The organizers of the Canadian Fleet Maintenance Seminar recently announced that the event is no longer an event. Sad really, it was the first industry function I attended way back in 1980. In those days, it would easily draw four or five hundred attendees and the hospitality suites were buzzing (along with the delegates)!

As the years went by, attendance started to dwindle. The old Inn on the Park, where it was held since its inception, gave notice that it would be ceasing operations. Despite the organizers’ revival attempts, it never really recovered after the venue moved.

Last week, I was invited to attend a meeting to discuss plans for the Transportation Maintenance and Technology Conference (TMTC). Is it the CFMS reincarnated?

At first glance, some will say so. Most of the organizing committee is the same, but what I really like about this group is its ‘clean sheet of paper’ approach.

‘No topic is off limits, no idea is foolish,’ was the meeting’s theme. This in itself was very refreshing. Too often we get caught up in the ‘That’s the way it’s done because that’s the way it’s done,’ scenario.

This group is breaking away from that and is totally open to suggestions on things like timing, venue, panels, delegate value, etc., etc.

In short, it’s a whole new ball game. I understand that Volvo’s prestigious Fleet Maintenance Manager of the Year Award will be presented at the conference. Tentatively being planned for the fall, stay tuned to these pages and our Web site for any developments.

Speaking of developments, by now you would have heard about the new commercial licence renewal process for senior drivers.

Some may say it hasn’t gone far enough. Frankly, I think it’s wonderful that we finally have a Transport Minister who’s not only willing to listen (many have pretended to) but this guy is also willing to act.

For years, industry suggestions and recommendations have gone through one ear and out the other of our Transport Ministers.

Hopefully Bob Chiarelli will continue to march along to his own drummer with a little help of course from the industry.
We’ve started to receive nominations for the 2012 Canadian Owner/Operator of the Year Award. Turn to page 20 of this issue for more information on who we are looking for.

Remember, they don’t necessarily need to have saved someone’s life in order to be considered. Some of our past winners have won through their community involvement, business successes and mentoring practices.