News Release

Speakers at NationaLease’s Annual Meeting Express Optimism

Predictions for a bright future and some Texas-style celebrating make this milestone meeting a huge success

October 21, 2014, Downers Grove, IL – NationaLease, one of the largest full service truck leasing organizations in North America, marked its 70th year by holding its Annual Meeting last September in Dallas, TX. Proclaiming “It’s Bigger, It’s Better, It’s Texas,” NationaLease proved that point with its roster of truly impressive speakers, valuable, information-packed sessions, and record attendance.

The first day began with a review of the organization’s recent successes and a preview of the future, presented by Dean Vicha, President of NationaLease. He was followed by the keynote speaker, Ken Langone, co-founder of Home Depot and former director of the New York Stock Exchange, who regaled attendees with stories that illustrated his business philosophy. He also shared his thoughts on the current economy and his optimism for the future.  After a closed-door session, attendees learned about the latest technology and products while they mingled with top suppliers at the Trade and Technology Fair.

The second day of the event featured a number of outstanding speakers, including intergenerational speaker, Curt Steinhorst, who discussed generational differences and similarities and how to use them to create opportunities. Craig Fisher, Vice President of fisher VISTA and CEO of TalentNet, LLC, followed. A LinkedIn trainer, social media strategy consultant, blogger, and radio host, Fisher shared practical ideas on how to find and attract clients and talent through social media outlets. Later in the day, Kirk Tilley, President of Tandet NationaLease, and his Vice President of IT, Corey Cox, shared insights on the benefits of adopting technology in the truck leasing business; Tom James, President of TRALA, spoke on the current issues facing the industry; and Dr. Barry Asmus, Senior Economist for the National Center for Policy Analysis, offered his thoughts on economic freedom and poverty and his enthusiasm for the future of business in North America.

NationaLease Senior Vice President of Sales, Joe Gallick, presented an update of the organization’s National Accounts and, in a separate session, presented an overview of NationaLease Dedicated Logistics and the direction he sees for the future. Jane Clark, Vice President of Member Services, shared the newest programs for members, including a new Emergency Service and Fuel Directory app, and new training and recruiting tools. Clark also recognized the 3rd-time winner of the NationaLease Tech Challenge, Robert Mrzyglod from Aim NationaLease.

The general session concluded with a presentation by Ray LaHood, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, who detailed the current state of infrastructure in the U.S. and the need for everyone to make their voices heard through their representatives in Washington.

The Awards Dinner had a distinctive Texas theme, with attendees sporting Western-style accessories enhancing their dinner wear. Eleven member companies were recognized for their longevity in the organization, which ranged from 10 years to 78 years, and 37 members were awarded the prestigious Leadership Circle Award.

Next year’s meeting will take place September 20-21 at the Fairmont Washington Hotel in Washington, DC.

About NationaLease
Founded in 1944, NationaLease is one of the largest full service truck leasing organizations in North America, with over 1200 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada and a combined customer fleet of over 175,000 tractors, trucks, and trailers. The company provides comprehensive fleet management services for private fleets and transportation service providers. More information can be found at nationalease.com.

Media Contact for NationaLease
Rob Tacey
Director, Communications & Public Relations
press@corcentric.com
(302) 897-3094

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