tie Down

Tiedowns, towing, hardware, custom solutions, etc.

dp Winch

Military grade line of planetary winches, for towing and recovery vehicles and more.

DRIVE

North America’s leading coaching and management training company, for tow, auto, collision and truck repair industries.

Dual-Tech

Manufacturer of 2-car carriers and wrecker bodies.

Dynamic

Designs, manufactures, & distributes self loading wreckers, carriers, slideins & rotating rollbacks domestically & internationally.

East Coast Truck & Trailer Sales

Full service Jerr-Dan, Cottrell, Hiab and Galfab Distributor including parts, services and sales.

East Penn Truck Equipment

Miller Industries full line towing equipment dealer.

EFI Tow

Comprehensive solution for the management of assistance and logistic services.

Emergency Road Service

Coalition of America / ERSCA

National towing association created to facilitate and promote collaboration in the industry, with a focus on training and advocacy.

Energy Security Agency

The ESA provides complete and compliant solutions for safely handling hybrid/ electric vehicles.

WITH “THE BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS” FESTIVAL NIGHT

Every day across the world, towmen face challenging circumstances in the line of duty. Yet, in rare and extraordinary moments a decision is made to risk one’s life to save another, aptly described as “The Simple Act of Bravery”, as engraved on the Towman Medal.

On Festival Night dedicated towmen come to honor our industry’s true heroes. Thrill to the “March of heroes” lead by Captains of the Order of Towman, hear

inspiring stories as the Towman Medal is presented.

This year, features Bruce Campbell as the Master of Ceremonies with a special guest famous wrecker artist Cecil Burrowes performing the inspiring song “Over the Hills” along with live music and surprise entertainment.

Taking place on Saturday night at 7:00 pm at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel, the event marks the Grand Finale of Festival

Saturday and is a celebration you won’t want to miss! Tickets are $115 per person and include surf-andturf dinner featuring Maryland’s famous jumbo lump crabcakes. New this year, all Festival Night guests are entitled to enjoy to the “Breakfast of Champions” on Sunday from 8:00 am to 10:00 at the Renaissance and Brian Riker’s Leadership seminar. You are also invited to join the American Towman Prayer Service at 7:30 am.

INDUSTRIA HEROICA PIN

As a lasting keepsake, Festival Night attendees will receive the exclusive American Towman Exposition “Industria Heroica” pin, along with a commemorative photo opportunity.

WRECKMASTER PIN

WreckMasters attending Festival Night will receive the exclusive “WreckMaster 35th Anniversary” pin along with a photo opportunity to mark the occasion.

Exclusive to the Baltimore show is WreckMaster’s specialized rotator recovery training designed to equip towers with the expertise necessary to operate effectively and safely in high-risk recovery situations. Blending classroom instruction with hands-on training, WreckMaster’s world renowned instructors provide towers with the skills and equipment knowledge to handle the most challenging recoveries. 12-hour course includes eight hours on Wednesday and four hours on Thursday, with lunch and shuttle provided.

ACADEMY & TRAINING

The Carte Blanche Passport gives tow bosses access to more than 25 business development courses, offering useful strategies and valuable insight into industry trends that can be immediately applied to their operation.

This year’s Carte Blanche Passport includes “The Leadership Series” featuring six new comprehensive seminars presented alongside the Towman Academy on Thursday,

Friday and Saturday. A special leadership course is scheduled for Sunday morning at the Renaissance hotel. Additional learning opportunities are available through Independent Courses. All participants of the Carte Blanche Passport, Independent Courses, and WreckMaster Training are invited to enjoy the Academy Breakfast on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

HD Trailers

Wide selection of new and used heavyhaul trailers. Offering AlphaHD Trailers, Kalyn Siebert, & XL Specialized top-quality equipment. Locations in Andalusia, AL and West Palm Beach, FL.

230

Integrated Vehicle Leasing & Equip. Leasing

As a national direct lender since 1999, Integrated has been providing leasing and financing for the tow truck industry.

Jerr-Dan

Jerr-Dan offers a range of light, medium and heavy duty wreckers, carriers and rotators for the towing and recovery industry.

# 1505

Landoll Company

The most multi-purpose trailer Landoll has EVER built... the 850XT Extendable Detach! Extendable trailer to haul heavy and oversized equipment. Booth # 430 See Page 103

Heavy Duty Help

HDH connects 800+ major trucking companies, 250,000+ owner-operators, and 150,000+ bus & RV owners with vetted, reliable towing and repair companies across America.

Intek Truck Finance

Offers customized and flexible lease & financing options for all new and used towing equipment. Exclusive finance programs for up to 10 years.

Jutland Truck Bodies

Custom all-aluminum truck bodies –engineered for performance, built to last, and tailored to you.

Lift Marketing Group

Online Marketing Solutions - dominate Google rankings and get more cash calls. We’re towing marketing made simple: custom, fast & effective since 2009.

# 1213 See Page NS126

Hino Trucks

Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, manufactures, sells and services a lineup of Class 4-8 commercial trucks in the United States.

Medium-duty low cab forward commercial work trucks.

Page 26

Kalyn Siebert

Check out one of Kalyn Siebert’s newest product lines and be among the first to own. Take your fleet to the next level with the Kalyn Siebert Advantage.

Page 91

Industry leaders in wireless operation for 40+ years — delivering quality products, exceptional service, competitive pricing, and a globally trusted 5-year pro-rated warranty.

Booth

AT ACADEMY

CARTE BLANCHE PASSPORT

$150 Advance Registration gets you access to all the seminars you are able to attend, and complimentary breakfast Thursday, Friday and Saturday. ($250 after Nov. 18). Open to all who sign up for the Carte Blanche Passport.

INSURANCE CONFERENCE

Captive Insurance: Driving ROI Through Enhanced Risk Management

Insurance Demystified: Uncovering the Truth Behind Your Coverage

Insurance coverage is one of the biggest concerns for owners and managers. Do I have the right coverage? How do I keep my premium from going up? Why is my insurance paying on a claim that I think they should fight? Come and learn from WreckMaster Instructors and our partners in the Insurance industry TowMax, how to turn your insurance company into your greatest ally in the fight to be efficient, profitable and successful in today’s towing and recovery market.

Bear Godfrey,WreckMaster & Collin Lester, TowMax Ins.

Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 am

ESSENTIAL PRACTICES CONFERENCE

Company Policies –Are Yours Defensible?

Join American Towman Business Editor, Brian Riker, as he discusses recent trends in litigation focusing on poor company handbook policies. Do you have a employee handbook, and if so, did you create it with your specific needs in mind or did you just “borrow” a handbook from someone else and change the name at the top of the page?

Find out how dangerous not having a custom-made handbook, or not following your own policies, is in today’s courtroom and what you can do to protect yourself from the inevitable lawsuit or workers compensation claim.

Brian Riker, American Towman. Thursday, Nov. 20, 10 am

The towing industry has been battling the constant ebbs and flows of the insurance marketplace. As the cost of transferring risk continues to climb, safety driven towing companies have taken the leap to captives. Captives have proven to be the path to stabilizing insurance programs, shielding your company from industry losses and collaborating on best practices to mitigate claims.

Don Blood, Abe Elias, Brown & Brown Insurance Services

Thursday, Nov. 20, 9 am

BUSINESS OPERATIONS CONFERENCE

Bid Response to Law Enforcement & Government Contracts

So, ya’ wanna’ tow for law enforcement or government contracts? Towman’s, Randall Resch, presents, “Bid Response 101”, with focus to the nuts, bolts and hurdles necessary to competing open bid processes. Consideration to formal contracts begins by responding to RFPs, invitations and (bid) offerings.

Randall Resch, American Towman

Thursday, Nov. 20, 11 am

Lawsuit Protection, Tax Reduction & Estate Planning for Towing & Recovery Owners

Is your financial house in order? Discover the tools towing & recovery owners can use to become invincible to lawsuits, save thousands in taxes, and achieve financial peace of mind. By the end of the presentation you will know how to: Protect 100% of your assets from lawsuits. Save thousands of dollars each year in taxes. Avoid probate and eliminate all estate taxes. It takes a lifetime to accumulate your assets. Take the time to protect them.

“Risk” is a Four-Letter Word It’s “fact” the industry has its inherent risks. So, why do towers intentionally put themselves in harm’s way by side stepping common sense and proper techniques? This fast-paced seminar examines 100-plus photos of towers demonstrating careless, complacent, and downright ignorant actions and techniques; many considered illegal and not industry acceptable.

Randall Resch, American Towman

Friday, Nov. 21, 10 am

Streamlining

Tow Company Operations: Using Technology and AI for Efficiency

Learn how technology and AI can streamline daily office tasks such as paperwork, customer communication, and recovery invoicing, giving you more time in your day. Designed with tow companies in mind, these tools bring efficiency and simplicity to everyday repetitive tasks.

Jade Fickert

Thursday, Nov. 20, 11 am

Larry Oxenham, American Society for Asset Protection Thursday, Nov. 20, 10 am

Mastering DOT Compliance for Towing Companies

This seminar will equip towing company owners and operators with essential strategies to achieve full compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, minimizing costly fines and enhancing operational safety. Learn practical steps for managing driver qualifications, hoursof-service, vehicle maintenance, and DOT audits specific to the towing industry.

Presented by Trucksafe Consulting, this session offers actionable insights to keep your fleet compliant and road-ready.

Brandon Wiseman & Rob Carpenter, Trucksafe Consulting

Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 am

TOWING OPERATIONS CONFERENCE

Estimating Total Recovery Resistance

Successfully recovering a casualty back to the roadway requires an accurate estimation of the total amount of recovery resistance that must to be overcome. The recovery path surface and grade as well as the rolling resistance of the tires will create resistance to the movement of the casualty. Estimating the total amount of resistance is paramount to avoid overloading of your equipment and ensuring your recovery operation is successful.

information. We cover the law, tow service agreements, insurers, and cleanup and reporting actions to assure growth and profitability. Also resources for on scene procedures when confronted with damaged EV’s.

Jim Figueira, Environmental Chemical Solutions Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 am

Learning from the Donnie’s: Unlocking Key Insights for Recovery Professionals

Diversifying Into Equipment Transport

Terry Abejuela, American Towman Thursday, Nov. 20, 9 am

A Clean & Compliant

VSF Facility Includes Safety in EV Storage (1.5 hrs)

Know the regulatory rules and compliance. Small changes in your good housekeeping can prove to be an asset instead of a liability. Know the hazards and solutions when storing damaged Electric Vehicles and the billing potential they possess. Jim Figueira, Environmental Chemical Solutions Friday, Nov. 21, 8 am-9:30 am

Get More Tows with Digital Marketing: Google, Facebook & Your Website Explained Is your towing company missing calls because of poor online visibility? Join the experts from OMG Tow Marketing as they break down exactly how to use Google, Facebook, and your website to drive more calls and dominate your local market. No fluff—just practical strategies that work for the towing industry.

Jared Fischgrund & Chris Blake OMG Tow Marketing Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 am

Insurance and Spill Debris Cleanup –Winning the Battle Cleanup in compliance with the law; Quantum Merit, and other valuable

Each year at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore we celebrate exceptional recoveries at the Donnie Cruse Memorial Awards Luncheon. Now, join us as we take some of those recoveries and do a deep dive on what made them so great. What are the things that those teams of operators did that allowed them to be successful in such unique circumstances? What lessons can we take from them on techniques, equipment, and team dynamics that can make each of us as operators and owners better. Come and join this round table discussion of jobs from the past that can make us better tomorrow.

Team WreckMaster Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 am

SAFETY CONFERENCE

Light Duty Rollovers 101

Performing a safe, efficient and effective rollover technique is critical to removing vehicles from the roadway quickly to return traffic to normal and reduce the potential for secondary incidents. Knowledge of your equipment and the physics of center of gravity, friction and the application of force are required to accomplish this task successfully. Essential Equipment, the standard, the reverse and the California rollover techniques will be discussed.

Terry Abejuela, American Towman Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 am

EV Hazard Overview and After the Incident Energy Security Agency will present a brief overview of potential hazards tow operators will face when interacting with hybrid and electric vehicles, then how to handle the EV after the initial incident. Energy Security Agency will also present solutions for after the incident, what happens when the vehicle is brought back to the tow yard and how to help protect your organization, your tow operators and a variety of solutions to common hurdles the Tow Operators/Owners are facing.

Drawing from his own success diversifying into equipment transport, Ron Myers discusses the adjustments his towing & recovery operation made, and how he attracted the business to put his lowboys to work. A must seminar for tow bosses looking to get into heavy equipment transport, or those wanting to target more business for their transport trailers.

Ron Myers, Pine Tree Towing Thursday, Nov. 20, 11 am

BUILDING REVENUE CONFERENCE

Google Profile Support: From Glitch to Glory, Cussin’ to Bussin’

Last year Google suspended nearly 13 million business profiles & blocked over 5 billion ads. Going it alone, you against “support” is enough to inspire a violent reaction. Learn the top tips for managing your single most important digital asset, the Google Business Profile.

