“It’s interesting how the associations have transitioned,” Ward told FleetOwner during a 2022 interview at his office in Alexandria, Virginia, recalling that he first attended a TCA event in 1986. He was with Bowman for 30 years, spending the last 20 as president and CEO. And he said he wanted to renew TCA’s focus on strengthening its influence on government, expanding its programs, and deepening its engagement with members.
“When I retired from D.M. Bowman on April 1, I told my executive team that I wished I was 20 years younger. Because I think the best days are ahead for people in this business, especially for companies that focus on taking care of their associates inside their walls, the professional driving employees, and their technicians,” he told FleetOwner three years ago.
TCA has advocated for carriers since its inception as the Contract Carrier Conference in 1938, undergoing various mergers and name changes until it became the Truckload Carriers Association in 1997. Its members are all truckload carriers, representing operators of more than 220,000 trucks, which produce annual revenues exceeding $40 billion.
“Jim’s leadership has had a lasting impact on TCA and the entire truckload industry,” said Karen Smerchek, TCA chairman and president of Veriha Trucking. “This transition reflects the next step in a carefully considered succession plan, and we are deeply grateful for the stability and strength Jim has brought to the Association.”
TCA has established a search committee tasked with identifying Ward’s successor. The committee is committed to selecting a leader who will carry forward TCA’s mission and values, while advancing growth, strengthening relationships in Washington, and embracing innovation and technology.
The TCA president serves as the chief executive officer of the organization, responsible for providing visionary leadership, advancing TCA’s mission, and ensuring long-term growth and sustainability. Reporting directly to the officers, the president is a strategic leader with deep knowledge of the trucking industry, proven experience in association management, strong advocacy skills, and the ability to engage members and stakeholders at all levels.
The search process is now underway. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit resumes and cover letters to [email protected]. You can find a complete job description here.
