NTEA’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic

This article was published in the June 2020 edition of NTEA News.

Since taking over this column, I’ve learned some interesting behind-the-scenes NTEA News secrets. For example, to get the publication in your hands each month, articles have to be submitted weeks ahead of time. Now, if you’re like me, planning what to say a day in advance is a challenge. With so much change happening for us all personally and professionally, deciding what’s relevant to you took me a little longer this month.

As Board chair, I have the opportunity to work closer with the NTEA team and am able to see what’s cooking in the kitchen before it’s served. I’m also privy to grateful feedback from members, engagement data and the variety of ways the Association is helping support the industry. I thought I’d take this opportunity to share what I’ve learned.

Like others, especially those of us in charge of developing business, NTEA joined the nation as we shifted gears. While support is part of the Association’s DNA, it’s become the dominant characteristic. From outreach to rapid response, the team has explored how to help the industry move forward, no matter what the need. Not surprisingly, in the last month, web traffic to NTEA-related pages has increased by nearly 20%. Report and data downloads have risen by over 80%. Members are looking for ways to remain productive and move ahead — and I’m proud to say the Association is partnering with us.

Here are some other examples of key benefits the membership values.

• NTEA was quick to react to COVID-19 and how it affects our industry. Within days, the Association started working with members to understand the immediate affects and compiled resource pages. NTEA sent out a survey to try and grasp the depth of the impact — 87% of respondents suspended travel, 82% limited or suspended external meetings and 41% predicted supply chain disruptions.
• The Association is working hard to support our industry and bring to light important issues. NTEA is a founding member of an industry group leading the charge to repeal the 12% Federal Excise Tax (FET) on heavy-duty trucks. Repealing FET would reduce the acquisition cost of new trucks currently subject to the tax by 12% and allow purchasers to more readily integrate cleaner and safer vehicles into their fleet.
• Online education is a great resource during these times. Courses such as Truck Equipment 101 and 201 are great for all levels of experience. With over 467 course completions over the past few months, it’s clear members are taking advantage of these resources. Learn more at ntea.com/onlineeducation.
• The Association provides monthly webinars on various important industry topics and insight into helpful tools and resources. These webinars, which are available on-demand with member login, are beneficial for the whole company. Gain access at ntea.com/webinars.

Personally, I’ve encouraged my team to utilize these online resources, learn new professional skills, or catch up on things they’ve wanted to do, but haven’t had the time to accomplish. 

By the time this hits your mailbox and email, the world may look a little different. But one thing remains the same — I hope you and your families, both at work and home, are safe and healthy.