National Safe Trailering Council: Spreading the Message of Safety to Consumers Page
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STAFF
Tracks Editor
Samantha Darling LaCount • Samantha.Darling@natm.com
Executive Director
Alex Stowe • Alex.Stowe@natm.com
Assistant Director
Meghan Ryan • Meghan.Ryan@natm.com
Marketing Director Savana Morrison • Savana.Morrison@natm.com
Technical Director
Scott Crimmins • Scott.Crimmins@natm.com
Education Director
Ginger Baker-Sanhueza • Ginger.BakerSanhueza@natm.com
Events Director
Alieen Valido • Aileen.Valido@natm.com
Quality Director
Abby Wiebler • Abby.Wiebler@natm.com
Compliance Manager
Sean Sloan • Sean.Sloan@natm.com
Dealer Programming Specialist
Andrea Boetticher • Andrea.Boetticher@natm.com
Senior Compliance Consultant
Aaron Langer • Aaron.Langer@natm.com
Compliance Consultant
Todd Stallbaumer • Todd.Stallbaumer@natm.com
Membership & Events Coordinator
Catie Rutkowski • Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com
Marketing Coordinator
Mary Klaire Perez • Mary.KlairePerez@natm.com
Bookkeeper
Sherry Palmeroni • Sherry.Palmeroni@natm.com
President
Marco Garcia • U-Haul International, Inc.
Vice President
Andy Derr • M.H. Eby, Inc.
Treasurer
Nathan Uphus • Felling Trailers
Associate Member Representative
Steve Courreges • Taskmaster
Past President
Marty Lorick • Triple Crown Trailers Inc.
DIRECTORS FEB. 2022 - FEB. 2025
Charles Daugherty • Red Fern Dynamics
Andy Gehman • MGS Incorporated
Daniel Luby • BoatMate Trailers, Inc.
Nathan Uphus • Felling Trailers
DIRECTORS FEB. 2023 - FEB. 2026
Bill O'Hara • Dexter
Jon Devitt • Midwest Industries, Inc.
Jeff Jones • Statistical Surveys, Inc.
Dustin Miller • Cross Trailers, Inc.
Mike Story • LOOK Trailers
Michael Etheridge • Wylie & Son, Inc.
Steve Courreges • Taskmaster Components
DIRECTORS FEB. 2024 - FEB. 2027
Andy Derr • M.H. Eby, Inc.
Rick Huddleston • White River Marine Group
Deborah Edwards • SteelPoint
Logan Mesenbrink • LANE Trailer Manufacturing
Dustin Smith • Optronics International
Steven Aiuto • General Motors
Chris Lago • All American Trailer Connection
Kenda/Americana Tire & Wheel Corporation
Products Company
As I move forward into my second term as President of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), I reflect on the accomplishments of my initial year and eagerly anticipate the exciting programs slated for 2024. The commencement of my second term coincided with the annual NATM Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas, a resounding success marked by a remarkable turnout of attendees and exhibitors. This robust participation is integral to supporting NATM's programs, with proceeds from the event reinvested to enhance our offerings. The event served as a nexus, bringing together suppliers, service providers, and industry experts to further NATM's mission of advancing trailer safety continually. Gratitude to all who attended, and I look forward to reconnecting in Nashville in 2025!
I would also like to take a moment to thank our 2024 Convention sponsors. Without the support of the companies that sponsor at the Convention & Trade Show, NATM could not put on such an outstanding event at such reasonable rates for our attendees. Providing educational resources and an opportunity for growing relationships with industry peers is one of the many vital services NATM provides to the trailer industry at large. Attendees also had the opportunity to be provided with the latest insights from industry experts during the education and technical forums that took place during the Convention. Having so many exhibitors in the same location also provides attendees with the ability to meet with multiple potential service providers in one place, presenting a tremendous cost and time savings opportunity to all who were able to attend.
For more information on the 2024 Convention & Trade Show, please turn to page 14. Already looking forward to NATM’s next big event? Turn to page 30 for details about the 2025 Convention & Trade Show in Nashville, Feb. 18-20, 2025. For more information on the event, including exhibiting and sponsoring, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com.
Having the opportunity to meet so many manufacturers,
suppliers, and trailer dealers at the convention was an honor. Dealers play a vital role in communicating trailer safety to end-users, which is why NATM welcomes them into our Association to participate as affiliates in our programming. As part of our Association's efforts to further incorporate trailer dealers, NATM is launching a dealer specific show in 2025, the NATM Trailer Expo. Nearly 40 years since our inception, we are returning to where our Association began, Oklahoma! The Trailer Expo will take place Sept. 16-18, 2025 in Oklahoma City. This dealer specific show will provide dealer affiliates with the opportunity to attend educational programming and technical forums catered to their specific needs, along with walking a trade show floor featuring trailer manufacturers and suppliers exhibiting specifically for dealer affiliates. This will be an incredible opportunity to showcase the growth of the Association and further our efforts to unify the trailer industry.
As part of the Association's efforts to improve end-user knowledge of safe trailering practices, the Association will hold our annual Trailer Safety Week (TSW) June 2-8, 2024. TSW is a national awareness campaign that aims to educate end-users on trailer safety, including safe towing practices and maintenance for their trailer. NATM encourages all members to participate in this year’s Trailer Safety Week at whatever level of engagement they feel comfortable with. I encourage you to sign up to be a Trailer Safety Week Ally and share the TSW Communications kit. This pre-crafted communications kit includes social media and blog posts, ready-to-use graphics, and banner ads for your website showing your support of TSW. TSW Allies can even go a step further by becoming a Trailer Safety Partner or Champion. Please visit www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com to sign up. For more information on participating in TSW this year, turn to page 67.
To further assist members, NATM will also be launching the NATM Academy this year. The NATM Academy has been created in collaboration with U-Haul International to provide NATM members with access to training modules and educational content to assist in training and upskilling staff. NATM’s Education Director, Ginger Baker-Sanhueza, has worked with the NATM Education Committee and internal staff to help ensure that Academy’s offerings will provide members with relevant and meaningful educational opportunities. I look forward to seeing the NATM Academy continue to grow over the coming years and am proud this resource will be provided to our members for assistance in continuously advancing trailer safety.
I am eager to embark on my second term as NATM's President. Witnessing the rapid growth of the Association in the past year, I am confident that we can build on these achievements, enhancing trailer safety and bolstering the economic well-being of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. My gratitude extends to all NATM members for your unwavering dedication and support. Your commitment through membership dues, advertising, sponsorship, and active participation in Association programs has been instrumental in our accomplishments over the last 37 years. ■
Warmer weather has finally hit the Midwest and we are quickly approaching the halfway mark for the year. At this time I think it is important to look back on what the Association has accomplished so far this year, along with what amazing opportunities exist for the rest of 2024. The 2024 Convention was an incredible success with over 1,432 attendees, this led to a second straight year of incredible trailer manufacturer and exhibitor attendance. Seeing the industry back together again and celebrating award winners, see more on page 10, was a great way to spend my first trip to Las Vegas. Association staff have received some incredibly positive feedback on the Convention and we cannot wait to see you all again in February of 2025. Mark your calendars now for February 18-20, 2025 in Nashville, TN! As always, a special thank you to our 2024 sponsors who make the Convention possible.
In line with our newly adopted strategic plan, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is again looking for new ways to incorporate Dealer Affiliates into NATM programming. With this in mind NATM’s Board of Directors worked with staff to launch a new Conference and exhibition specifically catered to Dealer Affiliates. This new event, called the NATM Trailer Expo, will allow NATM to put our nearly 40 years of trailer experience and expertise into creating a show for trailer dealers that incorporates NATM’s overall mission of promoting trailer safety and the successes of the trailer industry in its entirety. For more information on the NATM Trailer Expo see page 41.
In terms of current Association events, final preparations for Trailer Safety Week June 2nd – 8th are underway. NATM will be utilizing video content to support end-users in the safe and proper use of their trailers as well as educate endusers and dealers on the importance of the NATM Decal in roadway safety. It’s not too late to join the movement! Allyship
is as easy as copying and pasting, as our marketing staff has done a great job of building content that can be shared directly to members’ social media. Learn more on page 67.
NATM’s Government Affairs Committee has just returned from another trip to DC for Regulatory Roundup May 20-22. Meeting with federal legislators and educating them about the impact of the industry on their communities as well as industry priorities is the most effective way to shape the legislative arena in which you all work. Not only communicating your commitment to trailer safety, but also advocating for opportunities for support of those initiatives as well as the need for large-scale support to improve workforce development and close the skills gap, is key to the long-term success of the industry. Being able to explain our industry and how legislation can impact the light- and medium-duty trailer industry is an incredibly important part of serving the Association.
Our Board of Directors for the 2024-2027 term has also been announced. I am excited and honored to see such a talented and knowledgeable group choose to volunteer their time to help oversee governance and the strategic plan for NATM. 2024 marks the first year a Tow Vehicle OEM will serve on the NATM Board of Directors. NATM’s Board also appointed a non-voting Trailer Dealer Affiliate to serve and assist in better understanding the needs of trailer dealers. To find more information on the 20242027 term Board of Directors, please turn to Page 62.
The 2024 NATM Committee rosters have also been set. We have an incredibly large number of members who are assisting the Association’s committees with 124 individuals set to participate on NATM’s 9 committees. Committee work is an incredible way for all members to get involved and I would encourage you all to take some time and consider if you would like to get more involved and serve on a committee in 2025. For more information on 2024 Committees, please turn to page 76.
The year ahead is full of promise and opportunity. NATM Committees, the Board, and the Staff are hard at work to bring members more of what they need to grow and prosper. If you have any feedback for the Association or would like to get more involved, please reach out at (785) 272-4433 or at NATMHQ@natm.com. ■
Earlier this year, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued a final rule revising the analysis used to determine whether a worker should be classified as an “employee” or “independent contractor” under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Workers considered “employees” under the FLSA are granted basic workplace protections, such as the right to minimum wage and overtime pay, whereas workers classified as “independent contractors” are not. By revising the analysis, DOL hopes to reduce the misclassification of employees as independent contractors and ensure that employees are receiving the protections/benefits they are entitled to. The final rule was scheduled to go into effect on March 11, 2024.
To determine whether a worker is an “employee” or “independent contractor” under the FLSA, the rule focuses on the “economic reality” of the worker’s relationship with a potential employer and whether the worker is “economically dependent” on that employer for work (“employee”) or in the business for themselves (“independent contractor”). The final rule relies on a “totalityof-the-circumstances analysis” of the economic reality of the worker’s relationship with the employer to determine economic dependence (and - subsequently - whether the worker is an “employee” or “independent contractor” under the FLSA). While the “totality-of-the-circumstances analysis” uses all available information about the working relationship to determine economic dependence, its assessment is guided by six factors: for Profit or Loss Depending on Managerial Whether the worker has opportunities for profit or loss based on managerial skill (including initiative or business acumen or judgment) that affect the worker's economic success or failure in performing the work. by the Worker and the Potential Whether any investments by a worker are capital or entrepreneurial in nature.
Permanence of the Work Relationship: Weighs in favor of the worker being an “employee” when the work relationship is indefinite in duration, continuous, or exclusive of work for other employers; weighs in favor of the worker being an independent contractor when the work relationship is definite in duration, non-exclusive, project-based, or sporadic based on the worker being in business for [themselves] and marketing their services or labor to multiple entities.
› Nature and Degree of Control: Considers the potential employer's control, including reserved control, over the performance of the work and the economic aspects of the working relationship.
› Integral Part of the Potential Employer’s Business: Weighs in favor of the worker being an “employee” when the work they perform is critical, necessary, or central to the potential employer's principal business; weighs
in favor of the worker being an independent contractor when the work they perform is not critical, necessary, or central to the potential employer's principal business.
› Skill and Initiative: Whether the worker uses specialized skills to perform the work and whether those skills contribute to the business-like initiative. This factor indicates employee status where the worker does not use specialized skills in performing the work or where the worker is dependent on training from the potential employer to perform the work It is the worker's use of those specialized skills in connection with a business-like initiative that indicates that the worker is an independent contractor.
It is important to note that these six factors are not exhaustive. Additionally, “economic dependence” is not focused on the amount of income the worker earns or if the worker has other sources of income.
This final rule replaces the “Independent Contractor Status Under the Fair Labor Standards Act” (2021 IC Rule), which assigned different weights to the economic reality factors it used to determine classification.
Specifically, (1) the nature and degree of control over the work and (2) the worker’s opportunity for profit or loss were designated as “core factors” under the 2021 IC Rule and carried more weight in the analysis. The 2021 IC Rule’s non-core factors were: (3) the amount of skill required for the work; (4) the degree of permanence of the working relationship between the worker and the potential employer; and (5) whether the work was part of an integrated unit of production.
According to the NPRM for the 2023 final rule, several provisions of the 2021 IC Rule were “in tension [with] decades of case law applying the economic reality test,” including:
› Designating two ‘core factors’ as most probative and predetermining that they carry greater weight in the analysis;
› Considering investment and initiative only in the opportunity for profit or loss factor; and
› Excluding consideration of whether the work performed is central or important to the employer's business.
The NPRM stated that these provisions “narrowed the economic reality test by limiting the facts that may be considered as part of the test” to determine economic dependence.
Any business operating with the use of independent contractors or employees that may satisfy some of the standards listed above should seek counsel on how to properly comply with the provisions of the new regulations. ■
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) established a Political Action Committee, the NATM PAC, in 2010. The NATM PAC serves to support members of Congress who support the light- and medium-duty trailer industry and its positions on matters of public policy.
Campaign finance law requires NATM to secure “prior approval” from member companies before soliciting member companies’ executive and administrative personnel, stockholders, and the families of both groups. Member companies may not approve solicitations by more than one trade association in any calendar year. If, on behalf of the company you are authorized to represent, you would like to grant prior approval for the administrative personnel, stockholders, and families of both groups of your company to be solicited by NATM in
calendar year 2024, please complete the prior approval agreement online using the QR code on this page.
Since its inception, 60 individuals have contributed to the PAC raising more than $151,000 and those dollars have contributed to over 80 incumbent campaign committees on both sides of the aisle. The PAC is governed by a Board of Directors composed entirely of NATM Members. The PAC Board is responsible for developing both an annual budget and confirming candidates to whom the PAC will contribute based on specific, established criteria. Having the PAC Board composed of industry members is a key feature of assuring PAC goals align with industry needs.
To learn more about the PAC, contact NATM PAC Treasurer Alex Stowe at Alex.Stowe@natm.com. ■
The hotly anticipated National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) 2024 Convention & Trade Show celebrated enormous success as it returned to Las Vegas, Nev. in February. The event celebrated high attendance records, and it was clear that trailer manufacturer attendees were hungry to find new supplier solutions thanks to years of supply chain disruptions and shortages.
“Together NATM, its members, and the entire light- and medium-duty trailer industry are proud of the work we do to improve the safety of the U.S. roadways through our Compliance Verification Program and Trailer Safety Week efforts,” said Past President Marty Lorick of Triple Crown Trailers, Inc.
