Technology surely helps drive business, but sometimes it is better to take the old-fashioned approach with a smile, a handshake greeting, and a face-to-face chat. Nearly 30 fleet leaders from across the country last week converged on Scottsdale, Arizona, for Work Truck Exchange (WTX) – one of the most popular fleet networking events.

However, the September annual event was more than just networking and meeting new peers. Fleet managers and other key fleet stakeholders had direct access to key industry vendors and providers, and that even included scheduled one-on-one meetings.

The annual event, now in its sixth year, brought together the host vendors and fleet attendees at the Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, and was coordinated by Bobit Business Media, a leader in business-to-business media in the fleet segment.

“I’ve seen firsthand the immense professional benefits that come from face-to-face collaboration between fleet professionals and their service and equipment suppliers,” said Henry Dicker, president of events for Bobit. “WTX is designed to provide the time and space for meaningful networking, connection, and shared learning. It’s through these invaluable moments that trust is built and relationships are strengthened, paving the way for lasting partnerships and success.

Dicker’s strong belief in the value of face-to-face collaboration was echoed by attendees like Jennifer Sweet, commercial chassis sales manager, electric vehicles/alternative fuel vehicles, Blue Bird Body Company.

“I am thoroughly impressed with the whole setup,” Sweet, a first-time attendee, said. “By far it was the most efficient use of time at any of the meetings that I've been to over the last 28 years.” 

She described WTX as “jam packed” as she told of meeting with 23 different companies in less than 24 hours.

“That's impressive,” she added.

Sweet admits she already knew some of the people in attendance, but met many new people and made what she said will be lifetime connections.

“It was a great event. I will definitely be back next year,” Sweet said.

More Than Just Face-To-Face Meetings

True the event was geared toward those across-the-table meetings, but the broader perspective is all the participants had ample time to get to know each other. 

Whether that was a networking mixer ahead of dinner at the three-day event or working together to brainstorm topics during breakout sessions, everyone was building relationships among fleet and transportation peers.

Keynote Speaker: Doug Marcello

One of the dinners featured keynote speaker Doug Marcello, a well-known trucking industry defense attorney. 

However, before the respected attorney took the stage, longtime Work Truck Magazine executive editor Lauren Fletcher, who is now Bobit’s vice president of content, welcomed the attendees and then introduced Colin Sutherland, the new owner and CEO of Bobit Business Media.

“I'm really so excited to be able to mentor this great team at Bobit, who has a 60-year-old company, and to take them to that next level with your support,” Sutherland said. “I want to thank you so much for being here. It's my first Bobit event as the CEO of the company, definitely not my last.”

Marcello’s presentation, Death by Dogma, stressed the need for fleets to be preemptive when a collision or crash has occurred involving a fleet vehicle. He suggested making the first move, sometimes even filing a lawsuit before the trucking company can be sued. That allows the trucking defense to select a court in an area that might be more realistic rather than exploitative of a trucking company.

Fleet Leaders Report Good WTX Experience

Although WTX was fun filled, fleet leaders focused on work and getting value out of the annual event. 

“WTX is special and inviting. The atmosphere is always exciting,” said Jason Rascoe, purchasing and fleet manager, Rose Pest Solutions.

Rascoe, who returned this year after attending WTX previously, said he was not looking for anything specific, just new ideas that he might be able to utilize in his fleet. 

“The one-on-one meetings helped by introducing me to a few of those new ideas,” he explained. “There are so many great ideas and companies in the fleet arena. Many companies are aimed at fixing problems fleet managers didn’t even know they had. Learning about new innovations and companies in this industry has been exciting and informative.”

Xavier Cruz, fleet manager for Pavecon, also returned to WTX after attending previously. He said this time he learned more and found what he called “great information.”

Cruz, in describing this year’s WTX, said his favorite highlights included:

• Finding good information

• Great networking

• Awesome knowledge 

• Great staff

Time to Start Planning for WTX 2025

Even though WTX just wrapped up, it is never too early to start planning to attend next year. The Bobit event staff has the planning underway, so don’t miss out on one of the most valuable fleet events of the year.