Headquarter’s Report

By Kendra Ansley, NATM Executive Director

Although it’s hard to believe half the year has come and gone already, the renewed vigor of the new year is still very much alive at NATM headquarters. We just wrapped up a successful Trailer Safety Week with a 37 percent growth in ally sign-ups as compared to 2020 and are nearing the fruition of many Strategic Plan initiatives like the online store. NATM committees have made significant strides toward their annual goals. In May, NATM members voted to create a new membership type for the Association, a tow vehicle OEM membership. This new membership type will help NATM continue to expand its trailer safety mission while opening up lines of communication between tow vehicle manufacturers, trailer manufacturers, and industry suppliers. See more on page 8.

Preparation for the 2022 NATM Convention & Trade Show is in full swing. Booth sales have opened to select 2020 sponsors, educational sessions are being finalized, and the Association is preparing a new online registration platform that will be easier for attendees to use. NATM is excited to open the NATM Convention & Trade Show to dealers as well. With networking opportunities and a specialized educational track, this is sure to be a can’t miss event! To learn more about the 2022 Convention & Trade Show, including sponsorships opportunities, turn to page 80. While there is a great lineup in the works for the 2022 NATM Convention & Trade Show, NATM has educational webinars planned for the remainder of the year, including the industry favorite Workforce Development Summit in November. Turn to page 26 for more information.

The NATM Government Affairs Program remains active on Capitol Hill. NATM regularly works with legislators to educate them about the concerns and challenges facing the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. With supply chain delays, potential changes in federal regulation concerning underride guards, lack of long-term funding of highways, and workforce shortages, the industry needs support and common-sense solutions. These meetings with legislators are an important tool in NATM’s advocacy arsenal but are just the first steps in educating legislators who have a profound impact on the regulatory environment the industry must work within. Members are encouraged to host plant tours as well as participate in NATM’s annual Regulatory Roundup & Capitol Hill Visits scheduled for September 22. To learn more about how you can get involved, turn to page 12. As the industry, on the whole, continues to thrive, your Association is continuing to look for ways to add value and lend support. The Association will soon be launching a resource guide for creating or improving an in-house quality management system for its members. NATM has long recommended members have such a program in place, but many members have been left wanting more assistance with the process. The Association is also creating the NATM Academy in partnership with a number of industry experts and expanding its marketing efforts to raise awareness about the value of the NATM Decal amongst dealers and end-users. At the same time, the NATM Board and Finance Committee are taking a hard look at the long-term goals of the Association and preparing a robust plan to ensure not only financial stability but also calculated reinvestment into your Association to ensure benefits, programming, and infrastructure continue to support the evolving needs of members. Despite the challenges faced in 2021, the industry and the Association are well poised for continued growth and success in the months ahead! For more information on how NATM is funding the future, turn to page 20.

Member feedback and communication are important parts of NATM’s ability to serve and provide opportunities for members to better arm themselves with knowledge and expertise from a wide array of sources. While time is short for all of us as we balance business needs, your continued participation is critical for NATM to be a value-add for members. Answering surveys, reading Tracks and the NATM Insider, and engaging with your representatives on the NATM Board or Committees as well as staff will better position the Association to help you. Thank you for your continued commitment! NATM exists to support our industry and improve the safety of our nation’s roadways. There is no NATM without each of you!