“But, it’s the NATM Convention & Trade Show that brings the greatest direct benefit to the success of companies in this industry — including small and large businesses alike. This show brings hundreds of suppliers to one convenient location, which allows trailer manufacturers to shop for everything they need in one place. The last few years have been hard on the industry with supply chain shortages, delays, and price increases. The ability to connect with hundreds of component suppliers and service providers in a single place within two days is not a convenience, but a necessity for businesses in our industry,” states Lorick.
“This isn’t a trade show with the highest volume, but the people who are here are genuinely here because they want to make their trailers better. Whether or not they’re looking for a new product, a better product, a different product, whatever they’re trying to do it’s to make their end product better. It’s nobody less than decision-makers and a very high return on investment from a trade show perspective.”
-Richard LaVanture, LaVanture ProductsOverall attendance of the 2024 show reached near recordbreaking levels with 1,432 registrants. Trailer manufacturer registrations reached a near record with 410 attendees and149 individual trailer manufacturing companies.
The NATM Trade Show floor featured 230 exhibiting companies with 321 booths. The show also featured 47 brand-new exhibitors - a new record.
The New Member Promotion brought in nearly 90 new trailer manufacturer attendees to tour the show. The New Member
Promotion offered two complimentary full registrations, two complimentary spouse/partner registrations, and two complimentary hotel room nights. If you are interested in helping new trailer manufacturers attend and would like to grow your company exposure, including personalized invitations to visit your booth for future NATM Convention & Trade Shows, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com.
“The NATM Convention & Trade Show brings the best and brightest in the industry together,” said NATM President Marco Garcia of U-Haul International, Inc. “NATM is the only not-forprofit in this industry that offers reputable safety resources and needed education, and this year’s educational lineup of workshops were excellent for all the members who participated in the workshops, technical forums, and the trade show floor.”
The following educational workshops were offered to attendees in 2024:
› The Power of Innovation: Powder Coating Technologies Unveiled
› Welding and Cutting Automation
› A Comparison of Cargo Trailer Assembly Methods
› VIN Calculations Made Easy
› Government Affairs Panel
› Beyond Compliance: Turbocharge Your Sales with the NATM Decal Advantage
› HR Insights Unveiled: Elevating the Employee Experience
› Financial Resolutions for a New Year: Investing for the Future
NATM is keeping the momentum moving forward and is already planning ahead for the 2025 Convention & Trade Show. NATM is pleased to be headed to the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 18-20, 2025. For more information about NATM’s 2025 Convention & Trade Show, including sponsorship opportunities and exhibit space, turn to Page 37.
Have questions about the show’s sponsorship opportunities or exhibit space? Contact Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. ■
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) named Jared Carnell of Watchdog Trailers LLC as the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Young Professional Award. This award recognizes the accomplishments of young individuals in the trailer manufacturing industry.
Jared currently serves as the Sales and Product Manager for Watchdog Trailers. His journey to this role was marked by hands-on experience and a deep understanding of trailers and equipment, as he was shaped by his early years working on a family farm in Florence, South Carolina.
His practical approach to learning, combined with his natural aptitude for the mechanics of trailers and equipment, laid the foundation for his later success in the trailer industry. His first significant foray into this field was with a small Indianabased manufacturer. This experience was crucial in shaping his understanding of the industry, but the company's closure during the COVID-19 pandemic posed a significant challenge.
However, adversity often breeds innovation, and for Jared, this was no exception. Under the leadership of David Andre, he played a pivotal role in the creation of Watchdog Trailers. Here, Jared's talents truly began to shine. He designed the company's first dump trailer, incorporating several industry improvements that quickly garnered popularity among dealers. Jared pioneered the introduction of Watchdog Command in the trailer industry, a revolutionary technology enabling complete Bluetooth control of trailers.
Despite the challenging circumstances of material shortages and backlogs during the height of COVID, Jared's leadership and the quality of Watchdog Trailers' products allowed the company to quickly grow its dealer base. This growth, amidst such difficult times, highlighted the resilience and potential of Watchdog Trailers.
Today, Watchdog Trailers continues to show steady and promising growth. As the company looks towards a bright 2024, it is poised to introduce even more exciting breakthroughs in the brand itself as well as many more industry-first
innovations, undoubtedly driven by Jared Carnell's foresight, expertise, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the trailer industry. NATM looks forward to Jared’s input and expertise as he continues to help shape the future of the Association and supports the industry.
The Pam O’Toole Trusdale Woman in Manufacturing Award, aptly named after NATM’s longtime Executive Director, seeks to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of women in the industry, an often-untapped talent pool. This year, the award will be given to a highly deserving individual who has been working in the industry for nearly a decade now. The recipient of the Pam O’Toole Trusdale Woman in Manufacturing Award is Melissa Searle of Laclede Chain Manufacturing.
Melissa is the director of product management for Laclede Chain Manufacturing. Sparked from a young age by her enjoyment of how things work, how to make things better,
and how to build something out of nothing, along with a love of math and science, Melissa attended engineering school at Missouri University of Science and Technology and earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Melissa kickstarted her career as an engineer at Laclede Chain at one of their manufacturing plants in Maryville, MO. After spending two years working on various projects throughout the plant and assisting the sales team, Laclede offered Melissa the opportunity to move back to St. Louis and become a product sales engineer. This shift allowed Melissa to work on both product development and helping the sales team secure key business opportunities.
This move to St. Louis also allowed Melissa to be back home near family and friends. This move also reintroduced her to contact flag football, which reignited her passion to constantly evolve as a person. After sharing her interest in growth with Laclede, Melissa was offered the opportunity to enroll in a two-year engineering leaders program with an organization called Vistage. Melissa also serves as a vicechair and member of committees of other trade associations and sits on the board for emerging leaders for another organization, where she helps bring in the next generation of leaders. Through all of this, Melissa has remained dedicated to pushing boundaries, fostering growth, and contributing to the ongoing success of Laclede Chain.
The Outstanding Associate Member award is presented to an individual from an Associate member company who has made outstanding contributions to the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM). The 2024 Outstanding Associate Member award was presented to Bill O’Hara of Dexter.
Bill has worked for Dexter for over 27 years and has held a variety of positions with the company. Currently, Bill serves as Vice President of Sales - Marine Business Unit. Bill joined the NATM Board of Directors in 2021 after the retirement of longtime board member Jim Berry. Bill was re-elected in 2023 and serves on the Membership Committee as well. Bill has attended every NATM Convention since his first in 1998 and remains a staunch supporter of NATM.
Bill graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He currently lives in Acworth, GA with his wife and two sons, Collin and Blake. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, traveling with his wife, and getting outside with their two Giant Schnauzers.
Bill’s assistance to the Association and willingness to help ensure we are advancing our overall mission to promote trailer safety and the overall success of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry is admirable.
NATM members exemplify great feats of creativity and innovation in the areas of technological advancement, green practices, and workforce development, and we celebrate these achievements with the NATM Innovation Award. The winner of the 2024 NATM Innovation Award is Red Fern Dynamics of Cleveland, Georgia.
Red Fern Dynamics developed a Mobile Kitchen Shell that offers safe installation of electric and LP Gas systems built into the frame. It meets all NFPA guidelines, making it the only product to do so. The design took three years to finalize and is trademark and patent-
protected. The MKS is designed to meet all necessary codes, making it a unique and proud accomplishment for Red Fern Dynamics’ founder Charles Daugherty.
Charles brings decades of design and development expertise into the trailer manufacturing industry. Having worked in the site engineering and land planning arena, Charles offers a unique perspective on designing and managing projects. Charles was awarded the Soin Industrial Engineering Award in 2009 for his industrial automation system which solved the challenges of broken case picking. This endeavor led him to start Red Fern Dynamics.
Red Fern Dynamics company name comes from Charles’ favorite childhood book, which he feels holds important life lessons. The Dynamics portion of the name comes from the definition - “a force that stimulates change in a system or process.” Holding the understanding that form follows function, and beginning with the end in mind, led to the creation of the Mobile Kitchen Shell.
Charles has been an active member of the Association and currently serves on the Board of Directors, as well as the Finance Committee.
The Outstanding Member Award is presented to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) and the trailer manufacturing industry. The 2024 NATM Membership Award recipient was John Kerr of Marsh & McLennan.
John Kerr was nominated by the NATM staff and Executive Committee for tirelessly advocating for the Association, serving on many NATM committees, the Board
of Directors, and the Executive Committee, and for his work in launching a new affinity program for the Association. John is regularly in contact with NATM about prospective members and often has already laid the foundation for membership ahead of our outreach. John’s tenure in the trailer industry has been illustrious and during that time he has amassed a vast network of friends, not just customers. John’s tireless work ethic and willingness to assist the Association in participating in the new trailer dealer warranty program has been another incredible accomplishment in an distinguished career within the trailer industry.
John Kerr has helped to grow NATM programming and benefits for over a decade. His commitment to the mission of NATM and his belief in membership have been an integral part of our recruiting efforts. 2024 marks the end of John’s tenure on NATM’s Board of Directors, but his impact and contributions will continue to reverberate throughout the Association. John is also planning to stay involved with committee work and our newly launched 501(c)(3), the National Safe Trailering Council.
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Education stands as one of the foundational pillars of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers’ (NATM) mission statement, underlining our unwavering commitment to fostering learning and growth within the trailer manufacturing industry. Through initiatives like the convention workshops, NATM strives to provide invaluable educational opportunities that unite industry professionals and equip them with essential knowledge and skills. This year, our workshops covered diverse topics ranging from government affairs and sales strategies to HR hot topics and financial planning, reflecting our dedication to addressing multifaceted industry needs. NATM extends our gratitude to Dec-O-Art for their sponsorship of this year's workshops, and to U-Haul for sponsoring the Technical Forums.
The Government Affairs Panel at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of the regulatory landscape impacting the trailer manufacturing industry. Led by moderator Brody Garland of K&L Gates, the panel featured industry stalwarts Leo Akins from Forest River Inc, Pat Jennissen from Felling Trailers, and Catherine Johnson, also from K&L Gates.
The panel began by addressing how recent regulatory changes directly influence businesses, particularly in terms of importing challenges, lead time adjustments, and pricing fluctuations in crucial components like tires, hydraulic systems, and steel imports. Catherine Johnson emphasized the significance of staying updated on tariff developments by stating, "Keeping up-to-date on what is going on in the tariff world will help you make better decisions and reprioritize supply chains as needed."
"In navigating compliance challenges, what proactive measures has your company taken, and what lessons have you learned from these experiences?" posed Brody Garland, prompting discussion on enforcement, deeper reviews on companies, and the recall process. Pat Jennissen shared insights into the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) appreciation of the Compliance Verification Program (CVP), highlighting the importance of regulatory adherence and collaboration.
Leo Akins emphasized the benefits of being a member of NATM, citing recognizable relationships with regulatory bodies like NHTSA and access to resources and fellow members within the Association. "We all have to have each other's backs because no one else will," Akins remarked, underlining the unity and support fostered within the industry. Reflecting on the value of engagement with NATM, Pat Jennissen remarked, "I wouldn't be able to have access to any of this network. I love that at the end of the day, it's important that we understand that this Association is still about small family businesses. We have to make sure we stay together as we are more effective as a unified group."
Reflecting on successful outcomes resulting from NATM's engagement efforts on Capitol Hill, the panel discussed increased awareness among legislators about the trailer manufacturing industry and the significance of the Regulatory Roundup. This annual event serves as a platform for industry experts, regulatory bodies, and congressional representatives to discuss key issues and legislative developments affecting the industry's future. As discussions turned to the upcoming Regulatory Roundup & Capitol Hill Visits, Leo Akins underscored its significance, emphasizing the opportunity for industry players to engage actively. "The opportunity is there to get involved. It's enjoyable work and NATM brings an enormous
amount of value. You are instantly part of a club because our industry is a family. We are all hard working Americans," he enthused.
The panel concluded with a discussion on the significance of legislator visits facilitated by NATM and K&L Gates throughout the year. Brody Garland emphasized the benefits of fostering recognition among members of Congress, facilitating meaningful interactions between NATM members and policymakers to address legislative impacts on their companies.
Pat Jennissen encouraged attendees to participate in Capitol Hill visits, assuring them that the experience is enriching rather than intimidating. "If you have not been to DC, I would say come, bring your families, let them see and come and visit. Do not be intimidated, just enjoy the time and opportunity to meet all the people," he advised warmly.
Throughout the panel, participants engaged in interactive dialogue, exploring proactive measures and the importance of staying informed about regulatory changes. Catherine Johnson emphasized the significance of staying updated on tariff developments, noting that "being aware through the NATM Government Affairs committee is a great way to stay connected."
Leo Akins concluded the panel with optimism for the industry's future, expressing, "I think the next five years is going to be exciting."
Perspectives from each panelist highlighted personal growth and professional development through Capitol Hill visits, underscoring the accessibility of congressional staff and the importance of advocacy efforts in shaping legislative outcomes.
If you are interested in attending the Regulatory Roundup in the future, please contact Executive Director, Alex Stowe at alex.stowe@natm.com or visit www.natm.com.
The second workshop at the 2024 NATM Convention, titled
Government Affairs panelists address upcoming legislation.
"Turbocharge Your Sales with the NATM Decal Advantage," was a dynamic session led by NATM's Technical Director, Scott Crimmins, and keynote speaker Shawn Rhodes, Chief Sales Sergeant of Bulletproof Selling. Attendees were treated to a comprehensive exploration of how the NATM Decal can serve as a powerful sales differentiator, elevating businesses to new heights.
The session commenced with a Q&A segment featuring Shawn Rhodes, directly following his impactful keynote speech during the Awards Luncheon. Shawn, a seasoned sales guru with proven systems in place, fielded questions on defining success, updating sales strategies, and becoming more strategic in the sales process. This interactive exchange set the stage for a deep dive into the Compliance Verification Program (CVP) by NATM Technical Director Scott Crimmins.
Scott provided attendees with an in-depth look at the CVP and the significance of the NATM Decal. This foundational understanding laid the groundwork for Shawn Rhodes to demonstrate how the NATM Decal can be a game-changer in sales, offering insights into increasing profitability and differentiating businesses in a competitive market.
Shawn guided participants through on-the-spot sales conversations, imparting practical strategies to capitalize on the NATM Decal advantage. Terry Lovely, from Cross Trailers, Inc in Indiana, shared his positive experience, highlighting Shawn's breakdown of strategies for manufacturers approaching dealers. "I liked how he broke everything down and the steps he gave so that I can go back to my sales team and give them some guidelines and steps to try to be successful in their approach to the dealer base," Terry noted.
Terry emphasized the importance of using the NATM Decal as a selling factor and expressed confidence in its potential impact. "We are trying really hard to use NATM as a selling factor because we believe in it and want to push it," he said. Terry also expressed optimism about future dealer programming, foreseeing success in progressing sales using the NATM Decal within the dealer base.
The workshop concluded with attendees leaving equipped with actionable insights, strategies, and a newfound understanding of how the NATM Decal can be a powerful catalyst for success in the competitive landscape of trailer manufacturing.
