2026 WTA Fall Safety Conference

Description

New regulations, evolving workplace risks, emerging technology, and growing operational demands are changing how successful safety programs are led.

Join trucking safety professionals from across the Northwest for two days of expert education, practical strategies, and valuable industry connections. You’ll leave with actionable ideas to reduce risk, strengthen compliance, and build a safer, more resilient workforce.

Conference & Lodging Information

Holiday Inn Yakima | 802 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA
A discounted room block is available for conference attendees through October 6, 2026 at $139 per night.

Reserve Your Room Here: Wa Trucking Assoc

Featured Keynote

Jim Mullen

President & CEO, Truckload Carriers Association

Jim Mullen will open the conference with an inside look at the federal legislative and regulatory landscape, including the policies, regulations, and emerging issues expected to shape the future of trucking.

Conference Highlights

State & Federal Agency Leadership Roundtable

Hear directly from representatives of FMCSA, Washington State Patrol, Washington State Department of Licensing, and WSDOT about enforcement priorities, regulatory developments, transportation initiatives, and emerging issues affecting motor carriers.

Hazmat Violations That Cost Carriers Money

Learn from real-world hazmat compliance issues and discover practical ways to prevent common violations, reduce enforcement risk, and avoid costly penalties.

Manny Thandi and Rob Palmer | Nutech

The Evolving Impairment Landscape

Explore developments in federal marijuana policy and other factors affecting driver fitness for duty, including fatigue, sleep disorders, prescription medications, stress, and mental and physical health.

PJ Barclay | Impirica

Driver & Employee Health Management

Discover practical strategies for improving employee health, reducing injuries, and developing a healthier, more resilient workforce.

Shawna Rosa | Alliant Insurance Services

Washington State Legislative Outlook

Prepare for the 2027 Washington legislative session with a discussion of anticipated legislation and emerging issues affecting Washington motor carriers.

Sheri Call | Washington Trucking Associations

Safety Leader Bootcamp

Friday, October 23 | Half-Day Workshop
Sponsored and Presented by Motive

Designed for today’s safety and operations leaders, this interactive workshop moves beyond foundational safety principles to focus on execution: identifying risk, reducing incident frequency and severity, improving coaching effectiveness, and strengthening accountability across your fleet.

Participants will explore practical strategies for:

• Enhancing the driver experience and building a driver-focused safety culture
• Using AI-powered insights and structured coaching to drive positive behavioral change
• Identifying risk, reducing liability exposure, and mitigating incident severity
• Applying these strategies to a real-world fleet safety case study

 Presented by Gary Johnson and Jim Higby | Motive

Thursday Night Football Welcome Reception

Thursday, October 22 | 5:00 p.m.
Western Materials | Yakima
Hosted by Western Materials and Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment

Continue the conversation after Thursday’s sessions with drinks, a food truck, and plenty of networking with fellow attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and industry partners. Plus, watch the New England Patriots take on the Chicago Bears during Thursday Night Football!

Who Should Attend?

This conference is designed for:

• Safety and compliance professionals
• Fleet and operations managers
• Company executives and owners
• Human resources professionals
• Anyone responsible for driver safety, employee health, or operational risk

Be Part of the Conversation

Gain timely industry intelligence, connect with transportation leaders, and bring home practical strategies your organization can put to work immediately.