EVENTS & EDUCATION

Join us for breakfast and networking  with other trucking professionals as industry leaders share valuable insights on the current state of the industry, updates on trucking regulations, and strategies for owner-operators and small fleets to optimize their operations and overcome any challenges in 2025.

Admission is $100. Attendees and Exhibitors can add this event to their badge during Registration.
More Info at Opening Breakfast

An elite competition hosting the best of the best custom show trucks in North America. More info at PKY Championship.

Gain insights on safety, hot topics, and more.

This session will provide insights for aspiring owner-operators and freight professionals seeking to obtain their authority and become a carrier. Key topics include obtaining your operating authority and strategies for building strong, trust-based relationships with brokers for consistent, profitable loads. I will give practical tips and real-world insights; this session will equip you with the tools to take control of your career in the trucking world.

Freight fraud is an escalating threat to the logistics sector, causing significant financial losses and operational disruptions. In this session, Erika from DAT Freight & Logistics and John from SOCRadar will discuss how extended threat intelligence can help combat fraud and improve security within the industry. The session will cover the increasing prevalence and impact of freight fraud, highlighting tactics such as identity theft, phishing, and other fraudulent activities. Additionally, the speakers will explain how cyber threat intelligence tools can proactively detect and prevent fraud through real-time monitoring and deep web surveillance. Attendees will also learn practical steps and best practices for enhancing security, such as improving identity verification processes and providing employee training to better recognize and respond to fraud risks.

Join Amazon Relay and Amazon Freight Partner for an exclusive discussion where industry leaders will showcase Amazon’s innovative transportation opportunities. Led by Senior Manager Aviad from Amazon Transportation Services, this session features a compelling conversation with Joe Russo, a successful Amazon Relay Carrier, and Kevin Howard Amazon Freight Partner who will share their entrepreneurial journeys in transportation. They’ll discuss how Amazon’s cutting-edge technology and comprehensive benefits have empowered them to expand their operations and achieve sustainable growth. This session offers valuable insights for both seasoned trucking professionals and industry newcomers looking to accelerate their business success with Amazon’s support.

In the freight industry, brokers often get a bad rap, but in reality, they play a crucial role in helping carriers maximize their earnings and expand their networks. This session, led by industry expert Brent, will show you how to partner effectively with brokers and carriers to build a freight network that brings the greatest return to your business.

Brent will be joined on stage by seasoned professional Tyler Johnson, Director of Operations at Mercer Transportation, who will share their insights on the mutually beneficial relationships between brokers and carriers. Together, they will provide practical advice on:

• How to establish strong partnerships with brokers for better freight opportunities
• Tips for carriers to maximize earnings while maintaining healthy relationships with brokers
• Key strategies for expanding your network and leveraging new market opportunities
• The benefits of working with brokers to streamline operations and reduce empty miles
• How to manage risk and maintain profitability when working with multiple partners

This session is a must-attend for carriers looking to optimize their freight operations, increase revenue, and build long-term relationships with brokers that benefit all parties. Learn from the experts and leave with actionable strategies to strengthen your freight network in 2025 and beyond!

During these challenging Times in Trucking, sharing tips and tools for success is vital. During this session, we’ll review updated industry insights, discuss strategies for more engaging and efficient driver recruiting and recommended retention practices.

Every year, cargo theft and spoilage cost the logistics industry billions, but what if your trucks could talk to prevent it? With cutting-edge IoT technology you gain real-time visibility, critical alerts, and actionable insights to protect your cargo and minimize waste. And even better? No downtime for installations or calibrations? Join the movement to revolutionize logistics and ensure every shipment arrives safely, sustainably, and on time.

More than 30 acres of FREE truck parking located less than one mile from the Kentucky Expo Center with a free shuttle to and from the Expo Center during show hours. More info at Truck Parking Community.

The trucking industry has faced a rollercoaster over the past few years—are you making the most of it?

If you’re in trucking, you know that costs are rising, profits are shrinking, and uncertainty is the new normal. But did you know that insurance is one of the few major expenses you can control? With the right strategies, you can save thousands—even hundreds of thousands—without sacrificing coverage.

March 27th at 4:00pm, I’ll share my firsthand experience navigating the insurance market, from the pandemic boom to the freight downturn, and how you can turn these industry shifts into an advantage.

What You’ll Learn:
Industry Trends & What’s Next – The trucking insurance landscape has been volatile, with rates skyrocketing one year and stabilizing the next. I’ll break down what’s driving these shifts and how you can prepare for 2025 and beyond.

