Welcoming Remarks
Jane Clark, Vice President of Member Services, NationaLease

President’s Address
Dean Vicha will discuss the current and future plans and goals for NationaLease and how technology and regulations may be impacting our maintenance teams.
Dean Vicha, President, NationaLease

Defining Value
Michael DeCata, President & CEO of Lawson Products, will discuss the meaning of value in the context of a changing industry and world. With over three decades of experience in a wide variety of industries, Mike has experienced changes – large and small – that forced him and the organizations he worked for to re-evaluate the value they offered to their customers. He will share examples from his career and will challenge the audience to consider changes on the horizon and how those changes might impact the definition of value.
Michael G. DeCata, President & CEO, Lawson Products

Spouse Event
Come join us for the Chef’s special treat! In keeping with out meeting theme, the Chef will show you how to prepare and then eat a delicious Latin treat!

Break

At the Intersection of Logistics and Economics
Noël Perry will provide attendees with an economic forecast and discuss any underlying economictroubles our country may be facing. Hear topics such as recent economic cycles, updated capacity concerns, and much more.
Noël Perry, Economist, Truck & Transportation Expert, FTR

Current and Future State of Electric Trucks
Electric truck manufacturers are promising fleets cost savings, reduced environmental impact, and reliable performance. But can they deliver? Hear directly from the founder of one of the most unique and disruptive electric truck start-ups as Giordano Sordoni shares his thoughts on the current and future state of electric trucks.
Giordano Sordoni, Co-founder and COO, Thor Trucks

Tradeshow and Reception
Network with insightful and influential industry leaders, while gaining direct access to the top industry suppliers for the products and services that can help build your business.

Breakfast

Blockchain: A Transformative Force
In May 2017, Deloitte tweeted that 10% of global GDP would be built on top of blockchain applications. For logistics and transportation, it will have a bigger impact promising to shake up the $8T industry. This presentation will provide attendees with a foundational understanding of blockchain, and using specific use case examples, will uncover pain points in the supply chain and trucking industry and how they can be solved for through blockchain technology. This session will also highlight the Blockchain in Transport Alliance (BiTA), a forum focused on the development of blockchain standards and education, and on building a community that’s solving for industry issues.
Chris Burruss, President, Blockchain in Transport Alliance (BiTA)

Managing Workplace Risks In An Era Of Legalized Marijuana
Currently 30 states have medical marijuana laws and 9 states have recreational marijuana laws, and more of these laws are enacted every year despite the fact that marijuana continues to be illegal under federal law. DOT regulations do not permit employers to tolerate marijuana use by DOT-regulated drivers; but some state marijuana laws treat medical marijuana users as “disabled” and prohibit discrimination against users. Kathryn Russo will discuss how to navigate all of these conflicting laws, address the federal government’s position, DOT’s position, and current trends in the state laws.
Kathryn J. Russo, Principal, Long Island Office, Jackson Lewis P.C.

Break

Commercial Vehicle Demand Demystified
Demand drivers converged, conspiring to make 2017 one of the best years in the North American Commercial Vehicle Market. Steve Tam will examine the factors that contributed to the strong performance and share ACT Research’s thoughts on where the market is headed in 2018.
Steve Tam, Vice President, ACT Research

Member Services Update
Find out what’s happening at the NationaLease home office. Jane Clark provides an update on new programs and services available through NationaLease, as well as an introduction to new members.
Jane Clark, Vice President of Member Services, NationaLease

Lunch

Dude, What’s My Job?
Through a look at historical events, Jeff will allow meeting attendees to discover the key differences between the Boomers, Generation X, and Millenials and the defining moments that rocked their world and shaped their behaviors at work. Everyone identifies common workplace tendencies and learns tips to help assimilate 20-somethings to a team of tenured professionals. We identify the innate variations in generational attitudes by introducing the “Old School” versus “New School” mindset when it comes to feedback, motivation, promotions, patience, flexibility, and more. Participants put these tips into action by working through real-world situations and hands-on exercises.
Jeff Hiller, Consultant, JB Training Solutions

Break

What’s Happening on “the Hill”?
Find out what TRALA is doing to protect our industry and inform us on pending issues to watch. Jake Jacoby will give updates regarding TRALA’s efforts to remain strong and be a viable voice on “the Hill.”
Jake Jacoby, President & CEO, TRALA

New Tax Laws
The recent tax changes are prompting more and more questions from customers about depreciation and the value of a lease vs ownership. Mark and Lynn will help us understand changes in FASB and the tax laws and how we can continue to sell lease value against bonus depreciation.
Mark Blazek, CPA, Engagement Principal, & Lynn Mucenski-Keck CPA, MST—Manager

National Accounts Update
Joe Gallick will provide an update on National Account successes, as well as opportunities for future growth.
Joe Gallick, Senior Vice President of National Account Sales, NationaLease

Road Rescue Update
Kirk Tilley will discuss the recent changes to the NationaLease Road Rescue. He will share some new enhancements and capabilities that will be available to all Members utlilizing this program.
Kirk Tilley, President, Tandet NationaLease

Awards Dinner and Entertainment
Come and join us as we recognize members who have achieved Leadership Circle. Stick around for great entertainment throughout the night.