NAPFTDS Nov 2022 LC Vol 10 No5

A 1979 Peterbilt Semi Truck was delivered to Patterson High School’s Logistics & Transportation department late Tuesday morning. The truck, which was donated by Bronco Winery in Ceres, has been a long time coming.

“During the pandemic [I reached out] to industry partners [about getting a truck] and Bronco accepted the offer and put together a plan to donate this truck,” said Patterson High teacher, Dave Dein. Although the process for actually receiving the truck took longer than expected due to repairs and renovations, the Peterbilt couldn’t have arrived at a better time.

“The training truck that we currently use seized operations [at the end of last school year],” said Dein. “We weren’t able to do a lot of the training like coupling, decoupling, air brake tests and back and reversing that we normally do.” Bronco Winery, a 5 year affiliate of the Patterson Logistics & Transportation Department wanted to make sure that the truck was in pristine condition before they delivered on their promise.

“We took time to ensure that the truck was safe, sound and polished before we delivered it to [Patterson High School],’’ said Manager of Packaging and Supplier Development at The Bronco Winery, Mark Miles. Miles is very fond of the Logistics & Transportation program at PHS and made sure to relay his desire to assist with the program to late great Bronco Winery owner, Fred Franzia.

“About five years ago I met with Mr. Garcia here at PHS,” said Miles. “Mr. Garcia and I have about twenty years of work history together and he introduced me to the program. At that point I met with ownership, the Franzia family and told them about my meeting with Patterson High School and about what they were looking to build as far the CTE programs and asked them at what level we would like to engage.”

Mr. Fred Franzia himself gave Miles the go-ahead to support Patterson High School’s program however he felt.

“That’s how the relationship started. Fred Franzia left it up to myself and since then the relationship with [PHS] has just continued to grow.”

Five days ago, on September, 15, Mr. Franzia passed away at the age of 79. For readers who are unfamiliar. Franzia is a legend in the wine industry. Articles of his passing were published immediately by NPR, the New York Times and the New Yorker. The inventor of the legendary, “Two Buck Chuck,” Fred Franzia’s goal was to make sure every American family had access to affordable wine. Believing that a good bottle

eNewsletter Vol 10 No 5 November, 2022

BroncoWinerydonatesPeterbilttoPHSlogisticsprogram

President’s Message

John Rojas, President, NAPFTDS

Hello NAPFTDS Members:

I hope everyone is doing well. This year has been full of rollercoaster rides for everyone and now we are racing towards 2023.

I would like to update everyone on some changes that took place in the last couple of months.

Since May of 2002 I have had the honor and privilege to be part of something incredibly special at Del Mar College. I received the opportunity to create and manage a new CDL training program. We started out with 2 truck and trailers, 2 instructors, and an office assistant. 20 years later we have a crew of 13 staff members, 16 truck and trailers, 6 simulators, and 2 school buses. I have decided to make the difficult decision to pursue a new challenge in my life that will allow me to exercise my desire and passion. I will be applying my experience and skills full time to the transportation industry as a Professional Consultant and Bumper To Bumper EASY CDL. I look forward to expanding my entrepreneur skills at a new and exciting level that holds no limits to my potential. As of August 31st, 2022, I resigned my position as Director of Transportation Training Services at Del Mar College. I am still employed by the college as a part -time Instructor and will assist them on an as needed basis. I will be fulfilling my obligation as President of NAPFTDS for the rest of my term through next year and as the Immediate Past President.

I had the privilege of leading the hiring committee to hire my replacement. I am very honored to announce that Lynette Cervantes (my Assistant Director) was selected as the new Director of Transportation Training Services. I am confident that Lynette will do an outstanding job.

After all that excitement I was honored to attend the Region 6 meeting in Tallahassee, Florida, Regions 3 & 5 meeting in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Region 4 meeting in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

All the regionals were excellent, and I want to thank all those who put in the demanding work to make them a remarkable success. I would also like to say a special thank you to all our Sponsors who made

I

Coming Events ...

By Martin Garsee

Fall is here well at least it is not 90 degrees in Texas. I was able to attend Region 7 meeting. Stacy Igo, Community College of Baltimore County, did a great job, good content, good food and great interaction with all. Reports of other regionals have been very positive. We appreciate those that are able to host. I always learn something new and meet new people.

We enter the Holiday Season very soon; it is hard to believe that we have completed another year. I am amazed, as the year seems to fly by. In October, I was privileged to speak at the National Concrete and Ready Mix Association in Denver, Colorado. I was asked to speak on ELDT, compliance and ideas of how to work with Community Colleges or Technical Schools. There are still lots of questions and people needing guidance in training. My goal is to give information but always refer them to their local publicly funded school. It is always an honor to be able to promote NAPFTDS.