The third educational workshop at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show sparked enthusiasm and garnered widespread praise, particularly for Steph Hand's enlightening session titled, "Elevating the Employee Experience." Steph Hand, Chief Human Resource Officer and shareholder at Lutz, captivated attendees with her comprehensive approach to enhancing employee satisfaction and organizational success.
Steph's session stood out for its interactive format, where participants were encouraged to ask questions and share their own experiences throughout the presentation. There was a palpable sense of engagement, collaboration, and knowledge sharing within the audience as attendees exchanged insights, discussed what's working and what isn't, and under Steph's guidance, took notes on how they can elevate the systems they have in place.
Central to Steph's presentation was the emphasis on company culture as a cornerstone of the employee experience. She
challenged attendees to define their vision and standards, stressing the importance of day-to-day interactions, relationships, and the physical work environment in shaping employee satisfaction.
Drawing inspiration from thought leaders in the field, Steph quoted Tom Peters and Jack Welch, highlighting the critical link between employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and organizational success. She also shared wisdom from Tony Hsieh, underscoring the detrimental impact of neglecting company culture on service delivery and overall performance.
Steph guided attendees through the various stages of the employee experience, from attraction and recruitment to development, retention, and departure. One key takeaway emphasized by Steph was the importance of a great onboarding experience, stating that "onboarding starts at the time the employee says yes, not their first day." This insight resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to welcoming and integrating new employees into the organization's culture and processes. A particularly striking statistic from the Brandon Hall Group underscored the importance of a robust onboarding process by stating that "organizations with a strong onboarding process improve new hire
retention by 82% and productivity by 70%”, prompting attendees to reflect on their own practices and consider the five key elements of onboarding: compliance, clarification, culture, connection, and check-back.
Jason Fisher, President of Wiley and Sons in Texas, lauded Steph's engaging approach and the opportunity for networking among attendees. "She did a really great job engaging everyone and getting everyone's thoughts," he remarked. "I learned that making sure that there is a culture in our company and really developing it to be better is really important," he added, echoing the sentiment shared by many.
“There are only three measurements that tell you nearly everything you need to know about your organization’s overall performance: employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and cash flow… It goes without saying that no company, small or large, can win over the long run without energized employees who believe in the mission and understand how to achieve it.”
— Jack Welch, former CEO and Chairman of General ElectricAs attendees departed the session, they were armed with actionable insights and a renewed commitment to cultivating a positive employee experience within their organizations, laying the foundation for sustained success and growth.
The fourth and final educational workshop at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show, titled "Financial Resolutions for a New Year: Investing in the Future," delivered invaluable insights courtesy of the dynamic duo from Cinergy, Wealth, Life, and Legacy of Raymond James, a distinguished financial holding company. Pat Roberson, a seasoned financial advisor renowned for his empathetic approach, joined forces with his colleague, Tom Mahler, an expert in crafting personalized financial strategies using comprehensive industry resources.
The presentation began with a poignant narrative shared by Pat, illustrating the profound impact a financial advisor had on his life during a time of personal loss. This heartfelt introduction set the tone for an engaging and informative session focused on essential financial resolutions for members to consider in their financial planning journey.
Pat and Tom seamlessly exchanged insights on various resolutions, including managing risks, protecting goals, and legacies, alongside prudent considerations for investing in life insurance. A pivotal takeaway emerged in Pat's emphasis on the concept of being a "go-giver," advocating for a mindset of generous and intentional giving as a cornerstone of succession planning.
Tom underscored the importance of updating estate planning and initiating family conversations to ensure heirs are properly organized and beneficiaries are accurately listed. The duo introduced attendees to the concept of digitizing estate plans, recognizing the modern imperative of ensuring accessibility to digital records in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Tom stated, "It is increasingly important in this day and age, if something were to happen to you, that someone can access your emails and digital records."
Addressing the evolving landscape of financial planning, Pat and Tom equipped participants with essential questions to pose to their financial planners, enabling them to effectively manage risks and maximize benefits. They also emphasized the significance of investing with one's values and maintaining a fluid, adaptable financial plan designed to withstand the test of time.
The 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show offered four Technical Forums that were sponsored by U-Haul International. These forums are part of NATM’s educational programming and are created as opportunities for members to grow in their technical expertise and connect with industry experts. This year participants learned about a variety of technical topics including welding, adhesives, powder coating, and VIN labels.
Workshop attendees gained an understanding of financial resilience and empowerment, guided by the expertise and insights shared by Pat and Tom. The practical knowledge and actionable strategies from this workshop left attendees prepared to embark on their financial journeys with confidence and purpose, ready to invest in their futures and secure lasting prosperity.
At the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show, attendees were treated to an enlightening opening presentation by Steve Houston, Business and Senior Vice President of Vitracoat, a globally renowned powder coating manufacturer. Steve's presentation dove into the intricacies of powder coating, offering invaluable insights into overcoming common challenges and ensuring flawless applications.
Steve began by acknowledging the tendency to focus on successes rather than failures, stating, "We are always focused on celebrating our success and what is going right, that sometimes we need to reflect and see what isn't working." With this mindset, he proceeded to uncover six root causes for powder coating failures, accompanied by strategies to avoid them.
Attendees were captivated as Steve presented real-life examples and effective troubleshooting techniques. From pretreatment and cleaning processes to utilizing CR technology in powder coating, Steve left no stone unturned in addressing key areas of concern. He emphasized the importance of understanding uncured film, powder selection, and the critical role of substrate variables in achieving optimal results.
One of the highlights of Steve's presentation was his comprehensive approach to powder selection. He stressed the significance of matching product performance to end-use requirements, selecting the right layering system, and choosing the proper chemistry for specific application needs. Attendees gained valuable insights into writing specification sheets and navigating the intricacies of powder application processes.
Throughout the presentation, Steve's expertise shone as he guided attendees through the nuances of substrate variables and the importance of meticulous attention to detail. By the
Participants visited the Airgas booth to practice their welding skills.
end of the session, attendees left feeling empowered with knowledge and armed with practical strategies to overcome powder coating challenges in their projects.
Steve Houston's presentation served as a testament to Vitracoat's commitment to excellence in powder coating and their dedication to equipping industry professionals with the tools they need to succeed.
The second technical forum at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show featured a presentation by Bill Pharmer from Airgas, shedding light on Welding and Cutting Automation. The room brimmed with eager attendees as Bill presented on calculating return on investment (ROI) and optimizing welding processes for enhanced productivity and costeffectiveness.
Bill's presentation centered on the critical factors of productivity, quality, and costs, challenging participants to assess their current welding processes and identify areas for improvement. He emphasized the importance of analyzing variables such as travel speed, deposition rate, heat input, and weld cost per foot to gauge productivity and potential ROI.
Attendees were guided through the process of calculating ROI by examining the percent change in various parameters and understanding its implications for overall productivity. Bill provided practical insights into optimizing processes to achieve the best possible ROI, emphasizing the significance of choosing welding processes with high deposition efficiency while meeting project standards.
Throughout the presentation, Bill went into technical aspects such as a welder's arc time, operator factor calculation, and deposition efficiency, offering real-world examples to illustrate the impact of these calculations on ROI optimization. Attendees gained valuable insights into calculating deposition rates and understanding how these metrics can drive operational efficiency.
In addition to discussing welding optimization strategies, Bill addressed welding hazards and the importance of mitigating risks to ensure a safe working environment. He also touched upon the challenge of operator turnover and strategies for retaining skilled personnel in welding operations.
As the forum concluded, attendees left equipped with newfound knowledge and practical tools to optimize their welding processes, enhance productivity, and drive operational excellence in their respective businesses.
The third technical forum at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show, titled "A Comparison of Cargo Trailer Assembly Methods," delivered an insightful exploration led by a team from 3M. Presenters Ryan Faber, Portfolio Manager, Julia Poppe, Application Engineer, and Josh Dunn, Advanced Training Manager, provided attendees with a comprehensive comparison and live demonstration of various trailer assembly methods.
The presentation offered a deep dive into mechanical fasteners, liquid adhesives, acrylic foam tapes, and hybrid combinations, highlighting considerations for each method, including performance, aesthetics, dealer and trailer owner considerations, and process changes in the industry towards assembly automation.
Attendees were treated to an in-depth analysis of the advantages and limitations of each assembly method, with a focus on panel bonding and the strength of build achieved with adhesive sealants. The 3M team cautioned against common issues such as false bonds and addressed technical and design considerations, including thermal expansion and
contraction and stress management.
A key takeaway from the presentation was the importance of selecting the right foam tape, as poor tape selection can lead to panel separation. The team emphasized the need to assess the specific requirements of each operation and customer base when choosing an assembly method, stating, "There are pros and cons to each application method. Determine what makes the most sense for your operation and your customer base."
The benefits of using acrylic foam tape were also highlighted, including its fully cured adhesive properties, compatibility with side wall posts and roof bows prior to welding frame assemblies, and its ability to reduce or eliminate the need for working from ladders. However, the opportunity to use acrylic foam tape is limited to cargo trailers with aluminum or galvanized steel frame assemblies, with steel posing challenges due to required surface preparations and high heat.
The presentation culminated in a captivating live trailer build demonstration that captured the attention of attendees, showcasing the practical application of the discussed assembly methods. The 3M team engaged with the audience, addressing questions both in person and through the convention's Whova app, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Attendees departed with valuable insights on the latest technology to enhance cargo trailer assembly processes within their own operations, thanks to the expertise shared by the 3M team.
The fourth and final technical forum at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show marked a poignant "full circle" moment, as presenter Whitney Kovalenko of Dec-O-Art shared her expertise in a session titled "VIN Calculations Made Easy." Whitney, a talented label expert with a tenacious work ethic, brought over a decade of sales industry experience to the table, alongside a deep-rooted connection to the trailer manufacturing industry as a third-generation professional.
Whitney's session not only showcased her technical prowess but also symbolized a proud legacy, with her father, Fred Dosmann, a recipient of NATM's Outstanding Associate award in 2022, and her grandfather, Charles Dosmann, the founder of DecO-Art. Attendees were greeted warmly by Whitney's parents, who supported their daughter in this significant moment.
The presentation, while simple in format, provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of VIN-related processes, a topic often perceived as complex. Whitney's adept delivery left attendees equipped with the knowledge and tools to achieve federal compliance seamlessly.
The session commenced with an introduction to VINs, elucidating the definitions and segments inherent within. Whitney highlighted the labeling requirements set forth by prominent organizations such as the Society of Automotive Engineers and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), shedding light on the regulatory frameworks encapsulated in forms 566 and 565.
Whitney went into the intricacies of VIN decoding, ensuring participants grasped how to interpret labels and discern the significance of each number's position. Using a practical trailer example, she guided attendees through check digit calculations, demystifying a critical aspect of VIN processing.
As the session drew to a close, Whitney enlightened participants about available options such as the FedCert Suite and VinEze, offering solutions to navigate the complexities of VIN calculations effectively.
In Whitney's capable hands, attendees experienced a transformative journey from confusion to clarity, empowered with the knowledge and confidence to navigate VIN-related processes with ease. Her session not only exemplified technical expertise but also honored a cherished family legacy, marking a memorable conclusion to the Convention's technical forums. ■
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) would like to express our sincerest appreciation to everyone who participated in and visited our New Product Display Showcase at the NATM Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas. Exhibitors at the show had the opportunity to take part in the New Product Display this year, where participants shared their newest products and services with show attendees.
Trailer suppliers and service providers were present with an array of components on this dedicated display. From tires, wheels, and oil caps to tracking devices, welding guns, brake pads, tongue jacks, welding gases, and even a revolutionary cloud-based product – our showcase truly had it all!
Not only were attendees able to see and interact with these cutting-edge components, but manufacturers were able to participate in a contest on the show floor and vote for awards in multiple categories on the Whova App.
Among the many highlights of the display, we are excited to announce the winners of the 2024 New Product Display Awards:
› Smooth Operator: Improved Towing Experience Award winner — Dexter, Fortress Bolt-on Aluminum Oil Caps
› Excellence Award: Improved Customer Experience winner — Optronics International, Smoke Lens LED Lighting
› Innovation Breakthrough Award: Cutting-Edge Component of the Year winner — Matrack Inc. Mobile Asset Tracking, PingMaster5000 Wireless GPS Tracker
› Product Engineering Award winner — Autoflex Knott Inc, Actuator
› Manufacturer’s Favorite Award winner — Matrack Inc. Mobile Asset Tracking, PingMaster5000 Wireless GPS Tracker
We were thrilled to recognize the winners for their outstanding innovative products and services and their impact on the trailer community.
"We're thrilled to have received two prestigious awards at the NATM Convention, in our first time showcasing our products at the NATM Trade Show! Being recognized with both the Manufacturer's Favorite Award and the Innovative Breakthrough Award for Best Cutting-Edge Technology is truly humbling and reinforces our dedication to innovation in the trailer industry. We were also overwhelmed by the engagement and wide market connections we gained during the event, confirming the great importance of platforms like NATM for promoting industry growth and collaboration. This experience has enhanced our commitment to driving positive change and delivering cutting-edge solutions to our trailer industry customers."
-Cameron Smith, VP of Business Development, Matrack Inc. Mobile Asset TrackingBut the celebration did not end there! We also incorporated the New Product Display Raffle, where voters could optionally enter their names for the chance to win big on the products displayed at the New Product Display. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the participants who generously donated the new innovative items for the raffle. Your contributions were wellreceived, and the winners were not only able to engage with the products, but many were able to take these innovative new items home!
We extend our thanks to participants, attendees, and visitors for their support. Your commitment to the trailer industry continues to inspire us to improve and reach greater heights. This new showcase will be a staple component at our shows moving forward, to celebrate new, groundbreaking products and services that define the future of our industry.
If you have any questions about the 2025 New Product Display, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. ■
Manufacturers by Number of New Trailers Registered for 2023
Segment Manufacturer Accepting the Award
All Trailers Carry-On Trailer John Bilal
Open Carry-On Trailer John Bilal
Enclosed Novae Corporation Mike Story
Horse Trails West MFG of Idaho Troy Crouch/Richard Swainston
Livestock Wilson Trailer Company
Boat White River Marine Group Rick Huddeston
Manufacturers with the Largest Market Share Increase for 2023
Segment Manufacturer Accepting the Award
All Trailers Karavan Trailers Doug Clark
Open Karavan Trailers Doug Clark
Enclosed Anvil Trailer
Horse Alcom LLC
Livestock Alcom LLC
Boat Benchmark Trailers
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is headed to the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 18-20, 2025.
NATM was originally headed to the Gaylord in 2021, but the event had unfortunately been canceled during the height of the pandemic and the Association is excited to debut this location to its membership.
NATM invites the entire light- and medium-duty trailer industry to be part of the 2025 NATM Convention & Trade Show, which features suppliers and service providers exhibiting while trailer manufacturers walk the show floor. This gathering will take place at the enchanting Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in the heart of Nashville. Mark your calendars for Feb. 18-20, 2025 and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
The NATM Convention & Trade Show is the industry's premier event and the only such event run by a not-forprofit trade association – so all of your fees are directly funneled back into the creation of NATM Membership benefits. The event brings together trailer manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and professionals from all over the country. Here's what you can look forward to:
› Educational Workshops
Gain insights into the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices through a series of informative workshops and technical forums.
