Jim Ward TCA Retirement: Trucking Leader Steps Down

2 months ago
2Minutes

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has announced that its president, Jim Ward, will retire in the coming months after leading the organization through a period of growth and change.

Ward took over as TCA president in 2022 and quickly became known for his efforts to strengthen the association’s influence and build stronger relationships with its members. In a statement, TCA credited Ward with helping establish the organization as a “respected and united voice” for the truckload industry across North America.

“This decision has been in the works for some time, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” Ward said. “TCA is strong, its future is bright, and I look forward to watching it continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”

To prepare for the leadership change, TCA has formed a search committee to find Ward’s replacement.

“Jim’s leadership has had a lasting impact on TCA and the entire truckload industry,” said Karen Smerchek, TCA Chairman and President of Veriha Trucking. “This transition is part of a thoughtful succession plan, and we’re deeply grateful for the stability and strength Jim has brought to the association.”

Before becoming TCA president, Ward served as the organization’s chairman. Earlier in his career, he spent 23 years as president and CEO of D.M. Bowman, a trucking, warehousing, and brokerage company based in Williamsport, Maryland.

According to TCA, the next president should have “proven executive leadership” experience in a trade association, nonprofit, or corporate setting, along with a strong understanding of the trucking and transportation industries and success in advocacy and government relations.