Austin, Texas – Today, Ӱɴý posthumously honored John Conkin, the former managing director of BMO Transportation and past president of the Allied Committee for the Trucking Industry with the S. Earl Dove Highway Award.
“John’s knowledge of the industry along with his ability to identify a problem and quickly find a solution is why so many companies in our industry are successful,” said Ӱɴý Immediate Past Chairman Kevin Burch, president of Jet Express Inc. and the presenter of the award. “John built strong relationships in his company, with his customers and certainly with Ӱɴý.”
Ӱɴý’s highest honor, the S. Earl Dove Highway Award recognizes individuals whose contributions of time, energy and intelligence have advanced the interests of the trucking industry and the Ӱɴý federation. The award is named for former Ӱɴý Chairman and former owner of AAA Cooper Transportation
“It is Ӱɴý’s great honor to acknowledge the contributions of someone who gave so much to our industry and our association – and did so with kindness and a smile on his face,” said Ӱɴý President and CEO Chris Spear. “John understood the importance of getting involved and pushing for solutions, so it is perfect that his legacy was honored today during our Legends Panel.”
While serving as president of ACT I from 2013 through 2014, Conkin led the efforts to build a stronger partnership with Ӱɴý, revamping sponsorships to allow both the association and membership to thrive. Under his leadership, ACT I was on the ground floor in helping to build the foundation for Trucking Moves America Forward, the industry-wide image movement. Conkin participated in discussions in a thoughtful manner and with a gentle demeanor, always explaining the way an improved image of the industry would benefit all sectors of trucking.
Conkin passed away in June after a prolonged battle with cancer. His wife Sandra, attended Ӱɴý’s Management Conference and Exhibition and accepted the award on his behalf.
WATCH: Presentation of the S. Earl Dove Award at Ӱɴý's Management Conference and Exhibition