Mark Colson to Lead American Trucking Associations
The new CEO will take the helm of the industry group in December to manage advocacy priorities for motor carriers.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
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Mark Colson will assume the role of president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations on Dec. 1, 2026. He transitions to the Washington, D.C.-based position after leading the Alabama Trucking Association since 2019.
Why it matters
The change in top leadership at the national trade association marks a shift in advocacy direction for motor carrier operators across the country. Colson, formerly vice chairman of the Trucking Association Executives Council, brings experience representing trucking interests at the state level to the national organization.
Mark Colson will serve as the 10th president in the history of the American Trucking Associations. During his time leading the Alabama Trucking Association, the industry represented 1 in 13 jobs within the state.
The players
Mark Colson
Incoming president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations with previous leadership experience at the Alabama Trucking Association.
American Trucking Associations
The national trade association for the U.S. trucking industry that advocates for motor carrier interests.
Chris Spear
Former president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations who stepped down in August 2026.
The details
The board of the American Trucking Associations appointed Colson to lead the national organization following the departure of Chris Spear on Aug. 21, 2026. Colson will relocate to Washington, D.C., to oversee the advocacy and membership efforts for the industry group. He previously served as vice chairman of the Trucking Association Executives Council and holds an MBA from Troy University.
Timeline
1933: American Trucking Associations founding.
2019: Mark Colson began leading Alabama Trucking Association.
Aug. 21, 2026: Chris Spear left the CEO position.
Dec. 1, 2026: Mark Colson assumes the role of president and CEO.
Market Landscape
The leadership change follows a long-standing pattern of advocacy consolidation within the American Trucking Associations. The transition arrives shortly before the organization hosts its 2026 Management Conference & Exhibition in Charlotte, N.C.
Motor carrier operators should monitor how the new leadership integrates state-level regulatory strategies with national lobbying efforts. Carriers should prepare for potential shifts in policy focus as Colson assumes control on Dec. 1, 2026.
The takeaway
Operators should watch for upcoming policy white papers or statements from the new leadership to understand shifts in the ATA's federal agenda. Tracking the organization's legislative priorities following the Dec. 1 transition remains a key task for business planning.
What happens next
The American Trucking Associations will convene its 2026 Management Conference & Exhibition in Charlotte, N.C., from Oct. 17 to Oct. 20, 2026.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership and advocacy, visit People.
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