Tech expert Tony Wright gets an insight into US trucking

A passionate trucking tech expert and winner of the 2018 Craig Rosender award, Tony Wright has just returned home to Australia after gaining an insight into the world of US trucking.

Starting his career in the transport industry as a school leaver, Tony first began working with Gough and Gilmore before making the move to Divall’s Earthmoving and Bulk Haulage in 2005, taking on the role of workshop manager.

Recognised by his peers as a ‘book of knowledge’, Tony has been influential in the modernisation of workshop equipment and the introduction of cost saving measures, all while promoting safe and healthy workplace across the entire organisation.

Throughout his career, Tony has mentored and managed more than 20 apprentices and continues to guide and motivate his team of more than 30 mechanics, apprentices and trades assistants by influencing them to take positive action and accountability for their work.

In October 2018, Tony received the ATA’s Craig Roseneder Award, commending his hard work and dedication behind the scenes.

In recognition of his efforts, Tony was sent on an all-expenses paid trip to attend the US Technology and Maintenance Council’s 2019 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition, thanks to Castrol Vecton.

As Tony was a ‘first-timer’ at the conference, he was paired up with a mentor from the American Trucking Association. Tony’s mentor, Tony Ryan, helped to guide Tony through the conference and its processes.

“Tony Ryan is an Aussie working in the US, and he was a really good guy to talk with,” Tony said. 

“The conference was very busy with more than 4,200 people attending across the four days.

“The open forums on ‘shop talk’ and ‘fleet talk’ created some lively discussions and I soon realised Australia shares some of the same challenges in our industry,” he said.

Tony said the main issues seem to be unreliability of engine exhaust emissions and after-treatment systems, as well as attracting and retaining quality mechanics and drivers.

“Unfortunately, there are no magic cures for these problems,” Tony said.

“Although there was plenty of discussion around the table with tips to try out,” he said.

During the conference, Tony also took part in sessions on truck active safety systems, DPF cleaning and maintenance, future electrical systems and modern engine oils.

“There were too many sessions to pick from,” Tony said.

“The trade exhibit had more than 400 exhibitors and provided some good information and contacts,” he said.

Tony said these contacts came from a range of roles and backgrounds, including fleet owners, managers, suppliers and mechanics. 

“Even though the conference was busy, my wife Carlene and I had some time to check out the sites,” Tony said.

“Carlene had a great time doing tours around Atlanta with the conference spouses’ program and met some lovely people we will stay in touch with,” he said.

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The Craig Rosender Award is awarded annually at the Australian Trucking Association’s Technology and Maintenance Conference (TMC). 

More award info 

More about TMC