› Networking Opportunities
Connect with peers, build valuable relationships, and explore potential partnerships that can drive your business forward.
› New Product Showcase
Discover cutting-edge technologies, products, and services from industry leaders, and stay at the forefront of towing innovation.
› Industry Insights
Engage in discussions with experts and thought leaders to deepen your understanding of the ever-evolving trailer industry.
› Fun and Entertainment
Beyond the Convention, experience the vibrant and lively city of Nashville. Enjoy the local cuisine, live music, and a vibrant arts scene.
Nestled amidst the vibrant culture of Nashville, the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is a world-class venue known for its opulence and the perfect blend of business and leisure. The Gaylord Opryland boasts a large indoor atrium adorned with nine acres of lush indoor gardens, creating a breathtaking backdrop for networking, learning, and relaxation. NATM has negotiated a room block rate of $235.00 per night, and the reservation link will be available this summer at www.NATM.com.
Please remember, the only way to guarantee a room at the special NATM rate is to book directly from the NATM website. Please note, NATM has not authorized any group hotel room services to call you or to solicit your business! These third parties also use the NATM logo in their communications, so please ensure to book with those with emails ending in @natm.com.
The Trade Show exhibit hall is part of the Gaylord Opryland facility, ensuring easy access to all the latest products, technologies, and solutions in the trailer industry without ever leaving the building. Explore innovations and network with leading manufacturers, suppliers, and industry experts.
The NATM Member rate for a 10’ x 10’ booth is $2,000. Booth spaces for non-members are $4,000. Trade Show space will open to 2024 sponsors starting May 15. Following sponsors, non-sponsor exhibitors at the 2024 show will then select their spaces starting July 2. The opportunity to select space for the general membership will open Aug. 7, and non-members will be allowed to choose booth space beginning Sept. 4.
For more information about the booth selection process, turn to Page 38.
Enjoy a variety of dining experiences with 15 restaurants and lounges to choose from in the Gaylord Opryland, from high-end gourmet restaurants to quick and convenient bites. The resort offers something for everyone, making your stay enjoyable and hassle-free.
Take advantage of the location and travel offsite to immerse yourself in the music capital of the world. Nashville offers endless dining and entertainment options, allowing you to experience the rich culture and traditions of this iconic city such as hot chicken, biscuits, and BBQ.
The Gaylord Opryland Resort is not just a business destination, it's also a fantastic place for family trips. The resort features an indoor/outdoor water experience called SoundWaves which is a 4-acre, 3-level luxury water experience with a recreation zone, ensuring entertainment for everyone. Make it a memorable experience and bring the whole family.
As always, the NATM Convention & Trade Show would not be possible without the support of its generous sponsors. There are sponsorship opportunities available from $250 to $50,000 to fit any budget. Being a sponsor allows you to select your booth before previous exhibitors and the general membership, and provides a wide range of exposure, both electronically on NATM’s website and mobile app and in print on signage and branded events. This creates name recognition which helps drive customers to your booth.
Are you a new member trailer manufacturer? Are you a trailer manufacturer whose company has not attended in the last five years? You may qualify for NATM’s New Attendee Promotion!
The New Attendee Promotion includes two complimentary full registrations and up to two complimentary hotel room nights at the host hotel for the Convention while supplies last. Those interested in participating should contact NATM Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski at Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com soon. Complimentary hotel rooms are on a first come, first served basis and will go fast.
Join in the NATM 2025 Convention & Trade Show for a truly unforgettable experience at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. Whether you're coming for business or looking to combine business and family leisure, this event is tailor-made for you. More information will be provided via email this summer. To sign up for NATM Convention & Trade Show emails, visit www.NATM.com/convention.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive in the trailer industry. Save the dates, and we look forward to seeing you in Nashville in 2025! Questions about the show sponsorship opportunities or exhibit space? Contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. ■
Nashville, Tennessee | February 17-20, 2025
Monday, February 17th
Convention Welcome Networking Event with Dueling Pianos
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 18th
Registration
8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Workshop Session 1
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Technical Forum Session 1
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Awards Lunch & Keynote Speaker
11:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
› 11:15-11:45 - Lunch
› 11:45-12:15 - NATM Update and Awards
› 12:30-1:30 - Keynote Speaker
Exhibitor Move In - Exhibit Hall
Noon – 6:00 p.m.
Workshop Session 2
2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Technical Forum Session 2
2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
NATM PAC Reception**
3:50 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Newcomer Orientation & Reception
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
President’s Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
**The PAC Reception may only be attended by NATM's "Restricted Class," which includes certain NATM employees, individual and other noncorporate NATM Members, and certain employees of corporate members with pre-approval.
Wednesday, February 19th
Registration
7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Exhibitor Move-In - Exhibit Hall
7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Workshop Session 3
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Technical Forum Session 3
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Coffee Break
9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Workshop Session 4
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Technical Forum Session 4
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Trade Show Open - Exhibit Hall
11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Lunch With Exhibitors - Exhibit Hall
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Trade Show Reception - Exhibit Hall
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 20th
Registration
9:00 a.m. – Noon
Trade Show Open - Exhibit Hall
9:00 a.m. – Noon
Coffee with Exhibitors
9:00-10:00 a.m.
New Product Display Awards 10:00 a.m. –10:30 a.m.
New Product Display Raffle 11:00 a.m.
Exhibitor Move Out Noon – 5:00 p.m.
Elevate your industry presence as the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) extends a warm invitation to new NATM Members for the 2025 NATM Convention & Trade Show in the vibrant city of Nashville, TN from February 18-20, 2025! We are thrilled to announce the New Attendee Promotion, an opportunity for NATM Trailer Manufacturer Members who have not experienced the excitement of the NATM Convention & Trade Show, or who have not attended in the last five years.
This promotion entitles eligible companies to two (2) complimentary full registrations, two (2) complimentary spouse/partner registrations, and the added luxury of two (2) free hotel room nights per qualifying company! Seize the chance to immerse yourself in industry insights and dynamic networking at this premier event. The full registration provides access to all events outlined in the show schedule
(excluding the Monday evening networking event).
The NATM Convention & Trade Show is the annual trade show for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. With an attendance of over 1,400 trailer manufacturers and suppliers each year, this "must-attend" event promises a wealth of education, networking opportunities, and industry insights. The 2024 trade show witnessed the participation of more than 230 exhibiting companies, offering attendees a diverse array of cutting-edge products and services.
To see if you qualify for the New Attendee Promotion, reach out to NATM's Membership & Events Coordinator, Catie Rutkowski, at Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. The deadline to sign up for the New Attendee Promotion is Dec. 20, 2024. Elevate your industry engagement and be part of the excitement that defines the NATM Convention & Trade Show! ■
As a not-for-profit 501(c)(6), the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) stands firmly in its commitment to advancing the light- and medium-duty trailer industry through educational and compliance efforts across the nation. At the heart of NATM’s programming and benefits lies the cornerstone of the Association’s funding: the annual NATM Convention & Trade Show.
The NATM Convention & Trade Show has evolved into an unparalleled showcase that unites trailer manufacturers, trailer dealers, suppliers, service providers, OEM automotive manufacturers, industry leaders, and key stakeholders from across the nation and abroad. The proceeds generated from the NATM Convention directly contribute to NATM’s robust portfolio of programming and initiatives to improve trailer safety at multiple levels. These include the NATM Compliance Verification Program, the newly launching NATM Academy, Trailer Safety Week, publications, and educational programming for the Association’s members.
NATM vigorously advocates for the interests of its members on legislative and regulatory matters at multiple levels. The Association saw great success with federal recognition of Trailer Safety Week this year and the passing of doubles towaway legislation previously. The annual Regulatory Roundup & Capitol Hill Visits serve as essential platforms, not only to raise awareness about pertinent industry issues, but also to bolster the Association's ongoing advocacy efforts. The funds generated from sponsorships, booth sales, and registration at the Convention directly support NATM's endeavors in lobbying for policies that protect the interests of its membership. The support NATM Members provide through sponsorship participation is directly funneled back to investing in the needs of member companies.
The money generated from the annual NATM Convention & Trade Show is used to improve trailer safety across the nation, and it is thanks to the support of sponsors that NATM can offset costs for the Association, attendees, and ultimately the industry at large. Not only does sponsoring provide excellent brand exposure and visibility within the light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturing realm, but it also demonstrates your commitment to the industry. If you are looking to reach the decision-makers in the industry, this is the event to make a splash!
Sponsorships are available for the 2025 NATM Convention & Trade Show. The success of the NATM Convention is directly tied to the support of its generous sponsors. There are marketing and general sponsorship opportunities available from $250 to $50,000 to fit any budget and strategy, including networking receptions, the welcome event, trade show lounges, and more! Being a 2025 sponsor allows your company early access to booth selection for the 2026 show in Fort Worth, Texas, and provides a wide range of exposure, both electronically on NATM’s website and mobile app and repeatedly printed in Tracks magazine. This name recognition will help drive customers to your booth and provide unique opportunities for your team to make meaningful connections with attendees. Check out a few of NATM’s most popular sponsorship opportunities left available:
Provide attendees with a little flare on their name badges with a sponsored ribbon wall near registration. From NATM credentials such as committee work and company anniversaries to fun characteristics, attendees are sure to flaunt their ribbons with pride. Sponsors may provide ribbons of their choosing to be included on the wall pending NATM approval.
Reach every single conference attendee by placing your company’s logo on all pre-registered attendee badges. This badge grants access to events and is given to all preregistered attendees when they arrive at the Convention.
NATM will work with you to find the sponsorship opportunity that best fits your company’s goals. You can find the full 2025 Sponsorship Brochure at www.natm.com/sponsor. ■
For all trade show or sponsorship questions, please contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido for more information at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or by calling (785) 272-4433. NATM looks forward to seeing you in Nashville in 2025!
The NATM Convention & Trade Show features suppliers and service providers exhibiting on the show floor, while light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturers walk the floors to shop. Once again, NATM is using Map Your Show’s online booth sales software for the NATM Convention & Trade Show which will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 18-20, 2025. This program allows real-time booth selection and significant time savings for exhibitors.
The cost for NATM Members for a 10’ x 10’ booth is $2,000. Booth spaces for non-members of NATM are $4,000. The booth cost includes two complimentary booth worker registrations, a 6’ table, two chairs, and a wastebasket.
The opportunity to select exhibitor space at the 2025 Trade Show will be made available in the following phases:
Phase 1: 2024 sponsors will choose their booths first in the order of their sponsorship levels during the following dates:
› $30,000 and higher – May 15 - 19
› $10,000 – $29,999 – May 20 - 28
› $7,500 – $9,999 – May 29 - June 3
› $5,500 – $7,499 – June 4 - 9
› $2,500 – $5,499 – June 10 - 16
› $1,000 – $2,499 – June 17 - 23
› $250 – $999 – June 24 - July 1
Phase 2: 2024 non-sponsor exhibitors select their booths July 2 – Aug. 6, 2024
Phase 3: The general membership will be allowed to choose booth space beginning Aug. 7, 2024
Phase 4: Non-members will be allowed to choose booth space beginning Sept. 4, 2024
On the day your booth selection window opens, you will receive an email from NATM notifying you that the booth sales application is now available online for your company. The email contains a unique code that when entered, pre-populates the online booth sales application. Once logged in, exhibitors can view the 2025 Trade Show floor plan and select the desired booth(s).
During the completion of the online application, exhibitors pay for their booth(s) with a credit card. Once NATM approves the application, an email containing login credentials to the exhibitor dashboard is sent. The dashboard allows exhibitors to update their company profile and contact information and view other important information relevant to the upcoming show.
As always, the sign-up for booth space is first come, first served. You can sign up at any time after your group’s window begins. If you miss the window for your group, the privilege of choosing during your group’s time is lost. Be sure to mark your calendar to remember to sign up as soon as you receive your email from NATM!
If you have any questions regarding how to book your exhibit space at the 2025 NATM Convention & Trade Show, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or (785) 272-4433. ■
As the not-for-profit 501(c)(6) trade organization that brought you Trailer Safety Week, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is expanding its educational efforts and support to trailer dealers through the launch of the NATM Trailer Expo: The ultimate light- and medium-duty trailering event of the year. The first NATM Trailer Expo will take place in Oklahoma City, Sept. 16-18, 2025.
This event will bring together all key stakeholders of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, including trailer dealers, trailer manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and automotive tow vehicle OEMs. The target audience to attend and walk through the Trailer Expo includes trailer dealers, as well as fleet and government purchasing agents.
The NATM Trailer Expo will, of course, feature an exposition of trailers under 26,000 lbs GVWR on the trade show floor. Additionally, suppliers and service providers that assist dealerships will also be welcome to exhibit. Booth sales for the 2025 Trailer Expo will open this summer. Information about the booth sales process and dates can be found on Page 53, but make sure to sign up for communications regarding the Expo at www.NATM.com.
As the leader in national towing safety efforts, dealers have looked to NATM for resources for their customers and their businesses. Over the last decade, NATM has fielded frequent requests to close the gap that exists in the trailer dealer realm regarding reputable education, business resources, and selfgovernance. As requested, NATM is exponentially expanding its dealer support efforts, for more information turn to Page 39. To foot the bill, the NATM Trailer Expo was created.
Similar to NATM’s annual Convention & Trade Show held in February that funds Association programming dedicated to trailer manufacturers, the NATM Trailer Expo will utilize the revenue generated from the event to fund dealer-specific programming and benefits. As a not-for-profit association, the profits generated from the Trailer Expo will be reinvested into Dealer Affiliate benefits and industry-wide programming such as Trailer Safety Week, the launch of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit National Trailer Safety Council, the NATM Academy, Dealer Connect network, and more. No other
organization in the light- and medium-duty trailer industry utilizes booth sales, sponsorship dollars, and registration revenue to further nationwide trailer safety efforts and launch costly programming to assist trailer dealers. The primary focus of NATM is directed toward generating benefits for its members and affiliates to further its mission to improve trailer safety. As a not-for-profit, NATM prioritizes the member and affiliate interests over its financial gains as it serves the entire light- and medium-duty trailer industry. The Association operates with a commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial environment for its members and affiliates rather than seeking profits for itself. This approach underscores NATM's dedication to supporting and advancing the interests of the trailering community, reinforcing a collaborative and safetydriven mindset for all key stakeholders at every level.
NATM was founded in Chickasha, Oklahoma, in 1987 when five livestock trailer manufacturers unified for better benefits. Nearly 40 years since its inception, NATM is returning to its roots with its first Oklahoma-based event geared specifically for trailer dealers. This event will celebrate the success, growth, and expansion the Association has had over the last four decades leading the industry. Returning “Back to Our Roots” in Oklahoma marks a fresh restart, a full circle, in programming in which NATM launches a new chapter for the trailer industry – this time incorporating trailer dealerships.
OKC offers an exceptional dining and drinking scene for offsite, after-hours networking with customers
The launch of The NATM Trailer Expo demonstrates NATM’s understanding of the importance of unifying for the greater good of the trailer industry – just like the five original founding member companies understood back in 1987.
