TORONTO – – It’s convention week for the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) but the only thing conventional about this two-day affair will be the members’ trucks. The 87^th annual get-together at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in downtown Hogtown promises to be unlike any other trucking conference, ever.

While the OTA boasts a rich tradition of holding its fall event in downtown Toronto, recent years have seen the gathering take place closer to Pearson Airport.

But for what’s been billed as “not your Granddad’s OTA,” the event is moving back to the heart of the city.

“The annual convention is reborn with fresh, exciting contemporary elements aimed at rewarding loyal attendees as well as attracting new visitors,” the OTA says.

Speakers at the event include Tom Connellan, on attaining greater sales performance and getting through difficult economic situations; WestJet founder Don Bell will speak about corporate culture strategizing; Doug Robbins, president and founder of Robbinex Inc., will provide the groundwork for bridging generation gaps in your company.

Meanwhile, Mark Thompson, CEO and co-founder for the Business Entrepreneurship Hub for Virgin United, will offer insights into companies that have confronted change.

The association’s Next Generation program will also make a return at the convention and the OTA promises it will be “amped up.” Brenda Allen of the Humphrey Group will offer a follow-up to her speech on ways to develop leadership among emerging trucking execs.

Dan Schwabel, managing partner of Millennial Branding, will also deliver a personal branding blueprint and tips for young leaders.

Aside from the educational portions of the event, the OTA Convention will also feature a “Taste of Scotland” scotch reception, an awards ceremony, and the OTA’s inaugural Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament — with proceeds going toward the OTA Education Foundation.

For more information on registration, visit OTAConvention.ca.