UTA San Diego Convention Recap:

A Week to Laugh, Think, and Connect

The 2025 UTA Convention kicked off on a gorgeous Wednesday evening as members gathered on the terrace overlooking the San Diego Bay. Perfect weather, an energized crowd, and a stunning backdrop set the tone for what many have called one of our best conventions yet. The feedback throughout the week was overwhelmingly positive, and the excitement was evident from the very first reception.

A General Session to Remember

Thursday morning’s general session opened at 8:00 a.m., and after a quick break the room settled in for our keynote speaker, Dr. Rick Rigsby. His presentation was heartfelt, powerful, and delivered with the kind of passion that moves a room. One of his memorable reminders—“Sell trucks as if you are selling them to your grandparents.”—captured the essence of his message: Work hard, be honest, have integrity, and do what you say you’re going to do. Simple principles, yet challenging to live out daily.

Drawing on lessons from his father, a third-grade dropout, and sharing deeply personal stories—including the tragic loss of his first wife to breast cancer—Rick stirred emotion across the audience. Many members were moved to tears.

I was sitting on the front row, cheering him on, and Dr. Rigsby was on such a roll he ended up pulling me out of my seat for a photo op—then planted a wet kiss on my cheek at the last second. The whole room erupted. It instantly brought to mind Jim Valvano’s famous words: “If you laugh, you think, and you cry—that’s a full day.” And by that measure, Rick helped us all have one heck of a day.

Norton Transport– Convention Presenting Sponsor

From One Driver to 1,432: The Story Behind Norton Transport

Most companies love to talk about innovation, technology, and the road ahead. And we love that, but we also like to look at the road behind us, because that’s where our story actually began.

Long before Norton Transport was a 1,432-driver nationwide network, before the apps, the tracking, and the logistics systems… it was just Calvin Norton, a clipboard, a bus to deliver, and a willingness to take whatever job came next.

Calvin wasn’t trying to build a company. He was trying to make a living, one run at a time.

But something happened out there on those early driveaway trips. Customers noticed how reliable he was. Other drivers noticed how he treated people. And slowly, those single-unit deliveries turned into repeat calls… those repeat calls turned into relationships… and those relationships turned into a business worth building.

There was no playbook. No investors. No secret strategy. Just a belief that if you do the job right and treat people right, the rest will follow.

We started as a founder-driver delivering a single bus. And maybe that’s why, even now, with over 1,400 drivers on the road, we still measure success the same way Calvin did back then:
One unit. One driver. One delivery done right.

There’s a bold, colorful mural of Calvin on our office wall, which makes everyone laugh because if you know Calvin, you know that he’s about as humble and low-key as they come. The team put it there anyway, as a tribute to the driver who quietly built the culture we stand on today.

The road is bigger now, but the heart of Norton Transport hasn’t changed.

A Week That Flew By

Looking back, the week was a blur in the best way. Many arrived early to enjoy the sights and sounds of San Diego, and plenty stayed through the weekend to take it all in.

We proudly announced 12 scholarship winners, welcomed newly elected board members and officers, and honored Mark Fischel with a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award. Mark’s family was in attendance, and his acceptance speech was moving, heartfelt, and inspiring—a special moment for our Association.

Vendor Expo Highlights

This year’s vendor expo was nothing short of incredible. You could find everything from a race car driver, to live music, to—yes—puppies. Lots of puppies. The International crew once again went all-in, this time with an Anchorman theme, and took home Best of Show…again! Their creativity and humor continue to raise the bar.

Penske Used Trucks – Convention Presenting Sponsor

At Penske, we’re redefining the way customers buy used trucks – combining well-maintained, quality vehicles with the ease of weekly online auctions.

Whether you’re looking for inventory or looking to use our inventory as an extension of your own, our new online auction platform is designed to make buying more transparent and efficient. New listings are added every week, and each vehicle includes a free third-party condition report. Unlike many other auction platforms, there are no hidden auction fees – the price you see is the price you get.

