September 2026 Edition

 

Dear Valued Members,


As summer gives way (all too quickly) to fall and winter preparations begin: Alaska Trucking Association remains focused on safety, advocacy, education, workforce development, and community engagement. We appreciate our members who keep Alaska moving every day. Please visit our website AKtrucks.org for more information about our programs and services.


Jamie

 

Safety Spotlight


Level I Inspection Training is coming to Fairbanks and is open to drivers, technicians, fleet managers, and safety professionals. This event is hosted by Carlile Transportation on September 10 from 130-3pm. We are grateful to the Department of Transportation for leading the several Level One events we have put on in the past 2 years. The information and education they provide is invaluable.

ATA is also asking members to report unsafe winter road conditions including snow removal concerns, ice accumulation, poor visibility, damaged roadways, signage issues, and recurring hazards. We want to address these concerns before they become a winter safety hazard. Report concerns to Jamie at ATA.

 

Women in Motion-Alaska Chapter


WIM continues to provide networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities across Alaska’s transportation industry. We are fortunate to have built a community of amazing leaders across the industry. WIM registration is always open! AKtrucks.org/WIM


Upcoming events:

  • 09/14-Fairbanks. RWC group conference room. 330-5pm. “Taking Up Space: Holding Your Ground in the Room” Presented by Cara Fox-Zen Fox solutions. Join us for a discussion and team building exercise
  • 10/28 WIM group coffee hour (Teams)
  • 11/20 WIM Holiday Networking Event-Green Connection, Anchorage.


 

Advocacy


On August 29, ATA joined a coalition of Alaska industry associations in submitting comments to EPA supporting reforms to DEF-related engine derates. The coalition highlighted safety risks created when DEF systems fail during Alaska winters and supported practical solutions for both new and existing equipment.


ATA is also a sponsor of the Alaska Resources Gubernatorial Forum on September 21, 2026, at the Dena’ina Center in Anchorage, providing members the opportunity to hear directly from gubernatorial candidates on issues affecting resource development, transportation, and Alaska businesses. The general election is November 3. Make your voice heard!


 

ATA in the Community


ATA will participate in the ABC Trunk or Treat with the trades event on October 3, featuring a Share the Road “Haunted Trailer” that combines Halloween fun with truck safety education for families. Please join us and bring the family!

 

Education & Outreach


ATA and member companies will participate in NACTEC educational programming in Nome September 27 through October 1. ATA has partnered with Alaska Resource Education to present to students on Truck Safety, Career Opportunities in the trucking industry and the critical role trucking plays in Alaska.



Share the Road Alaska has 3 high school visits currently planned for the fall. These events are a full day meeting with career focused students discussing the trucking industry and safety around trucks. All members are invited to participate at any time during those days. Members are asked to contribute by telling their story about how they began their career in the industry. The Share the road trailer will be present at each event, giving students a chance to see themselves behind the wheel.


September 25-Bartlett High School

October 9-West High School

October 26-Dimond High School


 

Hiring & Workforce Development


Finding qualified employees remains one of the industry’s greatest challenges. ATA encourages members to explore YourCareerLink through YourAlaskaLink.com. Unlike traditional job boards that only reach active job seekers, YourCareerLink combines television advertising, streaming media, digital marketing, online job listings, and lead generation tools to reach both active and passive candidates across Alaska. The platform helps employers promote CDL driver, technician, dispatcher, mechanic, safety, and administrative openings while increasing visibility through statewide broadcast and digital campaigns.


Contact Laura Ross at Lross@youralaskalink.com to discuss the options available for marketing.

 

Driver Appreciation Week


Last, but not least: One of our favorite events of the year is coming up quickly! Driver Appreciation week is September 14-18. ATA will be in 5 locations this year handing out swag, lunches and handshakes thanking drivers for all that they do! See our flyer for all the details and if you would like to volunteer, come on out!


 

Stay connected for the latest updates and industry news:

Facebook | LinkedIn

 
Together, we can drive the future of trucking in Alaska!
 
Alaska Trucking Association | 907-276-1149 | info@aktrucks.org | www.aktrucks.org