Steering Change
The Road to a New Learning Pathway
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin, Manager of Communications, and Erica Cormack, Manager of Education, chat with Catherine Williams, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Traffic Safety Services with Alberta’s Transportation & Economic Corridors (TEC).In our conversation, we discuss an overview of the Class 1 Learning Pathway, which the Alberta Government officially launched as of April 1, 2025. Catherine gives us more details on why this change is being implemented, what this new pathway process will look like for prospective drivers, how this affects the goal of commercial driving being recognized as a trade, what the transition period between the current MELT program and Learning Pathways will be, and more!To learn more about the Learning Pathways program, visit the website: https://www.alberta.ca/class-1-learning-pathway On this website, you can also watch the ‘Day in the Life’ videos that Catherine mentions in our conversation.Read the News Release on the Learning Pathway for Class 1 Drivers on the Alberta Government website.In addition, learn more about Transportation and Economic Corridors and their other programs and initiatives on their website.Safety is at the forefront of commercial transportation in Alberta. Join us on May 8, 2025, at the Lethbridge Safety Summit for a full day of content, including a keynote presentation and sessions with information and tangible takeaways relevant to commercial transportation. Network with like-minded transportation professionals and explore our event tradeshow. Get your tickets now, only $30!AMTA's Professional Truck Driving Championship (PTDC), which returns May 31, 2025, celebrates 75 years of Driver Excellence!Commercial drivers ensure goods and services in Alberta get to where they need to go, and this event serves to highlight the skillsets required behind the wheel. Drivers participate in one of five categories: Straight Truck, Pup Trailer Day Cab, Day Cab, Bunk Truck, and B-Train.Driver and Volunteer registration is open now! (registration closes May 23)! Please note registration for both Drivers and Volunteers goes quickly. Learn more about PTDC on our website, or contact events@amta.ca.Commercial drivers play a crucial, yet often overlooked, role in maintaining safety on Alberta’s roads. Each day, they navigate challenging conditions, weather, and traffic to deliver goods safely, while also taking extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of everyone around them. AMTA is introducing an "Angels of the Highway" program designed to celebrate and acknowledge these selfless efforts. This initiative will not only recognize the commitment truck drivers make to road safety but also empower them with the tools and resources to continue their vital work while staying healthy, safe, and supported on the road. Nominate your driver today! If you have any questions on our new Member Value Launch that dropped April 1, please reach out to us membership@amta.ca or visit amta.ca for more details.If you have any questions or concerns about topics related to what was discussed in this episode, or commercial transportation and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Don’t Read Between the Lines
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin, Manager of Communications, and Doug Walton, Senior Advisor, Member Solutions, chat with Constable James Kendrick of the Edmonton Police Service.In our conversation, we discuss something that has become an epidemic, and is affecting the safety of Alberta’s highways and beyond … distracted driving. Constable Kendrick provides examples of distracted driving that he and other officers with EPS have seen on the local roadways, some misconceptions that people have with using smartphones or ELDs and operating vehicles, and the penalties that drivers face when caught driving distracted. When the risk is your own and others’ lives on the road, it is not worth it. Just don’t do it.Since January, AMTA has been behind the wheel of a Distracted Driving campaign. We’re inviting you to take a stand against distracted driving by joining us in taking the pledge to make our highways safer. It’s time for us to come together and protect what matters most – our loved ones, our communities, and our beautiful province. We can make every drive safer by not reading between the lines!By taking the pledge against distracted driving, you’re joining our community that’s committed to safety and positive change. Submit your video or words today and make sure you share with your friends, what are you waiting for? It’s a simple step that could save a life tomorrow.Take the PledgeTickets for AMTA’s Annual Conference, April 8-10, 2025, River Cree Resort and Casino, Edmonton, are available on our website, and tickets are going fast! The deadline to register for the Annual Conference or Awards Celebration is 4pm on April 1, 2025.Please note, our Tradeshow is officially sold out. Some sponsorship opportunities remain, please contact laurie@amta.ca to learn more.AMTA's Professional Truck Driving Championship (PTDC), which returns May 31, 2025, celebrates 75 years of Driver Excellence!Commercial drivers ensure goods and services in Alberta get to where