Jared Fischgrund & Chris Blake, OMG Tow Marketing Thursday, Nov. 20, 9 am

The Business & Economics of Owning a Rotator

Thinking about getting a rotator? Many tow companies are enjoying the benefits and added business that a rotator brings to their bottom line. Is it the right investment for you? This 50 minute seminar tells you everything you need to know.

Eric Fouquette, Big Wheel Towing Thursday, Nov. 20, 10 am

Get Your Name Out

There Marketing

You can tow, but getting your name out there is not making the phone ring. In this talk you will get lots of tips and tricks for growing your direct business.

Drew Wash, Towing.com Friday, Nov. 21, 8 am

How to Build a Successful

LinkedIn Profile

Don Snider, Energy Security Agency Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 am

This course is designed to help small towing business

AT ACADEMY

owners use LinkedIn to grow their company. You’ll learn how to set up a strong profile, connect with customers and partners, and post content that shows your professionalism. We’ll cover how to build your brand, get noticed by local businesses, and find new work opportunities. Whether you’re brand new to LinkedIn or want to use it better, this course will walk you through each step in a simple, easy-to-follow way. By the end, you’ll feel confident using LinkedIn as a tool to grow your towing business and stand out online.

Devon Banks, Zip’s AW Direct Friday, Nov. 21, 9 am

John Sweezy Jr and the Matjack Team Analyze Air Cushion Jobs

Aircushion jobs – the nuts and bolts.

John Sweezy Jr & Team Matjack Friday, Nov. 21, 10 am

Solving the Google Puzzle: Essential Pieces for Online Visibility

Ready to dominate “towing near me” searches? Join us for insider tips that will help you optimize your website and Google Business Profile, fine-tune ad spend, generate positive reviews, and leverage AI. Leave with a clear strategy to boost cash calls and accelerate growth.

Kevin McMillan, Lift Marketing Group Friday, Nov. 21, 10 am

Delivering Parking Management Services: Free to You and Property Owners

Discover how to get out in front of the digital permitting trend and quickly capture revenue from parking management at no cost (almost?). Invest in customer relationships to serve more lots, increase impounds and create new sources of revenue.

Jim Shellhaas, PatrolWorks for Parking Management Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 am

Independent Courses/ Meetings/Workshops

Recovery Billing Course - 8 Hour Training

Presented by Eric Fouquette and the Recovery Billing Team

Part I - Friday, Nov. 21, 9 am - 1 pm. (4 Hours classroom)

Part II - Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 am - 1 pm. (4 Hours classroom)

Incl. Carte Blanche Passport on Thursday! You have spent hundreds of thousands on equipment…it’s time to invest in a course designed to teach you how to invoice efficiently, stop settling, and get paid! After years of trial, error, and missed payment opportunities, we now know exactly what needs to be done to get paid for recovery work, how to navigate the various insurance/private payer routes and what triggers each to get paid time and time again. In this course, you learn in two days what took us 40+ years to acquire. The Recovery Billing Course will show you how to overcome recovery billing & collection obstacles that can be rectified with the proper education and systems. Join our elite network of thousands of tower owners and managers who’ve taken the course! You’ll learn:

• Foundational Principles: Handbooks, policies, safety, insurance needs, and more.

• Documenting the Scene from Start to Finish.

• Drafting the Documentation Packet.

• Laws to Help Get Paid: Expert towing & recovery attorneys educate on the main reasons for claim denial (AND how to overcome them).

• How to Bill: Learn how to get paid on various types of insurances: collision, property damage liability, home owners, and more!

• How NOT to Bill: Learn how to avoid mistakes and spot objections before they happen!

• How to Navigate an Insurance Claim: Learn how to navigate various insurance processes and how to work with the vehicle owner and the payer, not against them.

• Negotiation strategies: How to respond to things like “sorry, that’s not covered” and “we never pay that” - you’re going to be fully prepared when it comes to communicating with payers.

Amount $2,500 per person, then up to an additional 4 employees for $1,500/each.

WreckMaster’s Keys to Heavy Duty EV Success

This 2 hours seminar is going to be an informative conversation about how to safely and confidently tackle the ever growing EV towing and recovery market. Independent Course - $150/person. $225 starting Nov. 18.

Save $75 by registering now!

component to heavy commercial vehicles. Often, a failure in the air system is the reason for needing towing service. This course will give you a general understanding of how air systems work and where to attack the most common issues that we face out on the roadside, and also some tips and techniques for those odd and hard to deal with jobs that eat up time, energy, and profitability. Independent Course - $300/person.

$350 starting Nov. 18.

Save $50 by registering now!

Dave Fultz, WreckMaster Thursday, Nov. 20, 8 am - 11 am

From Operator to Owner: Work on Your Business, Not in It!

Owning a tow company, a repair shop, or both can be incredibly rewarding—but let’s face it, it’s also challenging. In the beginning, you’re the one doing it all. From answering phones to managing operations, you’re in the driver’s seat every minute of the day. But how do you shift from simply running your business to building the thriving, sustainable operation you’ve always envisioned? How do you create a business that works for you, rather than feeling like you’re constantly wrestling a wild animal? Take the first step toward freedom—join this class and start building the business you’ve always dreamed of! Independent Course - $150 per person advance registration and $250 starting Nov 18. Save $100 by registering now! Presented by Jim Saeli, DRIVE Thrusday, Nov. 20, 8 am - 11 am

Nick Webb, WreckMaster Friday, Nov. 21, 8 am - 10 am

Mastering Air Systems for Heavy Towing: Unlocking Power and Precision

Air Systems are a critical

Light-Duty Recovery Business Success (2 Hr)

A special two-hour course geared towards the business end of light-duty recovery. Three crucial steps for recovery business success will be covered: Documenting the Recovery; Billing the Recovery; and Collecting on the Recovery Invoice.

Independent Course - $150/person. $250 starting Nov. 18. Save $100 by registering now!

Ron Myers, Pine Tree Towing Friday, Nov. 21, 8 am - 10 am

Heavy-Duty Recovery Business Success (3 Hr)

A special three-hour course geared towards the business end of light-duty recovery. Three crucial steps for recovery business success will be covered: Documenting the Recovery; Billing the Recovery; and

Collecting on the Recovery Invoice. Independent Course - $250/person. $350 starting Nov. 18. Save $100 by registering now!

Ron Myers, Pine Tree Towing Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 am - 11 am

ERSCA Advance Winch and Rigging Safety –Open to All

Operator Levels

6-hours of interactive classroombased training stations throughout the session. This course focuses on the essential criteria necessary for all experienced operators. Emphases are on operator safety, wire rope, winch performance, rigging systems, and scene management.

Course Objectives:

• To provide advanced knowledge utilizing modern winches and recovery equipment.

• To increase and review safety awareness for the operator.

• To key in on several types of equipment including chains, synthetic straps, hooks, snatch blocks, attachments, and wire/synthetic rope, along with capabilities and limitations.

• To review rigging system integrity and rigging techniques.

• Highlight scene management techniques by creating Zoned Work Areas. Independent Course - $425/person. $475 starting Nov. 18. Save $50 by registering now!

Shane Coleman & Chuck MacLellan, ERSCA Wednesday, Nov. 19, 10 am - 5 pm

Receive “Lightning Leadership” pin

Leadership at the Incident Scene

Education and Hands-on Training

WreckMaster Rotator Training

Industry’s Premier Rotator Training with WreckMaster Instructors

FEE REQUIRED $795/person. $895 after Nov 18. Fee also includes Carte Blanche Passport.

Wednesday Nov. 19, 8 am - 12 noon (4 hrs Classroom) Includes Lunch Wednesday Nov. 19, 1 pm - 5 pm (4 hrs Hands-on) Shuttle to location

Thursday Nov. 20, 8 am - 12 noon (4 hrs Classroom)

WreckMaster instructors Bruce Campbell & Jeff Martin, will conduct an exclusive 12-hour training course on rotator recovery, comprised if classroom and outdoor hands-on instruction.

INTRODUCTION & EXPLANATION OF STUDENTS ROLE

• Introduction of Lead Instructor, assistances and students

• Set Course goals and objectives

• Overview of WreckMaster program

YOU & THE TOW TRUCK SET-UP

• Positioning the truck

• Leveling the truck

• Recommended distances- Utilities Overhead & Underground

• Recommended cribbing

• Safety in General

• GROUND LOADS

• Calculating Out-rigger Loads

UNDERSTANDING THE LIFT

• Determining the weight

• Shock Loads

• Cause and effect of tipping

• Determining the COG “Center of Gravity”

THE BOOM

• Calculating “Load Capacity”

• Calculating “Boom Top Load”

RIGGING

• General overview

• Wire Rope, Synthetic & Chain Bridles

• Calculating Bridle Leg Lengths

• Calculating Bridle Leg Loads

• Selecting the Correct Rigging for the job

SITE SAFETY

• PPE “Personal Proction Equipment”

• Operator Training

• Rigging Training

• Site Supervisor Training

Allstate Roadside Education

The Allstate Roadside Education Team will be in Baltimore, bigger and better than ever! Join us during the convention’s three days of expo hours. We will be on stage with towing professionals like you, sharing tips, tricks, and detailed technical information to help you load vehicles safely and quickly. Stay tuned for more details about our class sessions or email us at ARSEducate@ allstate.com for more information. We look forward to seeing you in November!

SAFEALL Roadside Safety Clinics

A Series of micro training sessions that will help increase your efficiency and reduce your exposure at roadside. Learn techniques and habits to increase your bottom line and get you home at night. FREE on the Show Floor during Exhibit Hall hours

LEADERSHIP SERIES

Veteran Tow Boss and creator of Quick Clearance Certification, Ron Myers discusses the command structure among First Responders at an Incident and the leadership role Towmen must take.

Ron Myers, Pine Tree Towing Thursday, Nov. 20, 9 am

Rates Strategy & Defense

Accepted accounting principles and the thought process behind how to defend your rates for services and specialty equipment. With towing under a microscope, the time has come to think strategically about how defensible you are when challenged in court. It is not if, but when, the lawsuits will come.

Brian Riker, American Towman Friday, Nov. 21, 9 am

Traffic Control Opportunity

Veteran Tow Boss and revered WreckMaster

Trainer Bruce Campbell is revolutionizing roadside safety and traffic-control across Canada. Bruce discusses how to build a corollary traffic control business with a profitable revenue stream, and details how every tow operator can make a safer workplace on the roadside.

Bruce Campbell, Wreckmaster Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 am

Training for Risk Management Open to Owners, Operations/ Safety Managers, General Managers - Only!

Hear from ERSCA's Director of Training on how to manage your risks effectively through communication and comprehensive training. Listen in as "essential" elements of training and their

consistency affect operator safety and reduce organizational risk.

Shane Coleman, ERSCA Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 am

Securing Police Towing

How to secure a police towing contract or earn a spot in your City’s rotation list. Stuckey is a veteran Tow Boss of over 25 years with his company operating in Baltimore City. Malik Stuckey, Universal Towing. Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 am

Building a Solid Team

Leading your company in a way that cultivates high team morale and cohesion. Doing so will heighten driver recruitment and retention success.

Brian Riker, American Towman Sunday, Nov. 23, 9 am (following Breakfast of Champions) at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel.

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

Envue Telematics

EnVue is a Geotab reseller offering GPS, dash cams, and expert telematics support for safer fleets.

ESCO (Equipment Supply Company)

Manufacturing and supplying tire service equipment for the automotive, agricultural, commercial truck, off-theroad (OTR), and mining markets.

EVroadHERO / EVchargeHero

EV Mobile Charger that’s faster, safer, and easier than towing - ideal mix of power, portability, price.

Excel Sportswear

Custom designed screen printed and embroidered apparel.

FCar Tech USA

Truck diagnostic scanners and AC recycle and recharge machines.

Federal Signal

Federal Signal is the premier provider of Tow Truck warning lights and back-up safety products.

First Business Bank

First Business Bank’s equipment finance team helps manufacturers, distributors, and dealers with custom financing.

FleetNet America

Web based search tool allowing commercial carriers the ability to locate and electronically dispatch service providers.

Fullbay

Heavy-duty repair shop management software.

Garden State Towing Association

N.J. towing association representing the towing industry best interest.

NRC INDUSTRIES

GEICO Emergency road service.

Gray Manufacturing Co.

Manufacturer of professional shop equipment for maintenance and repair.

Guttman Energy

Fleet solutions program w/ includes discounted fueling, maintenance for fleet, fleet support services.

Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel

North America’s largest retail supplier of commercial and specialized trailers including rentals, parts and service.

HD Trailers

Towing and recovery equipment sales, RGN and lowboy sales and financing.

Heavy Duty Help

Connecting fleets, owner-operators, and bus/RV owners with reliable towing and repair companies nationwide.

Helix Safety Essentials

Helix SE is dedicated to enhancing safety and security through quality warning and safety lighting.

Hidden Lift + Tow

Hidden wheel lifts.

Hino Trucks

Hino Trucks manufactures, distributes, and services a lineup of Class 4-8 commercial trucks in the U.S.

Holly’s Towing Dispatch

24/7 professional dispatch services designed to streamline operations, increase profit margins, and reduce stress.

HONK Technologies

On-demand roadside assistance.

Horizon Motor

Horizon Motors presents our all electric flatbed tow truck, say hello to big torque and goodbye to diesel bills.

