The American Trucking Associations posthumously honored John Conkin, the former managing director of BMO Transportation and past president of the Allied Committee for the Trucking Industry with the S. Earl Dove Highway Award.

“John’s knowledge of the industry along with his ability to identify a problem and quickly find a solution is why so many companies in our industry are successful,” said ATA Immediate Past Chairman Kevin Burch, president of Jet Express and the presenter of the award. “John built strong relationships in his company, with his customers and certainly with ATA.”

ATA’s highest honor, the S. Earl Dove Highway Award recognizes individuals whose contributions of time, energy and intelligence have advanced the interests of the trucking industry and the ATA federation. The award is named for former ATA Chairman and former owner of AAA Cooper Transportation.

“It is ATA’s great honor to acknowledge the contributions of someone who gave so much to our industry and our association – and did so with kindness and a smile on his face,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “John understood the importance of getting involved and pushing for solutions, so it is perfect that his legacy was honored today during our Legends Panel.”

While serving as president of ACT I from 2013 through 2014, Conkin led the efforts to build a stronger partnership with ATA, revamping sponsorships to allow both the association and membership to thrive. Under his leadership, ACT I was on the ground floor in helping to build the foundation for Trucking Moves America Forward, the industry-wide image movement. Conkin participated in discussions in a thoughtful manner and with a gentle demeanor, always explaining the way an improved image of the industry would benefit all sectors of trucking.

Conkin passed away in June after a prolonged battle with cancer. His wife Sandra, attended ATA’s Management Conference and Exhibition and accepted the award on his behalf.
Category: Industry News