they need to go, and this event serves to highlight the skillsets required behind the wheel. Drivers participate in one of five categories: Straight Truck, Pup Trailer Day Cab, Day Cab, Bunk Truck, and B-Train.Driver and Volunteer registration is open now! (registration closes May 23)! Please note registration for both Drivers and Volunteers goes quickly. Learn more about PTDC on our website, or contact events@amta.ca.Commercial drivers play a crucial, yet often overlooked, role in maintaining safety on Alberta’s roads. Each day, they navigate challenging conditions, weather, and traffic to deliver goods safely, while also taking extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of everyone around them. AMTA is introducing an "Angels of the Highway" program designed to celebrate and acknowledge these selfless efforts. This initiative will not only recognize the commitment truck drivers make to road safety but also empower them with the tools and resources to continue their vital work while staying healthy, safe, and supported on the road. Nominate your driver today! If you have any questions or concerns about topics related to what was discussed in this episode, or commercial transportation and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-associationThank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
PTDC - 75 Years of Driver Excellence
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and long-time planner of the PTDC, Michelle Spacil, chat with Members of our Professional Truck Driving Championship (PTDC) Committee: Matt Geib, PTDC Marshall, Don Achtemichuk, PTDC Co-Marshall, and Don MacDonald, PTDC Track Master.In our conversation, we highlight AMTA's Professional Truck Driving Championship (PTDC) which returns May 31, 2025, celebrating 75 years of Driver Excellence! We discuss how this event works, the specifics of the course and what it takes to navigate it, our collaboration with the Alberta Sheriffs, the importance of having an event that celebrates commercial drivers, and more.Commercial drivers ensure goods and services in Alberta get to where they need to go, and this event serves to highlight the skillsets required behind the wheel. Drivers participate in one of four categories: Straight Truck, Tandem Single-Axle Pup, Tandem Bunk, and B-Train.Driver and Volunteer registration opens Monday, March 17 (registration closes May 23)! Please note registration for both Drivers and Volunteers goes quickly. Learn more about PTDC on our website.Tickets for AMTA’s Annual Conference, April 8-10, 2025, River Cree Resort and Casino, Edmonton, are available on our website, and tickets are going fast! The deadline to register for the Annual Conference or Awards Celebration is 4pm on April 1, 2025.Please note, our Tradeshow is officially sold out. Some sponsorship opportunities remain, please contact laurie@amta.ca to learn more.Commercial drivers play a crucial, yet often overlooked, role in maintaining safety on Alberta’s roads. Each day, they navigate challenging conditions, weather, and traffic to deliver goods safely, while also taking extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of everyone around them. AMTA is introducing an "Angels of the Highway" program designed to celebrate and acknowledge these selfless efforts. This initiative will not only recognize the commitment truck drivers make to road safety but also empower them with the tools and resources to continue their vital work while staying healthy, safe, and supported on the road. Nominate your driver today! If you have any questions or concerns about topics related to what was discussed in this episode, or commercial transportation and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Beyond Compliance: Safety Technology in the Industry
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin, Dave Elniski, and Andy Barnes chat with Steve Keppler, Co-Director of Scopelitis Transportation Consulting.In our conversation, we discuss voluntary safety programs like Beyond Compliance and how facilitating best practices, safety management systems, training and coaching services, and new technologies can help carriers of all sizes to reduce collisions, empower drivers, and improve safety within your company.If you would like to learn more about Scopelitis Transportation Consulting, please contact Steve at skeppler@scopelitisconsulting.com or visit the website: https://scopelitisconsulting.com/. If you are interested in speaking with Andy Barnes, expert on all things Compliance and Regulatory Affairs, please contact him at andrew.barnes@amta.ca.If you are interested in speaking with Dave Elniski, expert on all things Safety and Compliance, (or to ask him more about their fascinating research and white paper) please contact them at dave.elniski@amta.ca. If you would like to hear Dave and Steve talk more about ‘Technology & Safety in Transportation’ live on stage at AMTA’s AMTA’s Annual Conference, join us on April 8-10, 2025, at the River Cree Resort and Casino, Edmonton. Tickets are still available on our website. The deadline to register for the Annual Conference or Awards Celebration is April 1, 2025.Distracted driving is a growing threat on Alberta’s roads, contributing to thousands of convictions and countless preventable collisions each year. At AMTA, we’re taking action to make a difference—starting with you. Through education, awareness, and a shared commitment, we can reduce distracted driving incidents and create safer roadways for everyone. Take the AMTA Distracted Driving Pledge on our website and show your dedication to driving focused. Together, we can change habits, save lives, and set a new standard for safety on the road.If you have any questions or concerns about topics related to what was discussed in this episode, or commercial transportation and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors.Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-associationThank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Hang Back, It's Snowplow Season
