The National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) recently published its NTEA 2005 Annual Report: State of the Association.
Among the highlights included in the annual report are:

· NTEA Member Verification Program (MVP). This program was rolled out in May 2005 and recognizes members that have implemented minimum business processes and have taken steps to comply with certain government regulations. As of May 1, 2006, 231 members have qualified for MVP status.
· Sales, Productivity, Earnings and Quality (SPEQ) Plan Manual. The NTEA launched this business tool to help build the core business competencies of work truck and trailer distributors and manufacturers. The manual is a resource for management and serves as a useful training guide for all employees. Many items covered in the publication and accompanying CD-ROM help prepare member firms to obtain MVP status. It was introduced at the 42nd Annual NTEA Convention and The Work Truck Show 2006, held earlier this year in Atlanta, Ga.
· Another Successful Work Truck Show. The 2006 event featured a record-breaking 471 exhibiting companies, 35 education sessions and 16 new training theaters on the show floor. In addition, there were four product unveilings from leading chassis manufacturers and more than 83 new product debuts.
· New Online Educational Resource. The NTEA and MindLeaders have partnered to offer online training programs that provide industry professionals with courses on sales, marketing, finance, leadership, human resources management, and more.
· Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. In October 2005, the NTEA hosted a historic Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., to better educate legislators and regulators that govern the motor vehicle industry about the unique issues faced by member companies.
· Ongoing Communication. In the fall of 2005, the NTEA conducted regional meetings in Indianapolis, Ind.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Baltimore, Md.; and Vancouver, Wash., to share the latest in vehicle certification requirements and labeling changes. The truck equipment market outlook, shop productivity challenges and solutions, and information about how to qualify and apply for the MVP.
For a free copy of the NTEA Annual Report 2005: State of the Association, call (800) 441-NTEA.