How to Shop Smart & Save Big – Many truckers stick with the same insurance provider year after year, losing out on major savings. I’ll show you how to take control of your policy, what to look for in an agent, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

The Cost of Complacency – Insurance companies shift their pricing strategies constantly. If you’re not shopping your coverage annually, you could be leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the table. I’ll show you exactly how to stay ahead.

Market Assignments & The Truth About “Cheaper” Policies – Not all policies are created equal. I’ll explain how market assignments impact your options and why the lowest price isn’t always the best deal.

I will close out with a Q&A session for any questions you may have regarding your trucking insurance.

Why You Should Attend:

I’ve been in the industry since 2016, and I’ve seen the challenges truckers face firsthand. From the COVID-era trucking boom to the recent market downturn, I’ve helped fleets (big and small) weather the storm and come out stronger. Whether you’re a small business looking to cut costs or a larger fleet managing risk, this session will give you the tools to protect your business and your bottom line.

You’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to your insurance—make sure you’re taking full advantage.

Don’t miss this session at MATS 2025—your wallet will thank you!

If you have an aging workforce and want to learn about all things “Next Gen” you won’t want to miss this session. We will give practical ideas on what Gen Z looks for when job searching, what kind of company they want to work for, and how to retain them. Let us help you attract the next generation by helping you form a workforce strategy.

Mike will talk about the 4 steps all truckers need to take in building a successful retirement before, after, and during your working years. Whether you are an owner-operator, independent, or company driver, whether you are just starting, in the middle, thinking about, or already there, you will not want to miss.

Join us at the opening reception for a lively evening of celebration, networking, and recognition, open to all attendees! The reception is a great opportunity to connect over drinks, food, and live entertainment. The reception will feature the MATS Wall of Fame induction, Bourbon Tasting, Craft Beer Tasting, Live Music, a Silent Auction to Benefit St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, and so much more. More info at Opening Reception.

The PKY Light Show is a spectacle like no other. Competitors light up the night with a wide array of colors displayed on their custom trucks. More info at PKY Light Show.

Speakers:

Ken Riddle, Director, Office of Registration and Ankur Saini, Deputy Chief Technology Officer

An elite competition hosting the best of the best custom show trucks in North America. More info at PKY Championship.

Truckers life expectancy in the US is 61 years – 17 years shorter than the general population. I have been working with truck drivers for 15 years – as a VP of Operations, a trucking company owner, and a social media host of Chris Kuna Drive – Interviews with truckers. I would like to bring awareness to the problems with physical and mental health that truck drivers experience in their line of work, what are the main causes for these problems, and what solutions each member of the supply chain can take to help truck drivers – the most under-appreciated group in the trucking industry.

The Women’s Leadership in Trucking Panel at MATS 2025 will bring together influential leaders to discuss key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of women in trucking. This engaging session will explore strategic solutions for driver recruitment and retention, critical industry resources for women, and safety and advocacy initiatives that support career growth and equity. Panelists will also highlight leadership, innovation, and actionable strategies to foster a more inclusive, progressive, and sustainable trucking industry. Whether you’re an industry professional, fleet owner, or aspiring trucking leader, this session offers valuable insights, expert perspectives, and real-world solutions to advance the industry and support women in trucking.

Traditional Transportation Management Systems (TMS) excel at managing loads but leave task scheduling largely in the hands of users, creating inefficiencies and missed opportunities. By adopting a task and workflow management approach, carriers can ensure that employees receive task prompts at the right time, with streamlined processes that enhance execution speed and accuracy. This shift leads to higher productivity, improved load success rates, and greater operational efficiency. This session explores the key benefits of prioritizing task and workflow management, demonstrating how carriers can gain a competitive edge by optimizing processes beyond the traditional capabilities of a TMS.

Getting your authority is a big step, but the first 90 days are critical to laying a strong foundation for your trucking business. While waiting for brokers to see you as a trusted partner, you can take meaningful steps to establish your business, build trust, and position yourself for growth. Join Christian Greiner and Kerry Puff from DAT as they share actionable strategies and tools to help you start your journey with confidence. From creating a professional online presence to mastering networking and negotiation, this session will provide you with clear guidance and practical tips to grow your business and gain brokers’ confidence.

