Trucking leaders get ready for MCE 2026 in Charlotte

“At a time of significant change and opportunity, there is no better place to gain insights,” ATA Chairman Greg Hodgen says of MCE. (American Trucking Associations)

The latest in trucks and technology will be on display when industry executives gather in Charlotte, N.C., for American Trucking Associations’ 2026 Management Conference & Exhibition.

The event, scheduled for Oct. 17-20 at Charlotte Convention Center, also will feature more than 40 meetings and educational sessions that address the latest issues.

“Each year, MCE brings together the leaders shaping the future of trucking. The caliber of the educational content and the ability to engage with peers make this event invaluable for both professional growth and business success,” said Greg Hodgen, ATA chairman and CEO of Groendyke Transport. “At a time of significant change and opportunity, there is no better place to gain insights, exchange ideas and advance our industry’s priorities.”

More than 2,500 attendees from 670 companies across North America, Europe and Asia are expected. Hodgen and ATA First Vice Chairman Derek Leathers will lead a Chairmen’s Perspectives discussion titled “The State of the Industry and the Road Ahead,” focusing on issues shaping trucking’s future.

During an MCE breakfast session on economic and freight market trends, ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello will provide an economic update covering industry conditions, trade policy and the labor market.

The general session Oct. 20 will focus on cargo theft and supply chain fraud, with an expert panel examining emerging threats and the industry’s efforts to protect freight. An educational session on artificial intelligence, “Caught on Camera, Missed by AI: The Growing Fleet Liability Crisis,” will examine the hidden risks posed by false negatives in AI video safety programs.

Strong leadership. Clear priorities. Real results. 

At MCE, ATA Chairman Greg Hodgen and ATA First Vice Chairman Derek Leathers will host a forward-looking conversation on the future of trucking. Hear how ATA is strengthening its impact, tackling key industry challenges, and… pic.twitter.com/Z9omBKiglP

— American Trucking (@TRUCKINGdotORG) September 21, 2026

The discussion also will offer practical guidance on ethical AI governance, risk reduction and stronger fleet protection. In addition, a session will cover the rise of physical AI and how it can automate monitoring, reporting and routine safety workflows, freeing personnel to focus on higher-value decisions and more strategic work.

Image

"We will celebrate the progress we’ve achieved, discuss the issues shaping our future and strengthen the partnerships that drive our industry forward," Horvath says. (TT file photo)

“MCE is where trucking’s brightest minds gather to turn challenges into opportunities and vision into action,” ATA Chief Operating Officer Dan Horvath said. “Under this year’s theme, “Forward Together,” we will celebrate the progress we’ve achieved, discuss the issues shaping our future and strengthen the partnerships that drive our industry forward.”

Another highlight is American Transportation Research Institute’s “Big Reveal” of the top 10 issues facing the trucking industry. The presentation will examine what is driving those concerns and include perspectives from a driver and a motor carrier CEO. ATRI President and CEO Rebecca Brewster also will make her final MCE appearance before retiring. The Sunday keynote luncheon will feature Raymont Harris, a former NFL running back and founder of Elite Mindset & Performance. Harris will discuss his approach to handling challenges, maximizing performance and leading with purpose.