The future for the industry looks bright for those prepared to capitalize on opportunities

I participated in similar groups a long time ago - when everyone had black and white TVs. Many of my longtime friends and acquaintances today came from those groups.

The LOT luncheon was standing-room-only and a surprising percentage of the participants were younger women.

Maybe this industry has begun to shed the image as too industrial and dirty for women to participate.

We expect the LOT group and SOLD will be an even more significant part of next year’s HDAW. Education, experience and time to develop are all important elements for success.

Hopefully, the industry agrees that HDAW is working hard to fill the gaps that exist in these important areas.

Tim Kraus is the president and chief operating officer (COO) of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA). Prior to joining HDMA, he served in various executive positions with heavy duty industry parts manufacturers. HDMA exclusively serves as the industry voice of the commercial vehicle product manufacturers. It is a market segment affiliate of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). www.hdma.org.