Private fleet dispatcher award unveiled

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MILTON, ON – The Private Motor Truck Council of Canada (PMTC) and CPC Logistics Canada are joining forces to honor dispatchers with the newly created Rick Austin Memorial Dispatcher of the Year Award.

Austin, a CPC dispatcher, died suddenly on March 15. He began his career in transportation right after high school, loading drywall before deciding he would rather be behind the wheel. He became a broker and at one time ran team loads to California. In 1991 he joined John Deere’s Canadian fleet, eventually earning a million-mile award, and then trained to be a dispatcher before assuming that role in 2000. He also earned the CPC Logistics President’s Award recognizing exceptional loyalty, service, and dedication.

“He as not only a dispatcher, but a good friend and wise counsel to drivers over the years,” a related news release says.

“The PMTC and its members are truly honoured to be able to help recognize the efforts of those dispatchers who go above and beyond the call of duty to help ensure the drivers and fleets that employ them are the safest operators that they can be,” said Mike Millian, PMTC president. “The fact that we can help honor the memory of a truly great individual to recognize these efforts makes it that much more special.”

Eligible employees will work for a private or dedicated fleet, serving the industry for several years. Entries require a letter of nomination from an employer, supported by driver testimonials, demonstrating an outstanding contribution in the past year or a wider career. Judges will also be looking to see someone who contributed to developing and improving fleet safety and efficiency initiatives, and demonstrates an excellent rapport with drivers and strong communication skills.

Entries for the award open in January, with the honor presented during the PMTC’s 2018 conference in Niagara Falls on June 14 and 15.

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John G. Smith is Newcom Media's vice-president - editorial, and the editorial director of its trucking publications -- including Today's Trucking, trucknews.com, and Transport Routier. The award-winning journalist has covered the trucking industry since 1995.


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