2025 MTC Q1 Meeting

Register for the first quarter meeting of the Arkansas Trucking Association Maintenance & Technology Council to be held Thursday, March 6 at 10:30 am at ATA Headquarters, 1401 W Capitol Ave, Suite 445, Little Rock, AR 72201.

2025 MTC Meetings Sponsored By

 

Session 1: Advanced diagnostics train the trainer

Presented by Chad Haslett, Noregon

In this "Train the Trainer" session for conducting diagnostic training using JPRO and Noregon tools, Chad Haslett will equip technician trainers with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively transfer expertise to the shop floor. The session aims to enhance trainers' understanding of how to utilize JPRO software for diagnostics, ensuring they can guide technicians in accurately identifying and resolving vehicle issues. Trainers will learn to leverage fault guidance resources, such as troubleshooting guides and wiring diagrams, to facilitate efficient problem-solving.

The session will also cover the use of Next Step Repair solutions, enabling trainers to instruct technicians on following structured, step-by-step repair processes. This approach not only improves repair accuracy but also instills confidence in technicians when handling complex repairs. Trainers will be introduced to the concept of Technician as a Service, providing insights on how to offer expert assistance and support to technicians during challenging repair tasks.

Haslett will emphasize the importance of data monitoring and sub-system diagnostics. Trainers will learn to teach technicians how to utilize these tools to track vehicle performance and identify potential issues promptly, ultimately reducing vehicle downtime.

By the end of the session, trainers will be equipped with the necessary skills to improve repair times, enhance service quality and effectively train technicians in the use of advanced diagnostic tools and techniques. This comprehensive training ensures that maintenance directors, shop supervisors and garage managers can confidently lead their teams towards achieving higher efficiency and effectiveness in vehicle diagnostics and repairs.

As a Noregon sales professional, Chad Haslett brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, specializing in medium and heavy-duty diagnostic software solutions. His career began with the ownership of a small trucking company, which he successfully ran for over 20 years from 2000 to 2021. This hands-on experience provided a deep understanding of the challenges and needs within the trucking industry.

Haslett graduated from the NWTI diesel technologies program in 2009 and transitioned into education and fleet management, teaching a diesel program at Gentry High School and serving as a fleet manager and diesel technician from 2021 to 2024.

He joined Noregon Systems in April 2024, where he helps clients enhance vehicle performance and efficiency through innovative diagnostic solutions.

Session 2: ATA-MTC initiatives

Presented by Sarah Newman, Arkansas Trucking Association

In the second session, ATA's Sarah Newman will present on the workforce and education initiatives championed by the Arkansas Trucking Association Maintenance & Technology Council. Newman will provide a short history of the council's work in preparing the next generation of technicians to serve the industry. Attendees will get updates on the Technician Curriculum Advisory Committee, Carl Tapp Technician Scholarship Fund, and the Technician Championship. Newman will discuss challenges the initiatives face and offer ways for ATA members to engage in the work of addressing the technician shortage.

In addition to MTC's current initiatives, new opportunities (launching a FutureTech competition) and trucking's partnership with SkillsUSA will also be part of the conversation.

Maintenance leaders at all levels are invited to join the discussion and connect to a committee, volunteer to serve, or just learn about all the ways MTC is working for a well-trained workforce.

Sarah Newman has served as director of operations at the Arkansas Trucking Association for 22 years, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's growth and success. As a driving force behind the association's educational initiatives, Newman spearheaded the development of the 501(c)(3) Technician Scholarship Fund, creating pathways for high school graduates pursuing careers in medium and heavy-duty truck technology. Her work with the Technician Curriculum Advisory Committee has been instrumental in helping Arkansas schools achieve accreditation, strengthening the state's technical education infrastructure.

Newman's expertise spans comprehensive event planning, industry-specific technology and maintenance oversight, and strategic resource allocation across various industry subgroups. Currently, Newman is focused on advancing technical education programs in Arkansas, including development of championship-level opportunities for future technicians.

Council Attendance Policy

In order to provide proper accommodations, we must guarantee a headcount in advance.

For ATA members who submit meeting registration by the March 3 deadline and attend, there is no fee. ATA members who attend without registering or register but do not attend will be charged $25. Out of courtesy, if you decide to attend after the registration deadline, please contact ATA. We welcome guests and non-members to Council meetings for $50.

Refunds and Cancellations:

Deadline to register is Monday, March 3. For more information regarding administrative polices such as refunds and/or complaints, please contact our office at 501-372-3462 or send an email to getinfo@arkansastrucking.com.