Ohio Trucking Association

Big News! The Ohio Trucking Association has just won one of the most prestigious awards in the industry – the 2024 Mike Russell Image Award! This incredible honor, presented on October 14 in Nashville, recognizes our hard work and dedication in promoting a positive image of the trucking industry and highlighting its crucial role in keeping America moving. From the creativity of our campaigns to the impact we’ve made in raising awareness, this award celebrates everything we've been working toward. Special shoutout to our President, Thomas A. Balzer, and the entire OTA team for their passion and commitment to making this happen. We are beyond proud to continue championing trucking’s essential contributions to Ohio’s economy and the nation as a whole. To learn more about Ohio Trucking Association or to be a part of our movement, visit joinota.com https://lnkd.in/gX8xiBaY

Join Us for the OTSC Meeting on April 10th featuring Paul Lawson of Paul Lawson Helps. A critical challenge has emerged in the trucking industry - mental wellbeing and suicide prevention. As awareness grows, new tools and programs are helping to break the stigma and provide real solutions. In this session, we will explore: ? Wellbeing statistics specific to the trucking industry ? Key program elements that engage workers ? The future of a healthier, more resilient workforce Don’t miss this important discussion on the next phase of workplace safety. Register Here: https://lnkd.in/gw2ntTS9

Congratulations to Michael J. Patton of Ward Transport & Logistics Corp. for being named a finalist for the 2024 Ohio Trucking Association Driver of the Year Award! ?? With 30 years of accident-free driving, over one million miles and 23 years as a safety trainer, Mike is the definition of dedication and expertise. His impact extends beyond the road—he trains the next generation of drivers, promoting a culture of safety and professionalism that strengthens the industry. His unwavering commitment to safety has set a gold standard, influencing safety practices not only at Ward Trucking but across the industry. Join us in celebrating Mike’s outstanding achievements and wishing him luck in this well-deserved recognition! #OhioTrucking #DriverOfTheYear #OTA #OhioTruckingAssociation

It was a full house at our first Periodic Inspection Training of the year. Thank you to Brandon Evans and team at Ohio State Highway Patrol. If you missed this one, there are still some openings to register for our training in August. https://lnkd.in/gjZU7m68

Congratulations to Robert Ritter of Continental Express, Inc. for being named a 2024 Driver of the Year Finalist! With 35 years of experience and over 5.5 million safe miles, Bob is a true industry professional. His dedication to safety, mentorship, and giving back to his community makes him a standout leader. Whether mentoring new drivers on challenging routes or supporting local charities, Bob sets the standard for excellence on and off the road. Join us in celebrating Bob’s outstanding achievement! #DriverOfTheYear #TruckingExcellence #OTA #OhioTruckingAssociation

?? Join Us to Celebrate Ohio’s Safest Drivers! ?? The Ohio Trucking Association is proud to honor the industry’s safest commercial drivers with the Driver of the Year Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates truck driving professionals who exemplify an impeccable driving record, unwavering dedication to their profession, and a strong commitment to enhancing road safety. ?? You’re Invited! ?? Join us for the Awards Celebration on Friday, April 4, at Creekside Event Center in Gahanna, Ohio. Be there as we recognize the outstanding finalists and announce the 2024 Driver of the Year! ?? Event Details: ?? 5:30 PM – Cocktail Reception ??? 6:15 PM – Dinner ?? 7:15 PM – Awards Ceremony ?? Creekside Event Center 101 Mill Street, Suite 300, Gahanna, OH 43230 ? Banquet registration closes on Friday, March 21, 2025 – Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Ohio’s best drivers! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g2dRBjJR #OhioTrucking #DriverOfTheYear #OTA #OhioTruckingAssociation

Congratulations to Dennis Smith of Ports Petroleum Company, Inc. for being a 2024 Driver of the Year Finalist! With over 38 years of commercial driving experience and more than 2 million safe miles, Dennis truly sets “The Standard” for excellence in the trucking industry. As a driver trainer and two-time Ports Petroleum Driver of the Year Runner-Up, Dennis leads by example, ensuring safety and efficiency with every mile. His ability to adapt, communicate, and execute at the highest level makes him a role model for drivers across the industry. Please join us in celebrating Dennis on this incredible achievement! ???? #DriverOfTheYear #TruckingExcellence #OhioTrucking #PortsPetroleum

The Ohio Trucking Association, in partnership with the American Trucking Associations, is heading to Washington, D.C. on June 3-4, 2025, and we want our members to be part of it! This is your chance to meet face-to-face with members of Congress, key congressional staff, and federal regulators to discuss the policies and regulations shaping the trucking industry. Connect with fellow industry leaders and make your voice heard where it matters most! Expect a fast-paced, impactful schedule as we advocate for trucking’s future. #OhioTrucking #CallOnWashington #TruckingIndustry #OTA #OhioTruckingAssociation Learn More: https://lnkd.in/gQ5_kyxi

Thank you to everyone who attended our March Safety Council Meeting! A special thanks to Dr. Don Maple, DC for sharing his insights.

We are proud to celebrate Charles "Charlie" Tankred, a Driver of the Year finalist and a dedicated professional with J.W. Didado Electric ! With 39 years of experience and over 3.5 million miles, Charlie is more than just a skilled driver—he’s a true road hero who has made an incredible impact in the industry and beyond. Charlie has been on the front lines of disaster response, lending his support during California wildfires, Hurricane Katrina, and Hurricane Ida. His dedication to helping others extends to the highways, where he has assisted at numerous crash scenes. His background as a Heavy Rescue and Forest Service Firefighter further underscores his commitment to service and protection. Congrats Charlie!!