By David Cook, CTP, Director of Sales for CPC Logistics
In early May I was one of several team members who had the opportunity to represent CPC Logistics at the National Private Truck Council (NPTC) Annual Conference and Exhibition in Orlando, Florida. With more than 1,300 attendees and over 185 exhibitors, it is easy to see why the conference is widely known as the national private truck fleet event of the year.
I have gone to this conference—and many others—numerous times throughout my career. NPTC 2023 was the best industry event I have ever attended for several reasons.
Recognizing Ron Mahar
A major highlight of NPTC 2023 was watching Ron Mahar, a professional driver assigned to Walgreens in Houston, Texas, get inducted into the NPTC Driver Hall of Fame. Only four drivers are selected every year, so it is an incredible achievement to become a part of this elite group. I am proud to say Ron is the twelfth CPC driver to make history by joining the NPTC Driver Hall of Fame.
Celebrating CTP Recipients
CPC team members consistently prove they are leaders in the transportation and logistics industry. At NPTC 2023 four of them received their Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) designation: Sarah Albertson, Leslie Gomez, Jennifer Haripar and Rick Weiher. They are now part of a special network of professionals setting a high standard for management practices and leadership qualifications.
Thanking our Customers
We are grateful for the trust our customers place in us to help keep their products moving and deliver them on time—regardless of supply chain challenges and driver shortages. During NPTC 2023 we were able to thank some of them for their partnerships during an appreciation dinner at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse. Along with the delicious food and drinks, we enjoyed the chance to connect with them on a more personal level.
Standout Booth
Thanks to Tom Bickel, CPC’s Director of Sales and Marketing, the CPC booth was perfectly positioned to attract visitors to the exhibit hall. Its eye-catching new design featuring our special 50th anniversary logo along with high-quality giveaways like branded chocolate bars, hats and mugs drew in a lot of people wanting to find out more about who we are and what we do.
Making Connections
Whether it was at the CPC booth, during one of the many roundtable sessions or over a meal, the CPC team took advantage of all the opportunities NPTC 2023 offered to build relationships with current and prospective customers as well as fellow private fleet professionals. I believe this conference is one of the best places to meet like-minded people you can turn to for advice and support throughout your career.
New Location
Formerly held in Cincinnati, NPTC 2023 took place in a brand-new location: warm and sunny Orlando. The exhibit hall, educational workshops, general sessions and awards ceremonies all took place at the Orange County Convention Center, which was conveniently located across the street from the Hyatt Regency Orlando where most attendees stayed. It was enjoyable to be right in the heart of Orlando’s entertainment, dining and shopping district.
With another successful year at the Annual Conference and Exhibition in the books, I am now looking forward to NPTC’s National Safety Conference September 6-8 at the Omni Orlando Resort in Championsgate, Florida.