On a personal note, I just returned from a 10 day trip to Israel, that had been on my bucket -list for a long time. It was an amazing time, seeing the sites and hear the history of that part of the world. I am so glad that I was able to go; a bonus my son was able to go with me. Hope to see you in Asheville in March 2023.

In This Issue ...

• President’s Message

• Coming Events

• Executive Director Report

• NAPFTDS Committee Happenings

• Transition Trucking Public Voting

• This SLCC training is so successful, most students didn’t show up for graduation. They were at work.

• 2022 Regional Meetings

• 2022 Regional Sponsorships

• 33rd NAPFTDS Annual Conference, Asheville, NC

• Board of Directors

• 2023 Nomination and application for Board

• Contact NAPFTDS

• Bronco Winery donates Peterbilt to PHS logistics program

Committee Happenings

Carrier Donnie Tulk, Chair. The Committee continues to reach out to prospective Carrier members by sending out email blasts on the post card as well as personal communication. There were potential carrier members that attended region conferences that would have not normally shown up if not for the efforts of the committee members reaching out. These carriers are considering joining NAPFTDS as a result.

Conference/Nomination-Martin Garsee, Chair. The committee continues to work on the 2023 agenda for Asheville, North Carolina. Did you see anything at regional meetings that you would like to see at the Annual conference? Please email Crissie Moffet, cmoffet@napftds.org and we’ll work on it! So, Save the Date March 27 29, 2023 at the Crowne Plaza Tennis and Golf Resort. The Dave Nemo Show will be sponsored again by Tenstreet at the Asheville Conference.

Education John Thorpe, Chair. I will be taking a recommendation to our committee, to take to the board of directors to find out if there is any interest to have Sean Grigsba do a 4 hour presentation to the association at the next national conference in Asheville, NC. Sean’s 2 hour training session at our Region 4 meeting got great reviews by all participants. We are also entertaining new ideas for webinars from the association members. Anyone with good ideas are welcome to contact John Thorpe.

Marketing/Social Media Kelly Carey, Chair. The Marketing committee met October 27 discussing the website re design. We would also like to promote followers on NAPFTDS social Media: Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin. Right now there is approximately 246 followers on Facebook and 46 on Linkedin. The committee is promoting Facebook to reach 500 and Linkedin to reach 200 … the 500 and 200 follower would receive a small prize from NAPFTDS. Please remember to like our ... Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NAPFTDS and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/napftds/ and Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/national association of publicly funded truck driving schools/ The accounts are now linked and posts will appear on both! We are looking to grow our digital presence and reach a larger audience with our mission of education and this is one way we can do so. Please send any content to Marilyn Surber, marilyn.surber@tenstreet.com.

If you have suggestions for the marketing committee, or you would like to become a member of the committee please contact Kelly Carey kcarey@worwic.edu or Rob Behnke behnke@fvtc.edu

Membership Dan Zdrojewski, Chair. We are an Association of 195 members, made up of 163 member schools throughout the U.S. with 32 Associate members that help keep us rolling down the road. NAPFTDS continues to grow. The Membership Committee continues to process applications and increase awareness of our Association. To help us in our endeavors, please share your knowledge of NAPFTDS with the transportation industry and other public training providers. If additional information is needed, please reach out to me at zdrojedr@matc.edu or cmoffet@napftds.org . It is very exciting to be part of NAPFTDS!

Regionals Mary Beth McCollum, Chair. All regional meetings have been very successful and well attended. Regions 1 & 2 will be combined, hosted at Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ. There will also be a Board Retreat on the afternoon of January 27 28 til 3 p.m. Please look for more information in this newsletter and/or Association News on the website. NOW working on 2023 do you want to host a regional meeting?

Contact Crissie Moffet, cmoffet@napftds.org or call 316 425 3297.

Regulatory Jill Schultz, Chair. The regulatory committee informs members of changes in federal regulations or policies that affect truck driver training. Regulatory highlights for August through October 2022 include:

• TRUCKS Act of 2022 proposes ELDT exemptions. A bill has been introduced that would allow a state to exempt certain agricultural operations, state and local government entities, Tribal governments, and small businesses from compliance with the entry level driver training (ELDT) requirements.

The Trucks Act of 2022 (S 4861) was introduced in mid September and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. No additional action is expected this year.

• FMCSA requests comment on third party testing. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is looking for input on the effectiveness of third party testing programs as it relates to CDL skills and knowledge tests and minimum testing standards for CDL skills and knowledge tests.

The notice and request for comments was published in the September 21, 2022, Federal Register. All comments must be submitted by November 21, 2022.

Want to be a part of a working committees, please contact Crissie Moffet, cmoffet@napftds.org.

