14th Edition, May 5th, 2026 | | |
Hello ATA Members,
We hope you are off to a great start this spring! It has been a busy and productive month at ATA. In April, we had the opportunity to participate in Alaska on the Hill in Washington, D.C., followed shortly by our Safe Fleet Awards and Annual Conference at the Alaska Native Heritage Center.
Below you’ll find highlights from recent events, updates on legislation we’re tracking, and a look ahead at what’s coming up. As always, thank you for what you do to keep Alaska moving—and please stay safe out there.
Jamie
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SAFETY FIRST: SHARE THE ROAD
The Alaska Trucking Association partnered with South High School on April 27 for a Share the Road safety presentation focused on roadway safety around large trucks and career opportunities within the trucking industry.
ATA members brought out two full-size trucks and trailers, giving students a hands-on opportunity to explore the equipment, learn about blind spots, stopping distance, and truck maneuverability, and hear firsthand what it’s like to work in trucking.
Our next Share the Road event will be held at Bartlett High School on May 8. If you are interested in joining future school outreach events, please contact Jamie.
| From left to right-Lydia Payne, Chayton Payne, Leah Sifuentes, Mark Langlie, Chelsea McDonald, Jamie Benson, Zach Seabolt and Samantha Brown. |
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ALASKA ON THE HILL
April 15–16 | Washington, D.C.
| One hundred and thirty Alaskans traveled to Washington, D.C. for Alaska on the Hill, participating in Industry briefings, Senate roundtables, Department of the Interior briefings, and congressional meetings. It was a strong opportunity to advocate for Alaska and ensure our voice was heard; Alaska is open for business! | From left to right-Stephanie Merritt, Matson, Frederic Sifuentes, Big Dreams Transport, Brooke Sillers, Lyden, Robb Christenson, Sourdough Express, Vanessa Larimer, Black Gold Transport, Jamie Benson, Alaska Trucking Association and Kelly Droop, Pape Kenworth Alaska. | | | | 2026 ANNUAL CONFERENCE RECAP | | |
The 2026 ATA Annual Conference was held at the Alaska Native Heritage Center and brought together members, partners, policymakers, and safety professionals. Wednesday evening featured the Safe Fleet Awards, with Crowley Fuels, Black Gold Express, Span Alaska, and Black Gold Transport recognized.
Thursday’s full-day conference included a strong lineup of speakers, timely topics, and industry vendors, providing an energizing opportunity to connect and advance trucking through safety, collaboration, and growth.
Thank you to our many Sponsors! This event does not happen without your support!
Watch for a full recap with photos on aktrucks.org
| | Black Gold Express-Industrial Linehaul | | Black Gold Transport-Linehaul Division and Most Improved Linehaul | | Crowley Fuels - Local Division & Most Improved Local Division | | Span Alaska-Industrial Local | | |
LEGISLATION WE'RE TRACKING
SB 280 focuses on changes to how certain natural gas pipeline and LNG infrastructure projects are taxed in Alaska. ATA testified on Friday, May 1 in support of moving the bill forward, emphasizing infrastructure investment and economic benefits for Alaska’s freight and transportation industries.
SB 286 would establish a toll for certain vehicles using the James Dalton Highway. Public testimony will be taken on Thursday, May 7 at 3:30 p.m. ATA encourages members who rely on this corridor to participate and share input.
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BOARD ELECTION 2026 - 2027
Board President: Brooke Sillers, Alaska West Express
Board Members:
Michael Hibpshman – Inlet Energy
Cody Hyce – Specialized Transport and Rigging
Chelsea McDonald – Odyssey Logistics
Randy Efird – Weaver Brothers Inc.
Gene Mountcastle – Peterbilt of Alaska
Kelly Droop – Pape Kenworth Alaska
John Pike – Colville/Brooks Range Supply
| Thank you to outgoing President Samantha Brown of United Freight & Transport for her leadership and service, she has truly been an inspiration and we are excited to see her project “Share the Road Alaska” coming to life! |
WELCOME NEW ATA MEMBERS
Charlie’s Produce
Glennallen Towing and Recovery
Kodiak Robotics
UMV Alaska
Highside Trucking LLC
TankMax
Learn more about these members on our website.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
May 8 – Share the Road, Bartlett High School
May 15 – ATA Annual Clay Shoot, Birchwood Recreation Park
June 5–6 – Alaska State Truck Driving Championship, Span Alaska
June 25 – Level One DOT Inspection Demonstration, Mountain View Trucking
| | Together, we can drive the future of trucking in Alaska! | |
Alaska Trucking Association | 907-276-1149 | info@aktrucks.org | www.aktrucks.org
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