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Rob Destree chat with Warren Stasiuk, Safety Manager at Volker Stevin Highways Ltd.In our conversation, we discuss snowplow logistics in Alberta, roadside safety for snowplow drivers and the motoring public, tips and tricks for approaching snowplows on the road, and ways to stay safe on the highways in winter storm conditions.If you would like to learn more about Volker Stevin or snowplow safety, please contact Warren on their website at: https://www.volkerstevin.ca/contact/Visit https://511.alberta.ca/map#:Alerts and select “Snowplows / Maintenance Vehicles” from the filter options on the right of the map to view a live map of snowplows on the highways in AlbertaA law was put into place in September of 2023 to protect roadside workers on Alberta’s highways. When driving in the closest lane to any stopped roadside vehicle with flashing lights activated, drivers must move to the far lane or slow down to 60 km/hr. Read the law here: https://www.alberta.ca/roadside-worker-safety. Learn more about the safety rules and possible fines for passing snowplows on the roads: https://www.alberta.ca/driving-safely-around-snowplows.Watch our snowplow safety videos here: Part One and Part TwoTickets for AMTA’s Annual Conference, April 8-10, 2025, River Cree Resort and Casino, Edmonton, are available on our website, and are already 50% sold out! The deadline to register for the Annual Conference or Awards Celebration is April 1, 2025.Distracted driving is a growing threat on Alberta’s roads, contributing to thousands of convictions and countless preventable collisions each year. At AMTA, we’re taking action to make a difference—starting with you. Through education, awareness, and a shared commitment, we can reduce distracted driving incidents and create safer roadways for everyone. Take the AMTA Distracted Driving Pledge on our website and show your dedication to driving focused. Together, we can change habits, save lives, and set a new standard for safety on the road.Commercial drivers play a crucial, yet often overlooked, role in maintaining safety on Alberta’s roads. Each day, they navigate challenging conditions, weather, and traffic to deliver goods safely, while also taking extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of everyone around them. AMTA is introducing an "Angels of the Highway" program designed to celebrate and acknowledge these selfless efforts. This initiative will not only recognize the commitment truck drivers make to road safety but also empower them with the tools and resources to continue their vital work while staying healthy, safe, and supported on the road. Nominate your driver today! If you have any questions or concerns about topics related to what was discussed in this episode, or commercial transportation and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Safety as a Common Goal
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Michelle Spacil chat with Arlene Ledi-Thom, President and Board of Directors and Chair of the Society, with the Health and Safety Conference Society of Alberta (HSCSA).In our conversation, we discuss the Health and Safety Conference and how AMTA came to be involved, the importance of all the health and safety-related industries coming together to collaborate, and what we can expect from this year’s conference.If you would like to learn more about the Alberta Health and Safety Conference, please contact Arlene at info@hsconference.ca or visit the website: https://hsconference.ca/ Register here to attend the upcoming 22nd Alberta Health and Safety Conference on April 2 & 3, 2025, at the Westin Calgary Airport, and check out the exhibitor, attendee, and sponsorship information.Tickets for AMTA’s Annual Conference, April 8-10, 2025, River Cree Resort and Casino, Edmonton, are available now on our website. The deadline to register for the Annual Conference or Awards Celebration is April 1, 2025.AMTA Award nominations are now open! - Including our Safety Person of the Year Award.Every year, AMTA celebrates the brightest and best of industry who make outstanding contributions to the commercial transportation industry and the Association through these awards. Our winners will be announced at our 2025 Awards Celebration Dinner during our Annual Conference in April. Submit your nominations here. Nominations must be submitted by NOON, Friday, February 14, 2025Distracted driving is a growing threat on Alberta’s roads, contributing to thousands of convictions and countless preventable collisions each year. At AMTA, we’re taking action to make a difference—starting with you. Through education, awareness, and a shared commitment, we can reduce distracted driving incidents and create safer roadways for everyone. Take the AMTA Distracted Driving Pledge on our website and show your dedication to driving focused. Together, we can change habits, save lives, and set a new standard for safety on the road. If you have any questions or concerns about topics related to what was discussed in this episode, or commercial transportation and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Safety is a Journey
