By: Todd Davis, NTEA Chairman
Phenix Truck Bodies & Van Equipment
Pomona, California
This article was published in the February 2019 edition of NTEA News.
Many of us find time seems to go by more quickly as we age; the last year has been no exception for me. Serving as NTEA Board chairman has given me the opportunity to interact with an extraordinary group of industry leaders who make excellence and innovation the standard. Engaging these visionaries with the common goal of advancing NTEA’s mission has brought me incredible satisfaction. The thought of wrapping up my seven years of service next month causes me to reflect on this memorable experience and why getting involved in Association leadership was important to me.
During my term, I’ve made invaluable connections with fellow Board members. I especially appreciate the diversity of thought. Being exposed to representatives from all company types has broadened my perspective. My participation in numerous Association committees has also given me the chance to observe how my peers respond to various topics and situations and what issues they prioritize given their unique backgrounds. A spirit of continuous improvement and openness to change consistently drives our dialogue, enabling dynamic and thought-provoking conversation.
As part of the Education Committee, for example, it’s been great to see how the collective strives to stay at the forefront of innovation, anticipating matters of future significance. Committee members are intentional about maintaining relevance and delivering practical insights to professionals across the work truck industry.
NTEA’s education portfolio has evolved dramatically in recent years. For one, we initiated Executive Leadership Summit. At this annual event, business owners and managers in any capacity can get current, focused data and information from economists, thought leaders and industry peers.
We launched Truck Equipment 101 — a training program covering all aspects of work trucks and the industry from chassis and powertrains to bodies and cab styles. This introductory course, made up of 15 online modules, provides an industry overview, insight into systems that make up a truck, and basic regulatory requirements applicable to U.S. and Canadian markets.
Just last year, we hosted the first Fleet Technical Congress — a forum that presents strategies and processes to help fleet managers take advantage of the technology revolution and find creative solutions to enhance fleet operations.
Next month, at The Work Truck Show® 2019, we’re debuting Manufacturer and Distributor Innovation Conference — designed to help commercial truck manufacturers, upfitters, distributors and body builders learn how to improve manufacturing efficiency and business results using the latest techniques and technology. Attendees will discover the most innovative tools, processes and resources available and how all of these solutions are scalable and customizable to operations of all sizes. I am confident the Education Committee’s future efforts will continue to provide extraordinary events and products for all within our industry.
Some might initially think of Board service as a tedious endeavor, but I’ve found it highly energizing both personally and professionally — well worth the time investment. Whether getting together as a full group at regular intervals or touching base in a committee meeting, it’s healthy to discuss fresh ideas from respected company and industry leaders. Knowing our efforts translate into member and industry benefits gives me a sense of fulfillment.
At the upcoming Work Truck Show, I look forward to seeing many current and former NTEA Board members and expressing my thanks for their commitment to our commercial vehicle community. During the President’s Breakfast, I’ll outline different activities the Association has championed in the last year and share my gratitude to you, the membership and the industry for allowing me the chance to serve in a leadership capacity. It’s been a privilege to be part of significant industry events and form quality relationships (and lifelong friendships). While I’ve been on NTEA’s Board, the Association has generated a number of firsts and continued to enhance its robust offerings, and I can tell you there’s much more to come — new, groundbreaking products are on the horizon.
As I conclude, I want to acknowledge my team at Phenix Truck Bodies & Van Equipment for their unwavering support and understanding, enabling me to devote time and energy to my responsibilities as NTEA chairman.
Board service has been a tremendously rewarding experience for me. Following my transition off NTEA’s leadership team in March, I’ll continue to be a strong advocate for the Association’s vision and our great industry.
