The first in a series of free webcasts entitled “Survivors’ Guide to the Fuel Crisis” will be broadcast at 2 P.M. (EDT) on June 17 and focus on operational strategies that can help fleets offset current high diesel prices. The interactive, online series is being presented jointly by FleetOwner and the Truckload Carriers Assn. TMW Systems Inc. is sponsoring the first webcast, which is free to anyone who preregisters.
The June 17 webcast will feature practical, in-depth presentations by two leading experts on fleet operations -- industry consultant George L. Edwards and the former president of MacKinnon Transport, Ray J. Haight. Topics covered will include analyzing accounts and lanes for fuel efficiency and profitability, maximizing load and route efficiency, and using purchasing tools to minimize fuel costs. The focus will be on practical tips and strategies that can be used by fleets of all types and sizes.
Currently a corporate consultant to a number of premier North American logistics and transportation services companies, Edwards has served on the faculties of a number of transportation programs, including those at Auburn University and Columbus State University. He is a retired field grade Air Force Logistics and Transportation Officer and a Distinguished Graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. Edwards holds a BS degree in Business Administration/Distribution and Transportation from Ohio State Univ. and a Masters Degree in Transportation Management from the Univ. of Alabama.
Haight is a second-generation trucker who worked as a driver and owner-operator for ten years before starting his own fleet. As president & COO of MacKinnon Transport, he oversaw a 275-truck fleet hauling cross-border dry van and refrigerated freight until 1995. He is currently executive director of MacKinnon and active in a variety of for-profit and non-profit transportation related efforts.
Registered participants need only an Internet connection and standard web browser to take part in the webcast. They will be encouraged to submit questions during the presentations and can access an archived version of the entire session for up to one year.
The second webcast in the TCA/FleetOwner Survivor’s Guide series will focus on driver issues related to fuel economy. It will be held on Aug. 5 at 2 P.M. (EDT). The final free webcast in this series will look at fuel-saving truck technology and maintenance programs and will be held on Sept. 23.