Embracing a collective vision for advancing end-user towing knowledge, NATM is starting a new chapter of collaboration. The trailer industry is stronger together, and this unification is a major step forward in improving towing traffic safety at all levels, as well as supporting the profitability of its members and affiliates.
Oklahoma City's tagline is, “Where the heartland meets cutting-edge technology” which is also a fitting description of the trailer industry's rural roots and its future incorporating technology to improve the industry at the manufacturing level, sales level, and end-user level. Not only is OKC conveniently located in the heart of the nation, it sits amid the trailer manufacturing industry and lies within a three hours drive of Fort Worth, Texas, which has proven an ideal location for NATM's programming and contributed to record-breaking success for its annual February Convention & Trade Show.
OKC offers an exceptional dining and drinking scene for offsite, after-hours networking with customers. Fine dining and steakhouses, craft breweries, trendy
bars, and sophisticated cocktail lounges are scattered throughout the city, offering a vibrant nightlife for attendees to unwind and socialize after a long day at the NATM Trailer Expo. Trailer dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers alike will have plenty of options to wine and dine their customers during the week of the show.
The inaugural 2025 NATM Trailer Expo will be held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center which was completed in 2020. This convention center is a brandnew, state-of-the-art facility that stands as a testament to modernity and innovation. With its top-notch amenities, spacious meeting rooms, and expansive trade show floor, the OKC Convention Center will not only meet needs but exceed the highest of standards.
The Omni Oklahoma City Hotel is the host hotel for the
event and is conveniently located directly across from the OKC Convention Center, which will host the event. Completed in 2021, the 17-story hotel offers luxurious guest rooms and dramatic views of the nearby Scissortail Park and the OKC skyline. Additionally, there is a rooftop hotel pool with downtown city views and excellent onsite dining and bar options. Take time for R&R after a week of working the show floor at Omni’s onsite Mokara Spa.
The Omni Oklahoma City Hotel stands out as a pinnacle of beauty and modernity among the venues at which NATM has previously hosted. Renowned for its luxurious accommodations, and sophisticated design, the Omni offers a truly exceptional experience for attendees. The convenience of the neighboring hotel and exhibit hall locations cannot be beaten. NATM has negotiated a hotel room block rate of only $230 per night, and the hotel reservation link will be live this winter. Please note, NATM will not authorize any group hotel room services to call you or to solicit your business! These third parties also use the NATM logo in their communications, so please ensure to book with those with emails ending in @natm.com.
The NATM Trailer Expo will focus on elevating dealer success. With a nearly four-decade track record, NATM has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to its members by providing exemplary support, valuable resources, and dynamic programming and will continue to offer such at the NATM Trailer Expo.
Understanding the evolving needs of its Dealer Affiliates, NATM conducted a comprehensive survey across the country to gain insights into the specific requirements of dealers. The findings underscore a shared goal among dealers to enhance profitability and elevate
the end-user experience and knowledge. These crucial insights gleaned from discussions with dealers will serve as the foundation for the NATM Trailer Expo programming with a focus on elevating dealer success.
In her vast discussions and meetings with dealers, NATM Dealer Programming Specialist Andrea Boetticher has found that these dealerships are small businesses, often family-owned and their main focus is profitability. As a result, the in-person educational lineup will be geared towards increasing the profitability of dealerships. Profitability is not just determined by the sales process, but by overall business practices which NATM plans to assist with. Boetticher also has found that dealers want to meet with their peers, and NATM intends to create business engagement groups and connect dealers with noncompetitors to discuss challenges, solutions, and more.
NATM is soliciting feedback from Dealer Affiliates on what topics they want addressed with the in-person workshop lineup. To help curate the future of NATM Trailer Expo programming, participate in the Trailer Expo Location and Workshop Survey, scan the provided QR code. Have an idea for additional programming or interested in joining as a Dealer Affiliate for only $150 annually? Visit www.natm.com/ dealers or email dealers@natm.com for more information.
The Association is looking ahead and already planning future NATM Trailer Expos in the coming years. Building on the success of previous events, the 2026 NATM Trailer Expo will be in Fort Worth, Texas, from October 6-8, 2026. Mark your calendars now!
Texas, known for its booming trailer manufacturing industry, has proven to be an ideal location for NATM's programming, contributing to record-breaking success. Its central location makes it convenient for NATM trailer manufacturer members to drive in and exhibit their latest models. Additionally, the strategic location is perfect for dealers to visit and engage throughout the week. NATM is committed to expanding and enhancing the event and is actively seeking input from Dealer Affiliates on their location preferences to ensure continued growth and success. To be a part of this exciting initiative, interested parties can easily participate by scanning the provided QR code on the facing page.
NATM is excited for this new chapter in the Association, and looks forward to seeing you in OKC in 2025! If you have any questions regarding the 2025 NATM Trailer Expo, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm. com or (785) 272-4433. Interested in joining as a Dealer Affiliate for only $150 annually? Visit www.natm.com/dealers or email dealers@natm.com for more information. ■
Fine dining and steakhouses, craft breweries, trendy bars, and sophisticated cocktail lounges are scattered throughout OKC offering a vibrant nightlife for attendees to unwind and socialize after a long day at the NATM Trailer Expo.
Date: September 16-18, 2025
Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Venue: OKC Convention Center
Host Hotel: Omni Oklahoma City Hotel
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
September 16-18, 2025
Monday, September 15
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC
Exhibitor Move In – Type A: Group 1 and 2
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Convention Welcome Event with Dueling Pianos
Tuesday, September 16
7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Registration
7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC
Exhibitor Move In
Type A: 8:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
Type B: 11:00 a.m. –6:00 p.m.
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Room: 208AB
Elevating Dealer Success Sessions
11:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Room: Ballroom B
Awards Lunch & Keynote
2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Room: 208AB
Elevating Dealer Success Sessions
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Room: 209B
Dealer Affiliate Orientation & Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Room: Ballroom B
President's Reception
Wednesday, September 17
7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Registration
7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC
Exhibitor Move In Type B
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Room: 208AB
Elevating Dealer Success Sessions
9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m
Outside of 208/209 Coffee Break
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Room: 208AB
Elevating Dealer Success Sessions
11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC Trade Show Open
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC Lunch with the Exhibitors
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC Trade Show Reception
Thursday, September 18
9:00 a.m. – Noon
Registration
9:00 a.m. – Noon Trade Show Open
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC
Exhibitor Move Out – Type B: 2:00 p.m. –5:00 p.m.
Friday, September 19
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall ABC
Exhibitor Move Out – Type A
The National Association of Livestock Trailer Manufacturers (NALTM) was founded in 1987 when a group of horse and livestock trailer manufacturers met in Chickasha, Oklahoma. The Association was incorporated in Texas in 1990. By 1992, this young Association realized that all manufacturers of light- and medium-duty trailers faced the same business, regulatory, and legislative issues. So, the Association dropped the “Livestock” from its name and became the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM).
NATM is a trade association, a membership organization governed by its members for the benefit of its members and the industry in general. Trade associations that meet the requirements of Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(6) are entitled to be exempt from federal income tax as “business leagues,” thus qualifying as not-for-profit organizations. NATM filed for and was granted 501(c)(6) tax-exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on April 1, 1991.
The IRS defines a “business league” as an association of persons having some common business interest, the purpose of which is to promote that common interest and not to engage in a regular business of a kind ordinarily carried on for profit.
› To be exempt as a business league, an organization's activities must be devoted to improving business conditions of one or more lines of business (as distinguished from performing particular services for individual persons). It must be shown that the conditions of a particular trade or the interests of the community will be advanced. Merely indicating the name of the organization or the object of the local statute under which it is created is not enough to demonstrate the required general purpose.
› No part of a business league's net earnings may inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual and it may not be organized for profit to engage in an activity ordinarily carried on for profit (even if the business is operated on a cooperative basis or produces only enough income to be self-sustaining).
› To be exempt, a section 501(c)(6) organization must receive meaningful membership support.
› Trade associations and professional associations are business leagues.
NATM is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) trade association. It is governed by a set of bylaws investing governing power in an elected board of directors. The Board owes a fiduciary duty to the Association’s members. The Board hires the Executive Director to manage the day-to-day affairs of the Association and instructs the Executive Director through written Board-adopted policies that prescribe the organizational goals to be achieved. The Board also develops policies instructing the Executive Director to achieve board-specified results, for specified recipients, at a specified cost.
The Board also appoints a Finance Committee. Each year, the Finance Committee prepares a balanced budget for the Association to ensure the Association has adequate resources to fund programs and remain financially sound. If revenues exceed expenses, the excess revenue is allocated to “reserves” to accumulate sufficient funds to cover several months’ operating expenses – in NATM’s case, six to twelve months of operating expenses – to ensure the Association remains financially sound through economic downturns. Reserves are also used to fund special projects when technical, regulatory, or legislative issues impacting the industry arise that must be addressed by the Association. All excess revenue not placed in reserves is rolled back into Association-run programs to benefit members and to keep dues and convention registrations at an affordable rate.
Not-for-profit organizations must maintain complete transparency, and their 990’s filed annually with the IRS may be viewed online and are on file for public inspection at the Association headquarters office. If you want to check whether an organization you belong to is a nonprofit or not-for-profit, you can check it out at www.guidestar.org. This is also a good resource to check on 501(c)(3) (charitable) organizations to verify if donations to the organization are tax-deductible. Dues to trade associations – a 501(c)(6) – are deductible as a business expense, less any amount dedicated to lobbying. This non-deductible amount must be disclosed on membership renewal forms. For 2024 membership dues, NATM estimates five percent are non-deductible. ■
For more information about NATM’s not-for-profit 501(c)(6) status, contact NATM Executive Director Alex Stowe at Alex.Stowe@natm.com.
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The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is using Map Your Show’s online booth sales software for the NATM Trailer Expo which will be held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center in Oklahoma City, Sept. 16-18, 2025. This program allows real-time booth selection and significant time savings for exhibitors.
The opportunity to select space at the 2025 Trailer Expo will be made available in the following phases:
NATM Trailer Manufacturing Members that have been a member beginning 1987-12/31/2012 will be able to select their booth spaces August 21 - October 4.
NATM Trailer Manufacturing Members that have been a member starting 1/1/2013-Today will be able to select their booth spaces beginning October 7.
All NATM Associate Members serving trailer dealers will be allowed to choose booth space beginning October 28.
Non-members will be allowed to choose booth space beginning November 18.
On the day your booth selection window opens, you will receive an email from NATM notifying you that
the booth sales application is now available online for your company. The email contains a unique code that when entered, pre-populates the online booth sales application. Once logged in, exhibitors can view the 2025 trade show floor plan and select the desired booth(s).
During the completion of the online application, exhibitors pay for their booth(s) with a credit card. Once NATM approves the application, an email containing login credentials to the exhibitor dashboard is sent. The dashboard allows exhibitors to update their company profile and contact information and view other important information relevant to the upcoming show.
As always, the sign-up for booth space is first come, first served. You can sign up at any time after your group’s window begins. If you miss the window for your group, the privilege of choosing during your group’s time is lost. Be sure to mark your calendar to remember to sign up as soon as you receive your email from NATM!
If you have any questions regarding how to book your exhibit space at the 2025 NATM Trailer Expo, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or (785) 272-4433. ■
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is headed to Oklahoma City for the 2025 Trailer Expo taking place Sept. 16-18, 2025, and the Association has several sponsorship opportunities available. Sponsoring the NATM Trailer Expo helps NATM’s efforts to improve safety and the goal of unifying the industry.
As the only not-for-profit trade organization in the lightand medium-duty trailer industry, the revenue generated from the NATM Trailer Expo will directly fund the NATM Dealer Affiliate and membership programming and benefits. Additionally, NATM is bringing in dealers to help lead programming with representation on the NATM Board of Directors and a committee.
Not only does sponsoring provide excellent brand exposure and visibility within the light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturing realm, but it also demonstrates your commitment to the industry. If you are looking to reach the decision-makers in the industry, this is the event to make an impression! What better way to market to attendees than to show your support of NATM by sponsoring an item or event at the Trailer Expo?
The NATM Trailer Expo offers an array of sponsorship opportunities to elevate your brand, including the following sponsorships, which are available:
› Your company’s logo and booth number will be the first thing attendees see as they approach the registration desk.
› Sponsor the keynote speaker at the Awards Luncheon and have your brand prominently displayed during the introduction and closing of the speech.
$6,500
› By sponsoring the three Elevating Dealer Success Sessions, your company will get the opportunity to briefly speak before each session begins. Branded table signs are placed on tables each day. Branded materials also may be set out by the sponsor.
› Reach attendees ahead of the event with your coupons, special event offers, and booth information by advertising in the 2025 NATM Trailer Expo Virtual Swag Bag email featuring exhibitor highlights and special offers.
› Registration Announcement, Holiday Email, and Early Bird Registration.
› Reach every single conference attendee by placing your company’s logo on all pre-registered attendee badges. This badge grants access to events and is given to all pre-registered attendees when they arrive at the NATM Trailer Expo.
Sponsorships play a crucial role in strengthening your marketing strategy. They enable you to connect with a specific and engaged audience, contributing essential financial support to facilitate top-notch education, networking opportunities, and trailer exhibitions. This benefits trailer dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers specializing in units under 26,000 lbs GVWR. These events showcase a collaborative platform, uniting trailer dealers with trailer manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers offering components and services tailored to enhance the success of dealerships and service departments.
If you have any questions about the 2025 NATM Trailer Expo Sponsorships, contact NATM Events Director Aileen Valido at Aileen.Valido@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. ■
$1,000 - $2,499
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
$2,500 - $5,499
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Virtual Ad Swag Bag Ad Discounted 10%
$5,500 - $7,499
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Virtual Ad Swag Bag Ad Discounted 10%
› One Additional Booth Worker
$7,500 - $9,999
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Virtual Ad Swag Bag Ad Discounted 15%
› One Additional Booth Worker
› One Full Registration
$10,000 - $14,999
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Free Quarter Panel Advertise
› Virtual Ad Swag Bag Ad Discounted 25%
› One Additional Booth Worker
› Two Full Registrations
$15,000 - $19,999
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Free Ad in Virtual Ad Swag Bag
› Two Additional Booth Workers
› Three Full Registrations
$20,000 - $29,999
› Priority 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space Selection
› Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Tracks Magazine Recognition
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Free Ad in Virtual Ad Swag Bag
› Three Additional Booth Workers
› Four Full Registrations
$30,000+
› First Exhibit Selection 2026 Trailer Expo Exhibit Space
› Featured Display of Logo on Website & Mobile App
› Logo Prominently Displayed on Trailer Expo Materials and Emails
› One Exclusive Featured Tracks Magazine Article
› Materials in NATM Welcome Kiosk Bags
› Free Ad in Virtual Ad Swag Bag
› Four Additional Booth Workers
› Five Full Registrations ■
Dealer Affiliates have a new opportunity to add revenue and maximize service and sales retention by offering customers a trailer service contract and a tire-and-wheel protection product endorsed by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM).
