Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) has announced its 2024 Truck Fleet Innovators, honoring five fleet executives who are at the forefront of advancements in artificial intelligence, zero-emission vehicles, information technology, driver retention, efficiency, maintenance, trailer spec’ing, safety, and more. These leaders have demonstrated remarkable innovation and fostered a culture that encourages forward-thinking within their organizations.
These innovators will be recognized at the Heavy Duty Trucking Exchange event in Scottsdale, Arizona, from September 4-6. During the event, HDT’s editors will moderate a panel discussion with the Innovators to delve into their successes, challenges, and the importance of innovation in the trucking industry.
The 2024 HDT Truck Fleet Innovators:
Volker Bargenda, President, Standard Logistics, Dallas, Texas
Bargenda has transformed Standard Logistics from a private fleet to a comprehensive freight carrier and brokerage operation. Leveraging technology updates and change management techniques, he has significantly expanded the fleet even amid a freight recession. The company now offers dry van, flatbed, tanker, and pneumatic services with over 400 drivers across 20 locations.
Shane Blanchette, Group VP – Operations, Quality Custom Distribution (QCD), Frisco, Texas
At QCD, a national food service logistics supplier, Blanchette has led the implementation of battery-electric trucks in California operations. He has also introduced multiple initiatives aimed at easing drivers’ jobs, reinforcing QCD’s commitment to sustainability and driver welfare.
Nathaniel Klein, COO, Sun Logistics, Maspeth, New York
Klein has overhauled Sun Logistics’ technology and processes, integrating data and AI to drive efficiencies in this last-mile LTL carrier operating in NYC and Miami. His efforts have enhanced operational efficiency, connecting EDIs, routing, billing, and even weather data.
Kyle Neumann, VP of Maintenance, Foodliner Inc., Dubuque, Iowa
Neumann oversees the spec’ing and maintenance of over 1,600 power units and 3,500 trailers. He has focused on creating next-generation trailers that maximize longevity, safety, and load integrity, and has extended maintenance drain intervals to 90,000 miles.
John Paape, VP of Information Technology, Roehl Transport, Marshfield, Wisconsin
Leading a 45-person IT team at Roehl Transport, Paape has developed custom software that integrates all aspects of the 2,200-truck fleet’s operations, from dispatching to maintenance to driver safety. His efforts have streamlined operations and enhanced overall efficiency.
These innovators were selected based on industry nominations, publicly available information, and interviews with each candidate. Full profiles of each innovator will be available on Truckinginfo.com and in the May/June print issue of Heavy Duty Trucking.
Meet HDT’s Truck Fleet Innovators at HDTX
For those interested in learning more from these industry leaders, the Heavy Duty Trucking Exchange provides an opportunity to meet them in person. Founded in 2017, HDTX connects fleet managers of Class 7 and 8 vehicles with product and service suppliers to exchange information and solutions. Fewer than 50 fleet managers are approved to attend each year, ensuring intimate and valuable networking sessions.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10222803/hdt-names-2024-truck-fleet-innovators
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