Hunter Engineering

Premier manufacturer of wheel service equipment for automotive and HD industries.

Huntington National Bank

Financial services.

IAA Holdings

A trusted global marketplace for insights, services, and transportation solutions for commercial assets and vehicles.

Iconic MetalGear

Builders of durable, high-quality aluminum semi/tow truck storage accessories for the toughest jobs.

Illusions Wraps

Vehicle wraps.

In the Ditch Towing Products

In The Ditch towing products.

Int’l Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum

Dedicated to preserving history, honoring heroes, and recognizing excellence in the towing industry since 1985.

Integrated Vehicle Leasing & Equip. Leasing

A direct nationwide lender for over 25 years in the towing industry. Leasing & financing up to 10 years.

Intek Truck Finance

Intek provides fast and affordable financing on heavy wreckers, rotators, rollbacks and more.

International Recovery Systems

Transportation, leader in the repossession industry.

Lynch Chicago

Lynch Chicago the go- to-to-dealer for selfloaders, rollbacks, industrial carriers and heavy-duty wreckers. Your next truck is ready when you are!

Metrocom

Metroccom is a premier two-way radio communication sales & service company.

PatrolWorks

Complete solution for parking managementdigital permitting AND enforcement for multifamily communities and pay-to-park lots. Free with paid permitting.

Matjack

MAXXIMA

Engineered for endurance, Maxxima’s LED lighting withstands the toughest conditions, ensuring reliability, visibility, and safety mile after mile.

Miller Industries

Our new Century® VLA features a unique gear system and a 6-degree load angle. Perfect for equipment or low-ground clearance vehicles.

Phoenix USA

Phoenix USA Inc. rear storage box kits for carriers! Prefab bracket kits available for popular Jerr Dan and Miller beds. Box features a powder coated body w/ polished SS door.

RimSling

OMG Tow Marketing

Digital marketing services for towing companies.Websites. Google Business Profile. Google Ads. The only Google Premier Partner serving the industry.

Pine Hill Trailers

Pine Hill delivers custom trailers, parts, and services–so you haul stronger, longer, and without interruption.

The most trusted name in synthetic recovery rope now has a new line of synthetic winch lines for light-duty wreckers and car carriers. RoadSync

RoadSync is a payments platform built for towers that provides, fast, easy, and secure payments.

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America

Distributor of the #1 selling low-cab forward truck in the US since 1986 in classes 3 through 7.

iTow & Licona Insurance Group

Towing network and Insurance solutions.

J+R / DG Towing and Trucking Supplies

Towing and trucking supplies.

JB Tow

Tow truck accessory manufacturer and distributor.

Jerr-Dan

Leading industry innovator offering an extensive range of standard, medium- & heavy-duty wreckers, carriers & rotators.

Johnson & Towers

Authorized distributor and service provider for top brands like Cummins, Isuzu, and Allison Transmission.

Jutland Truck Bodies

Custom all-aluminum truck bodies by Jutland—engineered for performance, built to last, and tailored to you.

Kalyn Siebert

Manufacturer of heavy haul, lowboy, and tow & recovery trailers.

Landoll Company

Manufacturer of specialized equipment transport, traveling axle and detachable trailers. Galvanizing, HOSS hydraulic systems, enhanced LED lighting.

Lift Marketing Group

Effective tow marketing to grow your business. We drive profits 24/7/365 for all Lines of your business. Light, Heavy, Recovery, Hauling, Repair & HAZMAT.

CSTH/DYNAMIC

Lighthouse Insurance Services

Insurance for repossession, towing and transport service providers.

Lodar USA

Prioritize your team’s safety and equipment with the help of Lodar, your wireless solution.

Lokithor

Lokithor manufactures innovative multifunction jump starters, combining power, safety, and smart technology for every vehicle.

Lucky’s Trailer Sales Trucks Trailers body upfitted.

Lynch Chicago

A Miller industries distributor, offers a full line-up of light to heavy duty wreckers and carriers.

Maritime Box

Wholesale shipping containers enabling towing companies to profit from their unique transport capabilities and market reach.

Marshall + Sterling Insurance Commercial insurance.

Maryland Carrier & Wrecker Sales

Get the service, price and support you would expect from a national dealer in your backyard.

Matheny Towing Equipment

Full line Miller Industries dealer with locations in West Virginia, Ohio, Virginia and now Kentucky.

Matjack

Matjack Jumbo cushions / landing bags / HP + LP airbags / underwater / fire isolator blankets / headsets / helmets.

MAXXIMA

Lighting: tow bars, work lights, stop/turn/ tail &back-up alarms.

Metro Tow Trucks

Tow trucks and tow accessories.

Metrocom

Two-way Radio sales and service provider for Motorola products and accessories. Nationwide LTE PTT.

Midtronics

Midtronics developing and producing leading edge battery management equipment and services for the global automotive industry.

Miller Industries Towing Equipment

The world leader in towing and recovery equipment. Manufacturers of the industry leading brands Century, Vulcan, Chevron, and Holmes.

Morgan Truck Body

Morgan’s MSU is your repair shop on wheels!

Myers Benner Corporation

Towing & garage repair insurance program: property / cargo / liability / umbrella / workers comp.

Mytee Products

Mytee Products offers products for auto towing, hauling, flatbeds, dry vans and more!

Nation Safe Drivers Motor club.

National Automobile Club

Reliable roadside assistance since 1924.

National Recovery USA

National Recovery handles post claims logistics for the insurance industry, partner with us today!

AMERICAN WRECKER PAGEANT

Whoa! This word will tumble out again and again as you wander through the American Wrecker Pageant in the Baltimore Convention Center. The world’s largest wrecker pageant features more than 70 light, medium-, and heavy-duty wreckers, to dazzle and amaze with their soaring booms, vibrant colors, and custom graphics. For example, last year Bill’s Service of Stamford paid tribute to the four branches of the military by showcasing a visual narrative composed of impactful images representing service

members in action. Attendees will find many trucks that evoke and elicit emotions of pride and awe. The wreckers compete in different categories and ultimately for the coveted “Best in Show” trophy voted on by attendees… which one will you choose? The American Wrecker Pageant Winner Ceremony will be held festival Saturday at 4:00 pm. Voting for “Best in Show” by attendees takes place during show hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the voting booth next to the pageant area.

CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY DINNER NETWORK!

What happens when industry leaders gather at The Captains of Industry Legendary Long Table? What doesn’t... This year, the leading lobbyist from the Towmen of America’s Legislative Division, will address a federal legislative strategy to secure payment for recovery work. The night will also honor the 2025

“Towman of The Year” Barbara Christensen of Intermountain Tow Service, who has led the fight for roadside safety. Have a say! Join the conversation… The dinner will commence Thursday at 6:30 pm at Phillips Seafood Restaurant in the Inner Harbor. $75 per person gets you a Surf & Turf dinner including Jumbo Lump Crabcakes!

AMERICAN TOWMAN WELCOME CRUISE

All Aboard! Thursday evening at 6:00 pm we’ll depart from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for The American Towman Welcome Cruise. Enjoy an evening under the stars aboard the “Spirit of Baltimore” cruising along

the Patapsco River. You’ll witness the amazing panoramic views of a spectacular Baltimore city skyline, Fells Point, and historic landmarks like Fort McHenry. $105 per person includes a sumptuous buffet dinner.

TOWMAN HUNT SKEET SHOOT

Pull! Join your fellow towmen for the Towman Hunt Skeet Shoot on Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00pm and experience the thrilling challenge of friendly competition where quick reflexes and exceptional focus can get you the prize... and the adoration of your

fellow towers! Enjoy a day of camaraderie and fun at Prince George’s County Trap & Skeet Center, Maryland’s premier skeet location. Beginners welcome! $175 per person includes transportation, on-site trainer, equipment, supplies, and lunch.

SafeAll

Get traffic to pay attention with this truckmounted variable message sign. LED block letters and perimeter lighting warn oncoming traffic from 4,000 feet. See Page 32

Steck Mfg. Co.

EasyWedge:Inflatable Emergency Vehicle Access Air Wedges, BigEasy GLO with Easy Wedge & Carrying Case, Non-marring Wedge: Prevent damage to vehicles for insertion of BigEasy lockout tool.

Santander Bank, N.A.

Financing Program, Flexible plans, low rates, and extended terms—grow your fleet today.

Sepson US

See Sepson and Vime Winches plus towing accessories in Baltimore. Known for reliable, dependable, safer pulling. Ask about easy retrofitting.

Synergy-Solutions

DOT/FMCSA Compliance, safety training, camera management, safety management, leadership development. We build safety programs that attract better insurance

Titan Fuel Tanks

Talbert Manufacturing

and a 60SA-RC, modular design, hydraulic detachable lowbed trailer.

Booth

Booth #

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

Nite Beams Products

LED safety products and apparel.

NRC Industries Manufacturer of innovative and exclusive vehicle recovery equipment.

NSM Insurance Brokers

We write towing insurance nationwide.

OMG Tow Marketing

Providing tow bosses with creative advertising and marketing services. Websites, local search ads, video, on-hold messages.

OnCallGPS Video

Unlimited real time video streamingalways recording - beyond incidents only.

Optimize Digital Marketing

Delivering marketing results for auto shops with advertising, website, social, reputation, directory, and scheduling solutions.

ParkM

ParkM is an innovative online parking permitting system exclusively.

Parkva

Mobile license plate recognition (LPR) for parking enforcement.

PatrolWorks

Complete solution for private property parking management integrating, permitting and enforcement (LPR or mobile device).

Peak Auto Auctions

Peak is an online auction platform specializing in selling abandoned vehicles for tow companies, salvage and recycle yards and dealerships.

Peddle

Boost your towing business with a consistent flow of Peddle pickups and easy automated payments.

Penny Pockets

Embroidery & printing.

Penske Truck Leasing

Truck rental, leasing, logistics, and maintenance.

Phoenix USA

Wheel simulator and accessories, toolboxes and fenders.

Pine Hill Trailers

Pine Hill delivers custom trailers, parts, and services—so you haul stronger, longer, and without interruption.

Pinnacle Trailer Sales

For more than 20 years, we’ve helped customers get the trailer they need, when they need it.

PipeBreak USA

PipeBreak penetrating oil.

Priority Push-to-Talk

Nationwide push-to-talk radio service with GPS, dispatch, and emergency features for towing and recovery teams.

Procomp Payroll Services

Payroll services.

Pruuvn

We simplify the contractor onboarding, training and compliance processes from multiple steps to one-click.

Purpose Wrecker

Distributor of Miller Industries products, Century and Vulcan wreckers and rollbacks. Located in St. Louis, MO.

R.P. Recovery

Wireless headsets team communication.

R&A Insurance

Commercial Insurance.

Ramsey Winch

Industrial grade winches, hoists, and speed reducers for mission critical application.

Razor Wraps & Designs

Professional design & wraps that turn tow trucks into moving billboards for your business

RC Industries

American made toolboxes built to last.

Recovery Solutions and Title

Management service for certified mailings, title searches and lien process for unclaimed and abandoned vehicles.

Rivian Automotive

Industry training on the best practices handling Rivian vehicles during roadside and recovery events.

Roadside Protect

Leading provider of specialty roadside assistance programs.

Roadsider

Digital dispatch.

RoadSync

Payment processor for logistic industry.

Robert Young’s NRC Sales & Service

Offering over 25 years of NRC Equipment Sales & Service.

Robertson Ryan Insurance/ Tow Insurance Pros

Nationwide tow truck insurance experts with 25+ years of experience providing trusted solutions and guidance.

METRO TOW TRUCKS

FESTIVAL SATURDAY

Calling all Towmen! Festival Saturday begins at dawn with the Trumpet blast from the Towman Trumpeter poised on the pier at Fells Point, summoning the heroic spirits of the industry and leading them to the halls of the Baltimore Convention Center. At 11:00 am the doors open to the Exhibit Halls of the largest tow show in the world. The Grande Entrée to the 36th annual American Towman Exposition will feature the Baltimore City College Marching Knights Marching Band leading attendees to over 260 Exhibitors and the American Towman Wrecker

Pageant. The Towman Trumpeter will sound out a call to all trucks and as the halls dim, over 80 trucks will turn on their lights illuminating the hall and transforming the space into a spectacle of color and pride, as our own Andrea Wynn, sings “The Star Spangle Banner”.

In the afternoon, Festival Saturday continues with an incredible “Carver’s Delight” featuring stations throughout the hall offering specialty carved meats, followed by “Saturday Pie” with all your favorites, a hallmark of the American Towman Exposition. At 2:00 pm, the Towman

ACE’s will be honored at the ACE Awards Ceremony, and at 4:00 pm, the winners of the Wrecker Pageant will be announced, including the attendee’s choice for the coveted “Best in Show” Trophy. A can’t miss! With the crème de la crème of exhibiting companies, a festive atmosphere, and a palpable sense of tower pride, the American Towman Exposition is the place to be! And after the doors close to the halls at 5:00 pm, make sure to extend the celebration at Festival Night in the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel. The hottest ticket in town!

