Mark Colson Named Next President and CEO of American Trucking Associations

Colson brings two decades of advocacy experience to the national stage, having spent the last seven years steering Alabama’s trucking interests. His background includes leadership roles at the Business Council of Alabama and deep involvement with the ATA Federation, including service on the Truck PAC Board of Directors and the American Transportation Research Institute’s research committee. Supporters highlight his work on the 'Trucking Resurgence' action plan, a 2025 initiative designed to close regulatory loopholes and address issues surrounding noncompliant carriers.

Outgoing leadership views the appointment as a strategic move to unify the federation’s 50 state associations. ATA Chairman Greg Hodgen noted that Colson’s task is to build upon the organization’s foundation while providing a more aggressive voice in Washington. Incoming Chairman Derek Leathers echoed this, emphasizing the need for a leader who understands how federal policy shifts directly impact the daily operations of motor carriers. Colson, who traces his industry roots to his family’s tire shop, intends to focus on strengthening the coalition between state-level executives and the national office to ensure the industry remains a cohesive force during a period of significant freight market volatility.