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Rob Destree chat with two of our past Safety Person of the Year Award recipients, Christine Groulx, Health and Safety Manager of 4Seasons Transportation (2022), and Dale Howard, Regional Safety Manager for Canada with Flying J Canada Transport (2024), for one of our favourite topics as an association: safety.In our conversation, we discuss the significance of safety in day-to-day operations, the value of supportive workplace culture and training, the importance of driver recruitment and retention, the use of emerging safety technology including cameras, and more.If you would like to learn more about safety at 4Seasons, please contact Christine at ChristineG@4seasonstransport.com or visit their website: https://www.4seasonstransport.com/.If you would like to learn more about safety at Pilot Flying J Canada, please contact Dale at dale.howard@pilottravelcenters.com or visit their website: https://pilotflyingj.com/. Nominate your outstanding driver or AMTA’s Driver of the Month program on our website. Winners receive recognition, a certificate, and more. All of our monthly winners then have an opportunity to win our annual Driver of the Year Award.Tickets for AMTA’s Annual Conference, April 8-10, 2025, River Cree Resort and Casino, Edmonton, are available now on our website. The deadline to register for the Annual Conference or Awards Celebration is April 1, 2025.AMTA Award nominations are now open! - Including our Safety Person of the Year Award.Every year, AMTA celebrates the brightest and best of industry who make outstanding contributions to the commercial transportation industry and the Association through these awards. Our winners will be announced at our 2025 Awards Celebration Dinner during our Annual Conference in April. Submit your nominations here. Nominations must be submitted by NOON, Friday, February 14, 2025Join our growing community on the myAMTA Carrier Member Network.This exclusive platform is designed specifically for AMTA Carrier Members, offering a powerful space to connect, learn, and stay updated on everything industry-related.Request access to this Network directly at my.amta.ca.Please note: This network is exclusively for AMTA Carrier Members. If you’re not yet a Full Carrier Member, you can apply today at amta.ca/become-a-member and join our thriving community.In 2025, AMTA will be presenting three day-long Safety Summits across AlbertaThe Cochrane Safety Summit will take place on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Join us for a full day of content including a keynote presentation, and sessions with WCB, Trucking HR Canada and more. Network with like-minded transportation professionals and explore our event tradeshow. Learn more and register to attend or for a booth on our website.To get involved in other AMTA events, including virtual and in-person Regional Meetings, visit our website to view our events calendar, or support AMTA in other ways and view our 2025 Sponsorship Guide. If you have any questions or concerns about health and safety or other topics related to commercial driving and driver safety, or general membership questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team, including both Helen and Cliff as mentioned in this episode, at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Exploring Safer Roads
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Dave Elniski chat with Brenda Suggett, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Road Safety Professionals (CARSP), for our first episode of 2025, or Season 2 of Steering Change, if you will.In our conversation, we focus on all aspects of road safety and ways Carriers and Drivers can apply research to their operations to improve their safety on the highways.If you would like to learn more about CARSP, please contact Brenda at info@carsp.ca, or visit their website to access the newsletter, resources, and webinars: https://carsp.ca/en/.Below are links to the studies and research mentioned in this episode:Truck Driver TrainingDistracted Driving & Workplace Safety Policies: A Business Case for EmployersAre Truck Driver Training requirements meeting the Safety Needs of the Transportation Industry?Improving truck driver and vulnerable road user interactions through driver training: A subject matter expert interview studyTruck Driver Health and WellnessOccupational health and safety risks in Canadian long-haul truck driversPrevalence and Risk Factors for Depression among Long-Haul Truck Drivers in Western CanadaEvaluation of Best Practice Programs to Improve the Health and Wellness of Truck Drivers in BCMusculoskeletal disorders among Canadian truck drivers: Results from an intercept studyLong haul Truck Driver CarriersOccupational health and safety risks in Canadian long-haul truck driversMusculoskeletal disorders among Canadian truck drivers: Results from an intercept studyPrevalence and Risk Factors for Depression among Long-Haul Truck Drivers in Western CanadaBus Carriers