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

Royal Truck & Equipment

Nation’s largest manufacturer of attenuator trucks and innovative safety products that keep highway workers safe.

RTF Pacific

ResQTrack and EasyMover: Unrivaled innovation for safe, remote-controlled vehicle lifting and EV-safe technology

Safety Vision

High-resolution cameras providing total vehicle coverage around the vehicleenabling drivers to safely secure the vehicle being towed.

SaleQuick

Our innovative payment technology is designed to enable your business to accept a wide array of payment types.

Santander Bank, N.A.

Commercial vehicle Financing

Sepson US

Sepson manufactures world class, military grade winches that make your operations safer and more reliable.

Service Member Data

Active duty military checks for the registered owner of an impounded vehicle sold at auction or lien sale.

Signature Card Processing

Credit card processing with guaranteed lower rates, next day funding, and free equipment.

Speedy Sweep

Crash site and shop sweepers.

Spill Tackle

Patented blend of repurposed by-products that create a superior absorbent product with an environmental footprint second to none!

Stamp Works

Custom magnets, decals, keychains and more!

CUSTOM BUILT MFG.

Star Blink Products

All natural multipurpose cleaner made in the USA. Made in America.

Steck Mfg. Co.

Manufacturer of quality lockout tools, various tow and autobody tools.

SwipeSimple

Practical payments,CRM, invoicing, plainEnglish reporting, empowering payment acceptance anywhere-processing-only pricing.

Synergy-Solutions

Safety management, DOT compliance, camera management, driver training, risk management.

Talbert Manufacturing

Manufacturer of durable, high quality heavy haul trailers including lowbed, travel axle and specialty trailers.

TD-Vision

Video telematics solutions, cameras, MDVR’s, 360 degree views, available with or without (ADAS/DSM)

TecNiq

LED Lighting designed for the towing industry’s toughest demands. USA-

Assembled, affordable, and top quality.

Teleshield

Telecom expense management.

The Pain Helper

Injury recovery and prevention services for hard working professionals.

TI Expo

Mineral therapy bracelets, therapeutic shoe insoles.

Time-Out Seated

Massage Corner

Seated massage, foot massage and Reiki sessions.

Titan Fuel Tanks

High capacity fuel tanks.

TNR Group - Ultraband USA

UltraBand-therapy/magnetic/ ionic/frequency bracelets for pain relief, balance, energy, better sleep (ultrabandusa.com)

Tow4Tech

A real time digital dispatch software platform connecting truck fleets with tow operators for medium and heavy-duty towing.

Towbook

The towing & roadside industry’s most trusted software solution; try it for 30 days, free!

Towboss

TowBoss uses AI to assist dispatch, write recovery narratives, and streamline customer and insurance communication.

TowIndustryWeek.com

The most visited news website in the towing industry since 2011.

Towing and Recovery

Association of America

The industry’s only national membership association offering representation, education, and leadership at the federal level.

Towing Forward Company

World class outsourced towing dispatch.

Towing.com

The front door of the towing industry. Free registration. Direct to towers. Not a middleman.

TowingWebsites.com

Get Hooked Up® and get found on Google! Tow marketing, advertising, seo, website, Facebook, reviews!

INDUSTRIA HEROICA SOUVENIRS

VALOR PIN

American Towman Exposition honors all Towmen who operate a tow truck and work the “White Line” every day by offering the EXCLUSIVE Valor Pin engraved with YOUR NAME. Make a moment of receiving the Valor Pin and make your trip one you will always cherish.

A photo wall will be available where company owners may proudly pin the Valor Emblem on their operators, or

receive the honor themselves. Several meaningful backdrops will set the stage for photos, including the Towman Monument and the Lifelines and Masters of Chaos murals.

Your pre-ordered valor pin will be available for pickup at the Information booth, next to Registration beginning Wednesday, Nov. 19th through close of show on Saturday, Nov. 22nd.

OFFICIAL AT EXPO BEER STEIN

Custom Manufactured In Germany

Purchase the Official AT Expo Stein through advance-registration and pick it up at the show.

Purchase includes magazine subscription.

EXHIBITOR ROSTER

TowMate

Leading US manufacturer of high quality wireless tow lights, LED warning lights and roadside safety systems.

TowToolz

Serving the industry with innovative recovery solutions with combination of consultation, training, and equipment sales.

TRAA/WTRAA

National Wreaths Across America: A day, to remember, say their names, honor, & teach by wreath-laying ceremonies.

Trail King Industries

Leading manufacturer with a complete line of trailers for over 50 years.

Transit Pros Companies

America’s largest sub haul coordinator specializing in medium and heavy duty towing, transportation, emergency roadside services, and inspections.

Truck Parking Club

Truck Parking Club’s mission is to help truckers save time and fuel by efficiently finding and reserving truck parking across the U.S.

Trucksafe

Trucksafe helps fleets develop and maintain cutting-edge safety & DOT compliance programs through training and consulting.

TrxNow

The industry’s most customized tracking and customer interaction technology platform.

Tuner Custom Merchandise Apparel.

TW Products

Rigging hardware, chain, wire rope and synthetic products.

Two Way Radio Gear

Two Way Radio Gear is a value added reseller of Motorola radios and body cameras.

Urgently

Leading connected mobility assistance software platform matching vehicle owners with roadside assistance providers.

US FLEET TRACKING

GPS, equipment tracking, cameras, routing, service applications.

Verdant Commercial Capital Financing.

Vestige View

Camera system offering complete 360° visibility around vehicles promoting safety and reducing claims for total protection.

Warn Industries

Manufactures electric and hydraulic winches and hoists for commercial and industrial applications.

Warrior Winches

Diverse range of hydraulic and electric winches, tested and certified, available from stock.

Whelen Engineering Co.

Manufacturer of warning light systems; technologies used include halogen, strobe, LED and Syper-LED®.

Whiterail Heavy Tow Marketing

Drive more heavy tow calls, Google reviews and hires with Whiterail’s SEO, AI recruiting and reviews automation.

Will-Burt

These scene lighting products enhance safety and security in rescue and recovery operations.

Worldwide Equipment Sales

We offer a wide selection of tow trucks, trailers, car haulers, specialty vehicles.

WreckMaster

Towing & recovery training & rigging supplies.

XINSURANCE

Excess and surplus lines insurance broker providing custom insurance solutions to the towing & repossession industry.

Ynot Parking

Private property parking management and license plate reading software and hardware.

Zacklift International

The world leader for heavy duty detachable towing equipment.

Zellner Insurance Agency

Insurance agency focused on the towing and recovery industry.

Zenduit Fleet telematics.

Zip’s AW Direct

Distributor of equipment, products and apparel.

Booth

At a Glance REGISTER

Exhibit Hall Entry.....

First two advance registrants FREE before Nov. 18th ....... Adults $10 / Child (14 & under) FREE

Thursday, Nov. 20, 1 pm - 5 pm. Friday, Nov. 21, 11 am - 5 pm. Saturday, Nov. 22, 11 am - 5 pm

American Wrecker Pageant ................................................ $150/$200 ...................... ($125/$175 before Nov. 18)

Trucks are on display in the Convention Center Thursday, Nov. 20, 1 pm-5 pm Friday, Nov. 21, 11 am- 5 pm

Saturday, Nov. 22, 11 am – 5 pm. Awards ceremony begins at 4:00 pm on Saturday, Nov. 22.

Towman Hunt Skeet Shoot...................................................................................................................

Thursday, Nov. 20, 9 am-2 pm at Prince George’s Skeet & Trap Club.

Donnie Recovery Luncheon .................................................................................................................................

Thursday, Nov. 20, 12 pm - 2 pm at Morton’s Steakhouse.

Co-sponsored by Zip’s/AW Direct and B/A products along with American Towman and WreckMaster.

/ Child: $30

Captains of Industry Dinner $75 / Child: $45

Thursday, Nov. 20, 6 pm - 9 pm at Phillips Seafood Restaurant – Baltimore Inner Harbor.

Welcome Dinner Cruise/The Spirit of Baltimore ................................................................................................

Thursday, Nov 20. Boarding begins at 5:15, departs at 6:00 pm and returns at 8:30 pm

Miller Rocks! Bull & Pig Roast ..........................................................................................................FREE

Friday, Nov. 21, 7:30 pm at PBR Cowboy Bar: Power Plant Live! Sponsored by Miller Industries and American Towman.

Calitri’s Cuba – VIP Cigar Smoker $40 Friday, Nov. 21, 9 pm at Luckie’s Tavern. Sponsored by American Towman Magazine.

Saturday Pie & Carvers Delight ........................................................................................................FREE

Saturday, Nov. 22 on the Exhibit Floor.

Festival Night & Breakfast of Champions .....................................................................

/ Child: $40

Saturday Nov. 22, 7 pm Festival Dinner. Sunday Morning Nov. 23 Breakfast. Renaissance Hotel. Sponsored by American Towman Magazine.

Instructed by Bruce Campbell and Jeff Martin. Part I: Wednesday, Nov. 19, 8 am-12

Part II: Wednesday, Nov. 19, 1 pm-5 pm, Hands On; Part III: Thursday, Nov. 20, 8 am-12 pm.

Instructed by Nick Webb, WreckMaster. Friday, Nov. 21, 8 am-10 am

Presented by Ron Myers, Pine Tree Towing Friday, Nov 21, 8 am – 11 am

Presented by Ron Myers, Pine Tree Towing Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 am -10 am. From Operator to Owner: Work For Your Business, Not in It!..........

Presented by Jim Saeli. Thursday, Nov 20, 8 am - 11 am.

Recovery Billing Course..$2,500/1st person .. $1,500/2-4 Additional Employees

Presented by Eric Fouquette & Team. Must be accepted by Recovery Billing Part I: Friday, Nov 21, 9 am - 1 pm, 4 hours of classroom, Part II: Saturday, Nov 22, 9 am - 1 pm, 4 hours of classroom

Mastering Air Systems for Heavy Towing: Unlocking Power and Precision... $350 ..................................

Presented by Dave Fultz, WreckMaster. Thursday, Nov. 20, 8 am- 11 am. Allstate Roadside Education .....................................................................

Sponsored by Allstate Roadside. Thursday, Nov. 20, Friday, Nov. 21, Saturday Nov.

PAGEANT PREP

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32

tagged with rating plates, or having the safety latches in good working order on the wire rope hooks. For vintage trucks, is all the equipment period correct? Having the appropriate style of J-hook, for example a cold-rolled hook instead of a forged hook, can separate the winner from the loser. Same with the appropriate, period-correct warning lights, reflectors, and any other pieces of support or accessory equipment.

ORGANIZATION COUNTS

Across all judging categories, a consistent theme is organization prioritized with safety. All of the judges have been tow operators at one time or another, some still

are, and as such they are all too aware of how dangerous it can be when digging for a specific piece of equipment roadside while traffic whizzes past. With that in mind, be aware that the judges are looking for well-organized vehicles, designed with safety in mind, so that the most frequently used equipment is easy to access and deploy. While more can be beneficial, it becomes problematic when excess stuff interferes with daily-use items.

IS IT LEGAL?

For all categories except vintage, AT judges put emphasis on the safety and compliance of the entry. Vintage trucks aren’t completely off the hook, however, since the vehicle still must be roadworthy—unless it is a rat rod

trailer queen. But older wreckers don’t necessarily need to meet 2025 US DOT standards, rather than period-correct standards.

This means things like illegally tinted windows will cost you all the points in the window category, no matter how well installed the tint is or how clean the windows are. A tint that is not in compliance with the US DOT regulations (70% of light must still pass through the side windows, with no tint on the windshield), will be scored at zero points.

The same goes for the safety equipment required by a truck’s city/state location. So, if a truck is intended to be a rotation response wrecker for law enforcement, and the contract calls for broom and shovel, there must be a readily accessible

A vintage truck should have period-correct equipment, such as the appropriate style of cold-rolled J-hooks, warning lights, and reflectors.

Show-winning trucks have been thoroughly detailed from top to bottom, even inside the toolboxes.

broom and shovel onboard.

At a minimum, since towing is almost always interstate commerce, judges expect all entries, except vintage, to be fully US DOT/ FMCSA compliant, including markings, license plates, and required safety equipment (mounted fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, spare fuses), along with some best-practice optional equipment such as a first aid kit, traffic cones, and all the typical tow operator PPE (vests, gloves, bump cap, etc.).

Lighting is also inspected for legality, effectiveness and control. Are the proper color lights for a state installed and set up so that they will only turn on when appropriate? This is important for some states that only allow blue lights while stationary, making it a best practice to wire the blue lights in series with the parking brake, so they automatically turn off when the vehicle starts to move.

Can a tow operator turn on and off upper and lower, or left and right work lights independently, or do they all come on at once? Individual control is the best practice to avoid blinding motorists with unnecessary lights. Lastly, are the lights distracting and

Chrome, aluminum or painted wheels are all judged with the same weight.

Are the proper color lights for a state installed, set up so that they will only turn on when appropriate?

Is required regulatory information (US DOT number, TDLR, PUC) properly displayed?

a nuisance, or are they effective communication devices designed and used with professional lighting protocols in mind?