Transition Trucking Public Voting

KIRKLAND, Wash, Oct. 28, 2022 Public voting is now open for “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence,” a program dedicated to finding America’s top rookie military veteran driver. The program recognizes top drivers who have made the successful transition from active duty to driving for a commercial fleet.

Kenworth has again teamed with FASTPORT and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring our Heroes Program to support this special recognition program. For the seventh straight year, Kenworth is providing the top award. For 2022, Kenworth is awarding the T680 Next Generation. The T680 Next Gen is equipped with a 76 inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the PACCAR MX 13 engine, PACCAR TX 12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX 40 tandem rear axles.

The general public is invited to cast their vote online on the Transition Trucking website (www.transitiontrucking.org/ vote). To assist in that process, here’s information as provided by the 11 semifinalists to Transition Trucking. A short video on each driver is also available on the website. Voting runs through Veterans Day on November 11. This voting is an important determiner for the Selection Committee as they make their ultimate choice for the next Transition Trucking award winner.

Sean Adams served 22 years in the Navy as Aircrew Survival Equipmentman. After retiring as an E 6, he attended truck driving training school at Truck Driving Institute in Milton, Florida. TDI has been a strong supporter of military veterans and is proud to have another graduate become a finalist for the award. Sean is currently a company driver who is also a driver mentor/trainer and winning the award would help foster his dream of owning his own trucking company.

Jason Van Boxtel, U.S. Marines, Veriha Trucking

Jason Van Boxtel grew up in northeast Wisconsin and joined the Marine Corps after graduating from high school. He served as a Motor Transport Mechanic and reached the rank of Corporal before leaving the service and beginning his second career in law enforcement. After several years, he decided he was ready for a change and began looking into company sponsored training programs. As Jason progresses in his career, he envisions himself becoming a trainer next, and then getting involved with the training, safety, and compliance department.

Paul Gouker, U.S. Army & National Guard, Stevens Transport Paul Gouker answered the call to serve our country at 18 years old. He enlisted and served our country for eight years in the National Guard before transitioning to active duty in April 2000. Paul deployed multiple times in support of the war on Terrorism, serving both in Iraq and Afghanistan as a Combat Scout. Paul did his CDL training at Georgia Driving Academy and is now joining a list of Stevens Transport drivers who have been recognized as finalists for this award.

Sean Adams, U.S. Navy, McElroy Truck Lines

For Top Rookie Military Veteran Truck Driver is Now Open

Driving for Excellence’ Award Winner To Receive Kenworth T680 Next Gen

Transition Trucking Public Voting For Top Rookie Military Veteran Truck Driver is Now Open

‘Driving for Excellence’ Award Winner To Receive Kenworth T680 Next Gen

Cale Jensen, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army, G. Dubbels Farms Trucking

Cale Jensen began his military career immediately after high school when he enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1998. After serving ten years, he was nominated for Officer Candidate School, and upon completion served ten more years and was deployed to both Iraq and Djibouti Africa. Cale attended Riverland Community College and he and his wife Kia have eight children. His dream has always been to have his own trucking company and winning would get him one step closer.

Ashley Leiva, U.S. Army, Draco Energy / Noemi Trucking

Ashley Leiva served her country for 15 years as an Army combat veteran, and retired in 2021 to return to her hometown in Texas, where she and her brother took over her recently deceased mother’s trucking business. She attended Del Mar Transportation, where she received excellent training and learned a good deal about the trucking industry in general. Ashley and her brother haul crude oil in South Texas for Draco Energy. Her mother inspired her to go into driving because it made her feel like she “was on top of the world.” Ashley continues to be a high achiever. She loves driving, is actively pursuing her B.A. degree in Business Management.

Dave Marihugh, U.S. Navy, Roehl Transport

After 25 years of service in the Navy, Dave Marihugh retired and became a Florida Highway Patrolman for several years, before deciding his next adventure would be as a professional truck driver. He chose to do his CDL training with Roehl Transport and believes he made a great decision. Trucking gives him a way to continue serving his community, and he can already see himself becoming a trainer, and eventually moving into planning or logistics.

Christopher McDowell, U.S. Army and National Guard, EPES Transport

Christopher McDowell joined the military in 2002 and is still an active member of the National Guard. He earned his Class A CDL while taking advantage of the “Troops into Transportation” training program. Trucking feels natural to him because he feels that each load represents a mission to be accomplished.

Joe K. Nyenatee, U.S. Army, Melton Truck Lines

Joe K. Nyenatee was born in Yekepa, Liberia, in the middle of that country’s long civil war. In 2003 at the age of 10, he moved to the United States. After attending several semesters of college, he decided that he wanted to be a part of something bigger than himself and enlisted in the military. The Army prepared him to be patient, disciplined, calm and resilient, and these traits have served him well as a professional truck driver. He attended Phoenix Truck Driving school at Fort Bliss, Texas, and now works for Melton Truck Lines, where he is already moving toward his goal of becoming an owner operator.

