The board of directors of the Arkansas Trucking Association has named Shannon Newton as its new president.

She replaces Lane Kidd, who left earlier this year to focus on a public affairs and investment group he founded. Kidd held the post for 22 years.

Shannon has been with the Arkansas Trucking Association since 2003 and served as vice president since 2008. Since joining the group, Newton has filled a range of leadership roles with expanded responsibilities in the development and implementation of strategic initiatives across core areas including planning, finance, member services, governance, regulatory and legislative affairs and advocacy, according to ATA. Newton is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas in accounting and computer information systems.

"When we began our search for a new president, we knew that an experienced leader with deep industry knowledge and a broad skill set was exactly what we needed," stated Craig Harper, ATA chairman of the board and executive vice president and COO of J.B. Hunt Transport. “Shannon is a dynamic leader and extremely knowledgeable on the complex issues faced by our members. The board was unanimous in this appointment. She became the clear choice to lead the Arkansas Trucking Association forward.”

ATA’s membership is made up of approximately 300 trucking companies, private carrier fleets and industry suppliers.