A Year of Steering Change
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Michelle Spacil (Steering Change’s very first guest), chat with Tim Bennett, AMTA Board Chair, for our special Steering Change One-Year Anniversary episode. In our conversation, we look back on the year that we have had, both at Steering Change, and at AMTA.Having an AMTA Podcast has been a dream for many years. We wanted a different way of promoting AMTA initiatives and important takeaways for everyone involved in commercial transportation, especially our Membership and commercial drivers, and what better way than to be broadcasted from truck radios traveling across Canada and beyond.Our very first podcast episode premiered on December 15, 2023, and with the efforts of AMTA Staff and Industry friends, here we are one year later. Since our inaugural episode, Steering Change has reached the top 5 of the Canadian Business News category on the Apple Podcast charts, published 27 episodes with more than 1700 downloads, welcomed more than 60 guests and co-hosts combined, and shared information and knowledge with the goal of empowering and educating through accurate, trustworthy, need-to-know information, that will help you safely succeed in industry.Have you joined myAMTA? With the launch of the myAMTA Carrier Member Network, we have been thrilled with the number of Carrier Members that have joined us already on the platform! This exclusive platform is designed specifically for AMTA Carrier Members, offering a powerful space to connect, learn, and stay updated on everything industry-related. Request access to this Network directly at my.amta.ca. Please note: If you’re not yet a Full Carrier Member, you can apply today at amta.ca/become-a-member and join our thriving community.Tickets for AMTA’s Annual Conference, April 8-10, 2025, are available now on our website. Early bird ticket sale ends December 31, 2024.Are you interested in getting more involved with AMTA's events? Become one of our incredible sponsors! Sponsorship opportunities are available at all levels. View our 2025 Sponsorship Guide! Email laurie.tod@amta.ca with all inquiries.Visit the event page on our website to view our list of exciting events coming up in 2025, including our Annual Conference, Regional Meetings, Draw Down Dinner, Driver Appreciation and more!AMTA is seeking interested members to advise on our Draw Down Dinner committee. Interested members will be required to fill out a Terms of Reference to participate. If you would like to share your expertise on building this 2025 event please reach out to marcom@amta.ca by January 15, 2024.AMTA Award nominations are now open! Every year, AMTA celebrates the brightest and best of industry who make outstanding contributions to the commercial transportation industry and the Association through these awards. Our winners will be announced at our 2025 Awards Celebration Dinner during our Annual Conference in April. Submit your nominations here. Nominations must be submitted by NOON, Friday, February 14, 2025Learn more about Learning Pathways for Class 1 on the Alberta Government’s website.Interested in our Certified Transportation Safety Professional (CTSP) program? Visit our Education page on our website to learn more, and view the 2025 Education Course calendar while you’re there.Learn more about our Certificate of Recognition (COR) program on our website.Please visit our Industry Advancement page on our website to view our projects, including AZETEC, and contact our team if you are interested in Hydrogen Vehicle Demonstrations and trials.Learn more about our Advocacy efforts and our Compliance and Regulatory Affairs (CRA) department on our website, and read some of our Advocacy wins for the year in our AMTA Advocates blog.If you have any questions or concerns about commercial transportation, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Mind on the Move
**Trigger warning: this episode contains discussions around mental health and brief mentions of PTSD, past trauma, and suicide.AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Doug Walton chat with Kris Marks, founder and CEO of VĪV Mental Health, for the fourth and final episode of our special edition four-part series: Road to Wellness. These episodes are dedicated to the health and well-being of the commercial drivers who keep goods on the move 24/7.In our conversation, we address an important topic that is often overlooked in our industry, and that is our mental health. Our goal with this discussion is to raise more awareness about mental health, break the ice and reduce the stigma, inspire listeners to foster healthy support systems and connections, and identify when and how to seek help.If you are experiencing isolation and need help, there are many resources available: https://www.vivmentalhealth.com/resources/. Government of Canada provided by Health Canada: Employee