As we gather momentum moving into a new year, I am honored to share this message with each of you — our drivers, fleet operators, technicians, educators, logistics professionals, policy advocates and the many others whose daily dedication keeps Kentucky’s economic engine turning. The trucking industry has long been the backbone of the Commonwealth’s prosperity, and our continued strength rests on the unity, resilience and shared vision of our people.

Looking back on the past year, I am filled with pride at what we have accomplished together. 2025 was a year marked not only by progress but also by resolve — resolve to improve safety, strengthen our workforce, modernize our operations and ensure that Kentucky remains a leading force in transportation across the nation. 

The story of trucking in Kentucky has long been one of adaptation and perseverance. Today, we stand at a pivotal moment shaped by technological advancements, shifting economic landscapes and national conversations about supply chains and workforce development. These changes carry challenges. But more importantly, they carry opportunity — the opportunity to lead, innovate and build the future of transportation, rather than simply responding to it.

Our strength lies in solidarity — between large and small carriers, between rural and urban communities, between seasoned professionals and the next generation entering the industry. As we focus on moving forward together, we ensure a unified future for Kentucky’s trucking industry.

Trucking does more than move freight — it moves opportunity. Through charitable partnerships, emergency response efforts and community engagement, we will continue to demonstrate that the trucking industry is a force for good. If the past year taught us anything, it is that unity is not a luxury, it is a necessity. Together, we can ensure that Kentucky’s trucking industry remains not only a driver of commerce but a beacon of leadership for the nation.

Strengthening workforce development will be a big focus in 2026. I am proud to announce a new partnership between KTA and Valvoline. This partnership will provide members with educational opportunities to learn and enhance their teams through training and instructional events. You can read more about this partnership in this issue of the Kentucky Trucker.

Additionally, we are highlighting the importance of strengthening veterans’ career pathways into trucking, supporting the brave men and women who have served our country, and addressing the growing workforce shortage that our industry faces. The ATA, represented by Greg Hamm, recently addressed Congress on this exact issue, encouraging them to streamline the process to support veterans pursuing good-paying careers in the trucking industry. The trucking workforce is evolving, and our recruitment strategies must evolve with it. 

Please take note of our 2026 calendar and save the dates, and sign up early to join us at one of our many events throughout the upcoming year. The 2026 KTA Annual Membership Conference and Expo will be held at The Trail Hotel on Aug. 12-14, 2026, in Bardstown, Kentucky. You won’t want to miss it. If, for some reason, you can’t attend, please consider sending another member of your team. The opportunity to network and learn is something that every member’s business can benefit from. 

As we look ahead to 2026, I am filled with optimism. I see an industry ready to adapt, ready to innovate and ready to lead. I see professionals who are proud of their work and committed to building a safer, stronger, more resilient future. And I see our association standing at the center of that progress, united in purpose and unwavering in vision.

Thank you for your dedication, partnership and belief in the power of what we can achieve together. Together, we can ensure that Kentucky remains a place where individuals can build lifelong careers with pride and purpose. The road ahead is wide open, and we will travel it — shoulder to shoulder — toward a brighter future for trucking in Kentucky and across our great nation.

Sincerely,

Rick Taylor
President
Kentucky Trucking Association