The National Private Truck Council (NPTC) Institute—the educational and professional certification arm of the NPTC—introduced the Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) designation in 1993 to raise transportation industry standards and increase the respect and prestige of the profession. Twenty-six current CPC Logistics employees have achieved the designation. Operations Manager Jeff Boyington, Transportation Manager David Mueller, National Sales Director Adam Putzer, and Division Manager Mike Trotter are some of the latest professionals to earn the right to add CTP after their names.
“After watching several of my CPC teammates complete the CTP program and graduate, it’s been something on my mind that I have wanted to do,” Mike said. “Those three letters behind a person’s name indicate that they are in an elite group of transportation professionals. Getting the CTP is a great experience, the value of knowledge is immeasurable, and the networking and friendships developed are lasting.”
The only credential of its kind for private fleet practitioners, the CTP designation confirms that an individual has the knowledge and ability to understand complex operational and regulatory issues, identify and evaluate potential cost savings, and develop systems and practices which best meet a company’s transportation needs and objectives.
“I decided to earn my CTP certification because I wanted to sharpen my skills in the private fleet world,” Adam said. “The thorough knowledge of private fleet management that I gained helps me think like my customers and put together more thoughtful solutions. It has changed the way I approach my job for the better.”
The CTP curriculum focuses on five core subject matter disciplines of private fleet management: finance, safety, human resources, vehicle equipment and maintenance, and operations. Applicants use on-the-job experience as well as resources from the NPTC such as downloadable study guides and in-person training to prepare for the CTP examination.
“Attending the NPTC Private Fleet Management Institute was a great experience in preparing us for the exam and working with groups of people to thoroughly understand all aspects of transportation helped,” Mike said. “I would recommend taking the time to attend this for anyone pursuing their CTP. Not only is it useful for the exam, but it is also huge for building relationships.”
The four-hour CTP examination consists of short answer essay questions and a case study. Many of the program’s graduates believe it is the most difficult part of the certification process.
“You can’t put your day-to-day responsibilities on hold to prepare for the exam,” Jeff said. “You must be self-motivated and carve out the time. My brother Greg Boyington was part of the CTP Class of 2016, and he told me that if I prepare, I will not fail. He reminded me of something our dad used to say: ‘If you are doing what you are supposed to be doing, then it will show.’ By the time the exam came around, I was ready. I didn’t come across anything I wasn’t familiar with because of all the time I spent studying.”
Those who pass the exam are invited to attend the graduation ceremony that takes place during the NPTC Annual Education Management Conference and Exhibition. Jeff, David, Adam and Mike participated in the ceremony held for the CTP Class of 2024 on April 21 in Orlando.
In addition to proving they have the experience, knowledge and understanding of how to direct and administer a fleet, new CTPs become part of a special network of professionals setting a high standard for management practices and leadership qualifications.
“It makes you more visible to others in the industry since the CTP designation is well-known,” David said. “Just making the personal connections was worth it. It is an educational and fulfilling experience.”
Now the four must meet continuing education requirements to maintain their designations.
“You’ll find that good things happen when you plan accordingly, follow through, and put in the hard work,” Jeff said.