Talon Rogers, U.S. Army, CRST

Talon Rogers and his wife live in Spokane, Washington and have two children. Talon joined the military because he wanted to serve his country, just like both of his grandfathers. He enjoyed his time in the service, but retired after suffering an injury. He attended truck driving school through “Troops into Transportation” and is now driving for CRST on a dedicated route. In just a short time as a driver, he realized that this is a great career opportunity that provides a stable income to provide for his family.

Justin Silk, U.S. Army, Paschall Truck Lines

Born in California and moving to Texas, Justin Silk learned about trucking at an early age from his cousin and uncles. In the Army, Justin was a 13 Papa, serving as a multiple launch rocket operator. He attended Hawkeye Community College where he obtained his Class A CDL license. Driving for Paschall Truck Lines has allowed him to travel the country and save money. He eventually wants to own his own rig, land and home.

Transition Trucking Public Voting

Michael D. Thomas, U.S. Marines, PRIME Inc.

Mike Thomas served his country in the Marines for more than 19 years, and an additional five years as a contractor. Mike reached the rank of gunnery sergeant, and is highly decorated, with multiple tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. The military taught him the importance of mission accomplishment, and this has also served him well in the trucking industry. Mike did his CDL training with PRIME Inc. and is proud to work for a company that respects and honors veterans each day.

To qualify for “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence,” drivers had to meet three eligibility requirements: Must have been active military or member of the National Guard or Reserve.

Graduated from PTDI certified, NAPFTDS or CVTA member driver training school, with a valid CDL. First hired in a trucking position between January 1, 2021 and July 31, 2022.

The winner will be announced December 16 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

For more information, visit the websites of the “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” award program (www.transitiontrucking.org), FASTPORT (www.fastport.com) and Hiring Our Heroes (www.HiringOurHeroes.org).

Kenworth is The Driver’s Truck™. See what drivers are saying at www.kenworth.com/drivers.

Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s Best® heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth’s Internet home page is at www.kenworth.com. Kenworth is a PACCAR company.

For Top Rookie Military Veteran Truck Driver is Now Open

‘Driving for Excellence’ Award Winner To Receive Kenworth T680 Next Gen

This SLCC training is so successful, most students didn't show up for graduation. They were at work.

Silence and confusion filled the auditorium Sept. 21 when no one walked up to the stage as names were called for South Louisiana Community College's commercial drivers license graduation.

“Thank you lord,” one attendee said when someone finally went up.

The CDL program, which lasts seven to eight weeks, had 69 graduates this term. However, only a fraction showed up for the ceremony.

“As you can see, some of our graduates were not able to be in attendance today. Sadly, they are working,” Charlotte LeLeux, mistress of ceremonies and director of transportation, distribution and logistics at SLCC, said. “That means they are actively employed,” she said, followed by applause.

Two graduates in attendance had family members go through the program before them at SLCC. Renoeisha Gotsche, 31, is already on the road and happy to have graduated. She learned patience from the program. Cedrice Hardy, 30, feels good about graduating. When he started he knew nothing and learned a lot.

This program “landed in our laps” from the Louisiana Workforce Commission, SLCC Chancellor Vincent June said in his welcome speech.

He said it gives graduates “the opportunity to fill a nationwide shortage of drivers” and “to have a future and have high wages that will allow them to take care of themselves to take care of their family.” He also highlights the names of women truckers graduating, “you ladies rock,” he said.

In Louisiana there are 90,000 transportation jobs and women make up 7% of the workforce, according to Renee Amar, CEO of Louisiana Motor Transport Association.

Think about the shoes you're wearing today, the clothes you have on your back, the car you rode here to get here today, gas that was put in that car, the food that you ate this morning, that was all delivered by truckers. So now you get to join those ranks. Truckers are key to the supply chain without you and what you do, the world stops moving,

Derrell Edwards receives his certificate from Charlotte LeLeux, Director of Transportation, Distribution and Logistics at SLCC, during the Drive Your Future graduation ceremony Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at South Louisiana Community College in Lafayette, LA.

BroncoWinerydonatesPeterbilttoPHSlogisticsprogram (cont’d

should cost no more than ten dollars. One of the last decisions Fred Franzia made was to approve the delivery of the 1979 Peterbilt to the students of Patterson High School.

“There’s been a couple times today that I shed some tears,” said Miles. “We delivered the truck today with Fred’s approval.”

On a conference call with both Dein and Miles, the duo said that during class, one PHS student asked for a copy of the signature that Fred Franzia used to approve the delivery so that the school could put it on the side of the truck.

