The mood was cautiously optimistic as nearly 200 transportation leaders from the private fleet, truckload carrier, rental and leasing, and supply communities discussed signs of economic improvement at the seventh annual AmeriQuest Transportation Industry Symposium recently in Orlando FL.
This year’s topics included the economy, “the road ahead” for the transportation industry, financial challenges, and the importance of embracing change and innovation.
After a tough 2009, economic indicators for the trucking industry and industry in general are showing signs of a recovery, said Dan North, chief economist for Euler Hermes ACI. North took an in-depth look at the current state of the economy, pointing to indicators showing the recession has ended and cautioning about other economic challenges ahead.
Keynote speaker Lou Pritchett, former Proctor & Gamble executive and author of Stop Paddling & Start Rocking the Boat, spoke on “How to Survive and Succeed by Leading Change.” He warned that in the decade ahead, the source of corporate strength will be willingness to change, not cling to stability.
Bill Graves, president and chief executive officer of the American Trucking Associations, presented an overview of the economic environment, national and industry policy issues, and an industry outlook. He saw signs of recovery in the uptick in manufacturing output and gross domestic product and its expected positive impact on the industry.
Other speakers included Robert Brands, Innovation Coach, on “How to Deliver Profitable Growth Through Sustained Innovation”; Tom Hutchinson, president of Mid American Group, on “Healthcare Reform: What Does it Mean for You?”; Thomas Tray, Aon Trucking Practice, on “Property, Casualty, and Liability Insurance”; and Penny Gillespie of Gillespie International Inc, on “Need More Cash? Check Your Financial Supply Chain.”
Go to www.ameriquestcorp.com/symposium to learn more about this year’s symposium. Dates and location for the 2011 symposium will be announced shortly.