The exact series of events leading up to my involvement with SuperTech may be a bit hazy, but I do distinctly remember a friendly email from Larry Johnson. Johnson, Nebraska Trucking Association President, had recently heard of the SuperTech competition from long-time TMC member and mentor Darrell Hicks. Hick's enthusiasm must've rubbed off on Johnson, because next thing we knew, Nebraska was poised to have its first SuperTech competition. Of course, Johnson had to recruit some volunteers to help guide the competition first. Fortunately for me, Omaha Truck Center is a company that fully supports both the Nebraska Trucking Association and professional development events such as these.
After a brief moment that included virtually no hesitation, I decided it was a challenge I was ready to take on. I had the privilege of attending the 2008 SuperTech competition with another representative from Nebraska, Jerry Wessel. Wessel and I were both overwhelmed by the kindness and friendliness of TMC members. We met a lot of great contacts, many of whom offered to help us. Everyone was encouraging. Honest, but encouraging. I can't even begin to count the number of times someone said, "It will take a lot of work, but you can do it!"
Upon arriving home from Nashville, we've kicked it into high gear. Since September, we've created a steering committee of seven members, including representation from fleet members, dealer service members and an NTA representative. We've set a date for our competition (07-08-09, so it's easy to remember!), so there's no turning back now.
In the next few months, I look forward to sharing with you a behind-the-scenes perspective of the inaugural Nebraska SuperTech competition.
Omaha Truck Center, Inc. is a family-owned medium- and heavy-duty truck dealership in business since 1975. OTC is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska with 12 business locations in Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas. OTC sells and services Freightliner, Sterling, Western Star, GMC, Isuzu, Thomas Built Buses and Ottawa Yard Tractors. OTC is one of the largest Freightliner dealerships in the country, and has earned local and national recognition thanks to the efforts of its employees.