If you haven’t signed up for our weekly online auctions yet, now’s the perfect time to browse and bid on your next vehicle from Penske – one of the most trusted names in transportation.

Visit our used trucks auction website to see what’s live this week.

A Perfect Farewell

By the time Friday evening arrived, the farewell reception offered a perfect closing chapter. It was a joy to recap the week with new acquaintances and reconnect with long-time customers who’ve become good friends. These relationships are truly what make our Association special.

Thank You

A huge thank-you goes out to the Convention Committee (alphabetically: Cindy Bloom Co-Chair, Chris Bridges, Laura Carter, Rick Clark, Hal Dickson, Jimmie Jackson, Bo Johnson, Craig Kendall, Jeremi Guditis Co-Chair, Kelly Rolfe, Josh Roller Co-Chair, Tim Ronan, Amy Shahan, Steve Tam, Brian Ward), and the UTA management team (alphabetically: Letty Carroll, Kaylee Chester, Angela Sparks, Leah Webb, and Dave Wenhold) for their hard work, planning, and dedication. Their efforts made this year’s event one of the most memorable yet.

Thank you to all who attended—and we’ll see you next year in the Big “D,” Dallas, Texas!

— Nick Lombardo

Truck Paper – Convention Presenting Sponsor

Truck Paper: Keeping Truck & Trailer Sales Rolling

The commercial trucking industry has experienced considerable buyer hesitation over the past year. Inventory levels of used trucks have been lower year over year, with mixed effects on auction and asking values. Through it all, Truck Paper has continued to provide a steady presence, serving as the foremost resource in the new and used truck and trailer market.

Local, Regional & International Sales

Since launching in 1981, Truck Paper has grown from a single nationwide publication to a nine-region powerhouse, reaching buyers directly everywhere they operate. TruckPaper.com has also expanded to reach buyers worldwide, enabling dealers and individuals in the U.S. to sell trucks and trailers to international buyers.

TruckPaper.com features a continuously updated database of tens of thousands of listings, encompassing everything from pickups to Class 8 trucks, as well as semi-trailers, components, parts, and dismantled trucks and trailers.

Tools For Retail & Auction Sales

A Sandhills Global brand, TruckPaper.com works seamlessly with other Sandhills products and services, including industry-leading auction platforms. AuctionTime.com offers weekly online auctions, providing sellers with an additional way to find the most profitable outlets and reach bidders worldwide. TruckPaper.com also cross-promotes trucks and trailers for sale through Equipmentfacts.com, a simulcast platform that brings live onsite auctions to bidders everywhere.

Sandhills’ Value Insight Portal (VIP), free for registered users at VIP.TruckPaper.com, provides instant access to real-time, real-world truck and trailer valuations for retail and auction markets. This lets sellers and buyers know exactly what a truck is worth in today’s market.

Financing, Global Shipping & More

Financing and shipping options are built into TruckPaper.com, making the buying process easier for buyers and sellers. Truck Paper advertisers can also access the Sandhills Cloud, a suite of business tools that simplifies inventory management, valuations, trade-ins, and much more. For more information, call Truck Paper at 402-479-2104 or 800-247-4868 or visit www.TruckPaper.com.

The 2025 UTA Convention was fantastic – great venue, many opportunities to network, relax and share ideas. If you missed the Convention, you missed out! I can’t wait for the 2026 Convention in Grapevine, TX!

– Craig Kendall

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Kautter Wenhold Management Group (KWMG) is honored to serve as the new association management company for the Used Truck Association and to have played a hands-on role in the 2025 Annual Convention in San Diego. Even though KWMG has been on board with UTA for less than 90 days, the team jumped in quickly to support the planning and execution of the convention’s logistics, from coordinating program details and vendor partners to helping ensure a smooth, high-quality experience on site.

The warm welcome from UTA leadership, members, and partners made it clear that this is not just a business relationship but a true professional family that is deeply committed to the success of the used truck industry.

