September 6, 2011
Through my travels and involvement in numerous industry associations, it has been a privilege for me to meet and get to know industry leaders who are literally changing the transportation industry; making a difference in this country's supply chain activities. In fact, one of the things I love about my job is that through my conversations with these individuals, they provide great insights about what is happening, the impact it is likely to have on shippers, and what the future looks like.
Recently, while talking to an associate, I related a conversation I had with the CEO of a transportation firm. My friend's comment intrigued me. He said, "I would have liked to have listened in on that conversation." Well, guess what, now he can and so can you. One of my techies got me this "handy-dandy" little pocket recorder. So when I am at these industry meetings, I can turn the machine on and ask these leaders to go On the Record with our TranzAct listeners.
I'm really excited about our inaugural edition of On the Record. At the recent NASSTRAC Conference I caught up with Doug Duncan, the President and CEO of FedEx Freight. I've known Doug for several years and, by any standard, he has had an exemplary career. Anyone who has tracked the success of FedEx Freight knows that Doug is one of the leaders in this industry sector.
Beyond his leadership role at FedEx, Doug has also been very active in industry associations and has played a prominent role in the American Trucking Association's research activities. Several months ago, Doug got everyone's attention when he gave a speech and stated that solving this nation's emerging transportation infrastructure crisis was going to require a new and different approach. He noted that the trucking industry should have a more positive, pro-active orientation, which advances a positive legislative agenda, instead of continually having to oppose well intentioned, but, at times, misguided legislative initiatives. When Doug said that "…everything has to be on the table, including fuel taxes and tolls…," everyone paid attention since these topics (taxes are tolls) are the proverbial "third rail" of the industry.
Great leaders are willing to take prudent risks and tackle subjects that others would rather avoid. Doug is a great leader. So I invite you to pull up a chair and listen in as we go On the Record with Doug Duncan.
Mike Regan
TranzAct Technologies
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