“It’s not many times that student’s get to me on that level [emotionally], but he got me. It was pretty impactful,” said Dein, who plans on enlarging Fred Franzia’s signature and creating a transferable to place on the side of the truck.

The relationship between Patterson High School and Bronco Winery has been beneficial to both parties, as Bronco continues to support student education, and in turn, students have had the opportunity to work for and start their careers at Bronco.

“These programs are a huge steppingstone for them,” said Miles. “We currently have 4 previous Patterson High School students that are working for Bronco and one that left to start his own trucking business.” The truck is ready for immediate use at PHS and already has student’s climbing in, out and around the hood to get a peek at their new instructional vehicle.

CDL drivers transport feed from the feed mills to our farms and pigs between farms and to the plant. There’s a place for you at Seaboard Foods. Home every day.

Contact: Glenn Rose glenn_rose@seaboardfoods.com

• Region 3 & 5 meeting, September 27-28-29, 2022, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire, WI. This event began with a reception and a meal at the hotel.

Q. What percentage of prohibited drivers have completed the return to duty status?

A. As of September 1, 2022 there have been 146,323 drivers with at least one violation in the DACH. Of those 38,738 are no longer prohibited.

Q. Can a cdl school do a query on a student driver in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse?

A. Per the FMCSA D&A Technical Advisory Group the answer is that a school cannot do a query on a student. This issue was pretty well hammered out at the meeting but the answer is the school is not allowed to do the query.

Q. The question of interpreters in the passenger seat while training a hearing impaired student was discussed.

A. I could not get an official answer to this question. I am not sure where exactly this question is in relationship to getting some official guidance. I did run it up and I will let you know when I get any response.

Q. Question on if there is going to be a place to discuss a students history in the TPR to justify a short period at the school prior to them testing for their cdl.

A. There is nothing in the works at this point to address this. As we discussed I would recommend the school keep detailed records of these situations should their program get audited.

Q. Question on if there was any talk on a waiver for farmers being made available.

A. The answer is no. At this time there is no discussion on waivers for farmers.

Q. Question on if there is going to be a hotline or place in the TPR to report bad training providers/schools.

A. The process at this time is that these providers/schools should be reported to the state. The state will then forward the information to FMCSA for action. FMCSA is currently taking action on providers/schools that are not compliant with the regulations or state requirements.

There was a lot of networking and discussion at this event. A good time was had by all!

Region 4 meeting, October 19, 20, 21, 2022, was a huge success and a good time was had by all! Central Tech and Tulsa Tech were pleased to host all who participated.

Day 1 the 2nd Truck Rodeo was held with the following results: 1 Rudy Cruz Del Mar College, 2nd place Michael McCarthy Seward County Community College, 3 place Lynette Cervantes Del Mar College, 4 lor Moore Norman Technology Center.

Congratulations to all!

A reception was provided by Tenstreet and Melton Truck Lines at the Hotel Indigo’s Roof Sixty Six Bar.

Day 2 Several fantastic speakers including Sean Grigsba, the Under Sheriff of Kay County Oklahoma. Sean provided the group with a Defensibility Training pertaining to active shooters in the workplace. Betsy Waldrop, Director of Recruiting at Freymiller, Warden Jeff Dunkin of Union City Prison and John Thorpe provided the meeting with a panel presentation discussing a ‘second chance program’ and how this partnership has progressed over the last 4 years. After lunch, Mark Wilson with EQ World spoke to us about ‘Connecting for the Long Haul’ and importance of building

A presentation by Grant Barnes, FMCSA Program Specialist Wisconsin Division, on ELDT. A survey was done before the Region 3 & 5 meeting regarding questions on ELDT FMCSA. The following are the questions and responses by Grant Barnes. Thank you to those members who responded on this survey.

relationships with co workers and students. Houston Brittain with Brittain Risk Management Services presented about the Non Traditional Students (18 year old) vs Insurance and will answer the question can we insure them??? Ending the day with a fantastic meal at Tulsa’s McNellie’s Pub.

Day 3 was held at Tulsa Tech with a Recruiting Roundtable Discussion on and Schools work together to recruit and retain Entry Level Driver?

With the roundtable consisting of: Lesley Vincent Melton Truck Lines, Brian Bowerman Schneider, Amanda Glidewell Groendyke Transport and Shelbe Holingshad John Christner Trucking. Then a presentation by FMCSA Program Specialist, Tamara Shepherd, on ‘Staying Compliant with the ELDT Regulations

The food was great, the networking was outstanding and a good time was had by all.

Thank you to all our sponsors and Donnie Tulk for transporting everyone to and from Central Tech to Tulsa and to Friday s meeting at Tulsa Tech.