Being embraced so openly by the UTA community in such a short time has only deepened KWMG’s excitement about the work ahead. Drawing on our decades of extensive experience in association and event management, KWMG looks forward to leveraging its skills, systems, and industry best practices to continue delivering high-end, engaging conventions and member events that reflect the professionalism and energy of UTA. Together with the Board and volunteer leaders, KWMG is committed to building on the success of the 2025 San Diego convention and helping create even more impactful experiences for UTA members in the years to come. On behalf of Letty, Leah, Angela, Kaylee and myself, we thank all of you and look forward to an amazing 2026!

Dave Wenhold, CAE, PLC
CEO, Kautter Wenhold Management Group & UTA Executive Director

Commercial Truck Trader — Diamond Sponsor

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Join the marketplace trusted by over half of all franchise commercial dealers, delivering over 1.6 million leads annually!

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Questions? Contact Marketing@CommercialTruckTrader.com or call us at (877) 920-5442.

As I look back at the UTA Convention in San Diego I think about a number of things — we had great meeting content like the keynote speaker Dr. Rick Rigsby and a fun and informative Vendor Expo, but I can't get over what a wonderful location we enjoyed. I walked along the oceanfront walkway each day, past the restaurants and the aircraft carrier, the Midway, it was just perfect.

Then there was the Farewell Reception across the street from the hotel, we had great food, wine and networking. It was just unfortunate that a number of people flew home on Friday because of the government shutdown…they missed a super evening.

Finally, as Nick Lombardo mentioned, the UTA is always the best place in the North America to connect with others in the industry, to laugh with old friends and make new friends. It was all good.

– Hal Dickson

RigDig Brings Data-Driven Insights to UTA 2025

The RigDig team was proud to take part in this year’s UTA Convention, connecting with truck dealers and industry leaders from across the country. Over three days, the team showcased how RigDig’s suite of solutions—RigDig Business Intelligence, Truck History Reports, and the Equipment Marketplace—help dealers sell smarter and faster.

Conversations at the booth centered on data-driven lead generation, smarter prospecting, and how verified truck history reports build buyer confidence. Dealers were especially interested in RigDig’s ability to identify high-intent buyers and streamline the sales process.

The event was a great reminder of how technology continues to shape the used-truck market—and how RigDig is helping dealers stay ahead of the curve. Missed us at UTA? Reach out for a demo and see how RigDig turns data into deals.

2025 UTA Marvin F. Gordon Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

MARK FISHEL

International Used Truck Centers – Diamond Sponsor

We’ll Help You Find The Best Trucks For Your Business Needs

At International Used Truck Centers, our experienced staff knows International trucks inside and out. We operate from nationwide locations across the country, so it’s easy to check out top contenders in person. Our goal is to learn what you’re looking for and find a powerful and hard-working International truck that perfectly meets your business needs — at affordable wholesale prices. Contact a wholesale manager today 888-381-7438.

Thank You for Voting Us Best Booth!

We’re honored to have been recognized at this year’s expo and appreciate your support. We’re already looking forward to making next year’s event even bigger and better — stay tuned for what’s ahead!

My favorite time of year every year is November for the UTA. It is a time when I get to step away from the day-to-day grind and come to one spot in the country to reconnect with old friends as well as develop new friendships in the trucking industry. The people that I have met through this Association are invaluable to me. This year in San Diego was fantastic! The venue couldn't have been nicer, and the education was top-notch. As someone who is a member of multiple associations and attends many events, I can say with all honesty that the UTA is my favorite with the best ROI. If you haven't come to a UTA Convention before, you are missing out.

– Katie Baker, CLFP

Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s Best® heavy and medium duty trucks. For over 100 years, Kenworth trucks have been driven by a commitment to quality, innovation, and technology. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing durable trucks with long service life and excellent resale value.

Timeless, classic style also has always been part of the Kenworth legacy. From enhanced durability to improved driver comfort to optimized operational efficiency, each Kenworth stands as a testament to our uncompromising engineering and craftsmanship.