WORKING CLASS CONSIDERATION

Judges recognize that there is a difference between a true workingclass truck, one that does the job day-in and day-out, and one that has higher miles but just spent weeks off the road getting pampered for competition. Same holds true for the trucks that come in fresh from the builder, have never towed anything

even once, and are just parked in the show for a place to show-off. What really sets the working class trucks apart is when they have been well maintained, meaning they show signs of actual work but have been properly used without signs of abuse, well-greased but clean, the wheel lift or carrier deck in great shape, and a wire rope that isn’t necessarily brand new but is without kinks, splinters, and no outward signs of damage. A little touchup paint on the moving parts, not necessarily a complete repaint job in a spray booth, demonstrates that the truck works, but is well cared for.

WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?

Lastly, every truck has a story, and the AT judges want to hear it. Many pageant trucks have a storyboard on a stand, showing photos of some of the more unique jobs the truck has accomplished, or maybe it displays the process of the restoration.

While the judges don’t distinguish between paint or vinyl wraps, as each is graded the same, they do look at the quality of the application of the paint or wrap.

Tell the story of why the owner is proud of the truck, its connection to the family, or anything else that makes it special.

Judges will often ask the truck’s owner or operator to tell them about it, why they like operating it, and so on. Be prepared to answer these questions, as the backstory helps draw attention to anything that may otherwise have been missed, especially when judges are looking at dozens of trucks in such a short timeframe.

A picture album or foam board with some highlights, relevant toys or accessories, and properly staging the look of the truck to complete the presentation can really help a truck win not only its category, but maybe even Best in Show when voted on by spectators.

One note of caution, when presenting a storyboard, pictures,

or maybe something eye-catching on the deck or wheel lift as part of the display, make sure to highlight only properly executed, safe, and industry-standard items, otherwise these add-ons could have a negative effect on the overall score.

HAVE FUN!

In the end, the AT wrecker pageant is all about fun and camaraderie. Be sure to walk over and talk to fellow competitors, look at what the previous show winners have done, and learn from them. Feel free to ask lots of questions and engage with the judges, but be mindful not to interrupt while they are actively judging another truck to avoid distractions. AT Wrecker Pageant judges take their assignment seriously, and want to give all wellprepared pageant trucks the rightful attention they deserve.

classic wrecker

Working Class Hero

For Towmen Who Value Authenticity

By Steve Temple

When we first visited with Rob Green, he showed off his “Hot Rod Hauler”, a customized ’70 Chevy C30 featured in our December 2024 issue. This truck was seriously modded with big power and a slammed suspension, along with several other modern upgrades. While it’s still able to serve as a tow truck, it is now way different from original spec. Which partially explains why a stock ’77 Chevy C30 wrecker appealed to Rob when he was building his Hot Rod Hauler.

In marked contrast to his Hauler, this tow truck is a true piece of working-class history—an original survivor with just 55,000 actual miles on it—and a story to tell. As truck guys all know, a Chevy C30 is a heavy-duty, one-ton, rear-wheeldrive pickup truck from Chevrolet's C/K series, known for its strength and capacity, produced for work and hauling.

Just a slight suspension drop and custom wheels give this old wrecker a jauntier, more modern stance.

The upholstery has been re-wrapped with original-style cloth. Note the CB radio and old-school light switch panel.

While many existing C30s are often customized with modern engines, suspensions, and features for enhanced performance and drivability, instead, under the hood the original 350 Chevy drivetrain remains intact and untouched, making it not only a nostalgic relic but also a more roadworthy rig. The model 50 DFW Wrecker equipment from Arlington, Texas is still in place and functional, keeping ◀

The EVIL decal on the rear window refers to a car club where “Every Vehicle Is Low.”

Rims are 22-inch polished Alcoas for a spiffier look.

The original model 50 DFW Wrecker body from Arlington, Texas still functions.

A dash of pin-striping on the hood and cab adds some style.

The 350 Chevy still wears some Arizona desert dust.

the truck true to its roots as a hardworking wrecker.

Modest upgrades include a set of 22-inch polished Alcoa wheels and a slight suspension drop (two inches up front, four in the rear), giving the truck a slightly more modern stance while maintaining its vintage character. (Lowering the chassis any further would have required a C-notch in the frame to make room for airbags.)

Originally serving as a service truck for Lane’s Texaco in Oklahoma, the wrecker still proudly wears its factory paint, aged to weathered patina that speaks to its decades of honest work and careful preservation. Inside, the cabin shows minimal wear, reflecting the truck’s low mileage and fairly light use over the years. The upholstery was freshened and an aftermarket HVAC

was installed, but the cabin still has an old-school CB and AM radios.

Overall, this C30 is a time capsule from an era when gas stations were full-service operations, and trucks were built to last. This veteran wrecker turns heads and sparks conversations everywhere it goes. Not surprisingly, the truck changed hands a few times among truck collectors in New Hampshire and Connecticut, and Rob came across it more than once at shows and on the internet. “It kept on slapping me back on the face,” he admits.

Finally, Rob tracked it down in Arizona, where he was pleased to find that, “It was more steerable for cruise nights than my customized wrecker.” Given the truck’s more user-friendly character, he plans to hang on to it. This classic’s a keeper!

Ohio River Recovery

George L. Nitti has written for American Towman since 2009. He started out as a news writer and now writes a weekly feature on TowIndustryWeek.com, Tow Illustrated, which spotlights the tow truck graphics.

A Hard Pull on Submerged Industrial Equipment

By George L. Nitti

When a 196,000-pound coil tubing unit plunged into the Ohio River, this tragic incident left one man dead and challenged some of the most experienced operators in the industry. The recovery effort required two tow companies, four heavy rotators, a dive team, an environmental cleanup crew, and hours of coordinated planning.

The lift-out, which pulled more than 200,000 pounds of waterlogged weight up a steep river embankment, was completed in about four

RESPONDING PERSONNEL

RESPONDING EQUIPMENT

Equipment used:

(2) Peterbilt 389X and Kenworth

W900 Miller M100 rotators

(2) Kenworth W900 and Kenworth

W900 NRC CSR 85 tons

(1) Linkbelt 275-ton crane

The crash occurred when a truck hauling a coil tubing unit used in oil and gas exploration evidently lost its brakes coming down the steep grade of Route 27 into Wellsburg, West Virginia. With no alternative route available, the ill-fated driver barreled through the intersection at 10th Street, where the road ends at the Ohio River. The truck and trailer careened over the embankment and into the water.

The driver did not survive. By the time Bill’s Towing & Recovery of St. Clairsville, Ohio was notified about three hours later, the cab had already been located and the driver’s body removed.

Chad Coulson, who owns and operates the business alongside his

Chad Coulson supervisor

Ty Coulson supervisor

Jesse Trgo supervisor/operator

Jay Trgo supervisor/operator

Adam Winslow operator

William Gilbert operator

Chad carpenter laborer

Tony Morelli laborer

Chad Coulson JR laborer

Chris Huff laborer

Ryan Campbell laborer

brother Ty, quickly began assembling a plan. Environmental protection was a priority. Fuel, hydraulic fluid, and motor oil had already formed a sheen across the river’s surface. Coulson’s in-house hazmat team ◀

A massive coil tubing unit used in oil and gas exploration had to be lifted from a depth of 50 feet.

hours.

deployed containment booms and absorbents that afternoon to begin cleanup before any recovery work could begin.

“We had to get everything in place before we even thought about hooking to the truck,” said Chad.

Given the scale of the job, Coulson reached out to longtime friend Jesse from Interstate Towing, who agreed to assist and brought in a dive team familiar with underwater rigging. That collaboration was key to the multiday recovery.

“We all came together—my crew, Jesse’s guys, the dive team, and reps from the company that owned the truck. It was a total team effort,” Coulson said.

Photographs of similar tubing units helped identify rigging points. With the cab submerged 17 feet underwater and the trailer submerged up to 50 feet, divers worked blindly, relaying information back to crews onshore via radio.

Early the next morning, recovery began in earnest, using a pair of 100-ton rotators, two CSR 85-ton rotators, an 850K winch tractor, and a DAT (Database Assisted Design) tool. In addition, boats and radio equipment for diver communication were required as well.

Each truck used two-part lines to pull the submerged vehicle. As the operation progressed, the unit rolled and shifted, but ultimately

surfaced. The lift-out, which pulled more than 200,000 pounds of waterlogged weight up a steep river embankment, was completed in about four hours.

“Watching all four trucks pulling in sync, the sheer power of the 100-tons especially—it was impressive,” said Coulson. “Everything held. The ground held. The trucks held. We were close to the edge, so there was always concern.”

Once the truck and trailer were recovered, the tubing unit was offloaded using a crane and placed on a lowboy trailer for transport.

Coulson said the recovery was one of the most complex and significant jobs his company has

Although positioned precariously close to the edge of a steep riverbank, the trucks held their ground.

The

undertaken in recent years.

“We handle rollovers on the interstate all the time, but this was different,” he said.

“Submerged, blind rigging, hazardous fluids, the weight— we needed everything we had, and then some. The biggest takeaway from this job is how well everyone worked together,” Coulson added.

“My guys, Interstate’s crew, the divers, the environmental team—everyone had input, everyone had a role.” Despite the successful recovery, the day was marked by a heartbreaking reality. “At the end of the day, it’s never good when there’s a loss of life,” Coulson said. “You hate to see something like this happen. We’re proud of how the teams came together, but it’s a tough reminder that safety on these roads matters more than anything.”

recovery crew all came together— operators from both Bill’s Towing & Recovery and Interstate Towing, along with divers, and reps from the company that owned the truck. It was a total team effort.

Beyond the Booths

DiMarco

in NYC.

and

moved to Phoenix, AZ in 1993 and started Moon Valley Auto Repair in 1995. In 2001, Quik Pik Towing was founded, and over a 20-year period, grew to 75 trucks and 140 employees servicing the entire state of Arizona, and completed over 2.5 million services. Joe is a multi-time ACE award recipient, a proud father of three, and is currently enjoying partial retirement alongside his wife.

Maximizing Your Time and Takeaways

at AT Expo

By Joe DiMarco

Back in 2001, two industry leaders insisted I attend the American Towman Expo in Baltimore, MD.

“There’s no such thing as a tow show,” I told them. However, I booked my first trip to attend this prestigious event to see what it was all about.

Then I walked into the center, and it hit me like a 50-ton rotator. The sights, the sounds, the flashing lights of the equipment, row after row of booths stacked with tools, trucks, and technology. It wasn’t just real. It was utterly impressive.

I like most first-timers, wandering aimlessly, grabbing brochures, shaking hands, staring at chrome and steel without a plan. I left knowing one thing for sure: to get real value out of a show like this, l needed a strategy.

I sat and talked with my only contacts, the people who had initially invited me by sending me a Bosses Pass, for about an hour about many valuable details surrounding my business. I knew this was the way to grow the company to the next level. I left the show with an abundance of takeaways, and it was time to get to work.

GETTING FOCUSED

This lesson shaped every show I’ve attended since. And why I believe every tow operator—whether it’s your first Expo or your fifteenth, should walk in with clear goals, a plan of attack, and the discipline to follow through. I decided that when I attended the next AT Expo, I would be prepared. My agenda and timeline were designed to achieve everything I hadn’t initially accomplished. I reminded myself there was plenty of time to achieve my goals.

Immediately after that first Expo, I tackled the easy logistics—airfare, ◀

Joe

was born

raised

hotel, scheduling meetings with motor clubs, insurance companies, lenders, equipment reps, and dinner reservations. Taking care of those details early allowed me to focus on the most important reason for attending: networking and education. There are many valuable seminars that should not be overlooked. Examine the class schedule and attend as many as possible. Presenters are typically industry experts who share an incredible amount of valuable information. Carefully review the options to decide what will be most beneficial for your business—or what you’d like to learn more about.

MEET AND GREET

Do not simply pass by a booth just because you believe it may not

be relevant to your company. Every exhibitor has value, and you never know what hidden opportunity you might discover. When you’re prepared, things move at a manageable pace. When you’re not, time flies and opportunities are missed.

Whenever possible, prearrange meetings with representatives to ensure your plan is executed. It could be coffee, cocktails, or a meal. Even asking them to step off the floor for a quiet conversation can be highly effective, and these conversations can potentially increase revenue opportunities.

If you don’t see or talk to everyone during the show, don’t worry. There are plenty of other occasions: extracurricular activities, demos, classes, hotel lobbies, and bars.

AT Expo offers many valuable seminars with presenters who are industry experts and share an incredible amount of valuable information.

Take advantage of meet-and-greet events during the show to network and learn from industry colleagues.

You’d be surprised at the connections you can make.

I once got stuck on a train that broke down for 30 minutes on the way to the airport after the show, and by chance was seated next to a director of one of the largest salvage companies in North America. That conversation ended with me buying eight more trucks to handle the call volume from the business we struck up together.

So, make sure to find time to get involved, and don’t be shy. These interactions are invaluable. Not only are they fun, but people love to talk about themselves, their accomplishments, and their

When talking with fellow tow company owners and operators, go beyond typical questions, and have a few topics in mind that you want to explore.

Hands-on demonstrations provide practical tips for towers.

background outside the show floor.