Attendees Will Learn or Leave With:
Building a Professional Brand: Actionable steps to create a business website, set up a professional email domain, and design a logo that represents your company’s identity.
Establishing an Online Presence: Effective strategies for using LinkedIn and social media to connect with brokers and shippers while showcasing your business.
Networking Essentials: Proven tips to confidently start conversations with brokers and build meaningful connections at industry events like MATS.
Sharpened Negotiation Skills: Techniques to secure better rates, avoid fraud, and foster strong partnerships through resources like DAT U classes.
Optimizing Business Operations: Key insights into managing insurance, accounting systems, calculating your operating costs, and compliance to keep your business running smoothly.
Manage your Reputation: Tips and tools to help manage your reputation and enhance your reputation, such as DAT’s Company Profile, Carrier411, FreightGuard
A Complete Toolkit for Success: Requirements for obtaining your Authority and a practical checklist covering branding, negotiation, and operational best practices to ensure your business is set up for long-term growth.

This session is designed for truckers who are starting their journey as owner-operators or are considering getting their own authority. You’ll leave with a clear plan to make the most of your first 90 days and beyond.

The trucking industry offers big rewards—but it also comes with big risks. Statistics show that 25% of new trucking businesses fail within their first year, and 60% don’t make it past year five.

So how do you avoid becoming part of that statistic?

The answer: a solid business plan.

In this session, you’ll learn how to create a simple, effective business plan that can help you thrive—no matter what the freight market throws your way.

Join industry experts from Truckstop and ATBS for an insightful and practical session on how to navigate the freight landscape in 2025. As the freight market evolves, understanding how to choose the right freight is crucial to ensuring the success and profitability of your business.

In this session, you’ll learn key strategies for identifying the best loads, optimizing your routes, and leveraging technology to make smarter decisions. The experts will cover:

• Trends shaping the freight market in 2025
• How to evaluate load opportunities for better profitability
• Tools and tips for effective freight management
• How to leverage partnerships and technology to stay ahead

This is an invaluable opportunity to hear from top professionals in the industry and walk away with actionable insights to position your business for success in the new year. Don’t miss out on the chance to start 2025 with a strategic edge!

Managing cash flow effectively is essential for owner-operators looking to build a profitable and sustainable trucking business. This presentation will provide practical strategies that Triumph Financial employs to help carriers manage their income and maintain financial stability. Attendees will learn about LoadPay, the business bank account built for truck drivers that integrates with Triumph’s payment platforms and ensures carriers have the quickest access to their funds.

The life of a trucker is defined by long hours on the road, navigating tight schedules and maintaining operational efficiency. However, one persistent challenge that truckers face is the complexity and inefficiency of payment systems for fueling and lodging. Traditional payment methods often involve multiple steps, long waits, and various service providers, creating unnecessary friction in an already strenuous routine. This session, which follows news of a major partnership inked between WEX and Engine, will address the need for integrated, easy-to-use payment solutions that allow drivers to fuel up and secure lodging quickly and effortlessly.

Driven by Engine, this session will explore how modern technologies are transforming the way truckers interact with service providers, saving valuable time and reducing stress. We’ll also discuss the potential for strategic partnerships to improve financial tracking and contribute to greater cost savings for trucking companies. By introducing these simplified solutions, we can alleviate one of the daily struggles for drivers and pave the way for a more efficient, productive industry. Attendees will walk away with an idea of how Engine, in partnership with WEX, is building a better, more convenient experience for the people who keep our economy moving.

Join Georgy Melkonyan, CEO and Founder of Arnata, as he breaks down how AI is transforming logistics from the ground up. In this session, you’ll learn how leading companies are using AI agents to automate tasks, boost team productivity, and stay ahead of the competition. Georgy will also address the big question: Is AI replacing jobs or making teams stronger? If you’re an owner, CEO, or leader of a brokerage, trucking, or 3PL company looking to scale your business, automate repetitive tasks, and increase margins using AI, this talk is for you.

The Women In Trucking Association invites you to be part of the 14th Annual Salute to Women Behind the Wheel, a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and successes of female professional drivers.

More than 30 acres of FREE truck parking located less than one mile from the Kentucky Expo Center with a free shuttle to and from the Expo Center during show hours. More info at Truck Parking Community.

Running a heavy-duty repair shop is hard work, and the commercial vehicle aftermarket is changing at an alarming pace. As ADAS and EV technology knowledge and capabilities are becoming critical to a shop’s success, its’ becoming impossible to work off your gut instinct alone – you must work with and adapt to the data. In this session, you’ll learn about the critical business metrics as well as the current and emerging trends your shop should track to ensure growth. More so, you’ll learn why more effective inspections and preventative maintenance from your shop management platform can lead to higher efficiency, higher profit and faster lead times from your technicians. Understand how to keep up with the shifting market and why it’s critical to your shop’s future. Don’t trust your gut – trust the data.

Trucking isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle, and in today’s digital world, social media is the fuel that keeps drivers connected, informed, and engaged. Younger drivers are heavy social media users, thriving on the ability to stay plugged in while tackling the long hours and miles on the road. But with great connectivity comes great responsibility, what you post can make or break opportunities in this industry.

