The American Trucking Associations has announced that Carl Kirk, long-time executive director of its Technology and Maintenance Council, has left ATA's employ and that TMC Technical Director Robert Braswell has been named to serve as TMC's acting executive director.

“The TMC officers are excited to continue working with Robert in his new role," said Glen McDonald, TMC general chairman and maintenance director at Ozark Motor Lines. He added that "TMC leadership is looking forward to working in greater collaboration with ATA's new leadership to help promote and grow both entities."

Braswell has been with TMC for 25 years. He has worked in all aspects of the organization, including directing its voluntary recommended practice and product development efforts, and organizing the TMCSuperTech and TMC FutureTech Technician Skills Competitions. He also appeared on SiriusXM radio as the co-host of Tech Talk with TMC on The Dave Nemo Show.

"Working for TMC these past 25 years has been both challenging and rewarding, affording me the unique opportunity to pursue my interests in the areas of technical sciences, publishing and association management," said Braswell. "The best part of all, however, is the opportunity to work with our membership: the hardest working bunch I've ever encountered. Their enthusiasm for this organization is obvious and contagious, and it has been a pleasure to help these folks help our industry move forward."

ATA noted that the announcement was in keeping with the trucking lobby's ongoing restructuring.