About fifty transportation leaders from across North America gathered July 12-14 for the TLPA Mid-Year International Leadership Conference in Anchorage, Alaska, an event that was marked by a robust line-up of transportation operators, expert panelists and vendors pointing the way forward for the industry.

In his opening address, President Bill Scalzi noted that TLPA’s most recent activities have focused on addressing national legal, regulatory and legislative issues; developing alternative business models for the industry; effectively engaging the media on the public safety failings of transportation network companies (TNCs); and creating programs that build public respect and recognition for the industry. “Uniting within TLPA and sharing best practices are our best opportunities to provide for the future viability of our industry and each company,” Scalzi said.

The conference’s two General Sessions presented major topics facing the industry. The first provided reports on alternative business models from the three different task forces—taxicab, limousine and paratransit—as well as an update on Viatrans and its relationship to the IRU, the Europe-based trade association for road transportation.

In the second session, Scalzi and CEO Alfred LaGasse provided a recap of TLPA’s legislative fly-in which was held in Washington, DC, in June. Panelists also discussed long-term competitiveness with TNCs and the future of technology in the industry. Both general sessions received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees.

The next big TLPA event is right around the corner: TLPA’s 99^th Annual Convention & Trade Show, October 8-12 in Denver, Colorado. Information about the meeting is available at www.tlpa.org/Annual-Convention.