Region 6 meeting August 28 30, 2022, was hosted by Tallahassee Community College (TCC), Tallahassee, Florida. This two and half day regional had a kick off of a fun filled non traditional student “Trucks are for Girls” event. This event was in collaboration with Women in Trucking and Tallahassee’s local Girl Scout Council. Region 6 meeting was very fortunate to have KayLeigh McCall as a guest. Pictures of this event are shared within the article below.

KayLeigh McCall selected as WIT Ambassador KayLeigh McCall, driver and training engineer at Schneider, has been selected as the Women in Trucking Association’s (WIT) newest Driver Ambassador. WIT is a non profit organization with a mission to encourage employment, address obstacles and celebrate the successes of women in the trucking industry.

Being selected as Schneider’s Women in Trucking ambassador provides an opportunity for me to spread the message that women can and will continue to be successful in the industry,” said McCall. “I’m honored to serve in this role to emphasize that it is possible for all generations of women new to this profession, and those who have been in the industry for a while, mothers, wives, caretakers to acquire the hard earned skills necessary and lead a fulfilling career in trucking.” In her ambassador role, McCall will lead and organize efforts to empower and connect women across the trucking industry, as well as assist in developing and sharing various resources available including career services, mentorship, trainings and scholarships.

“We are thrilled to have KayLeigh McCall as our new Driver Ambassador,” said WIT’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ellen Voie. “Not only will she represent WIT and Schneider, she will be a visible spokeswoman for all female professional drivers today and in the future.

Region 6 cont’d

“KayLeigh is a phenomenal example of what we strive for everyday here at Schneider fostering an environment where our associates can develop their unlimited potential and make a real difference for themselves, our customers and for the betterment of the industry as a whole,” says Schneider President and CEO Mark Rourke. “We’re so proud of KayLeigh and look forward to seeing all she accomplishes as WIT’s Driver Ambassador.”

Previously, McCall worked as a pastry chef, earning her Class A CDL in 2017 and driving a mixer truck for a construction company before joining Schneider in 2020. McCall discovered a passion for truck driving and feels empowered in her role as a woman driver and trainer.

“For those looking to join the industry, my best piece of advice is to just do it, you won’t know until you try,” says McCall. “Schneider has provided an inclusive culture and platform of growth for my career, and I look forward to sharing my knowledge and empowering other women to join me.”

In addition to her roles and responsibilities at Schneider and as WIT’s Driver Ambassador, McCall is a wife and mother of four. She brings tenacity, resiliency and passion to her job every day, making her an asset to the Schneider team.

Region 6 presentations were from the Florida Trucking Association, an employer panel discussion, highlights of student success initiatives and various updates and educational best practices.

Region 7 meeting was held September 22 23, 2022, hosted by Community College of Baltimore County, (CCBC).

The conference began with a Violations and Safety presentation from Chris Wilson, Maryland Transportation Authority Po-

A nice dinner was held at Jimmy’s FaOn Friday, Louis Campion from Maryland Motor shared information about the trucking workforce. Anne Ferro, President & CEO at AAMVA was able to join us and share an AAMVA upRich Clemente, from FMCSA, joined us virtually to give an update on FMCSA topics. We finished with a Roundtable to share ideas and updates in training. great time and thank you to all who attended!

Region 1 & 2, will be January 25-27, 2023, Pima Community College in Tucson, Arizona is planning on a reception/dinner on Wednesday, January 25; with a full day of presentations and networking Thursday, January 26; followed by a half day of the same on Friday, January 27.

Pima Community College is hoping that everyone will take a ‘warm’ break and join us. Also, The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, which is the world’s largest gem show, is happening during these meetings. Click here for the DRAFT AGENDA and click here for the REGISTRATION. Hope to see you there!

A Board Retreat will also take place the afternoon of 27th and 28th 8 3 p.m.

Mission Statement

The National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools, Inc. is an organization established for the promotion of safety, professionalism and quality education within the transportation industry.

PimaCommunityCollege

2022 Regional Sponsorships

The Association would like to thank each sponsor for ‘sharing the love’ with our regional hosts. Our regional meetings are a success because of you!

KUDOS to each of you!!!

The National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools 33rd Annual National Conference Please come join us … In Asheville, North Carolina!

Truck Driving … It’s who we are!