Compliance might be important but there is nothing more important than staying in business and finding work for us as drivers. Challenging violations and preventable crashes are key to keeping carrier ratings and SMS scores low to ensure they can get and keep insurance, keep premiums low, find work with brokers and shippers and keep off the enforcement radar. Our goal is to encourage participation in these programs while helping drivers and fleets understand their right to do so and how it helps keep them in the right enforcement, and risk space.

Join us for the official MATS Concert, presented by Bennett Family of Companies, Bridgehaul, and Ace Doran. The concert will be feature Tony Justice with Colt Ford! More details at MATS Concert.

An elite competition hosting the best of the best custom show trucks in North America. More info at PKY Championship.

Truckers face numerous health challenges that are directly tied to the nature of their work, including:

• Limited access to nutritious foods on the road.
• Irregular and insufficient sleep patterns.
• Minimal opportunities for physical activity due to safety and time constraints.
• High levels of occupational stress.

These challenges often result in increased risks of serious health issues such as:

• Elevated blood pressure and obesity.
• Higher prevalence of sleep apnea.
• Failed DOT physicals, leading to loss of income and career instability.
• Poor quality of life and, in severe cases, premature death.

Purpose of the Presentation

This presentation will empower truck drivers and trucking companies with practical, evidence-based strategies to address these challenges through small, incremental lifestyle changes. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable tools to improve:

• Nutrition choices, even on the go and in the rig
• Physical activity, with exercises tailored to life on the road.
• Sleep hygiene
• Stress management practices

By focusing on achievable habits, this session aims to:

• Enhance overall wellness.
• Reduce health-related income disruptions.
• Foster a culture of health within the trucking community.

It’s time to get moving. Discover what it means to incorporate more activity into your daily life, free from complex fitness fads, diets, or plans. We offer simple, straightforward stretches and exercises that promise immediate well-being. Are you prepared to step into a future where feeling good is the norm? Don’t miss this presentation. No prior experience is needed—just show up ready to move, breathe, and stretch. You’ll walk away with a practical set of movements you can perform anytime, anywhere.

3 Key Takeaways:
Adaptability: Learn how to perform yoga anywhere, anytime. Our no-mat yoga practices are designed to be effective even in the limited space of a truck cabin, making it easier than ever to incorporate wellness into your daily routine.

Physical and Mental Benefits: Experience the immediate relief from muscle tension and mental stress. These targeted yoga exercises not only improve flexibility and posture but also significantly enhance focus and reduce anxiety, critical for long-haul drives.

Accessibility for All: Regardless of your fitness level or yoga familiarity, “Flexible Wheels” welcomes all truckers to experience the transformative power of yoga. Our straightforward, easy-to-follow practices require no previous yoga knowledge, ensuring everyone can join in and benefit.

It’s time to get moving. Discover what it means to incorporate more activity into your daily life, free from complex fitness fads, diets, or plans. We offer simple, straightforward stretches and exercises that promise immediate well-being. Are you prepared to step into a future where feeling good is the norm? Don’t miss this presentation. No prior experience is needed—just show up ready to move, breathe, and stretch. You’ll walk away with a practical set of movements you can perform anytime, anywhere. All attendees will get a chance to WIN Road Pro Cookware & Gear!

There can be confusion between citations, warnings, and violations. Because of this confusion drivers and companies often don’t understand how each of these effect their MVR, PSP, the company’s SMS scores. Getting a better understanding of the difference and the steps to take in handling them, such as DataQ challenges can make all the difference in have negative effects on those reports.

The custom trucks have been judged, now it’s time to celebrate these works of art and crown the winners. All attendees are invited to the Awards Ceremony where the winners of each class will be announced, along with Best of Show, People’s Choice, Big Rig Build-Off, and other awards.

Speakers:

Crash Preventability: Stacy Ropp, Transportation Specialist

DataQs: Scott Valentine, Transportation Specialist

Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse: Devin Eakes, Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse Program Manager

Join the TCS Team, and TCS partners, to learn how blockchain rails and digital asset exchanges (like CoinBase) are now providing the fastest and cheapest freight invoice settlement in the Industry!

The trucking market is always moving, and staying ahead requires the right data and strategies. Join Robert Rouse, a key player at DAT – the load board with the most freight in the industry – alongside a successful owner-operator as they provide real-world advice to help truckers like you succeed. Whether navigating today’s challenges or preparing for growth, this session delivers actionable insights to help you drive profitability and make smarter business decisions.