Go beyond the usual “Where are you from?” and “How many trucks do you have?” Have a few topics in mind that you want to explore. For example:

• Have you discovered something new or valuable that helped your business achieve a goal?

• What’s your opinion on insurance, dispatch software, equipment, technology, customer acquisition, employee relations and retention, fleet maintenance, or supplies?

There’s no better group of people to discuss these topics with than industry experts. You may think you’re doing everything right, but trust me, there’s always a better way.

After a few shows, I began to recognize what the “next level” looked like and what to strive for.

Being nominated for an ACE Award became the pinnacle achievement; recognition as one of the top 1% of industry leaders. After more than 20 years, I realize that winning this award connected me with some of my closest friends and confidants. Year after year, we’ve shared best practices that helped us become the best of the best. ◀

Being nominated for an ACE Award can be a pinnacle achievement, recognition as one of the top 1% of industry leaders.

Unfortunately, these conversations rarely happen locally. In our own markets, operators often hold back, afraid of giving away their secrets to success. At an AT Expo, though, attendees from all over the world speak freely, sharing advice and strategies that have made them successful.

ACTION ITEMS

The best advice: interact with as many attendees as possible. Discuss your struggles, concerns, fears, and achievements. And when you get home, ensure your takeaways are implemented methodically into your operations. It’s critical to follow up with everyone and maintain those relationships—they’ll prove to be indispensable.

Continue to correspond with the people you met. You never know what future interaction might bring. Prioritize your leads, set reminders, and commit to implementing at least one new idea, product, or system you discovered at the Expo. That’s the heartbeat of attending these shows.

Believe me—the investment of attending every event American Towman offers will always be worth your time and effort.

Jade Fickert spent over 10 years working in her family’s towing business, providing firsthand insight into the challenges tow companies face every day. She has taught companies nationwide the fundamentals of best practices in billing and operations, working with hundreds of owners and managers to identify inefficiencies and improve processes. These experiences led her to create Towboss, a company dedicated to streamlining office tasks, automating repetitive work, and improving customer and team experiences. In addition to being featured in American Towman, Jade has also presented courses at American Towman Expositions, sharing how AI and automation can help tow offices run more efficiently.

The Next Big Shift in Towing

Smarter Operations With Artificial Intelligence

By Jade Fickert

The towing and recovery industry has often taken its time to adopt new office technology. Many still remember the move from handwritten slips to dispatch software. At the time, it felt like a big change. But today, it’s hard to imagine running a professional operation without it.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is creating a similar movement today. The difference is that this step is smaller, the benefits are

bigger, and the payoff comes much faster. That’s because AI doesn’t add more work for your staff—it takes it away. By removing repetitive, time-consuming tasks from their plate, a tow team can stay focused on what matters most. AI can be inserted seamlessly into workflow procedures already in place, so there’s almost no learning curve.

OVERCOMING TECHNOLOGY HURDLES

For many tow company owners, letting go of any part of the job doesn’t come easy. After all, this isn’t just a business, it’s a legacy. Whether it’s the family name on the trucks or the company that has put food on the table for decades, trusting “technology” with any part of that can feel like giving up too much.

But what if a tow business could get the benefits of AI without handing over all the control to a “robot”? The truth is, it can be done. Don’t think about AI in towing as a replacement for employees, but as an assistant that supports them. AI can make a practical difference in the daily grind. ◀

How so?

• It takes repetitive work off the team so they burnout less.

• It helps a smaller crew operate at a higher capacity.

• It makes the customer experience smoother and faster.

• It helps to keep good employees longer by making their workday less repetitive and more rewarding. Every office has tasks that eat up time: writing recovery narratives, answering the same impound questions, and keeping up with an online presence, just to name a few. These are the kinds of jobs that can be automated and trusted to an AI assistant. In contrast, hiring extra staff to cover them means paying wages, benefits, training, sick time, and vacation, all adding overhead. AI assistants provide the same kind of support at a fraction of the cost. They work 24/7/365 and never call in sick.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF AI

There’s no shortage of hype about AI, but rather than being merely a buzzword, it’s already assisting tow staff and adding real efficiency to operations. Here’s how:

• Recovery Narratives Written in Minutes, Not Hours

Needing to write recovery narratives is what we’d call a “good problem” to have, it means your team just finished a recovery or cleanup, and now it’s time to document the work to justify the charges. But let’s be honest: just because it’s a good problem, doesn’t make it an enjoyable one.

Hours can be lost gathering details and writing narratives that satisfy insurers and adjusters. Recovery Assistant AI changes that. It turns hours into minutes by generating clear, professional narratives that are consistent with claims. A tow company’s invoices go out faster and

There’s no shortage of hype about AI, but rather than being merely a buzzword, it’s already assisting tow staff and adding real efficiency to operations.

the staff avoids paperwork burnout. By answering a few quick questions, typed in or spoken aloud, the Recovery Assistant AI creates a complete, organized narrative in seconds. It outlines what was required on scene, justifies the equipment used, provides a clear overview of the recovery, and meets requirements to satisfy a claim. And because it handles the writing, there’s no need to worry about spelling, grammar, or formatting— the report comes out polished, saving both time and frustration.

• Dispatcher Assistant AI

Dispatchers are the heart of a tow operation, the first point of contact, the link between drivers and the office, and the ones keeping trucks moving. With so much already on their plate, every extra task adds pressure. Protecting dispatchers from overload is critical; when they can stay focused, the entire operation runs smoother.

If a tow business runs an impound yard, the same questions come up all day long:

» “Where’s my car?”

» “What do I need to bring?”

» “Do you take credit cards?”

» “When can I come?”

These calls are a sign business is moving, yet every time

dispatchers answer them, they’re pulled away from coordinating trucks and urgent jobs. Dispatcher Assistant AI handles those conversations automatically. When the call is completed, the customers are prompted via text with release instructions, payment details, and even appointment scheduling, without tying up the phones.

With AI, dispatchers can stay focused on dispatching, customers are happier because they can text at their convenience, and the front office knows who is coming to the yard and when. It adds structure to the chaos, and most importantly, it works 24/7. Even when the office is closed, customers get answers, without flooding answering services or creating a backlog waiting for follow-up the next day.

• Reviews AI—Protect a Reputation and Boost Google Rankings

A Google Business Profile is often the first impression a customer gets for a tow company. Customers don’t just find a tow business on Google, they decide whether or not to call based on what they see. That’s why reviews matter so much.

But keeping up with reviews and updates takes time most tow offices don’t have. Reviews AI handles this by responding professionally to reviews and keeping the Google Business Profile active. And it’s not just about reputation. Regular responses and updates signal activity to Google, boosting the SEO and moving a tow company higher within the search results.

The result? A stronger online presence, more calls from new customers, and peace of mind knowing the company’s reputation is being managed around the clock.

HOW TOW COMPANIES CAN START WITH AI

For those tow managers exploring AI but still have reservations, here ◀

are some practical guidelines: The best way to approach it is to think of AI as an assistant, not a replacement. Its role is to support your staff by handling repetitive or timeconsuming tasks that slows them down—not to take their jobs.

The strongest place to start is with text-based or written-based AI, where the technology is most

reliable. Text provides full visibility into every exchange, maintaining transparency and control, while also meeting customers in the way they prefer to communicate, since most would rather text than call.

By comparison, voice-based AI isn’t quite ready for towing. Dispatch calls are complex, involving logistics, equipment, scheduling, and in some cases police coordination where a single misstep could jeopardize a contract. Reviewing voice conversations is also more time-consuming, making oversight difficult. So for now, text-

based AI offers the best balance of customer preference, operational support, and owner confidence.

Like any business decision, choose a provider who truly understands the towing industry, customer expectations, daily challenges, and the required regulations. The right AI partner will also have safeguards for sensitive situations, such as fatalities or upset customers, and will know when a live person needs to step in.

Simply put, there are many generalist marketing companies trying to ride the AI wave without understanding the complexity the towing industry brings. When evaluating providers, ask them: are they specific to towing, or do they also sell to 10 other industries? Choose a partner who knows the tow business, builds tools for this business, and can tailor the tools to individual business requirements if necessary. ◀

AI eliminates repetitive, time-consuming tasks, so a tow team can focus on more important matters.

STAYING AHEAD OF THE CURVE

AI done right is about equipping a tow team with the tools to work smarter, not harder. By eliminating repetitive, time-consuming tasks, it reduces burnout, improves employee retention, and gives a staff more time to focus on meaningful work. The result is faster claims, clearer communication, and an office that runs more efficiently. Just as a tow manager invests in the best trucks to keep tow operators moving, the right office tools keep the team sharp, operations running smoother, and business practices remaining ahead of the curve.

Tribute to a Towman

The Passing of a Hero, South African Kavish Ramnarayan

By Randall C. Resch

Regardless of their location worldwide, towers recognize the inherent risks of their profession as they carry out their roadside duties. Whether they serve on inner city streets, or vast spans of high-speed highways, all share the grief when a towman is killed in the line-of-duty.

In one of far too many tragic examples, Kavish Ramnarayan, a young, South African tower, and experienced heavy tow operator who played a vital role in multiple lifesaving rescues prior to his passing, is remembered for his unwavering dedication to his trade. He died while working a major incident near the town of Pietermaritzburg, the capital of the province of KwaZulu-Natal.

A TERRIBLE NIGHT

On September 21, 2023, a horrific crash occurred on, KwaZuluNatal Highway, referred to as N3, a national highway connecting Johannesburg and Durban. Over the years, numerous high-profile fatal collisions have occurred along this deadly stretch of highway.

Devotion to duty was likely the driving force that brought Kavish to the forefront of local news reports of his tragic death, which rocked the South African towing community and shocked everyone who knew and loved him. Employed by Mr. Towing, owned by Kavish’s brother, Mark Ramnarayan, in Howick, South Africa, Kavish was a designated tow operator and responder serving as a Heavy Recovery Specialist (similar to America’s versions of Motorist Assist Programs like Ranger, Hero, FSP, and others).

The nighttime scene was nothing less than horrendous when Kavish arrived at this particular multivehicle, semi-trailer crash. As he and others worked to remove the wreckage, a secondary crash occurred when a speeding semi tanker reportedly lost control and slid into the initial scene. Kavish and RTI police inspector, Zithulele Ntshangase, were fatally struck.

Varying reports indicated that the semi driver responsible for running into the crash scene had been a commercial truck driver for only

three weeks prior to this collision. The truck driver admitted that he drove at an unsafe speed and failed to heed the road cones set up ahead of the initial crash scene.

Due to the truck’s high speed, he was unable to stop in time to avoid impact. The semi’s driver fled the scene on foot, only to be arrested a week later. Ultimately, he pled guilty and received a ten-year sentence.

A TRUE HERO—TWICE

Looking back on Kavish’s life of service, his commitment to helping others shone through in two distinct incidents where his presence at just the right moments made all the difference. Whenever Kavish perceived immediate danger, he courageously sprang into action without consideration of his own peril.

Torrential rain events are common in this part of the world, where severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours, excessive lightning, hail, and fierce winds strike at category forces. When these events are impending, Southern KZN often initiates “Orange Level-5 Alerts”, advising the populace to seek higher ground. But fleeing motorists sometimes panic, and react hastily, not respecting the hazards of flooded roadways, and may even attempt to cross whitewater pathways.

In April 2015, heavy rains created dangerous flooding on the Msunduzi River, a major waterway near Pietermaritzburg. A motorist intentionally drove his Jeep SUV into the fast-moving waters, ignoring signs that warned of flooded roadways. As expected, the Jeep got stranded on a partially submerged log, halting the vehicle’s crossing.

Working at the time for Joey’s Towing Services, SA, Kavish responded in his wrecker, finding the Jeep stuck midway on a flooded and impassable road, with the vehicle’s owner still inside. Acting quickly,

Kavish Ramnarayan’s heroic service as a towman will not be forgotten.

Kavish waded into the fast-moving river, attached the wrecker’s winch line to the Jeep, and pulled it to safety.

When interviewed by an area TV station, Kavish later stated, “Yes it was risky, but I was not scared. I believe it’s part of my job to help save people and to ensure customer safety. I am relieved we got to him in time before he was washed away.”

HEROIC ACT TWO

In the early morning hours of May, 28, 2022, a loaded, “tipper” (dump) truck overturned, after tangling with another vehicle, blocking several lanes of the N3 near Pietermaritzburg. Shortly after the initial rollover, a secondary collision occurred when a semitruck and trailer struck slowed traffic caused by lane closures.

According to South African media, Road Traffic Inspectorate

Zinhle Mngomezulu described a speeding semi-truck trailer that failed to slow in traffic and plowed into a taxi van carrying 17 passengers.

The van exploded on impact, trapping the passengers inside. Witnesses raced to extinguish the fire, but efforts were hampered by lack of firefighting equipment. In recorded audio captured on scene, Kavish’s voice delivered a calm but labored plea for help, describing the incredible collision, in real time over-the-air. Kavish’s agonized voice could be heard, the weight of defeat palpable with the knowledge that rescue was likely impossible.

