In the Cab with Anthony: Making Connections and Gaining Insight Through NTTC
All Chemical understands the importance of contributing to the chemical transportation industry through knowledge sharing and advocacy. We are members of several trade organizations and associations as a means to connect with others in our specialized industry and to learn more about regulations and industry learnings that impact our business.
Here I share how All Chem has been involved with National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC).
NTTC is a trade organization committed to improving the tank truck industry’s safety through advocacy and education. The organization serves as the voice of the tank truck industry and has represented the interests of the tank truck industry since its founding in 1945 in Washington D.C.
How does NTTC contribute to the trucking industry?
NTTC has been an invaluable resource for All Chemical and other companies in the tank trucking industry. The organization offers seminars on safety, security, and cargo tank inspections to keep our employees informed about regulatory changes and updates. The organization also provides webinars and hosts events like Tank Truck Week featuring a top-notch trade show showcasing the latest equipment and services. Having attended this event twice now, it allows us to network with vendors and gain knowledge about industry trends and what’s coming up in the future.
How did All Chem get more involved with NTTC?
For several years, All Chem was involved with NTTC mostly as a passive member. Within the past two years, we have become more active with this trade organization. We started to increase our participation by attending Tank Truck Week in 2022. Don Wrege, All Chem’s Director of Safety and Maintenance, and I have become more involved ever since we attended the conference and saw opportunity within the group. We are looking forward to Tank Truck Week in September 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. All Chem has a terminal in this city and we anticipate sending members of the company to represent us and strengthen these invaluable connections with other industry leaders.
What interested you in going deeper with your involvement with NTTC as a chairperson, board member and volunteer?
At the 2023 Tank Truck Week conference, I attended a session led by a past executive chairman of the Board for NTTC. The meeting emphasized the importance of getting involved in the organization. I decided to join the Chemical Committee and was recently appointed as the chairperson. Despite being new, I was also asked to consider joining the board of directors. At the 2024 Annual Conference, I met with the nominating committee, which led to an unexpected meeting with multiple board members (there are close to 40 individuals representing companies across North America). Although initially overwhelmed, I demonstrated insight valuable toward the organization and tank industry and have since been actively involved in various aspects of the organization, which has been highly beneficial.
What are the benefits of being part of this trade organization?
There are several benefits we have encountered. First, we are making connections with others in the same industry and learning from different companies’ approaches to challenges. It’s certainly one of the benefits for my own professional growth.
Second, we are able to handle situations more effectively by leveraging the network of member companies. For example, we recently needed a tank repair, but it was in Chicago, Illinois. Rather than returning it to New Jersey to complete the repair, I called up an NTTC connection to help us. I had a high level of trust in how they handled the situation.
Third, NTTC helps us stay informed about regulatory changes. This helps us be proactive in decision-making at the company level.
How does All Chem plan to further their involvement with NTTC?
I am in the early stages of my involvement with the organization. My goal is to offer our assistance by providing a fresh perspective and sharing our experiences. This past May, I joined the Workforce Committee, recognizing the importance of addressing workforce challenges, particularly related to driver shortages and an aging workforce. I am ready to adapt and contribute in the most suitable way possible while staying attentive to the organization’s needs.
I have been fortunate to meet knowledgeable leaders through NTTC who are willing to share their experiences. It’s a unique group focused on helping everyone succeed in the transportation industry, especially in the specialized area of transportation or hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals.
NTTC is a trade association that is a crucial segment of the transportation industry, providing a sense of connection and a reality check outside of the usual work bubble. I look forward to our continued involvement with NTTC.