NationaLease said that inspirational speakers, such as former Navy SEAL team leader and author Don Mann, were the highlight of its 69th annual meeting in Chicago.

“Our meetings are always praised for the inspirational speakers we offer,” said Dean Vicha, president of NationaLease. “This year’s meeting continued that tradition.”

Mann, the keynote speaker, gave a presentation that focused on the “combat mindset,” an attitude of never quitting that allows attendees to achieve anything. He was followed by Jim Meil, chief economist for the Eaton Corporation, who spoke on the economy, predicting moderate growth for the truck leasing industry in the near future. Rounding out the day’s roster, Brian Uzzi, professor at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, shared insights on creating the right kind of personal and professional networks to maximize impact. The day concluded with a Trade and Technology Fair, representing many of the organization’s suppliers.

The second day of the event centered on NationaLease programs and practices and included an industry panel of NationaLease members discussing a wide range of topics affecting the industry. Speakers on the second day included demographer Ken Gronbach, who shared encouraging projections for the global economy and America’s continued dominance. Also speaking were Kim Beck of Cottingham & Butler, discussing the Affordable Care Act, and Neil Dishman, partner with Jackson Lewis, reviewing the misconceptions employers have regarding employment law.

The meeting also provided the opportunity to announce NationaLease’s new strategic partnership with Universal Technical Institute to help members in their efforts to recruit diesel technicians. Bob Mrzyglod of Aim NationaLease was presented with the award for Top Tech in the organization, and 38 members were awarded at the concluding dinner with the prestigious Leadership Circle Award.

Next year’s meeting will take place at the Fairmont Hotel in Dallas, TX, September 28-29, 2014.