BANFF, Alta. — Doug McDowell has been named Canadas 2006 dispatcher of the year by Shaw Tracking and the Canadian Trucking Alliance for his commitment to dispatch excellence.

Now retired, McDowell dispatched an estimated 225,000 loads during a career that spanned 45 years at McMillan Transport Ltd. of Medicine Hat.

McDowell, accompanied by his wife, Betty, attended a special breakfast ceremony today where he was presented with the 2006 CTA/Shaw Tracking National Dispatcher of the Year award. At the ceremony he received a keepsake plaque and a cash award of $2,000. The presentation was made in conjunction with the annual convention of the Alberta Motor Transport Association (April 27 28, Rimrock Hotel, Banff, AB) attended by 240 industry leaders.

I am continually impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the members of the transportation industry, says Mayne Root, Executive Director, Alberta Motor Transport Association and Vice President (Alberta) for the Canadian Trucking Alliance. When you consider the 45-plus year career of Doug McDowell and the impact he has had on shippers, suppliers, sales representatives, clients and customers as well as all of the drivers and other members of our industry he has helped to train, you can’t help but be amazed and recognize the immeasurable contribution Doug has made to our industry and society. Thanks to all of those who seriously work to make our industry great and at this time, thank you Doug McDowell of McMillan Transport and congratulations for a job very well done! As much as Doug likes to deflect the credit to others, Doug is a very deserving recipient of this national award.

Doug was absolutely outstanding as a dispatcher, says his former boss, Rod McMillan, President, McMillan Transport Ltd. Many of the companys drivers say they were raised by Doug.

Shaw Tracking is extremely pleased to be associated with this program, especially when it comes to providing the much deserved recognition to outstanding dispatchers such as this years National Dispatcher of the Year, Doug McDowell, said Mike Ham, Shaw Tracking, Vice President. The most significant form of recognition is that of your peers and your customers: which is what this award is all about.

McDowell joined McMillan Transport Ltd. in 1960 as a company driver and later was promoted to dispatcher in 1964. The resident of Medicine Hat is married to Betty; the couple has two adult children. Mr. McDowell is a member of his local church where he volunteers on the board, serves as an usher and assists with special projects and activities.

An avid sports fan, McDowell is a devoted fan of the Medicine Hat Tiger Hockey team. In whatever time is left from his other commitments, Doug can be found attending antique auctions searching for unique items and indulging his love of land and cattle by helping out at the family farm.

Here are what colleagues and customers say about this years recipient:

I have always appreciated Dougs ability to dispatch, remember each drivers needs of appointments and days off, and still have a smile at the end of the day. – Henry H., Retired Driver, McMillan Transport Ltd.
I recall many times on the road when I would call Doug late at night at home, waking him, explaining what the problem was. Doug could tell me what trailer I had, what load I was carrying, and give a purchase number if required and anything else I needed aall without any records of dispatch in front of him. Dennis R., Road Driver, McMillan Transport Ltd.
We met Doug 20 years ago at church where he was an usher and a very involved member. He is always the first person to greet you and open the door. Steve and Adeline, fellow church parishioners
I have been dealing with Doug for over 25 years. Doug is always as accommodating as possible. He is always available, even after hours, and will gladly solve any problems. Wayne M,.Customer
When working with Doug his personality has been friendly, witty, flexible and honest and he has more than proven his ability to work as a team member. His dedication and compassion for his job are exemplary. Sandy P./Dale B., Customer
Our company …. averages 440 truckloads a year with McMillan Transport Ltd. so you can imagine it involves many calls to Doug. Doug is easy to work with, honest and up front. Ken S., Customer

The Shaw Tracking/Canadian Trucking Alliance National Dispatcher of the Year award is bestowed annually to a dispatcher who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to customer service, safety, driver well being, courtesy, team work, problem solving and community service/volunteer work. The winner is selected from dispatchers who have won the award at the provincial level in each of Canadas provinces.

To be considered for the award, a dispatcher must be nominated by his employer and have at least two letters of recommendation from drivers and the companys customers. Details of the nominees community and volunteers work are also to he provided.