In the midst of unbearable heat from the intense fire, witnesses reported that a Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officer, along with Kavish’s assistance, were instrumental in retrieving a seven-

year-old-boy who was passed through an open window of the burning taxi to the awaiting ◀

A tribute to Kavish is fittingly displayed on a tow truck.

rescuers. Kavish and the RTI officer brought the young boy to safety so he could be rushed to a nearby hospital.

The seven-year-old passenger was the sole survivor; the van’s 16

other passengers perished in the fire, their remains burned beyond recognition. On final count, news reports stated the crash involved two commercial trucks, a smaller

truck, a pickup, two minibus taxis, and five cars.

NOMINATION FOR THE MUSEUM WALL

Kavish’s brother, Mark Ramnarayan, spoke fondly of him, sharing heartfelt memories. “Working heavy wreckers was nothing new to Kavish, having grown up with me since he was 13 years old.”

Based on all of these accounts, on November 09, 2023, I submitted a formal nomination for Kavish Ramnarayan’s name to be added to the Wall of the Fallen at the International Towing Museum in Chattanooga, TN. The Wall of the Fallen is the enduring and greatest recognition bestowed upon a towman. Kavish’s tragic death serves as the ultimate reminder that the nature of his work positioned him directly in harm’s way while serving his community, truly the definition of a hero.

On, March 14, 2025, Lauren Colon, then director of the Towing Museum, confirmed that Kavish’s name will be permanently added to the Wall of the Fallen Memorial on October, 11th, 2025. Initially, the formal nomination submitted was accepted by the Wall of the Fallen Committee in 2024, but due to the distance from South Africa to Chattanooga, pushing Kavish’s recognition forward to October 2025 better served his family’s ability to attend the memorial.

Let this narrative serve as a heartfelt and uplifting tribute to the memory of Kavish and the manner in which he so proudly served his international community. With great respect and deepest sympathies, we send prayers to his wife, Tamara, daughters, Mayah-Lee and Gianna, and the entire Ramnarayan family. Kavish will not be forgotten.

supplier scOOp

Wrecker Warehouse of Texas Joins Forces with Jerr-Dan

Wrecker Warehouse of Texas, led by longtime industry veteran Brent Lemmond, has been named an official Jerr-Dan distributor, bringing a new level of opportunity for tow operators across the Lone Star State.

Lemmond, who built Dallas Tow Boys of Texas into a 48-truck operation before moving into truck customization and distribution, has been in

the industry for more than 25 years. His Garland-based operation is now positioned among Jerr-Dan’s top five distributors nationwide.

“This is huge for Texas,” Lemmond said. “For years, Rush was the only distributor here. Jerr-Dan saw the need for another strong partner, and they chose us.”

The move strengthens Wrecker Warehouse’s core business of selling both new and used tow trucks. The company’s model is built around trade-ins—helping customers step

into brand-new rollbacks, repo units, or custom builds, while giving smaller operators affordable access to refurbished used equipment.

“It works like a car dealership,” Lemmond explained. “We take tradeins, refurbish them, and get them back on the road quickly for the next buyer.”

Just weeks into the Jerr-Dan distributorship, Wrecker Warehouse already has 27 trucks on order and expects to move more than 100 units next year. With a three-acre lot, 20,000-square-foot building, and 4,500-square-foot parts department staffed by experts with over 90 years combined experience, the company is positioned as a true one-stop shop.

“Jerr-Dan is a quality company backed by Oshkosh, and the support they bring will help us serve customers better than ever,” Lemmond said.

Rising Bankruptcies Could Impact Repos and Collections

Bankruptcy filings are on the rise. According to the latest AIS Bankruptcy Insights Report, filings are up nearly 9% year-over-year, with almost 50,000 cases in April alone. Chapter 7 bankruptcies, which often mean assets are liquidated, jumped nearly 13%, signaling more consumers are in serious financial trouble.

For repo agents, the key takeaway is that the “automatic stay” kicks in immediately when a debtor files for bankruptcy. The stay makes it illegal to repossess a vehicle or continue collection efforts until the court says otherwise. Missing this detail could result in fines, legal trouble, and damage to business reputation.

Source: blog.cucollector.com

Cardinal Legacy and ATRI Merge

The Cardinal Legacy Towing Group and the American Towing and Recov-

ery Institute (ATRI) have announced a merger to form one of the industry’s most comprehensive training divisions. The newly combined entity, which will continue under the American Towing and Recovery Training Division name, will be headquartered in St. Louis.

The training division will build on ATRI’s long-standing expertise and Cardinal Legacy’s rapid growth in the towing industry. JT Reasor of A&A Towing, who has played a leading role in classroom and hands-on instruction, will guide the initiative alongside ATRI’s veteran trainer, Wes Wilburn.

Wilburn, who has taught more than 950 classes across North America since 1992, will continue contributing his expertise to develop the next generation of towing professionals. The division plans to expand training opportunities not only within towing but also in fire and rescue operations, while accelerating innovation across the sector.

Both organizations see the merger as a chance to elevate professional-

ism, safety, and advocacy for towers worldwide.

Source: The American Towing and Recovery Institute

Missing Tow Company Owner Found Dead

The towing community mourns the loss of Danny Brown, 68, owner of Ace Towing, after a week-long search ended with confirmation of his death in a crash on Interstate 24 near Nashville. His family brought in United Search Corps to assist, deploying sonar in nearby waterways. Those efforts turned up no sign of Brown.

Tennessee Highway Patrol confirmed Brown’s 2022 Dodge Ram tow truck left the roadway on I-24 eastbound near mile marker 68, striking a sign and a tree. Despite wearing a seatbelt, Brown did not survive. No other vehicles were involved, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Source: hoodline.com

Tow Truck Procession Honors Arkansas Towing Leader

Nearly 50 tow trucks formed a procession to honor Gerald Kennon, a respected figure in Arkansas’s towing industry who passed. The convoy began on Morgan’s Bicentennial Road and traveled north to Kennon’s final resting place in Dennard. Earlier, family and friends gathered at Graves Memorial Baptist Church to celebrate his life.

“We call him Peepaw,” said daughter-in-law Suzie Kennon. “He taught us the value of hard work and loved his family fiercely. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his grandkids or his friends.”

Kennon, former owner of A1 Recovery in North Little Rock, was known for his strong relationships within the industry. “He knew everybody, from when they started to when they moved up,” said longtime friend and coworker Anthony Lay.

Source: thv11.com

VIP Treatment

Patriotic Graphics Command Attention

By Steve Temple

2024 Peterbilt 548 chassis. What he didn’t expect was to be approached by officers from the local reserve base in Austin, TX to transport military

features in American Towman have highlighted the value of vivid visuals, but we didn’t realize their high-caliber value—literally, in this case.

of this truck by Sigma Graphix contributed to a firstplace trophy in the Carrier Class at

Towman’s USA Wrecker Pageant in Fort Worth.

American Towman’s USA Wrecker Pageant held in Fort Worth, TX this past June. Not surprisingly, the truck was also a prominent participant in a recent Fourth of July parade in nearby Lockheart, Texas.

Yet, this carrier’s beauty is way more than skin-deep. Even though Tommy has been towing for less than a year, he’s already handled all sorts of recoveries.

“From riverbeds to rollovers, and a lot of burned up vehicles,” he says. Although he doesn’t know the exact power output of his truck’s PX9 Cummins diesel, “It can tow a house with no problem,” he boasts. (And of course a 25,000-pound armored vehicle as well.)

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Engine: PX9 Cummins

Transmission: Allison 3000

Chassis: 2024 Peterbilt 548

Wrecker Body: Century 30 Series

Industrial Carrier

Custom Features: Red/White/ Blue Underglow lights, custom switchgear in the cab

Graphics: American Flag wrap done by Sigma Graphix

How did Tommy get into towing? After driving commercial freight trucks for the last 14 years, “I woke up one day and thought, that seems pretty interesting. I want to try it.”

ATX-VIP Towing offered to train him as a tow operator, and he now handles both this carrier and a 35-ton wrecker. The firm is a sister company of Armada Towing, founded as a one-truck operation back in 1987.

Today, these two companies’ combined fleets are 400 trucks strong, ranging from light to heavy-duty recovery units, located in over 20 brick-and-mortar locations. ATX-VIP and Armada are equipped to handle everything

from roadside assistance to recovery operations, not only on the roads of Texas, but also California, Missouri, and Illinois.

Motivated by the enthusiastic response to his carrier’s VIP treatment, Tommy says a bigger one with a full-size cab is now in the works. This carrier will be getting a full-dress military uniform, in a commanding salute to our country’s service men and women—“Atten Hut!”

The Century 30 Series Industrial Carrier is way more than just a pretty face, handling a wide range of challenging recoveries.

The cabin interior is fitted with customized switchgear.

Steve Calitri Editor-in-Chief scalitri@towman.com

A Salute to Captain Recovery’s Creator

By Steve Calitri

Iwill never forget when Kyle Chirgwin told me he would sit against a tree near his wife’s tombstone writing in his notebook what would become the second of the Captain Recovery books. His wife Lisa had been the love of his life and was with Kyle throughout his towing career.

Kyle and Lisa sold their towing business when he became debilitated by a neurological affliction, experiencing times of being bedridden. He thought about penning an autobiography from his bed, when the idea of a children’s book took hold. While his body struggled through acute pain brought on by his neuropathy, he worked on the story of a tow truck operator. The books follow a boy whose imagination brings to life a heroic tow operator who rescues trains and trucks while teaching lessons of kindness and teamwork.

Kyle had had an interesting and most challenging career (see AT’s December 2017 issue) and he wanted children to see and learn how interesting and noble the work of a towman is.

Tow Times published the first printing of My Big Tow, the Adventures of Captain Recovery. Kyle then came to us to see if we could take on the book. We were happy to promote Captain Recovery to our readers, which we still do, and sell the books for him at our shows: Book One and Book Two, which he published independently.

Kyle came to visit me in my home with his father, and we discussed his storytelling approach, and how Captain Recovery could be marketed. This was a man who had loved towing and recovery, and was now on a mission to light up the imaginations of children to the amazing work towmen do,

day and night. A more earnest author could not be found in any genre of storytelling. His life became limited by the challenges to his mobility. Captain Recovery was born in his heart.

I’m not sure how yet, but in honor of Kyle, who passed away on September 8, 2025, the American Towman Exposition XXXVI in November, will pay tribute to Kyle and Captain Recovery. Everyone in the hall will be aware of their presence. And I look forward to the day when all our children and grandchildren are as aware of Captain Recovery as they are of The Cat in the Hat.

The Network Effect

Stephanie Marchese is a contributing writer and copy editor for American Towman magazine, drawing on valuable skills honed from years in book publishing. With a passion for clear storytelling and in-depth industry coverage, Stephanie brings a keen editorial eye and a dedication to giving tow professionals a voice in the industry’s leading trade publication.

Building Relationships That Pull Through

By Stephanie Marchese

The towing industry is known for its rugged individualism, but in today’s interconnected world, collaboration and networking are now essential tools for success. By working together, tow companies can share knowledge, resources, and expertise, ultimately leading to improved services and increased profitability. However, like any business strategy, networking and collaboration in the towing industry have their benefits and their drawbacks. As companies navigate the complex web of partnerships and alliances, they should carefully weigh the

advantages and disadvantages of working together to achieve their goals.

By prioritizing networking and building strong relationships, towing companies can stay ahead of the competition and achieve long-term success. Networking consists of building relationships with other professionals and businesses that will open doors to new opportunities, increase visibility, and drive growth.

In addition, some difficult recovery jobs require linking up with other tow companies to accomplish the task at hand. As the old saying goes, a fist is much stronger than just a single digit.

WHERE TO BEGIN

Valuable starting points include attending industry events, conferences, and trade shows. Not least among these is the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore each November, the industry’s premier gathering, which should be on every towing professional’s calendar. Participation in this venue offers invaluable opportunities to meet other towing professionals, learn about the latest technologies and trends, and establish connections.

Operators throughout the industry come together to learn, share, and strengthen their skills.

professionals in the towing industry. Participating in online forums and discussion groups helps a business stay informed about industry developments and best practices.

In the towing industry, success is often dependent on more than just the quality of service provided. It’s about who you know, who knows you, and the relationships you build along the way. Networking in its simplest form.

Logistics plays a big part in the collaborating world, and according to one towing company in the New England area, “It helps knowing other companies that are farther away from us to better service our customers and try to get them up and going again.”

WHO YA GONNA CALL?

Towing companies can collaborate with national roadside assistance networks (motor clubs) as well as insurance companies to receive consistent dispatch volume and grow their businesses. Other potential partners include local law enforcement and fire departments, vehicle salvage/auction houses, and car rental agencies, all of which foster mutually beneficial relationships by sharing resources, expertise, and customers referrals. And don’t forget to network with local businesses in the community.

At Pine Tree Towing in Cambridge, OH they believe in working together to get the job done. “I’ve found that collaborating with other tow companies makes the environment friendlier,” notes Pine Tree’s Craig Morrison. “It’s less about competition and more about building real relationships in the industry.”

Joining industry associations and local business organizations can

also provide valuable networking opportunities. Towing companies can benefit as well from building relationships with local law enforcement agencies, roadside assistance services, and insurance companies, any of which can lead to referrals, contracts, and overall increased business.