Assistance Program (EAP)If you would like to learn more about VĪV Mental Health, please visit vivmentalhealth.com/, or contact them at info@www.vivmentalhealth.com. AMTA Award nominations are now open! Every year, AMTA celebrates the brightest and best of industry who make outstanding contributions to the commercial transportation industry and the Association through these awards. Our winners will be announced at our 2025 Awards Celebration Dinner during our Annual Conference in April. Submit your nominations here. Nominations must be submitted by NOON, Friday, February 14, 2025If you have any questions or concerns about this or other topics related to commercial driving and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Sleep Strategies
AMTA's Doug Walton and Dave Elniski chat with Rodolfo Giacoman, Fatigue Management Specialist at the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), for the third episode of our special edition four-part series: Road to Wellness. These episodes are dedicated to the health and well-being of the commercial drivers who keep goods on the move 24/7.In our conversation, we delve deeper into the importance of sleep and fatigue management for commercial drivers, and actions that can be taken by drivers and all parties involved to reduce risk and improve driver safety. Proper fatigue management is the responsibility of more than just the driver.If you are interested in taking the free training provided by the NAFMP on their website, including Module 3 which Rodolfo mentions, take the training here.The webinars mentioned in the episode can be found on the NAFMP website here.If you would like to learn more about the North American Fatigue Management Program (NAFMP), please visit https://nafmp.org/. To learn more about the CVSA, please visit www.cvsa.org/ or contact Rodolfo at rodolfo.giacoman@cvsa.org.If you have any questions or concerns about this or other topics related to commercial driving and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team at memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Fueling Health on the Road
AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin and Doug Walton chat with Dr. Mark Manera, founder and CEO of Offshift, for the second episode of our special edition four-part series: Road to Wellness. These episodes are dedicated to the health and well-being of the commercial drivers who keep goods on the move 24/7.In our conversation, we want to help change the narrative, provide some tangible and driver-friendly takeaways for improved health behind the wheel, and as Dr. Mark says, put the ‘health’ back in ‘health and safety.’ If you would like to learn more about Offshift, please visit: https://offshift.ai/.If you are interested in learning more about the study ‘Improving the Health and Working Conditions of LongHaul Truck Drivers in Alberta’, prepared for the Government of Alberta: Occupational Health and Safety Branch, read it here.Visit our Micro-Learn Library on our website and our YouTube page for instructional videos that seek to help promote safety in the workplace: Psychosocial Hazards (PSH), Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSI), and Slips, Trips, and Falls (STF). If you have any questions or concerns on this or other topics related to commercial driving and driver safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team: memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Where Technology Meets Safety
In this episode, hosts Kelsey Hipkin and Doug Walton chat with Justin Barber, co-founder of my-eforce, for the first episode of our special edition four-part series: Road to Wellness. These episodes are dedicated to the health and well-being of the commercial drivers who keep goods on the move 24/7.In our conversation, we discuss how technology can contribute to driver safety while out on the road and within the cab.If you would like to learn more about my-eforce, please visit: https://www.my-eforce.com/ or contact Justin Barber: jbarber@my-eforce.com.For more information on this and other safety technology, please do not hesitate to contact our Member Services team: memberservices@amta.ca.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Road to Wellness: a Special Four-Part Series
Steering Change: Helping you navigate the commercial transportation industry in Alberta, and beyond. Powered by the Alberta Motor Transport Association.Join AMTA's Kelsey Hipkin, Doug Walton, and many special guests this fall for a special edition four-part series: Road to Wellness. These episodes are dedicated to the health and well-being of the commercial drivers who keep goods on the move 24/7.—Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association
Shifting into Gear for Winter
