STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. — In keeping with guidelines mandated because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Used Truck Association (UTA) is changing its 21st annual convention to a virtual format this year. The convention will be held online from 9:30 am. To 2:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, Nov. 11.
“The health and well-being of our members is paramount,” said Craig Kendall, UTA president. “By transitioning to a virtual convention, UTA members will be able to enjoy many of the convention’s best features from the safety and comfort of their business or home offices.”
While the schedule is still being finalized there is no doubt the agenda will be an active one, according to Kendall, and will offer the learning opportunities, information sharing and inspiration that UTA convention attendees have always enjoyed.
In addition to an economic keynote delivered by Chris Kuel of Armada Corporate Intelligence, the convention will include a timely workshop presenting strategies for “Digital Selling in Uncertain Times,” along with a “Used Truck Market and Valuation Update” with Steve Tam, Chris Visser and Josh Giles is planned.
A new item on the convention agenda addresses one of today’s challenges — how dealerships can best present and communicate the trucks they have for sale. Victoria Lombardo of Doggett Freightliner — and UTA’s 2019 Rookie of the Year — will highlight best practices for providing a virtual truck walkaround to prospective customers. Tips will include the best ways to film, how to show off all the bells and whistles, and even how best to wrap up the presentation.
As always, the Dealer Group’s Individual Member Awards will be announced, as well as the Lifetime Achievement Award. There will also be a vendor expo.
Moving the convention to a virtual format also allows for new learning and networking experiences. For example, special “rooms” or chat areas will be set up for different groups, such as UTA’s Young Members Committee and the Dealer Group. UTA will also provide plenty of time for unique networking events.
“Undoubtedly, a virtual convention is a different experience,” said Terry Williams, UTA’s convention committee chair. “But one thing will be the same: UTA members will once again come together as a family to prepare for the business year that lies ahead and support one another as they always have.”
Attendees will gather not in any one location, but in hundreds of locations — wherever UTA members choose to join in using their desktops, laptops, iPads or smartphones. For additional information, click here.
For information about business sponsorship opportunities, contact Misty Reis at [email protected].
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.
