3rd Edition, September 19, 2025


 

Hello ATA Members,


Welcome to the 3rd edition of From the Desk of Jamie Benson. This bi-weekly newsletter is designed to keep you informed and connected with the latest developments in Alaska’s trucking industry. In this edition, at the close of National Truck Driver Appreciation week we are highlighting Driver Mental health and recapping our events. We are still seeking support on the Trucking Industry Survey as well. This survey is open till October 10. Let’s hear Alaska’s voice!


Have a wonderful and safe weekend,


Jamie

Mental Health on the Road: Supporting Alaska’s Drivers


Why it matters: Truck driving is a demanding profession—long hours, isolation, and high stress can take a toll on mental health. Supporting drivers’ emotional well-being is essential for safety, retention, and quality of life.


What ATA Members Can Do:


  • Recognize the Signs: Fatigue, irritability, lack of focus, and withdrawal may signal mental health struggles.
  • Encourage Open Dialogue: Reduce stigma by fostering a culture where drivers feel safe discussing mental health.
  • Promote Healthy Habits: Sleep, nutrition, movement, and connection with loved ones all support mental wellness.
  • Share Support Resources: Make sure drivers know where to turn when they need help.


Alaska Regional Crisis Lines - If you or someone you know needs support, these 24/7 hotlines are available:


  • Southcentral Counseling Center (Anchorage): 907-563-3200
  • Central Peninsula Counseling Services (Kenai): 907-283-7511
  • Gateway Center for Human Services (Ketchikan): 907-225-4135
  • Life Quest Mental Health Services (Wasilla): 907-376-2411


For statewide support, call or text 988 or reach out to Careline Alaska at

 1-877-266-HELP (4357).


Advocacy Corner- Alaska on the Hill 2026

SAVE THE DATE! April 15-16, Washington D.C. New to the Alaska Trucking Association is our involvement with the Annual Alaska on the Hill event. Brought to you by the Chamber of Alaska, Resource Development Council, Alaska Mining Association and The Alliance to name a few associations. This event is a “call on Washington” to specifically address concerns for Alaska’s resource and support industries. ATA was in attendance this year and it was a fantastic opportunity to get face to face with our leaders and discuss our legislative priorities. The 2026 trip will be bigger and better! If you are interested in participating, please contact Jamie.



National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

September 14-20 marks the official dates of Truck Driver Appreciation Week. While we celebrate them daily it was an amazing opportunity to go above and beyond. Alaska Trucking Association, with the support of 23 Carrier and Allied member companies, we were able to put on 4 special events this year!


Monday September 15, Richardson Scales-Fairbanks.

Tuesday September 16, Hans Roelle Scale and Don Young Port of Anchorage.

Wednesday September 17, Sterling scale, Kenai.


At each location we handed out lunches, swag and had the opportunity to thank drivers face to face for their contributions to our community. DOT was at each scale in all locations in full force. Volunteers from multiple companies also came out to assist. The greatest part was getting to shake hands and put a smile on their faces. Next year we look forward to taking it up a notch with two days in Fairbanks! This event is not possible without our sponsors and for that we THANK YOU!

 

Member Spotlight

Each edition, we would love to highlight a member who’s making a difference in Alaska’s trucking community. Please send your submissions to Jamie at jamie@aktrucks.org

ATA DMV News

Make sure that your employees know that they can skip the DMV when it comes to Titles and Registration. Come on down to the ATA! Please pass this on as a benefit to being a member.



Upcoming Events

  • Academies of Anchorage Career Expo: Sept 26-We are seeking Dispatchers, mechanics AND Drivers to attend! Help us promote the different opportunities in the trucking industry.
  • Trunk or Treat with the Trades-October 4. 11-2pm. 301 Arctic Slope Ave. ATA will be handing out treats for Trick or Treat in the heat in honor of Kayden Klaus. Flyer attached!
  • Safety Management Committee meeting. October 9. Join us for updates on Safety practices and join the conversation as we discuss how to continuously improve safety in our industry. Location, ATA from 1200-1pm. Teams available.
  • Legal Size & Weights Presentation with DOT: Nov 6-Contact us for the team’s link or join us at 3443 Minnesota.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook for continuous updates.

www.facebook.com/AlaskaTruckingAssociation

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