Join this session to learn more about:
Find the Right Freight: How to uncover more loads, better-paying lanes, and consistent opportunities
Build Relationships That Pay Off: How to build strong partnerships and great service to set yourself up for long-term success.
Understand Market Trends: A straightforward look at where the market is heading and how to prepare for changes – both expected and unexpected.
Invest in the Right Tools: Gain tips on tools like route planning and fuel-saving strategies to boost efficiency and stretch your earnings.
Stay Protected: Learn how to safeguard your business against scams, fraud, and cyberattacks.
Seize Opportunities Quickly: Use data and analytics to spot high-demand lanes and adapt to market shifts faster than the competition.

In its 5-year history, the Independent Carrier Safety Association (ICSA) has seen dramatic improvements in its members’ safety when big-fleet technology and risk management services are provided to these small fleets and single-truck operators. ICSA’s average member operates 6 or fewer trucks but can leverage the benefits of in-cab cameras and hair testing drivers for drugs to both improve safety and reduce their truck insurance rates. ICSA’s Director of Operations Shawn Nelson explains not only how small carriers and single-truck operators can benefit from using forward-facing cameras but also how camera data can be used to more effectively coach drivers. Mr. Nelson will also describe other steps small carriers can take to improve safety performance and lead to greater profitability.

More Miles, More Money – Truck Yeah!
How to Cut Costs and Boost Profits as an Owner-Operator
Trucking isn’t just about driving—it’s about running a business. And if you’re an owner-operator, every mile and every dollar matters. In this no-fluff, real-talk session, you’ll learn three key strategies to stop losing money and start keeping more of what you earn:
✔ Fuel tax strategy – Buy fuel the right way.
✔ Fuel programs – Use discounts that actually save you money.
✔ Route planning – Cut wasted miles and fit in more loads.
If you’re tired of scraping by and ready to boost profits, this session is for you. Truck Yeah!

The members of the Trucking Solutions Group will discuss methods or techniques they tried to improve their business that either failed or not deliver the results anticipated. Audience participation is encouraged. Bring your questions and experience and join the discussion.

Take a look at the exciting side of corporations and LLCs. Revisit some of the basics while exploring advanced, secret strategies for getting the most out of your business entity.

KEY BENEFITS/TAKEAWAYS:
Discover the real difference between an C Corp, S Corp, and LLC – and which is best for your industry.
Learn how to legally shift up to $250,000 in personal expenses to your business.
Explore the secrets to building hundreds of thousands of dollars in business credit to grow your business.

This session chronicles my evolution from a newcomer in the trucking industry to a seasoned professional and podcast host. Attendees will gain insights into the challenges faced, lessons learned, and the pivotal role of continuous learning and adaptation. The discussion will also highlight how sharing experiences through a podcast can contribute to industry knowledge and community building.

Key Topics:

• Starting the Journey: Entering the Trucking Industry
• Initial challenges and overcoming common obstacles.
• Essential skills and knowledge for newcomers.
• Learning the Ropes: Gaining Experience on the Road
• Real-world experiences and key takeaways.
• The importance of mentorship and networking.
• Embracing Technology: Leveraging Tools for Success
• Utilizing emerging technologies to enhance operations.
• Adapting to industry innovations for improved efficiency.
• Sharing the Journey: Launching ‘That’s Delivered’ Podcast
• Motivation behind starting the podcast.
• Topics covered and audience engagement strategies.
• Contributing to the Industry: Building a Knowledge-Sharing Community
• The impact of shared experiences on industry practices.
• Encouraging others to share their stories and insights.

Q&A Session: Engaging with Attendees
Open floor for questions and discussion.

Audience Takeaways:

• Practical advice for newcomers and seasoned professionals in the trucking industry.
• Insights into leveraging technology and continuous learning for career advancement.
• Understanding the value of sharing experiences to foster community and industry growth.

Rubber Duck Funding, Inc. and Trucker Tax Service, Inc. join forces to present how to manage your business from the front end all the way through financial management, and closing the books. This seminar includes, Fleet Management, Transportation Financing, Factoring, Fuel Program, Insurance and Credit Card. It will also include Receipt Management, (via an App), Incorporation, Payroll and Tax Preparation. Most Small Fleets and Owner Operators struggle with at least one aspect of their business. We demonstrate how your business can be managed to succeed at the level of a larger fleet.

More than 30 acres of FREE truck parking located less than one mile from the Kentucky Expo Center with a free shuttle to and from the Expo Center during show hours. More info at Truck Parking Community.

Post-show parade of show trucks as they travel around the circle road that surrounds the Kentucky Expo Center