Safety, security and how to "keep your business in business" are the major themes of education programs planned for trucking company executives attending the 2003 American Trucking Associations (ATA) Management Conference & Exhibition
(MC&E) Oct. 19-22 in San Antonio, Texas.
Eight sessions will cover new security and safety measures, six will focus on financial issues, and five will discuss regulatory compliance. Each is designed to alert participants about what is in store for the industry and the economy and explain how to deal successfully with these new issues.
Of timely interest are programs covering security credentialing and access: "Finding the Bad Apples" presented by ATA Safety and Operations Department. Also, a survival guide for privately-held businesses, called "Keeping it in the Family." And a session to answer the question "Is Economic Recovery in Store for 2004?" presented by ATA’s National Accounting & Finance Council.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and its impact on restoring confidence in American business is also a part of the education program. Major programs will also be conducted by the ATA Technology and Maintenance Council, and ATA’s Safety and Operations, Environmental Affairs and Engineering Departments.
"Uncertainty in today’s economy significantly impacts the transportation industry," says Bill Graves ATA President and CEO. "Companies must explore new alternatives to traditional business practices. With total profit margins slimming, this year’s conference will help our motor carrier members adapt to this turbulent period."
The ATA conference features a companion exhibit of hundreds of trucking industry products and services. Of special interest this year, the "Truck Showcase" will feature numerous antique trucks as ATA and its members mark the 100th anniversary of the trucking industry and the 70th anniversary of ATA.