March 27 29, 2023

Crowne Plaza Resort

1 Resort Drive • Asheville, NC 28806

Reservations made by Phone: 1 828 285 2667

Ask for Nat’l Assoc of Publicly Funded Trk Driving Schls

Room Rate: $129 2 queens/$144 king

Reservation cut off date: Saturday, March 5, 2023

https://napftds.org/

CONFERENCE/NAPFTDS PARTNERSHIPS

PLATINUM Partner $10,000 and includes:

• Space for Display booth at all receptions at National Conference

• Registration for four (4) participants at National Conference

• Space for display booth at all Region Meetings

• Annual membership dues

• Advertising in quarterly issues of Learning Curve

• Feature article in Learning Curve

• Listing associate company on links page on NAPFTDS website

• Placing company logo and link on all pages of website

GOLD Partner $5,000 and includes:

• Space for Display booth at all receptions at National Conference

• Registration for three (3) participants at National Conference

• Space for display booth at all Region Meetings

• Annual membership dues

• Listing associate company on links page on NAPFTDS website

• Placing company logo and link on website “home page”

SILVER Partner $2,500 and includes:

• Space for Display booth at all receptions at National Conference

• Registration for two (2) participants at National Conference

• Annual membership dues

• Listing associate company on links page on NAPFTDS website

• Placing company logo and link on website “home page”

MEAL Sponsorships

$5000 Breakfast (March 28)

$5000 Breakfast (March 27)

$2500 Morning Break Sponsor (March 27)

$5500 - Lunch Sponsor (March 27)

$2500 Afternoon Break Sponsor (March 27)

$5000 Reception Sponsor (March 27)

$2500 Morning Break Sponsor (March 28)

$5500 Lunch Sponsor (March 28)

$2500 Afternoon Break Sponsor (March 28)

$4500 2 Banquet Sponsors needed (March 28)

$5000 Breakfast (March 29)

$2500 - Morning Break Sponsor (March 29)

NAPFTDS BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2022

President John Rojas Del Mar College

Vice President

Lorie Latigo Lone Star College Transportation Insti.

Secretary Mary Beth McCollum College of Southern Maryland

Board Member

Tiffany Howard Louisiana Technical & Com College System

Interim Bd Member

Michael McCarthy Seward County Community College

Vendor Member

Deborah Quackenbush Virage Simulation

Vendor Member Jill Schultz J.J. Keller & Associates Inc.

Board Member

John Thorpe Central Tech

Interim Treasurer

Rob Behnke Fox Valley Technical College Board Member

Kelly Carey Wor Wic Community College

Carrier Member

Bill Buechel Schneider

Executive Director

Martin Garsee Houston Community College

Board Member

Missy Blair Pima Community College

Immediate Past President Paul Foster

Board Member

Donnie Tulk Tulsa Tech

Carrier Member

Lesley Vincent Melton Truck Lines

Board Member

Celeste Turner Hawkeye Community College

Board Member

Dan Zdrojewski Milwaukee Area Technical College

CVTA Representative

Cindy Atwood CVTA Representative

NAPFTDS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NOTICEOFELECTION 2023

The National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS) is giving formal notice to all members that NAPFTDS will hold elections for its Board of Directors at its 2023 annual conference. The conference will be held at the Crowne Plaza Tennis & Golf Resort, Asheville, NC.

In 2023, terms of three Full Member Directors will expire (John Thorpe, Central Tech; Michael McCarthy, Seward County Community College Interim for Rob Behnke, Fox Valley Technical College). These three positions are voted on by the Membership as a whole (Full and Associate members only). Also, on the Executive Directors, John Rojas will move to the Immediate Past President position moving Lori Latigo into President’s position; therefore, a newly elected Vice President position is necessarily as well as the Treasurer (Interim Treasurer Rob Behnke) and Secretary (Mary Beth McCollum) positions. Executive Board members must comply with Article VII Section 1.

The terms of two Associate Board Members will expire (Lesley Vincent, Melton Truck Lines and Jill Schultz, J.J. Keller & Associates) of which the term is three (3) years and are voted on by the Membership as a whole (Full and Associate members only).

New or re elected Directors who are elected at this conference will take office at the second board meeting of this conference.

The NAPFTDS Conference/Nominating Committee is responsible for collecting recommendations for candidates. The Directors are elected by vote at the annual conference. Voting members must be in good standing. For a candidate to be considered, the candidate’s organization’s membership dues must be current and have been a member a minimum of one year.

Members of the Board of Directors are required to attend the NAPFTDS conference/regionals, as well as the Board of Directors meetings held during the conferences, a Board Retreat if needed, and regularly scheduled Board conference calls (11 13 conference call meetings on the second Wednesday of every month per year). Board Members are responsible for bearing the cost of attending all NAPFTDS functions.

All members of the NAPFTDS Board of Directors are eligible to serve as chairpersons of a NAPFTDS Committee. To be eligible to serve on the Board of Directors, the prospective Board member must dedicate time to actively fulfill the required duties.

If you are interested in being considered by the Convention/Nominating Committee as a candidate for the NAPFTDS Board of Directors, please submit your ‘Applicant Statement’ to the NAPFTDS Office via email cmoffet@napftds.org, via fax 316 425 3297, or by mail to: 11511 Bekemeyer, Wichita, KS 67212.

