WINNIPEG — Dean Omoto, a fleet manager with Big Freight Systems has been named Manitoba’s 2006 Dispatcher of the Year.

The award, sponsored by Cancom Tracking (soon to be Shaw Communications), goes to a dispatcher who has demonstrated a commitment to customer service, safety, driver well being, courtesy, team work, problem solving and community service/volunteer work. It was handed out at the Manitoba Trucking Association’s annual dinner this past weekend.

Dean Omoto and wife accept Dispatcher of the Year award

A 16-year industry veteran, Omoto began his career as a long-haul driver traveling throughout North America. After over seven years, he advanced to become a dispatcher and after 6 years in that position he again advanced and became a fleet manager. He was selected to receive the award because of his
outstanding ability to look after his company’s customers and drivers.

One driver said of Dean, “Being new to the industry, I was grateful for all of Omoto’s help in learning all aspects of the business.”

Says his operations manager: “His attention to detail and commitment to customer service are second to none. He is quite often the first to arrive and one of the last to leave on any given day in order to ensure all issues are dealt with effectively.”

Also at the banquet, the MTA announced that George Williams of Warren-Stonewall Freight is the recipient of the 2006 Manitoba Trailmobile “Service to Industry” award.

Williams, who has long been a strong and loyal supporter of the MTA, was
recognized by his peers for his conduct and his contributions to the trucking
industry.

George Williams is honored for MTA’s service to Industry award

Williams has been involved in the trucking industry since the very early age
of 6. Over the decades he would go on to own his own company and then eventually amalgamate it with his father’s company after purchasing it.

Throughout his career he has maintained a philosophy of building business based on knowing his customers and their needs, says MTA.

Not only committed to his company, he has given of his time to his industry.
As an owner of a small rural company this was a very challenging task.

In the late 1980’s George was nominated to the MTA Board of Directors and has since been providing his sage advice, which has been based on his experience and rural perspective. He has been an advocate and spokesperson on behalf of small rural carriers.

“He has been described by many as salt of the earth. In light of all the changes our industry has endured, he is truly a survivor. He is recognized as a true gentleman of our industry and an example we are all proud of,” MTA stated.