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Fall | 2015
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variety of allied members that can provide you with discounts on items you
need to run your business. We are rolling out a new fuel discount program
shortly, as well as working to build an association retirement plan in advance
of the state mandate. We are meeting with health insurance providers to build
an association health plan as well as partnering on wellness programs for
your employees. OTA members can enjoy special discounts on transportation
products and services; provide you with annual over-size and weight permits;
and make accessible reduced rates on a variety of other services. Watch the
Weekly Express
and the
Dispatch
over the coming months as we
roll out a variety of new product
offerings.
Fourth, your association provides
you with a variety of networking
opportunities. From conventions
to task-force meetings you can
have the opportunity to meet with
your peers and build business relationships that provide value to you for years
to come. The opportunity to exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from
others is one of the primary reasons for trade associations. The Spring Safety
Summit and the Leadership Convention in the fall are two examples where
you can not only get valuable training from presenters, but also learn from
your peers. These networking opportunities can provide you with a wealth
of information, business opportunities, practical advice and professional
assistance. A great return on your investment!
And lastly, the OTA stands as the voice for the trucking industry in Oregon
both internally and externally. As the driver shortage issue continues to grow
nationally, we have the opportunity as your trade association to engage with
community colleges, high schools and job trade fairs to encourage those
looking for employment to consider driving truck. When the media singles
out the trucking industry over congestion or traffic issues, we respond with
messages designed to promote our industry to the public. Reminding them
that “it came to you on a truck” is important to building an alliance with the
public for our industry. These opportunities are sporadic, and often not at our
convenience, but extremely important to promoting and guarding our industry.
It is my request that you, as a valuable member of OTA, will help us spread
the message about the many benefits of membership in this organization.
Help us reach our goal of over 1,000 members in the coming months— an
increase of a little over 300 members! Join us in December at our Holiday
Event at the Pacific NW Truck Museum in Salem and bring a non-member
with you. Help us reach our goal. The benefits of a bigger, stronger association
are yours!
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The OTA stands as the
voice for the trucking
industry in Oregon both
internally and externally.