AMTA  E-News

February 2010

Executive Director’s Message: High Hopes for 2010

We certainly can’t say that the first decade of the 21st Century wasn’t an interesting experience. As we reflect on the technological advances and the events of the last 10 years, it is clear that we now live and conduct business in a very different world, and there is no industry in Canada that has been more affected by these changes than transportation.

We can now track units and loads anywhere in North America and see how fast they are moving and whether the unit is working properly. As the result of world-wide economic issues, in just a matter of a few months, much of the Alberta industry went from not having enough drivers and equipment to handle the available business to layoffs and numerous units being parked. The last two years have been especially difficult and there are many who are not sorry to see the end of 2009.

Through all of this, the Alberta Motor Transport Association has been very effective in delivering meaningful results that strengthen Alberta’s transportation industry. The Board of Directors and the staff, with the involvement of the members, have been instrumental in consultation, development and adjustment of rules and regulations for our industry with all levels of government. We have continued to improve communications with industry to insure you know what is going on.

Industry participation in AMTA continues its upward trend which is a reflection of how fleets perceive the association’s effectiveness and the benefits derived from our numerous innovative programs and services.

We are having a positive impact on the health and well-being of Alberta workers through increased fleet participation in the Partners in Injury Reduction (PIR) and Certificate of Recognition (COR) programs. Our role as stewards of the economic robustness of the industry has been furthered by steady growth in membership and involvement in the Regulatory Affairs Partnership program. And, the Partners in Compliance (PIC) program, which provides first-rate carriers with meaningful business and operational incentives, is thriving. With the support and involvement of all sectors of the industry, the AMTA will continue to be the strong voice of transportation and grow to meet your needs.

What will the next 10 years bring for transportation in Alberta? Every day we hear predictions from the experts, from ‘little, if any, improvement over the next year or two,’ to ‘things are looking good for recovery over that time but look out for what may come after that.’ I daresay that to some degree, they may all be right, but I believe I can safely say that the need for transportation will not go away. We will not go back to the times when everything we need and want is grown, produced or manufactured within our individual reach. The face of the industry will continue to change with the demands of the times but the transportation industry is here to stay.

It is up to each and every industry member as to what part you will play. There are tremendous opportunities out there and there will continue to be for all of you who are ready to take advantage of them. Don’t fall into the trap of simply reacting to the momentary demands you face. Reaction often results in lowering standards and restricts the ability to conduct business effectively and profitably. Take the time to examine each situation and develop a plan of action that will maintain your standards and improve your efficiencies and effectiveness.
High hopes for 2010 and beyond? The opportunities are there and it is really up to you!

Mayne Root, Executive Director