Image

ATA finds next two presidents

Oct. 30, 2001
NASHVILLE – Lobbying group American Trucking Assns. (ATA) announced who their new president will be, and who will eventually replace him. The interim-tag will be lifted from president & CEO William Canary’s title, but he will relinquish it in 15 months to current Kansas governor William P. Graves. Canary, who replaced Walter B. McCormick Jr. when he left July 1 to head the United States Telephone
NASHVILLE – Lobbying group American Trucking Assns. (ATA) announced who their new president will be, and who will eventually replace him. The interim-tag will be lifted from president & CEO William Canary’s title, but he will relinquish it in 15 months to current Kansas governor William P. Graves.

Canary, who replaced Walter B. McCormick Jr. when he left July 1 to head the United States Telephone Assn., will be the man in charge until January 13, 2003, which is the last day of Graves’ gubernatorial term.

ATA said Graves (left), who once worked for his family’s trucking company, Graves Truck Line, was selected from 75 candidates.

Speaking today at ATA’s annual conference, Canary said the announcement that Graves will eventually take over his post was made to avoid any conflict of interest.

“He made it clear that he is the governor of Kansas and I am the president & CEO of ATA until January 13, 2003,” Canary told Fleet Owner. “Anyone that charges criticism of conflict of interest would be doing it as political agenda.”

Canary said his intention is to let Graves know about issues of importance in the industry.

“I’ll keep him advised of what I am doing, but he won’t interfere in any way with my decisions,” Canary said.

Following a press conference in Topeka, KS, Graves is scheduled to address ATA at its meeting today.

About the Author

Jim Mele

Jim Mele is a former longtime editor-in-chief of FleetOwner. He joined the magazine in 1986 and served as chief editor from 1999 to 2017. 

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Boost truck leasing profits with telematics insights! Reduce maintenance costs, improve uptime, and strengthen customer relationships. Learn how data drives success.
This free guide outlines simple steps for hiring and onboarding commercial drivers while ensuring that you meet Regulation Part 391 and maintain fully compliant driver qualification...
Ready to boost fleet efficiency by up to 50%? Learn how AI-powered dispatch and next-gen tech are transforming TMS workflows, improving driver planning, and streamlining operations...
Gain a strategic edge in today’s evolving fleet landscape. Join us to explore how fuel cards are helping fleet managers cut costs, enhance control, and prepare for an electrified...