If you have any questions regarding the process, please feel free to contact the Chairman of the Conference/Nominating Committee Martin Garsee, office 713 718 8203, mobile 713 304 8324 or email martin.garsee@hccs.edu

All submissions must be received no later than January 15, 2023.

Request for Nominations No less than two months prior to the convention at which an election of Directors is to take place, the Nominating Committee shall distribute a Notice of Vacancies to all members of the Association. Members interested in serving on the Board of Directors must comply with Article VI Section 2, 3 & 4 of the Association Bylaws. Members interested are responsible for contacting the NAPFTDS office (316 425 3297 or cmoffet@napftds.org ) to inform the Association of their interest. The NAPFTDS office shall then forward to the interested member an “Applicant Statement”. The member shall return the completed Applicant Statement to the NAPFTDS office no later than January 15, 2023. NAPFTDS Staff shall forward all “Applicant Statements” to the members of the Conference/Nominating Committee and shall publish it to all NAPFTDS members 1 month before the convention.

ARTICLE VI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Section 2. The total number of members of the Board of Directors of the Association (the “Directors”) shall be nineteen (19), comprised of the following: (a) twelve (12) Full Members, (b) four (4) Associate Members, (c) the current Executive Director, (d) the Immediate Past President and (e) one (1) Commercial Vehicle Training Association representative.

Section 3. Full Members At the annual meeting of the Members, vacant Full Member positions on the Board of Directors shall be filled by qualified Full Members upon being elected by a vote of the Members. The election shall be conducted by presenting the full slate of candidates to the Members, who shall each be given the opportunity to vote for the number of candidates equal to the number of vacant Full Member positions. The candidates, in such number as is equal to the number of vacant Full Member positions, receiving the most votes shall be elected to the Board of Directors. Except as provided in these Bylaws, such Directors shall serve for terms of three (3) years.

Section 4. Associate Members At the annual meeting of the Members, vacant Associate Member positions on the Board of Directors shall be filled by qualified Associate Members upon being elected by a vote of the Members. The election shall be conducted by presenting the full slate of candidates to the Members, who shall each be given the opportunity to vote for the number of candidates equal to the number of vacant Associate Member positions. The candidates, in such number as is equal to the number of vacant Associate Member positions, receiving the most votes shall be elected to the Board of Directors. Except as provided in these Bylaws such Directors shall serve for terms of three (3) years.

ARTICLE VII EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Section 1. The Executive Board of the Association (the “Executive Board”) shall consist of the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Executive Director and Immediate Past President. All Executive Board Members shall be Full Members of the Association, who have served one (1) year on the Board of Directors, and have been employed by a publicly funded Training Provider for a minimum of two (2) years

Conference/Nominating Committee Candidate Telephone Follow up After the Conference/Nomination Committee has received applications for nominations from the membership. Committee shall conduct a follow up phone call to prospective candidates prior to the conference at which the election is to be held, explaining the responsibilities and commitment of a Board member.

Procedure at Conference Each candidate shall be permitted to make a statement to the members, not to exceed two minutes. If candidate is not present at the conference a short bio will be provided. Following the presentations by candidates for the Board of Directors, the Conference/ Nominating Committee shall conduct a vote.

Balloting Ballots shall be prepared prior to the annual Conference by the Board Administrative Assistant. All members of the Association present at the conference shall be entitled to cast one ballot per Full or Associate members. Absentee Balloting is also permitted. There will be an absentee ballot available on the NAPFTDS Website after February 8, 2023. All votes must be in the NAPFTDS office no later than February 28, 2023. The ballots shall be counted by the Conference/Nominating Committee (2 Board members) with the assistance of the NAPFTDS Board administrative assistant. The results of the balloting shall be announced during the conference.

Please look at the Association News for that application.

For 2023, the Board has 2 Board positions to fill: Plus a Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer

The 3 Executive Board nominees are to have 1 year of prior service as a Board member. a Vendor and Carrier Associates

Yes, this is a total of 7 positions to be filled! If interested, please click the following link process and procedure! Read the process, complete the application and send to cmoffet@napftds.org by EOB on January 15, 2023!

The National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS) is an organization for the promotion of public education for the transportation industry. Through membership, educators can network with other truck driving schools across the country to provide the highest quality, most cost effective, and up to date training available.

Contact us: Martin Garsee, Executive Dir., NAPFTDS Martin.garsee@hccs.edu 713 718 8203 (O) 713 304 8324 (M) Tina Frindt, Technical/Finance Assistant tfrindt@northampton.edu 570 688 5710 (M)

Crissie Moffet Admin Assist to the Board cmoffet@napftds.org 316 425 3297 (O)