The 80th annual convention of the Ontario Trucking Association took place November 16 & 17, 2006 at the Toronto Congress Centre. The two day convention, the largest of its kind in Canada, is the place where industry leaders meet to discuss important industry issues and listen to speakers never before brought together under one roof. See below for highlights.
OTA Cancom Dispatcher of the Year – Ben O’Hara (r ) of Trimac Transportation Services in Sarnia with his wife Cheryl. Mike Ham of Cancom Tracking presented the award while Trimac exec Mauro Campanelli looks on.
Special Recognition Award -- Sharon Maslen (centre) accepted an award from Cancom Tracking’s Mike Ham (r) in special recognition (posthumous) of her husband Pat Maslen for outstanding commitment to his work as a dispatcher while battling cancer. Mr. Maslen, an employee of Challenger Motor Freight, passed away in June 2006. Challenger CEO Dan Einwechter (l) spoke of Mr. Maslen’s exceptional qualities to the crowd of 600 onlookers.
Outgoing Chairman Scott Smith (JD Smith) marked his last convention as chairman after serving as head of the association for the 2004 – 2006 term.
US Ambassador to Canada – David Wilkins (r) addressed delegates at the kick off breakfast on Thursday. OTA President David Bradley thanks Mr. Wilkins following his excellent presentation to a packed house of convention attendees.
Ontario Transportation Minister – Donna Cansfield received a standing ovation from a packed room of over 600 delegates attending lunch on Friday when she spoke in support of mandatory speed limiters for commercial vehicles.
All Smiles – Many said OTA’s 2006 convention was possibly the best convention held to date. Convention delegates were in good spirits throughout the event as is evidenced by the exchange of laughter between OTA Board Member John McKevitt (McKevitt Trucking, Thunder Bay) and his wife Shirley.
Road Knights Team – The 2005 -2006 team of industry ambassadors were honoured for their outstanding dedication to road safety and industry awareness. This team if drivers is approaching the end of its active term of service.
Antique Truck Display– Former OTA Chairman Paul Hammond, Muskoka Transport participated in the display of vintage vehicles that took place to commemorate the OTA’s 80th anniversary. The vehicle is a 1978 International 4070B tractor.
Senior OTA Staff Officers – To mark OTA’s 80th anniversary the three men who most recently presided as head of the OTA were seated together at the Friday luncheon (l – r) Stephen Flott; Ray Cope and current OTA President David Bradley.
CTA National Driver of the Year – Mervin Connolly of L.E. Walker Transport Ltd. was named Canada’s top truck driver by Volvo Trucks Canada and the Canadian Trucking Alliance. From the left: Volvo’s Brent Weary, Donna and Merv Connolly and L.E.Walker President Julie Tanguay.
80th Anniversary Trailer -- A trailer was decorated with special graphics to promote OTA’s 80th Anniversary book called “Trucking & Triumphs”.
President’s Message - OTA President David Bradley delivered his annual forecast for the industry to convention delegates on Wednesday.
Convention Exhibit – Between sessions convention attendees could meet with a room filled with exhibitors offering the latest products and services.
Business Sessions – Packed rooms welcomed convention speakers who delivered important information to senior industry executives and managers on a wide variety of topics.
New Chairman Mark Seymour – Newly elected Chairman of the OTA Board of Directors, Mark Seymour of Kriska Transportation, addressed delegates on Friday. Mr. Seymour will preside over the board during the 2006 - 2008 term.
Trailmobile Service to Industry – Don Anderson founder of Don Anderson Haulage in Stouffville received the Trailmobile Service to Industry Award – the highest honour bestowed upon an industry executive. Mr. Anderson (seated) is seen with his wife Maris holding the award portrait and is surrounded by many members of his family.
Scholarship Recipients – Young people received cash awards to help them pursue their post-secondary education goals. See MoreSee More
Bridgestone Firestone Canadian Truck Hero – Alberta truck driver Shawn Berube (centre) was honoured for road side heroism by Dave Scheklesky of Bridgestone/Firestone along with US Ambassador to Canada David Wilkins (right).
Happy Birthday OTA – Cutting the cake at OTA’s birthday party. Convention committee chair Al Ward; newly elected OTA chairman Mark Seymour; outgoing chairman Scott Smith and OTA president David Bradley.