In this episode, host Kelsey Hipkin chats with AMTA’s Cliff Litke (Senior Advisor, Member Services), Rob Destree (Senior Instructor, Driver Development), and Doug Walton (Senior Advisor, Member Solutions) to discuss winter preparedness as we will inevitably move from this stunning fall into the clutches of our Alberta winters, and with that comes challenging winter driving.In our conversation, we cover how carriers and their drivers prepare for winter roads and conditions, and what items drivers should include in and on their vehicles for winter readiness.If you have any questions and would like to contact Cliff, Doug, Rob, or AMTA to learn more, please email: memberservices@amta.ca. Or you can also reach out to us with questions by emailing media@amta.ca. Resources for road conditions across Western CanadaAlberta: 511 - 511.alberta.caBritish Columbia: Drive BC - www.drivebc.caSaskatchewan: Highway Hotline - hotline.gov.sk.caManitoba: 511 - www.manitoba511.caRob also mentions the Waze app as another source for traffic conditions in Alberta. Watch our videos in partnership with Volker Stevin on sharing the road with snowplows: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy7kvThb02Mhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hc8f_h-yTWA&t=6s Are you interested in learning more about AMTA’s Truck Driving Simulator Training? Visit our website: amta.ca/simulator-training. Be prepared. Be patient. And be safe out there! Winter is coming.Thank you to all our listeners who engaged on social media with our Best Big Rig Movie Ever Bracket. We greatly enjoyed reviewing these movies and look forward to doing it again. Look out for part 2 coming next summer. Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Navigating the System
In this episode, hosts Kelsey Hipkin and Dave Elniski (AMTA’s Industry Advisor, Safety and Compliance), chat with Deborah Nilsen, Industry Specialist, Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) - Alberta. AMTA is very fortunate to work with Deborah and her counterparts in advising on disability management in the workplace.In our conversation, we discuss the support services that WCB offers to employers and workers for navigating the system, where to start for improving disability management, involving your workers in the process, and Deborah's upcoming presentation at AMTA's GP Safety Summit.To contact the WCB:If your main operations are North of Hwy 11 in Red Deer your contact is:Deborah Nilsen780-498-7647Deborah.nilsen@wcb.ab.caIf your main operations are South of Hwy 11 in Red Deer your contact is:Leigh-Ann Moroz 403-517-6124Leigh-ann.moroz@wcb.ab.caIf your main operations are outside of the province and you have an Alberta WCB account please contact either one. If you would like to contact Dave or AMTA to learn more, please email: memberservices@amta.ca.Interested in learning more about WCB?Visit the WCB website for various seminars: https://www.wcb.ab.ca/resources/for-employers/seminars-and-workshops/.View the myWCB portal: https://my.wcb.ab.ca/ess/signin.Check out the WCB Employer App: https://wcb.ab.ca/resources/for-employers/online-services.html.WCB Resource: 99 Things to Do When There’s Nothing To Do.WCB Resource: Modified Duty Task List.Also included in this episode:Our next AMTA Regional Meetings, as frequently attended by Deborah or Leigh-Ann, will be in Calgary on October 2, and in Edmonton on October 8.Register for our Grande Prairie Safety Summit on October 10, and hear Deborah speak on Understanding Workplace Psychological Injuries in the Transportation Industry.AMTA Resource: Psychosocial Hazards (PSH) micro-learns. AMTA Resource: Psychosocial Safety: Shifting from Equality to Equity, written by Dave Elniski.AMTA Resource: Education and Training courses.Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our Best Big Rig Movie Ever Bracket. Vote now on social media for our semi-finalists.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Helping Employers Up Their Game
In this episode, hosts Robyn Betts and Michelle Spacil chat with Craig Faucette, Chief Program Officer at Trucking HR Canada (THRC). AMTA has long worked closely with Craig and the THRC team, and in this conversation, we discuss our combined efforts to address the driver shortage, our collaboration on Western Women with Drive, and more. THRC’s research in industry around human resources (HR) issues, the resources developed and available for employers to strengthen and diversify their workforces, and the programs and projects at THRC focused on aiding employers with their best HR practices are all covered.Also included in this episode:This episode is released in conjunction with the conclusion of the 2024 Driver Appreciation Days. If you would like to learn more, or get involved next year, check out: https://www.amta.ca/events/amta-driver-appreciation-days-2024 Register to attend our inaugural AMTA Industry Innovations EXPO happening on September 26 in Edmonton: https://www.amta.ca/events/amta-industry-innovations-expo-2024 Hear from Craig in person at our Grande Prairie Safety Summit on October 10: https://www.amta.ca/events/grande-prairie-safety-summit-2024 Register now for Western Women with Drive on October 22 in St. Albert: https://www.amta.ca/events/amtas-2024-western-women-with-drive-conference Interested in learning more about THRC?If you have a question, reach out to THRC: theteam@truckinghr.comRead the Labour Market Information Reports: https://truckinghr.com/labour-market-information/ Learn more about the Career ExpressWay: https://truckinghr.com/career-expressway-thrc/ Review the THRC Truck Driver Training Resources: https://truckinghr.com/truck-driver-training-resources/ Learn more about the Top Fleet Employer (TFE) Program: https://truckinghr.com/top-fleet-employers/ Top Fleet Employers Awards Gala: https://truckinghr.com/event/top-fleet-employers-gala-2024/ HR Circle Check: https://truckinghr.com/hr-circle-check/ Learn more about Women in Trucking: https://truckinghr.com/women-in-trucking/ Review more resources and reports: https://truckinghr.com/hr-training-resources/ Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our Best Big Rig Movie Ever Bracket. That is a wrap on round 1. Stay tuned on our socials for round 2 and vote for which movie you think should move on!Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