As Executive Director of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), Alex Stowe says the organization’s mission is to promote trailer safety and advance the success of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. Advancement depends on new ideas, and a promising one arrived on Stowe’s desk last summer: Collaborate with a Finance and Insurance (F&I) products provider and administrator to create and deploy service contract products specifically designed for light- and medium-duty trailers and offered to consumers by NATM Dealer Affiliates.
“We’ve been hearing from dealers about supplementing income and enhancing profitability, and this would directly provide dealer affiliates with a new revenue stream,” Stowe says. “Margins are getting so tight. We knew products like these — vetted, quality products — would provide them a decent return while affording valued protection to their customers.”
With that, the process of brokering a partnership and deploying the program nationwide began.
Stowe and Sanja H.Abdic both credit longtime NATM Board Member John Kerr of Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA) with hatching the idea to create NATM-endorsed F&I products. H.Abdic is Vice President of warranty management and automotive segment lead at Marsh, a global insurance broker. Kerr is a certified insurance counselor with its sister company MMA. He has spent more than twenty
years in the trailer industry, where he has experience offering insurance services to trade associations.
H.Abdic says Kerr presented her the concept and the pair started to vet the idea.
“We engaged with NATM’s leadership team and started the process of tailoring this solution with NATM in mind,” H.Abdic says. “We identified a significant opportunity for creation and distribution of protection products through the NATM Dealer Affiliates that would provide protection products to end consumers while giving trailer dealers a new revenue stream with no overhead.”
NATM and Marsh quickly agreed that selecting the right provider was paramount to the process. At the end of a multi-step due diligence process conducted by Marsh, they chose Portfolio. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Southern California with offices in Ohio and Texas, Portfolio is among the nation’s largest F&I product providers and administrators. H.Abdic says scale was important, but expertise was the deciding factor.
“We needed a provider that was vertically integrated and could handle dealer enrollment, program sales, training and claims administration, but we also needed experience in the RV/trailer space, because this industry is so unique,” H.Abdic says.
So different, in fact, that many of Portfolio’s competitors have yet to touch RVs, let alone trailers. The provider’s
Vice President of sales, Chad Millspaugh, says expertise and credibility in those spaces is hard-earned.
“We felt Portfolio was the right choice because of the time we’ve put into understanding what trailer dealers need and how those needs are different from those of an RV dealer,” Millspaugh says. “That gave us the ability to create good products, relatively quickly, that will meet the needs of NATM and its dealers.”
At the outset, there are two products in the NATM-branded Portfolio lineup: Trailer Protect Service Contract and Trailer Tire & Wheel Protect. Dealer Affiliate Program participants can offer one or both products with or without an onsite licensed repair facility. Dealers who do offer service will be paid retail rates for parts and labor and benefit from a 40-mile “tieback” provision that returns units in need of repair to their facility.
Trailer Protect reimburses customers for the cost to repair or replace covered components, including suspension,
Portfolio’s F&I program offers a number of benefits to NATM Dealer Affiliates, including:
› New revenue from the sale of trailer service contracts and tire-and-wheel coverage.
› Additional service revenue, including retail parts and labor rates.
› Enhanced service and sales retention.
› Peace of mind and budget protection for trailer buyers.
brakes, manual jacks, hydraulic pumps and jacks, battery charger or maintainer and interior and exterior components such as handles, latches, springs, and LED enclosures. Optional coverage for solar panels, light commercial use, and mobile service calls also is available.
Any light- and medium-duty trailer dealer is able to market the NATM Portfolio program by completing the following steps:
Be a current NATM Dealer Affiliate for only $150 annually. Join today by visiting www. NATM.com/dealers or by calling (785) 272-4433 for more information.
Complete the Portfolio dealer signup process. To get started, email inquiry@ portfolioco.com with “NATM dealer” in the subject line.
Service contracts and warranties are both designed to reimburse consumers for covered repair and replacement costs. Warranties are typically provided at no cost to the consumer and are limited to core components. Service contracts are sold to consumers and offer more comprehensive coverage and additional benefits that can replace an expired warranty or “wrap” around an existing warranty.
Trailer Tire & Wheel Protect offers coverage specific to tires and wheels damaged by road hazards — including the tow vehicle while towing the covered trailer. In addition to the cost to repair or replace damaged tires and wheels, customers are also reimbursed for mounting, balancing, disposal, and taxes. Optional coverages include Cosmetic Wheel (for damage that doesn’t affect performance) and Curb Damage (for tires and wheels that suffer curb impacts).
Both products come with reimbursement for towing and roadside assistance, and Tire & Wheel Protect also includes emergency travel and rental car reimbursement. All new and pre-owned utility trailers up to 10 model years old are eligible, and certain specialty trailers and trailers with living quarters may qualify under a separate pricing structure.
Millspaugh says the products are backed by Portfolio’s unwavering commitment to dealer and customer service. All available resources will be shared and all claims will be professionally and expediently adjudicated.
“We’re excited for the dealers, the relationship, and to see how we can grow together — both with NATM and this program.”
The program launched in late 2023 with a pilot of several dozen NATM Dealer Affiliates in the Midwest and Texas. It’s expected to go live nationwide by the end of May. Stowe hopes every dealer takes advantage.
“It benefits the entire industry — dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers, right down to the end users,” he says, noting that adding F&I products means adding positive touchpoints with trailer buyers. “Customers will know that, if something happens, they can actually go and get it taken care of.”
In the face of those tight margins and other economic headwinds, Stowe adds, selling service contracts and tireand-wheel coverage offers dealers a timely opportunity to engage and expand their service capabilities.
“With parts replaced and hours worked, at the retail rate, if you sell one service contract, you’ve made your NATM dues back for the year.”
Tariq Kamal is the marketing director for Portfolio and a 15-year veteran of the retail and fleet industries. ■
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In line with its goal of creating a more cohesive industry, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) has created a new non-voting seat on its Board of Directors for an NATM Trailer Dealer Affiliate, nominated and appointed by the Board of Directors. As the Association continues to build out the Dealer Affiliate program and unify the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, this position will increase communication and relationship building between NATM’s manufacturer members and dealer affiliates.
The first appointed NATM Dealer Affiliate is Christopher Lago, CEO of All American Trailer Connection. Lago is particularly excited about joining the NATM Board in this capacity, saying that he understands the importance of dealers working together with manufacturers towards the common goal of elevating the industry. As the leader of a family- owned and operated company, Lago has been working in the industry for basically his entire life, starting as a sales representative and working his way up to CEO, operating four locations and just opened their fifth location in December 2023.
In addition to running his successful business, Lago also works in multiple capacities when it comes to the industry as a whole, serving on multiple dealer advisory boards over the course of his career. In addition, he has created a network of dealer owners where he provides guidance on many business operational processes with the ultimate goal of increasing the professionalism and success of the industry as a whole.
“If we really want to see this industry evolve like tractor dealerships or car dealerships, we, as trailer dealers, need to hold ourselves accountable for performing at our best and showing what a successful trailer dealership is and can be,” Lago said.
Along with his appointed role on the NATM Board of Directors, Lago is also serving as the chair of the NATM Trailer Dealer Committee, which has been charged with building out the NATM Dealer Affiliate Program. The expanded NATM Dealer Affiliate Program offers exclusive benefits for trailer dealers including education and resources, networking and community opportunities, services and solutions programs, access to news and publications, and industry data and survey products.
“Joining NATM as a Dealer Affiliate is the best way for dealers
to increase not only their relationships with manufacturers, but to join forces with other dealers to work together toward elevating the entire industry. The affiliation gives dealers access and opportunity to increase their profitability and network with other like- minded professionals who understand the business,” Lago commented.
NATM is excited to be able to create these additional volunteer leadership opportunities for NATM Dealer Affiliates. This is just one way that the Association is working toward unifying and creating a more cohesive industry. For more information about the NATM Dealer Affiliate Program visit www.natm.com/ dealer-affiliate-benefits or contact Andrea Boetticher, Dealer Programming Specialist, at Andrea.Boetticher@natm.com. ■
Demand for trailers is growing. On the flip side, labor, parts/ components, and supply shortages restrict production speed. Meeting demand and setting prices is now more challenging than ever for trailer manufacturers.
Digitization, particularly with the 4.0 revolution in manufacturing, has spread throughout the manufacturing industry. Many manufacturers have realized the benefits of digital technology. Low and no-code software solutions are reducing barriers to entry, enabling manufacturers to build mobile forms and other functional solutions that use apps and mobile devices to solve current issues with production quality, material waste, lack of efficiency, and rising costs.
Material Shortages and Pricing Issues
Recent events have adversely impacted the supply and pricing of raw resources such as semiconductors, steel, aluminum, and copper. Additionally, more recently, magnesium, silicon, pig iron, carbon black, and oil.
Skilled Employee Shortages
The American Welding Society projects that the industry will face a reduction of 400,000 welders by 2024. Welding is a skill that trailer manufacturers rely on, making dependency on welding expertise critical to operations. As a result, the labor market for welders has become intensely competitive.
Many experienced welders are aging, with a shortage of younger talent to replace them. The average age is 55 years old. As they reach retirement age, a new wave of job vacancies will increase the pressure on companies to find skilled welders.
For many manufacturers, labor shortages have hurt inventory and, as a result, trailer sales. As Matt Arnold, President of Look Trailers, told Reuters, “We [only] hired two from the classified [ads]”. Yet these two new candidates represent only a tenth of the 125 employees he needs to return to full capacity of 673 people. For example, half of the welding jobs at his Texas company remain vacant, creating a bottleneck in an operation that produces trailers on metal frames.
Many manufacturers are using tablets and smartphones to gather production data rapidly, speed inspections, and identify product defects quickly. Employees use cell phones and productivity applications for shopping, banking, and communications daily and are more comfortable adopting this technology on the production floor as well. Employees are now taking inventory, ordering materials, and recording inspections with mobile devices that instantly share data and initiate follow-up activities.
Low-code and no-code software enable teams within manufacturing companies – even quality managers without coding or IT experience -- to create applications that improve production efficiency. Here are some ways that trailer manufacturers can combat staff shortages by building applications.
Adopting smartphones and tablets on the manufacturing floor can reduce or simplify routine or unnecessary work. Productivity tools inherent in mobile apps allow employees to finish more high-value work while spending less time on repetitive and unnecessary tasks. Companies can use mobile devices to execute inspections, inventory ordering, and other tasks in far less time than using paper forms or terminals.
By going digital, employees avoid filing, rekeying, or searching for missing paper forms. Since digital data is instantly available and shareable, employees won’t need to recreate missing paper forms. Why use error-prone paper forms when you can utilize digital clipboards that capture more timely, detailed and accurate data?
Mobile apps can speed up the collection of production data. By automatically capturing location or time stamping, material bar codes, capturing an image of a product defect, and other data, mobile devices can save employees time on their daily data collection activities. Using their employees' time wisely allows manufacturers
to increase productivity and job satisfaction.
Mobile no-code applications can speed up quality control and inspection processes. Technically skilled workers can work with IT to design apps to automate data capture, produce reports, and send notifications to red flag any production issues.
Businesses can create apps that integrate with their enterprise systems, such as ERPs and MRPs, to offer real-time access to data on inventory levels, production capabilities, and other aspects that influence production schedules.
Developers and line-of-business teams can work together to create applications to manage shop floor control operations. These apps track the flow of supplies, equipment, and employees on the shop floor, providing immediate insight into production processes and supporting data-driven decision-making.
The advantage of these collaborations is a reduction in IT workload while enabling development teams to get insight into everyday working processes from non-technical employees.
Recording videos or written best practices on an app can guide less experienced workers or onboard new employees.
Applications can be built to integrate with recordkeeping systems to activate processes or notify workers of a new task or inspection.
Mobile solutions reduce risk by rapidly gathering accurate and comprehensive production and assembly data, minimizing data-entry errors, expediting access to essential data, and documenting critical data for regulatory compliance.
As market demands increase, so does the workload for trailer manufacturers and their employees. While there is an increasing skill shortage, applications can help fewer employees get more done, and quickly guide new or less experienced employees through more advanced processes.
Mobile manufacturing apps, from companies like Alpha Software, help production and quality teams quickly digitize their processes. They are proven to save time and costs while increasing efficiency in quality control, production, and distribution.
If you want to learn more about mobile manufacturing apps or Alpha Software manufacturing solutions, please reach out to Darren Opsahl, darren.opsahl@alphasoftware.com, 218-443-3661, www.alphasoftware.com. ■
Trailer Safety Week (TSW) is an annual nationwide awareness campaign launched by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of trailer safety, educating consumers about proper trailer maintenance and usage, and creating a stronger alliance between stakeholders of the industry, including trailer dealers, manufacturers, and customers. Last year alone, TSW reached hundreds of thousands of individuals and earned recognition at the federal level.
First launched in 2018, TSW sought to help bridge the gap of communication between trailer manufacturers and end-users. Talking about the importance of trailers built to meet required Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) can be daunting as consumers do not understand the complex regulations governing compliant trailer manufacturing. They recognize that they would not purchase a car without seat belts, but they do not understand that buying a trailer without key safety features can be just as dangerous. Customers are vastly under-educated on the proper use of trailers, and it is crucial to utilize the connections that dealers and manufacturers have with consumers in order to raise awareness of proper towing techniques and maintenance.
Getting involved in this important industry campaign shows potential customers that the dealership is a leader in the industry and truly committed to trailer safety. By joining this trailer safety movement, you can impress customers and instill confidence in the company’s dedication to safety. Participating in TSW is easy!
Becoming an Official Trailer Safety Week Ally is a wonderful opportunity for companies who want to be involved in the safety movement but don't have significant time to invest. The TSW team provides Allies with the official Trailer Safety Communications Kit to promote their involvement in Trailer Safety Week and to share information about safe trailering practices. This digital kit includes:
› Pre-crafted social media posts
› Downloadable Trailer Safety Week graphics
› A blog post
› And much more!
Promoting the dealership’s involvement with Trailer Safety Week is a breeze with this jam-packed kit. The content can even be customized to include content specific to the dealership’s typical customer.
TrailerSafetyWeek.com also houses a free towing safely guide to ensure trailer users have readily accessible safety information at their fingertips. Wow your customers by highlighting this free safety resource that reminds them your dealership is looking out for them and their wellbeing long after they leave the lot. Topics include:
› Hitching
› Loading
› Trailer Maintenance
› And more!
Now especially, safe trailering practices are important. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is cracking down on compliance violations, and two recent accidents have brought to light the importance of safe trailering practices. One accident, previously covered in an article on behalf of NHTSA, resulted in a fatality due to inappropriately connected safety chains between the tow vehicle and towed unit which led to disconnection on a highway. Last year, safety chains saved a couple dangling nearly 100 feet above a river.
Safe trailering practices save lives, and with millions of trailers — used by businesses, local governments, and individuals — traversing the nation’s roadways every day, it is crucial to ensure that trailers are being towed safely for the sake of everyone on the roads. NATM calls upon trailer dealers to join the movement in making roadways safer one trailer at a time.
The 2024 Trailer Safety Week will take place June 2-8.
Webinar: Future Proofing Your Legacy Succession Planning and Financial Forecasting Strategies
Date and Time: July 18th, 10:00 AM CST
Host: Ginger Baker Sanhueza, Education Director at NATM
Speakers: Thomas Mahler and Pat Roberson of Cinergy Wealth Life and Legacy, Raymond James
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is excited to present an insightful webinar, "Future-Proofing Your Legacy: Succession Planning and Financial Forecasting Strategies," hosted by Ginger Baker Sanhueza, NATM's Education Director. Scheduled for July 18th at 10:00 AM CST, this webinar is a must-attend for trailer manufacturers, service providers, and dealers within the NATM community.
Our distinguished speakers, Thomas Mahler and Pat Roberson from Cinergy Wealth Life and Legacy of Raymond James, bring extensive experience in financial forecasting and
succession planning. Learn from the experts as they dive into the critical aspects of legacy building and succession planning, with a special focus on the 'exiting entrepreneur.'
› Improving value and efficiency for business owners and decision-makers today
› Insights into potential succession opportunities within the business
› Preparing for involuntary succession scenarios
This webinar aims to empower attendees with knowledge and actionable steps to accelerate the value of your business. In an era where businesses are often prompted to sell to private equity firms or other investors, our objective is to guide participants in navigating such scenarios successfully. Discover how to position your business for profitability and efficiency, ensuring you are well-prepared for any potential succession.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights that can shape the future of your business. Register now to secure your spot and take the first step towards a secure and prosperous future.
To register for the webinar, go to www.natm.com/events. For questions or inquiries, please contact Ginger Baker Sanhueza at ginger.bakersanhueza@natm.com or call 785-272-4433. ■
In an exciting leap forward for the trailer industry, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is officially launching its highly anticipated initiative — the NATM Academy — in 2024. This milestone marks the beginning of a transformative journey in trailer industry education, setting the stage for a new era of learning and safety.
Led by Ginger Baker-Sanhueza, the Education Director at NATM, the Academy aims to consolidate nearly 40 years of industry knowledge and experience into a robust platform for on-demand education. The launch was announced at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show in Vegas, marking a pivotal moment in the Association's commitment to advancing the trailer industry.
NATM's history as a leader in the industry for education and safety sets the stage for the Academy's launch. The NATM’s legacy, combined with a focus on continuous learning, positions the Association as the go-to resource for high-quality education and safety training within the trailer industry.
"The NATM Academy leverages our rich history and expertise to empower the future of the trailer industry through continuous education," emphasizes Ginger Baker Sanhueza.
The NATM Academy is not just a one-size-fits-all approach. With courses designed in collaboration with the Education Committee and Technical Committee, the Academy caters to manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers. From safety courses to managerial skills, the courses cover a spectrum of topics aimed at enhancing knowledge and skills.
"Tailored education for every facet of the trailer industry," as Ginger Baker Sanhueza puts it.
The NATM Academy places a strong emphasis on member engagement. With the belief that “training doesn't cost, it pays”, the Academy positions knowledge as a key competitive advantage in the industry.
"Active member engagement is a sign of industry professionals recognizing the value of ongoing education. Our nearly 40 years of industry knowledge and experience attest to our commitment to excellence," Ginger Baker Sanhueza emphasizes.
To ensure a seamless learning experience, NATM has forged a strategic partnership with U-Haul University. Utilizing their tried-and-true learning management software, the Academy promises a reliable online platform. This collaboration adds credibility to the program, underlining its commitment to excellence in education.
"We've combined the knowledge and experience of NATM with U-Haul to create a streamlined learning experience for our members. Your pathway to continuous education, anytime, anywhere," says Ginger Baker-Sanhueza.
As the NATM Academy launches in 2024, the vision extends beyond the initial offerings. An animated roadmap hints at future expansions, including Dealer Educational Programming, micro-courses, potential live events, and certifications. The Academy seeks to initiate a knowledge revolution, shaping a safer, more knowledgeable future for the trailer industry.
"This is just the beginning of a continuous education journey in the trailer industry," says Ginger Baker Sanhueza.
In conclusion, the NATM Academy invites every trailer industry professional to join the knowledge revolution. As Ginger Baker Sanhueza recaps the key messages, the call to action is clear— stay tuned for the NATM Academy Launch in 2024. Subscribe to NATM’s newsletter, stay connected, and be part of shaping a safer, more knowledgeable future for the trailer industry. ■
For nearly 40 years, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), the only not-for-profit trade association in the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, has been dedicated to improving trailer safety and performance. NATM’s mission of promoting trailer safety and the success of the trailer manufacturing industry through education and advocacy has largely been done through its work with manufacturers, suppliers, and more recently, dealers. It is only natural then that NATM’s next step in promoting safe trailering would focus on consumers.
In the NATM 2023-2026 strategic plan, the NATM Board of Directors established that a key directive of the Association’s ongoing work should be education, and more specifically that NATM will work with staff and members to generate educational content that is intended to assist end-users in safely towing their trailers. One aspect of this goal is to work with NATM’s Dealer Affiliate members, the industry’s more public-facing outlet, to establish a deeper connection and broader network to then be able to relay educational content to consumers.
The other way to achieve this goal is by educating end-users and consumers directly. NATM has already taken the first step by establishing Trailer Safety Week, the annual nationwide awareness campaign which is aimed at the following:
› Increasing awareness of the importance of being committed to trailer safety
› Educating end-users about proper trailer maintenance and usage
› Creating a stronger partnership and alliance between stakeholders of the industry including trailer dealers, manufacturers, and end-users
Trailer Safety Week has garnered tremendous support from those in the industry, as well as from legislators at the state level. This awareness campaign has started
to establish NATM and its members' reputation as the standard for safety in the industry, but an additional push is needed to hone that message with consumers.
To achieve this goal of educating consumers directly with a specific voice and entity geared toward end-users, NATM has begun the process of establishing a new 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, which will be known as the National Safe Trailering Council (NSTC). While still in the very early stages of development, NSTC will be positioned as the national hub for consumer education and awareness of safe trailering practices. And structuring this new entity as a 501(c)(3), will allow for its programming to be focused specifically on its mission, rather than focusing on generating profits for investors the way a for-profit company would.
NATM has appointed the following leaders from within the light- and medium-duty trailers industry to provide oversight and serve as the NSTC’s Board of Directors in the organization's initial years of operation:
› Daniel Luby, President
› Logan Mesenbrink, Secretary
› John Kerr, Treasurer
› Marco Garcia, Director
› Rick Huddleston, Director
NATM looks forward to sharing additional news about NSTC as the development of the organization continues. For questions or inquiries, please contact Andrea Boetticher, Dealer Programming Specialist at andrea.boetticher@natm.com or Alex Stowe, Executive Director, at Alex.Stowe@natm.com. ■
All of these have passed our rigid quality standards. If we sell it... we stand behind it!!!
PVC Foam and High Bond Tapes:
As the exclusive distributor of Gaska Tape products we offer high density foam tapes, Hi-Bond tapes, vinyl glazing tape, and polyethylene foam tapes at competitive prices.
New LaVanture Line of Sealants: LaVanture Products is proud to announce our new sealant line including great quality products including, MS Polymers, Silicones and many others. We have partnered with a quality manufacturer to provide a great product at a great price.
Since 1969 LaVanture Products Company has been providing customers with the highest quality products to meet the challenging applications of today’s competitive markets. LaVanture offers products to meet the needs of custom applications in the industry.
LPC Gas Springs are available in both Black Nitride and Stainless Steel all at factory pricing and a large inventory is in stock for immediate shipment.
Call for our new catalogs.
Conspicuity Tapes:
We are a national distributor for 3M D.O.T. Diamond Grade Conspicuity Tape.
Applications:
• Tool Boxes
• Door and Window Seals
• Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers
• Truck Bodies
• Cargo Trailers
• Utility Boxes
• Fiberglass Doors
• Work Truck Doors
• Marine
• Recreational Vehicles
• Roof Sealant
We also stock complete lines of high quality EPDM Seals, Trim Seals, Edge Trims, Butyl Tapes, Caulks and Sealants.
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) has for the last several months, and seemingly with more frequency of late, received complaints regarding the weld quality of member trailers. While the issue of weld quality is not part of the NATM Compliance Verification Program (CVP) nor regulated by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, NATM wants to ensure its members are aware of consumer needs and concerns. NATM prides itself on the high standards it has for the Compliance Verification Program, recently earning its International Organization for Standardization (ISO) accreditation for the CVP. One requirement of this ISO standard is that NATM tracks all complaints, undergoes analysis to determine if follow-up action is necessary, and carries out any such action deemed appropriate. Due to the increasing frequency of weld complaints, it was determined that NATM should notify members of this trend that has resurfaced.
Weld failures are the most frequent complaint NATM receives from end-users. The Association and its Technical Team know this will always be the most common complaint as weld failures are part of trailer usage due to constant flexing and movement. Although outside the control of manufacturers, these issues are exacerbated by road conditions (smooth blacktop versus gravel back roads), overloading, and
incorrect distribution of the load, all of which contribute to stress on welds. However, there are instances when the contributing factors to weld failure are within the control of the manufacturer such as the penetration of the weld not being deep enough, poor product design, and incorrect welds.
It is important to note that any consumer complaint received by NATM about a member is always relayed to the member company immediately and confidentially. It is the policy of NATM not to mediate complaints between members and consumers, but only to ensure the company is aware of the issue being presented. Any issue pertaining to the requirements of the CVP is handled in a very specific and well-documented manner. Consumers are required to provide photographs and identifying information for the NATM Technical Team to determine a possible compliance issue. Following NATM’s Confidentiality Policy, NATM never reveals to the consumer or any third party whether the complaint contains a compliance violation.
Consumers are provided other avenues for follow-up such as contacting the member manufacturer or www.safercar.gov, but NATM is not able to confirm a violation. Should the evidence suggest that the trailer has failed an item that is on the compliance checklist, NATM works with the member manufacturer per the CVP Policies and Procedures.
Every time NATM members pay their dues or undergo compliance consultations, they reaffirm their dedication to producing safe trailers. In the past two annual Convention & Trade Shows, NATM has organized welding workshops to help address this topic of interest. NATM is constantly seeking ways to enhance members' experiences. If you have any educational topics that you would like to see covered in an article, workshop, or other educational session, please feel free to contact NATM Technical Director Scott Crimmins at Scott.Crimmins@natm.com or by calling 785-272-4433. ■
Registration for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry was down -11.8 % in December 2023. Below are the details of the market’s performance for the five trailer segments as reported by Statistical Surveys:
The following are the Top Five States in sales growth for All Trailer Segments for 2023.
Industry registrations for 2023 were down 8.2% over 2022.
If there are any questions, or if Statistical Surveys can help, please contact Jeff Jones at (254) 715-1314 or jjones@statisticalsurveys.com ■
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers is a notfor-profit directed entirely by its membership base and their elected representatives. NATM’s Committees serve a vital function in guiding the work of the Association. Committee members support the adaptation and evolution of the Association while seeing to it that the strategic vision established by the Board of Directors is being carried out.
Committee volunteers signed up in record-breaking numbers to serve in 2024. With 124 individuals signed up to volunteer their time, nine committees with specific goals were established by the Executive Committee. These nine committees are Compliance, Convention, Dealers, Education, Finance, Government Affairs, Membership, Technical, and Technology.
Meeting from monthly to quarterly, these committees will be tackling big goals in 2024. These include, but are not limited to:
› Updating NATM’s Generic Owner’s Manuals.
› Reviewing and updating NATM’s Investment and Reserves policies to ensure the Association is both prepared for the future and reinvesting in members today.
› Working with OEMs to try and find ways to involve trailer manufacturers in their processes.
› Expanding Dealer Affiliate benefits.
If you are interested in learning about NATM Committees or would like to get involved, please contact NATM Executive Director Alex Stowe at Alex.Stowe@natm.com. ■
Executive
Marco Garcia, U-Haul*
Andy Derr, M.H. Eby
Nathan Uphus, Felling Trailers
Marty Lorick, Triple Crown
Steve Courreges, Taskmaster Components
Finance
Nathan Uphus, Felling Trailers*
Andy Derr, M.H. Eby
Charles Daugherty, Red Fern Dynamics
Deborah Edwards, MMDi, Inc. d/b/a SteelPoint
Don Taylor, K2 Manufacturing, LLC
John Kerr, MMA
Josh Gurley, Trailer Makers
Kevin Tenhaken, Demco
Marco Garcia, U-Haul
Marty Lorick, Triple Crown
Richard LaVanture, LaVanture Products
Steve Courreges, Taskmaster Components
Board Development (Nominations)
Andy Derr, M.H. Eby*
Convention
Doug Beaver, M.H. Eby
Brent Freel, KampCo
Brent Sailor, Elkriver Trailers
Chris Walls, C.E. Smith Inc. Co.
Dustin Smtih, Optronics
Devlun Whiteing, Midwest Industries
Heather Gonzales, Down to Earth
Jeff Jones, Statistical Surveys
Joe Araguz, PPG Commercial Refinish
Marco Garcia, U-Haul
Melanie Gibson, Dexter
Paula Landoll-Smith, Landoll
Richard LaVanture, LaVanture Products
Robert Roden, HE Parmer
Ryan Griesemer, Ridewell Corp.
Education
Eric Kazmierzak, Laclede Chain
Brett Crader, Wesco Distribution
Charles Banker, Snell Manufacturing
Erica Matthews, Optronics International
Heather Gonzales, Down to Earth
Jake Barlow, Clicklease
Jonathan Bradley, Taskmaster Components
Kyran Hollje, Delco Trailers
Lena Onashko, Rainbow Trailers
Matt Brady, Dexter
Melanie Snakenberg, ALM Positioners, Inc.
Nathan Uphus, Felling Trailers
Nick Dorfer, K2 Manufacturing
William Craig, U-Haul
Willie Bauer, Car Mate Trailers, Inc.
Government Affairs
Leo Akins, Forest River*
Andy Gehman, MGS Incorporated
Brad Slone, Round House Industries
Brent Sailor, Elkriver Trailers
Brett Johnson, Optronics International
Conrad West, EZ Loader Boat Trailers
Daniel Luby, Boatmate Trailers, LLC
David Ladwig, LDJ Manufacturing Inc
Deborah Edwards, MMDi, Inc d/b/a SteelPoint
Dustin Miller, Cross Trailers, Inc
John Kerr, Marsh McLennan Agency
Jon Devitt, Midwest Industries
Konrad Pilatowicz, U-Haul
Marty Lorick, Triple Crown Trailers
Mike Story, Look Trailers
Patrick Jennissen, Felling Trailers
Randy McMann, Dexter Axle
Steve Courreges, Taskmaster Components
Ty Scott, Hydrastar
Vicky Strada, Interstate Group d/b/a TrailersPlus
Membership
Marcus D Hester, EMCO Industries
Ajith Dharma, Dun-Rite Manufacturing
Bill O’Hara, Dexter
Casey Epperson, United Treating & Distribution
Kyran Hollje, Delco Trailers
Logan Mesenbrink, LANE Trailer Manufacturing
Whitney Kovalenko, Dec-O-Art
Compliance
Rick Huddleston, Ranger Boat
Andrew Alger, TRP International
Blake Brown, Boatmate Trailers
Bryce McIntyre, Stellar Industries Inc
Jeremy Deaton, Liberty Trailers
John Dietz, Sewer Equipment
John Terrell, ATW
Matthew Pugh, Dexter
Mike Ivey, WTM, Inc
Paul Murphy, MVSCS
Peter Giesbrecht, Delco Trailers
Willie Bauer, Car Mate Trailers Inc
Technical
Michael Etheridge, Wylie & Son, Inc
Andy Derr, M.H. Eby
Bear Musgrave, Truck System Technologies
Cary Kronebusch, Peerless Industrial Group
Dave McKee, ATW
Dean Weldy, Maximus Group
James Perry, Atlas Copco
Joshua Jaspers, Demo
Michael Daly, Americana Tire and Wheel
Michael Ross, Monroe Towmaster, LLC
Nathan Dosmann, Dec-O-Art, Inc
Rawn Leegwater, NY-NJ Trailer Supply
Rod Ludwig, Midwest Industries
Santhosh “Sam” Kumar Loganathan, Triple Crown Trailers
Taylor Jones, B&W
Tim Haley, Dexter
Tom Kaufman, Hillsboro Industries
William Craig, U-Haul
Technology
Jeff Gray, ASA Electronics*
Andrew Duggan, Hillsboro Industries
Benjamin Eles, General Motors
Brandon Ward, Simpson Strong-Tie
Chris Skallerud, Ford
Christopher Rauch, Crystal Welding Inc.
David Bruns, Wilson Trailer Company
Eric Bierwagon, LANE Trailer Mfg.
Joe Livingston, Vitracoat
Marco Garcia, U-Haul
Mark Nave, Dexter Axle
Matt Christian, KTI
Nathan Uphus, Felling Trailers
Nick Dorfer, K2 Manufacturing
Shaun Douglass, Optronics
International LLC
Tyler Wilson, Boatmate Trailers
Trailer Dealer
Chris Lago, All American Trailer Connection, Inc.
Denise Scholle, The Trailer Guy
Greg Blaser, Trailer World/Blaser Trailer Sales
Heather Gonzales, Down to Earth
Jeff Rebrovich, Forest River
Josh Widdes, Widdes Trailer Sales
Mark Mayfield, Leonard Buildings & Truck Accessories
Pam Daugherty, Red Fern Dynamics
Rod Hathaway, Maine Trailer ■
Cloos Robotic Welding, Inc.
911 Albion Ave Schaumburg, IL 60193
• Metal Production Machinery, Welding Equipment
Continental Battery Systems
8585 N Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75247
• Batteries/Accessories
Eaton Steel 10221 Capital St Oak Park, MI 48237
• Metal/Plywood Laminates, Steel-Sheet, Steel-Structural, Steel-Tube
Fenix Group 11400 West 47th St Minnetonka, MN 55343
• Paints/Coatings/Galvanizing
JTA INC
50 Horizon Ridge Way Henderson, NV 89002
• Safety Devices
Kraken Wiring LLC
650 Keith Dr Greenville, SC 29607
• Electrical, Lighting
Mecanica
3450 Camino Del Sol Oxnard, CA 93030
• Towing Accessories
Millennium Metals
3124 State St South Chicago Heights, IL 60411
• Fabricated Parts, Steel-Sheet, Steel-Structural
Mize & Company, Inc.
2020 N Koch Industrial St Kingman, KS 67068 www.mizeandcompany.com
• Adhesives/Tapes, Electrical, Fasteners, Lighting, Towing Accessories
MW Metals Group 461 Homestead Ave Dayton, OH 45401
• Scrap Metal Recycling
Okaply Industries Ltd.
5111 Hubalta Rd SE Calgary, AB T2B 1T5, Canada
• Metal/Plywood Laminates
Parker Engineering of America Co. Ltd. DBA Parker Ionics
38147 Abruzzi Dr Westland, MI 48185
• Paints/Coatings/Galvanizing
Phillips Industries 5231 California Ave Ste 110 Irvine, CA 92617 www.phillipsind.com
• Electrical, Engineering
Precision Harness PO Box 923 Roy, UT 84067
• Electrical, Fabricated Parts
PulseTech Products Company 1100 S Kimball Avenue Southlake, TX 95682
• Batteries/Accessories
Rumber Corporation 1771 Upland Dr Ste 101 Houston, TX 77043 www.rumber.com
• Flooring, Lumber, Safety Devices, Rubber Products, Mats/Floor Coverings
Rust Release, Inc. 6637 N Talman Ave Chicago, IL 60645
• Cleaners/Chemicals
Sterling Pipe & Tube, Inc. 5335 Enterprise Blvd Toledo, OH 43612
• Roll Forming, Steel-Tube
Terradeck
Jalan Raya Semarang-Purwodadi KM.16 No. 259 Demak, Jawa Tengah 59567, Indonesia
• Flooring, Lumber
Tristar Coatings Ltd 18 Cadetta Rd Brampton, ON L6P 0X4, Canada
• Paints/Coatings/Galvanizing
BCL Fabrication
445 E Helm St Brookfield, MO 64628
• Auto Hauler, Gooseneck, Horse, Trailer Service/Repair, Utility/Flatbed
Coachworks 1260 1260 Cape Jellison Rd Stockton Springs, ME 4981
• RV/Towable
Grandview Sales
11945 S IH 35W Grandview, TX 76050
• Auto Hauler, Cargo, Concession, Custom Design, Dog, Equipment, Gooseneck, Utility/Flatbed
Kiefer Mfg and Sales LLC
2276 Back Valley Rd Sneedville, TN 37869
• Aluminum, Horse, Livestock, Living Quarters
Montrose Trailers
180 Ruth St Montrose, MI 48457
• Agricultural/Farm, Aluminum, Auto Hauler, Cargo, Concession, Custom Design, Dump, Enclosed Cargo, Equipment, Gooseneck, Landscape, Mobile BBQ/Smoker, Motorcycle, Portable Equipment, Snowmobile/ATV, Specialty, Trailer Service/Repair, Utility/Flatbed
Paraiso Global
2401 S 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85034 www.paraisoglobal.com
• Agricultural/Farm, Aluminum, Auto Hauler, Boat, Cargo, Custom Design, Dump, Enclosed Cargo, Equipment, Gooseneck, Horse, Landscape, Livestock, Motorcycle, RV/ Towable, Snowmobile/ATV, Specialty, Utility/Flatbed
SHALOM TRAILERS INC
5330 National Parks Hwy Carlsbad, NM 88220
• Equipment
Sherpa Trailers LTD 102 Pleasant Valley Rd NW Sugarcreek, OH 44681
• Enclosed Cargo
Stepp Manufacturing Company Inc 12325 River Rd North Branch, MN 55056
• Custom Design, Dump, Equipment, Portable Equipment
Suncoast Trailers 1741 NW 33rd St Pompano Beach, FL 33064 www.suncoasttrailers.com
• Cargo, Enclosed Cargo, Portable Equipment, Snowmobile/ATV, Utility/Flatbed
Texas Pavillion 3130 County Road 3320 Cookville, TX 75558
• Custom Design, Equipment, Gooseneck, Landscape, Utility/Flatbed
Titanium Cargo Trailers LLC 3623 Douglas Broxton Hwy Douglas, GA 31533
• Aluminum, Cargo, Concession, Dump, Enclosed Cargo, Gooseneck
Unique Trailers and Repair, LLC
1911 Industrial Blvd #100 Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
• Boat VanderBuilt Trailers LLC
3120 W Carefree Hwy Ste 1-344 Phoenix, AZ 85086
• Agricultural/Farm, Auto Hauler, Cargo, Custom Design, Dump, Enclosed Cargo, Equipment, Gooseneck, Landscape, Motorcycle, Pole/Pipe/Cable Reel, Portable Equipment, RV/Towable, Snowmobile/ATV, Specialty, Trailer Service/Repair, Utility/Flatbed
Stealth Trailer 1011 Veterans Street Mauston, WI 53948
• Enclosed Cargo
Double D Services Inc 2737 Gust Rd Verona, WI 53593
• Trailer Sales, Trailer Service/Repair
Full Pull
215 W Bandera Rd Suite 114-738 Boerne, TX 78006
• Trailer Sales
Gulf to Lake Marine & Trailers
700 S Thompson Ave Lecanto, FL 34461 www.gulftolakesales.com
• Trailer Sales
Harper Trailer & Equipment 22997 W US HWY 290 Harper, TX 78631
• Trailer Sales
Parker Trailer & RV, Inc 8900 Brompton Way Parker, CO 80134
• Trailer Sales, Trailer Service/Repair
Plain Ol Trailers 18 Palm Road Sewall's Point, FL 34996
• Trailer Sales
Trailers Ontario 503-781 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 1N4, Canada
• Trailer Sales
Windstrong Industries, LLC 355 CR 303 Seminole, TX 79360
• Trailer Service/Repair
www.NATM.com
Dexter, a Subsidiary of DexKo Global Inc., Announces Brand Strategy Update for its Premium Supply and HiSpec Wheel & Tire, Inc. Businesses
NOVI, Mich. — DexKo Global Inc., the global leader in highly engineered trailer running gear, chassis assemblies, and related components, announces today that its wholly-owned subsidiary Dexter Axle Company (“Dexter”) is rebranding two recently acquired business under the trusted brand, Dexter.
During the past several years, Dexter’s steady growth has added new teammates, new customers, and new product offerings. To reduce the complexity of Dexter’s brand portfolio in North America, we are rebranding our Premium Supply and HiSpec Wheel & Tire, Inc., businesses to Dexter.
“Consolidating brands and product offering will make it easier for our customers and allow us to offer higher levels of quality and service,” states Adam Dexter, President and CEO, Dexter. “We thank the loyal customers of Premium Supply, HiSpec Wheel & Tire, Inc., and Dexter and look forward to continuing our long-lasting relationship.”
Watch for changes taking place over the course of the next several months. Building signs, truck graphics, business cards, websites, order documentation and many other items that will transition to the Dexter logo and company name. This new brand structure will continue to bring
much needed clarity, making it easier to navigate our product offering and support our customer base.
Dexter is excited to continue expanding our product offering and services to the industries we serve. For over sixty years, Dexter has been recognized as a leader and a strong and dependable brand within our industry. Consolidating the brands of our more recently acquired businesses will bring clarity and assured stability for the next 60 years of continued partnership with all of the customers we serve. We have forged strong partnerships in numerous channels across our industry and we are committed to continuously supporting our valued partners in all aspects of our business. ■
MARKLE, Ind. — Novae LLC (“Novae”), one of the fastest-growing trailer manufacturers in North America and a Brightstar Capital portfolio company, is excited to announce a planned leadership transition. Manish Bhandari will take the helm as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 15, succeeding Chris Storie.
Manish brings more than three decades of experience in managing, integrating, and growing large-scale domestic and global manufacturing businesses. Most recently, he served as CEO of Current, a manufacturer of lighting solutions with over $1 billion in annual sales. Prior to Current, Manish worked for Emerson Electric for 17 years, ultimately establishing and evolving the discrete automation business into a $2 billion global platform through organic growth, and consolidation of multiple acquisitions. He has also worked globally with The Timken Company, focused on the automotive and mobile industrial segment.
"I am thrilled to join Novae, a company renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in manufacturing,” said Mr. Bhandari. “My focus will be on leveraging our
strengths to further elevate our market position and deliver outstanding value to our customers and stakeholders.
look forward to working with Chris, Steve, the Novae team, and Brightstar to drive sustainable growth and continue the company's legacy of excellence."
Novae founders Steve Bermes and Chris Storie will continue to play a vital role in Novae's future as Executive Vice-Chairs of the board, fully committed to the ongoing growth and evolution of Novae.
"Steve and I have dedicated our professional lives to Novae, and we are confident that under Manish's leadership, the company will achieve new milestones,” said Mr. Storie. “His vast experience and leadership skills are exactly what Novae needs as it enters this new chapter. I am excited to support Manish and the team in my new role."
“This leadership transition marks an important evolution for Novae,” said Matt Allard, Board Chair of Novae and Partner at Brightstar Capital Partners, majority owner of Novae. “We are grateful to Chris and Steve for their outstanding leadership and believe that Manish’s experience in driving growth at leading manufacturing companies will help Novae continue to flourish moving forward.”
About NovaeHeadquartered in Markle, IN, Novae LLC is a leading trailer manufacturer, operating distinct brands including Sure-Trac, H&H Trailers, CAM Superline, Trailerman, ITI Cargo, Midsota, Pace American, and LOOK Trailers. Founded in 1995, Novae has grown to become the second largest trailer manufacturer and largest enclosed trailer manufacturer in North America with more than 20 manufacturing facilities and an active dealer network of more than 1,000 partners. To learn more about Novae, please visit novaecorp.com. ■
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Polar King Mobile (PKM), North America’s first provider of affordable refrigerated and freezer trailers, announces the appointment of Danny Gaviria as national sales manager. In this position, Gaviria will play a crucial role in expanding PKM's market presence and accelerating the growth of its nationwide network.
Gaviria comes to PKM after a successful tenure as the sales and marketing manager at Air-Tow Trailers, where he cultivated and managed a network of more than 60 dealers. PKM executive vice president Christian Aitken says, “We are confident that Danny’s expertise and deep understanding of the trailer industry will be pivotal in swiftly expanding our national footprint, particularly on the West Coast.”
Gaviria points to PKM’s strong brand and industry-leading refrigerated trailers as significant factors influencing his decision to join the company. He says, “I’m eager to use my background and established connections to propel the Polar King Mobile network and uncover new business opportunities.” He adds, “On a personal level, as a devoted family man, I'm excited to be part of a familyowned business that resonates with my values."
Alongside his position at Polar King Mobile, Gaviria will maintain his responsibilities as a business professor at the University of La Verne. There, he educates both undergraduate and graduate students across business, management and marketing courses.
Gaviria earned a doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Liberty University and a Master of Business Administration
from the University of Redlands. He holds a bachelor's degree in graphic design from Cal Poly Pomona. He is also bilingual with fluency in English and Spanish.
Polar King Mobile is North America’s first company to offer small, affordable refrigerated and freezer trailer solutions. These units, designed and engineered specifically for outdoor and over-the-road use, require only 110V (15 AMP) for power.
Every PKM unit features a seamless fiberglass design to promote a sanitary environment that remains independent of extreme external temperatures. PKM cold storage solutions are ideal for a variety of industries, including foodservice, catering, farming, hunting, baking – and any other setting that requires mobile cold storage.
To learn more about Polar King Mobile, visit polarkingmobile.com or call (866) 536-1266.
Polar King Mobile was founded in 2020 to provide North America with the first affordable, small, refrigerated trailer solution. The company’s refrigerated and freezer trailers, engineered specifically for outdoor and over-the-road use, feature a 100% seamless fiberglass design with a continuous surface. Polar King Mobile trailers are used by single-unit operators, chain restaurants, schools, health care facilities, government agencies, and many others requiring dependable outdoor refrigeration. For more information, visit polarkingmobile. com or call (866) 260-4686. Polar King Mobile is located at 4410 New Haven Ave Suite A, Fort Wayne, IN 46803 USA. ■