That tradition continues today with the company’s award-winning on-highway flagship Kenworth T680 and vocational flagship Kenworth T880. Today, Kenworth continues its tradition as the driver’s truck. Kenworth is proud to be a supporter of the Used Truck Association. Visit Kenworth.com for more information. Kenworth is a PACCAR company. 10630 NE 38th Pl, Kirkland, WA 98033 • 425-828-5000

Dealer Group Individual Member Award Recipients

Allen Croft, OEM Dealer

Benji Pavelka,
Non-OEM Dealer

Katrina Faulkner, Vendor

Thank you to everyone who visited us at UTA this year. Your conversations, questions, and partnership made the event a highlight of 2025. From new coverage programs to smarter dealer tools, everything we introduced this year was designed with one goal in mind: Helping you win!

We celebrated your successes, met new partners, and even sent a few lucky winners home with prizes, but the real win was the momentum we built together. Your feedback, energy, and vision continue to push us to raise the bar for the entire industry.

As the year ends, our mission remains simple: Deliver trustworthy protection, fast and transparent claims service, and dealer-focused support that sets the STANDARD in our industry. And we’re already working on new initiatives to make 2026 our strongest year yet — for you and your customers.

Thank you for choosing to drive forward with us. Visit www.ntpwarranty.com to learn more!

Peterbilt Motors Company – Diamond Sponsor

Peterbilt exemplifies American ingenuity and craftsmanship, with origins in the West Coast logging industry and a history spanning over 85 years. Revered in both trucking and American culture, Peterbilt is a symbol of Purposeful Innovation. Peterbilt is committed to developing Individualized Solutions for its customers, advancing powertrain technology, safety and connectivity, while holding fast to the values of Pride & Class and Enduring Craftsmanship. Peterbilt’s state-of-the-art Denton, Texas factory and dedicated workforce embody its pledge to excellence and quality. Honoring its heritage and embracing the future, Peterbilt continues to stand as an icon of American manufacturing.

Visit Peterbilt.com for more information.

With more than 20 truck and trailer auctions each year, Purple Wave Auction is your dedicated partner for success. Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet or make room on your lot, we have a large variety of equipment, trucks, and trailers to meet your needs. For over 25 years, Purple Wave Auction continues to be the easiest, most straightforward way to buy and sell equipment. Get registered for free and start bidding on our upcoming auctions today!

Ritchie Bros. is one of the largest marketplaces of used transportation equipment in North America, selling hundreds of millions worth of transportation assets each year, with the best selection of trucks, trailers, vans, and more for buyers.

Whether you’re selling one truck or 1,000, Ritchie Bros. partners with companies of all sizes because we’re experts in the transportation industry, offering access to our unmatched network of global buyers and market insight. Ritchie Bros. provides knowledgeable staff who truly understand the transportation industry.

Ritchie Bros. is your one-stop shop for all your transportation needs!

Who We Are

In 2013, Truck Master Warranty was established to serve the needs of the pre-owned Medium & Heavy Duty Truck market. Truck Master has grown steadily through excellence in customer service, value, ease of doing business and continuous product evolution to meet current market needs.

What We Do
Truck Master Warranty offers the most comprehensive, innovative, and affordable mechanical breakdown warranty options, including training and full dealer support. This includes assistance in marketing the warranty program, ways to present the options to your customers, and how to increase sales penetration.

Mission Statement
To provide exceptional value to our dealers and their customers, accomplished through intensive market research, the development of highly trained personnel, a commitment to excellence, and a responsibility to offer the most comprehensive, industry leading, and feature rich warranties in the Medium & Heavy Duty Truck industry.

As 2025 comes to an end and with so much uncertainty in the trucking world, TruckMovers remains ready and dedicated to handling all of your driveaway and hauling needs. No matter the size or complexity of your business, you can count on us to provide a solution and get the job done for you.

Our commitment to reliability, communication, and operational excellence has never been stronger. We continue to expand our nationwide network, enhance our technology, and refine our processes to ensure every unit is moved safely, efficiently, and on schedule. Whether you’re planning for 2026 production changes, navigating supply chain shifts, or preparing for large-scale seasonal demand, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

TruckMovers is more than a service provider—we’re a partner you can trust to keep your business moving forward with confidence.