Truck Topics

The 2008 Expediter Workshops

The 2008 schedule of Expediter Workshops is set and the expedited trucking industry's most comprehensive seminar series is ready to roll!

The Expediter Workshops Series had its beginning in the early part of this decade and over the years has developed into the most respected and widely-attended introductory seminar series about the fast-freight business.

With a roster of dedicated, professional presenters and speakers, the Expediter Workshops not only give an overview of the opportunities for owner-operators in the expedite industry, but also a "nuts and bolts" analysis of what it takes to get started and become successful in this fast-paced vocation.

This year's Series will travel to six locations in the southeast and midwest and whether you're a veteran in the business or a prospective owner-operator, the Workshops are THE events to attend - for basic information, for business tips and for enhancement of your bottom line.

There will be presentations that cover truck maintenance, insurance, financing and other topics affecting your business. These topics are addressed by guest speakers who have truly been there and done that and are happy to share their knowledge and experience with those considering a career in expedited trucking.

"We have a great schedule of Workshops for 2008," says Lawrence McCord, General Manager of Expediters Online and managers of the Series, "and we fully expect to see the great response we enjoyed in 2007."

"We took the expedited trucking message to six midwest cities in 2007, including a two-day stop at the Expedite Expo. We had great attendance at these free events and we have to express our appreciation to not only the current and prospective expediters for supporting our efforts, but to our sponsors as well."

"I also want to congratulate Micki McIntyre for a job very well done. Micki, we couldn't do it without you!"

Ms. McIntyre, Expediters Online's Director of New Business Development and chief organizer of the Workshop Series says, "When we hear the positive comments from the attendees about the events, it makes it all worthwhile. I truly believe that we are helping people who are looking into this business by providing real-world information from the expedited trucking professionals."

Echoing McCord's comments, McIntyre expresses her appreciation of the Series sponsors': "They make it all possible. Without their support and assistance, we could not 'take this show on the road.' The Workshops have given us the opportunity to meet some fantastic people in this industry and we're grateful for all they do!"

"We've got a great lineup of real industry pros who will present the information one needs to be a success in this business. In particular, there will be information of interest for couples searching for a profitable 2nd or 3rd career opportunity as expedited owner operators."

She adds, "The Workshops are designed to strip away the mystery of expediting and to shed light on the dynamics of how to improve your business's bottom line."

"It's a great way for people to spend a few hours and investigate a whole new career opportunity and for those who are already in the business, it's the chance to network with carriers, dealers and product representatives to improve the owner-operator's business."

The following is a sampling of the speakers' topics:

John Mueller
Director of Safety
Premium Transportation Logistics, LLC, Toledo, OH
Topic: "Expedite Trucking 101 –The Essentials"

Mueller says, "I try to define what expediting is and what differentiates it from general trucking. I take it a step further and try to prepare potential contractors for some of the things that they're going to encounter."

"I try to be inclusive and give the attendees more than just what the title of the presentation would indicate. I want to give them an idea of things they should be aware of when they come into this industry."

He continues, "For example, I talk about spec'ing a vehicle, how dispatch works, physicals and drug screens, permits and the like.

I also talk about insurance and sources for the proper coverage, taxes, load securement, etc. I think it's important to give the listener an idea of the business and what the job entails."

Dave Corfman
Fleet Owner
Panther Expedite, Jacksonville, FL
Topic: "Keys to Successful Business Operations"

"I concentrate on the dollars and cents aspect of the business," explains Corfman. "To that end, I try to stress how important it is for the owner-operator to know his cost-per-mile and its effect on his bottom line."

"In my sessions, I deal with tax issues including what to set aside to pay those taxes, independent contractor status, personal and business start-up costs along with health and accident insurance questions."

"I also touch on some of the pitfalls brought on by bad habits on the road. For example, I mention the wisdom of buying a coffee maker vs. buying the $3.00 cup of coffee in the truckstop."

"I talk about business practices in expedited trucking and pitfalls to be aware of."

The Series lineup of speakers also includes:

Randy Harris
Expediting Consultant
Expedite Recruiters, Inc.
“Finding a carrier and what to expect from a recruiter”

Jon Mosier
Expedite Truck Specialist
Freightliner of Knoxville, Knoxville, TN
Topic: “Preparing to purchase an expedite truck”

Heath Wood
General Manager
Middle Georgia Freightliner-Isuzu, Macon, GA
Topic: “Behind-the-Scene Look at Maintenance”

John LaLonde
Expedite Truck Specialist
Fyda Freightliner, Columbus, OH
Topic: "The Road Map to Buying and Financing Your Truck"

Kyle Ochs
General Manager
Expedite Solutions, LLC, Indianapolis, IN
Topic: "Your 2008 Expedite Career Path"

Ellen Voie
Retention Expert
Green Bay, WI
Topic: "A Drivers Roundtable"

Following the workshop, you will get the opportunity to meet with key carrier recruiters and truck dealers -- the ultimate networking experience! You can ask questions and learn more about the career you are pursuing.

Join us at the Holiday Inn Select in Knoxville, TN on Thursday February 21, 2008 for a full 4 hours on expedite trucking information, career information and tips.

Visit the Expediter Workshop schedule for specific speakers, locations, dates and times. See you there!