School Buses: Driving the Future
In this episode, hosts Kelsey Hipkin and Kristin Picken (AMTA’s Advisor, Member Solutions (South)), chat with Katie Marchant, Area Safety Manager with First Student Transportation and Director with ASBCA, and Mark Critch, President of the Alberta School Bus Contractor’s Association (ASBCA). With the approach of fall comes the school year and a familiar sight on our roads: school buses. Our conversation discusses school bus safety and seatbelts, recruitment and retention, perceptions of school bus drivers as professional drivers, and more.If you would like to learn more about the ABSCA you can visit their website: https://asbca.ca/, or contact Mark at: markc@sparksman.ca.If you are interested in attending the Town Hall, you can find more information on the Alberta Student Transportation Advisory Council website: https://astac.ca/town-hall-meeting/ Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our Best Big Rig Movie Ever Bracket. Let us know on social media which of our two films deserves to move on to the next bracket. This is the end of round 1 and we will be moving on to round 2 shortly. Stay tuned on our socials!Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
AMTA’s Inaugural Industry Innovation EXPO
In this episode, Kelsey Hipkin (Manager of Communications), chats with AMTA’s Terri Johnson (Manager of Industry Advancement) and Erin Horb (Technology Advisor & Hydrogen Specialist), to introduce AMTA’s inaugural Industry Innovations EXPO coming up in Edmonton on September 26. This event will invite attendees to explore the forefront of low and zero-emission, electric, and alternative-fuel commercial vehicles, alongside cutting-edge emerging technologies and the industry professionals leading the charge. As well, Terri and Erin speak to a few of the many exciting projects our Industry Advancement team is working on.Register for our Industry Innovations EXPO on our website: https://www.amta.ca/events/amta-industry-innovations-expo-2024.Learn more about the various projects from our Industry Advancement team mentioned in this episode, including our exciting AZETEC project on our website: https://www.amta.ca/innovation-projects.Are you interested in learning more or participating in our Hydrogen Commercial Vehicle Demonstrations project? We want to hear from you! Visit our website: https://www.amta.ca/hydrogen-commercial-vehicle-demonstrations, and contact Jamie King at jamie.king@amta.ca to express your interest. We would also love for you to chat with one of our team members at the event in September.Learn more about the Zero Emission Truck Testbed collaboration here: https://www.amta.ca/news/alberta-motor-transport-association-collaborates-on-zero-emission-truck-testbed.Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our Best Big Rig Movie Ever Bracket so far. Don't forget to follow along on social media to see which movie wins this round.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
Telling Industry’s Stories
In this episode, hosts Kelsey Hipkin and Dave Elniski (AMTA’s Industry Advisor, Safety and Compliance), chat with Leo Barros, Associate Editor, Today’s Trucking, to discuss Leo’s history as a journalist, writer, and a former long-haul truck driver, as well as his love of storytelling and reporting on the stories that matter most to the commercial transportation industry in Canada.Read the stories discussed in today's episode at TruckNews.com, as well as the many other print and video stories on their website, and sign up for their newsletter.If you have a story idea or a question, please don't hesitate to reach out to Leo at Truck News: leo@newcom.ca.Subscribe to AMTA's bi-weekly eNews on our website here.If you have any questions about safety management, legislation, or other topics discussed today, please get in touch with Dave at memberservices@amta.ca.Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our Best Big Rig Movie Ever Bracket so far. Don't forget to engage in our poll and follow along on social media to see which movie moves on to the next round.Listeners, don’t forget about the AMTA Mailbag! We want to hear from you with your industry queries. DM us with your questions and we will answer via the AMTA Mailbag segment in future episodes or directly via our team of advisors. Join the conversation at: Web: amta.ca X: AMTA_ca Instagram: amta_ca/ Facebook: AlbertaMotorTransportAssociationLinkedIn: alberta-motor-transport-association Thank you for taking the time to listen, we encourage you to share this episode with those in your network who would receive value from our conversation. Make sure to hit that subscribe button and have a safe day!
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