In addition to in-person events, online networking platforms can provide connections with other ◀

Business networking is a fantastic way to meet potential referral sources for your towing business because it is highly personal. Make time to meet with auto repair businesses, auto dealers, apartment managers, and property managers. Don’t forget to leave business cards, company brochures, and giveaway items like pens, notepads, magnets, key fobs, and other tangible touch points imprinted with the company logo. In addition, send them a nice “thank you” email or call them a few days after your meeting.

Pulver Towing and Performance Towing joined forces for the colossal recovery of a wind turbine.

Proud recipients of the American Towman Masters of Chaos award, Twin Peaks Towing and Pine Tree Towing were recognized for their exceptional skill and dedication to a complex recovery.

Compared with the poundingthe-pavement approach, effective networking is an active process that involves making deliberate connections, consistent follow-up, and sustaining engagement beyond the initial introduction. As stated by one business networking founder, “Building a network is not a sprint, but a marathon where persistence and long-term engagement are key.”

And, as pointed out in Dale

Carnegie’s practical book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People”, if you meet other people’s needs, then you’ll meet your own. By genuinely showing interest in others, understanding their desires, and making them feel valued, you will naturally cultivate stronger relationships and achieve your own goals. This involves practices such as listening, sincere appreciation, remembering names, and talking about their interests, all of which create a mutually beneficial environment.

SHOW ME THE MONEY

We reached out to several colleagues to hear firsthand how networking truly plays out in their day-to-day business lives. Their candid insights were both enlightening and unexpected, revealing practical strategies and real-world challenges that often go unspoken. These honest reflections underscore that while networking is vital, its success depends on consistent effort and authenticity— far more than simply showing up.

An intriguing insight shared by several towing businesses is the belief that, although not guaranteed, effective networking often helps establish a de facto pricing structure within the industry, where competitors end up charging similar rates for comparable services. This suggests that through networking, businesses maintain a level of revenue consistency that benefits the market’s overall stability.

As stated by Josh Schafer of Pulver Towing in Marshall, MN, “It’s perfectly okay to have a conversation about service rates.” And he points out that, “If you think your rates are a secret, you are only fooling yourself.” Josh recommends not cutting rates to ensure the bid, but rather to do as his own father and grandfather did; that is, to meet with other tow service providers in the area, annually at the very least, and talk about everything from police rotations to service rates. This is a surefire way to gain mutual respect and ensure nobody is undercutting the other. When it comes to initiating a towing relationship, Craig of Pine Tree Towing advises, “Begin with a handshake or lunch to discuss previous jobs.” Building on the foundation of this friendly encounter can ultimately turn into a networking opportunity. Craig adds, “It’s meant to be a friendship, not a war.”

Twin Peaks Towing and Pine Tree Towing coordinated a heavy-duty recovery of a hazardous chemical tanker, demonstrating expertise and precision in a high-risk operation.

A collection of ‘Thank You’ cards shows the genuine appreciation from customers, a normal occurrence for many tow companies.

Another consideration, according to our contact up North is that, “Some small companies want to stay small, mostly to avoid high insurance premiums.” Networking allows them to be on the local rotation tow list and accept any jobs that come their way, but if the job is too big to handle, they can rely on their networking partners to come in and help.

When it comes to actually working a job collaboratively, each tow company should designate a single point of contact. This approach ensures clear communication and direction on scene. Without an appointed lead individual (e.g., an Incident Commander), recovery sites can quickly become disorganized and resemble a three-ring circus, where operators move around aimlessly and no decisive plan is in place.

An example of a successful collaboration occurred during a challenging recovery from the Ohio river involving a sunken semi hauling industrial equipment. Chad Coulson, the owner of Bill’s Towing and Recovery of St. Clairsville, OH described it as one of the most complex and significant jobs his company has undertaken in recent years.

“We handle rollovers on the interstate all the time, but this was different,” he said. “Submerged, blind rigging, hazardous fluids, the weight—we needed everything we had, and then some.” Coulson added, “The biggest takeaway from this job is how well everyone worked together, my guys, Interstate’s crew, the divers, the environmental team—everyone had input, everyone had a role.”

NETWORKING CHALLENGES

The challenges of networking in the towing industry can be significant. One major hurdle is building relationships with ◀

other professionals who may also be competitors. Establishing trust and credibility is crucial, but it can be difficult when companies are perhaps competing for the same contracts and clients.

Another challenge is finding the time and resources to dedicate to networking efforts. Towing companies often have to manage a wide range of responsibilities, from responding to emergency

calls to maintaining equipment and vehicles. Finding the bandwidth to attend industry events, join associations, engage in online forums, all while attempting to balance the work/home life scenario, is daunting at times. Additionally, measuring the effectiveness of networking efforts can be difficult. It’s hard to quantify the benefits of a conversation or a meeting, making it challenging

to justify the time and resources invested in networking.

Another challenge tow companies may encounter when considering collaboration is local laws. Although there is no blanket prohibition against towing companies collaborating, most states regulate specific anticompetitive or predatory practices, such as kickbacks and price-fixing.

Working together is not an everyday thing for most tow companies, it usually involves one company calling on a friend who might have equipment more conducive to a particular recovery. It’s important to recognize who is leading the recovery though, and as long as, “two solid professional companies are working together, there shouldn’t be any issues,” stated one tow operator.

When the inevitable disagreement with a collaborating tow company arises, Josh of Pulver Towing recommends, “having respectful open communication with colleagues that will change the negative perceptions.”

Despite these challenges, networking remains a vital component of success in the towing industry. By building strong relationships and establishing a reputation as a trusted and reliable partner, towing companies can stay ahead of the competition and achieve long-term success.

IMPROVING THE INDUSTRY

Josh highlights the benefits of networking through the following example: “On multiple occasions, customers have requested services to recover vehicles that have fallen through ice on frozen lakes.”

Bill’s Towing, operating in concert with Interstate Towing and other companies, executed an arduous recovery of a massive coil tubing from the Ohio River, showcasing expert teamwork and precision in a challenging operation.

A complex recovery from a frozen pond required that crews coordinate above and below the ice to safely hoist a truck from the water.

company does not offer lake recovery services. Over the past nine years, Pulver has partnered with City Line Towing and Recovery to provide water recovery services. As a result of this partnership, Pulver now has the ability to provide a service they were unable to offer in the past,

ultimately making a good and lasting impression on the customer.

Access to a supportive network and colleagues’ resources makes it easier to provide timely and effective support to customer. These mutually supportive arrangements exemplify a collaborative partnership that is

both friendly and highly effective within the towing industry.

In a podcast by The American Towing and Recovery Institute that aired on August 7, 2023, Michael Lard, owner of Tom’s 24-Hour Towing in Elkhart, IN shared that his company partnered with another towing company to get some retired oil tanks moved from Michigan to Indiana. In Michael’s words, “We partnered up to help get the customer taken care of.” This is a reminder that collaboration comes in many forms and isn’t limited to recoveryrelated endeavors.

Additional alliances not often considered within the industry include training. As noted by Josh, “Collaboration between companies can improve the industry with a commitment to training collectively, and it’s good to know that many towing associations offer annual training, effectively cutting

There are many factors and skills at play when recovering a pickup from a frozen pond.

HeroNominate a

down on training costs for the tow business owner.”

Furthermore, tow business owners will often encourage colleagues to participate in the offered training, further enhancing efficient and effective collaborations down the road. Essentially, if everyone receives the same training, they will work well together, and fostering active participation within the industry can open forums for discussions and ultimately build a stronger, more united industry.

Networking also extends beyond individual tow companies; it plays a vital role within towing associations and fuels the initiatives designed to advance the entire industry. Memberships and affiliations ensure that training is aligned with current laws, equipment standards, and roadside best practices, and can even provide peer networking that improves safety.

As the towing industry continues to evolve, the importance of collaboration and professional networking grows ever more critical. By leveraging shared resources, embracing new technology, and building positive relationships, towing companies position themselves to meet rising customer expectations and adapt to new challenges. Whether through joint recovery efforts, knowledge exchange, or creative partnerships beyond conventional recovery work, effective networking remains the cornerstone of safety, efficiency, and innovation in the modern towing landscape.

As so accurately stated by Michael Lard, “We can’t all do everything. The ultimate goal is to work with each other, grow with each other, and train with each other.”

As a Towing Professional, be recognized by your Police or Fire Chief for serving your community in an exceptional way

Have your Police or Fire Chief nominate you for

THE ORDER OF TOWMAN

Should you feel you qualify, take this nomination form to your chief.

• For the past 15 years over 2,000 police and fire chiefs across the U.S. have nominated towing professionals for The Order of Towman, presented by American Towman Magazine in recognition of their supreme dedication to their communities and to the professionalism in their trade.

• No one knows better than chiefs how towers rise to the occasion to face challenges at incident scenes or support their departments.

• While American Towman Magazine mails nomination forms to chiefs nationwide, it may take more than one notice.

Deadline: October 20, 2025 for nominations. The ceremony presentation of the Cross of The Order will take place at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore.

The Network Effect

Building Relationships That Pull Through

By Stephanie Marchese

advantages and disadvantages of working together to achieve their goals. By prioritizing networking and building strong relationships, towing companies can stay ahead of the competition and achieve long-term success. Networking consists of building relationships with other professionals and businesses that will open doors to new opportunities, increase visibility, and drive growth.

In addition, some difficult recovery jobs require linking up with other tow companies to accomplish the task at hand. As the old saying goes, a fist is much stronger than just a single digit.

WHERE TO BEGIN

Operators throughout the industry come together to learn, share, and strengthen their skills.

Joining industry associations and local business organizations can

In addition to in-person events, online networking platforms can provide connections with other

professionals in the towing industry. Participating in online forums and discussion groups helps a business stay informed about industry developments and best practices.

WHO YA GONNA CALL?

Pulver Towing and Performance Towing joined forces for the colossal recovery of a wind turbine.

Proud recipients of the American Towman Masters of Chaos award, Twin Peaks Towing and Pine Tree Towing were recognized for their exceptional skill and dedication to a complex recovery.

And, as pointed out in Dale

and talking about their interests, all of which create a mutually beneficial environment.

SHOW ME THE MONEY

When it comes to initiating a towing relationship, Craig of Pine Tree Towing advises, “Begin with a handshake or lunch to discuss previous jobs.” Building on the foundation of this friendly encounter

A complex recovery from a frozen pond required that crews coordinate above and below the ice to safely hoist a truck from the water.

can ultimately turn into a networking opportunity. Craig adds, “It’s meant to be a friendship, not a war.”

NETWORKING CHALLENGES

The challenges of networking in the towing industry can be significant. One major hurdle is building relationships with other professionals who may also be competitors. Establishing

trust and credibility is crucial, but it can be difficult when companies are perhaps competing for the same contracts and clients.

Another challenge is finding the time and resources to dedicate to networking efforts. Towing companies often have to manage

a wide range of responsibilities, from responding to emergency calls to maintaining equipment and vehicles. Finding the bandwidth to attend industry events, join associations, engage in online forums, all while attempting to balance the work/home life

scenario, is daunting at times.

Additionally, measuring the effectiveness of networking efforts can be difficult. It’s hard to quantify the benefits of a conversation or a meeting, making it challenging to justify the time and resources invested in networking.

There are many factors and skills at play when recovering a pickup from a frozen pond.

there shouldn’t be any issues,” stated one tow operator.

IMPROVING THE INDUSTRY

Pulver does not have the specialized equipment to recover a vehicle that is submerged under the ice in the middle of a lake, and in the past, Pulver would turn down the request and simply state that his company does not offer lake recovery services. Over the past nine years, Pulver has partnered with City Line Towing and Recovery to provide water recovery services. As a result of this partnership, Pulver now has the ability to provide a service they were unable to offer in the past, ultimately making a good and lasting impression on the customer.

Access to a supportive network and colleagues’ resources makes it ◀

Bill’s towing and Interstate Towing worked closely together to recover a massive steel coil from the Ohio River, combining expertise and resources to deliver faster, safer, and more efficient results for everyone involved.

HeroNominate a

easier to provide timely and effective support to customer. These mutually supportive arrangements exemplify a collaborative partnership that is both friendly and highly effective within the towing industry.

Additional alliances not often considered within the industry include training. As noted by Josh, “Collaboration between companies can improve the industry with a commitment to training

collectively, and it’s good to know that many towing associations offer annual training, effectively cutting down on training costs for the tow business owner.”

even provide peer networking that improves safety.

As so accurately stated by Michael Lard, “We can’t all do everything. The ultimate goal is to work with each other, grow with each other, and train with each other.”

As a Towing Professional, be recognized by your Police or Fire Chief for serving your community in an exceptional way

Have your Police or Fire Chief nominate you for

THE ORDER OF TOWMAN

Should you feel you qualify, take this nomination form to your chief.

• No one knows better than chiefs how towers rise to the occasion to face challenges at incident scenes or support their departments.

• While American Towman Magazine mails nomination forms to chiefs nationwide, it may take more than one notice.

Deadline: October 20, 2025 for nominations. The ceremony presentation of the Cross of The Order will take place at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore.