President’s Report › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › ›

By Marty Lorick, NATM President

As we move into the busier summer months, I would like to personally thank you all for renewing your membership with the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM). By choosing to be a member, trailer manufacturers are agreeing to mandatory participation in the NATM Compliance Verification Program, and it is an added business expense. Your renewal signifies a voluntary re-enlistment to continue improving the safety of United States’ roadways. Your dedication to complying with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and best practices is what makes your company a cut above in its dedication to safety, and your participation in NATM strengthens the industry.

For our associate members supplying parts and services to the industry, you are also assisting with improving the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, and NATM trailer manufacturing members see that dedication. NATM would be unable to achieve its growth and positive influence in the industry without dedicated suppliers, service providers, and trailer manufacturers participating in the Association’s mission to “promote trailer safety and the success of the trailer manufacturing industry through education and advocacy.”

Suppliers and service providers play a huge role in NATM’s success, and their membership and dedication are critical to our ability to provide educational resources and workshops, hold the annual NATM Convention & Trade Show, and publish Tracks magazine. Associate members are also on the cutting edge of improving component technologies and advancing compliance and safety initiatives, propelling the industry forward. These Associate members support the light- and medium-duty industry through their membership dues, advertising dollars, sponsorships, and leveraging their expertise to share with others in the industry through educational articles, webinars and workshops.

Dealer affiliates play a critical role in the fulfillment of NATM’s mission. Their ability to educate consumers about the importance of trailer safety and compliance with federal safety regulation is a key link in improving roadway safety. Dealers are often the only point of contact consumers have both for selecting the right trailer for their needs and the safe and proper use of that unit.

Being a member or affiliate of NATM is wholly voluntary, and during this time of economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and workforce shortages, engagement with NATM may not be at the top of your companies’ priorities, but I can assure you that you are NATM’s top priority. The Association has rapidly adjusted during this time of continuous change to ensure members have accurate information and there are no lapses in benefits.

Looking ahead, there are plenty of NATM events to take part in, including Trailer Safety Week, (TSW) June 5-11, 2022. NATM encourages all member companies to participate in this year’s Trailer Safety Week at whatever level of engagement they feel comfortable. Please consider signing up to be a Trailer Safety week Ally and sharing the official TSW Communications Kit. This pre-crafted kit includes social and blog posts, ready-to-use graphics, and ads for websites. Visit www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com/interest to sign up. To learn more about TSW, turn to page 16.

The annual Regulatory Roundup & Capitol Hill Visits are tentatively scheduled for April 27-28, 2022. The Association is optimistic the event will be held in-person in Washington, D.C. Though, with numerous factors to consider, including Congressional offices being open to constituent visits, a decision will be reached closer to the event. Along with the NATM Convention & Trade Show, this is one of NATM’s most important events. Member involvement is the next step in the success of the Association’s government affairs plan.

This Association is only successful because of the hardworking trailer manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and dealers committed to safety and compliance. If you are interested in becoming more involved through committee work or have any questions or concerns about your membership in the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, do not hesitate to contact the NATM staff by emailing NATMHQ@natm.com or calling (785) 272-4433. I look forward to serving and encouraging your participation and input to further the success of our Association. ■