For more program information see www.mntrucking.org/nextleader

Minnesota Trucking Association's NEXTLEADER Program

Experience the NEXTLEADER Journey

Over the course of this 12-month program, you will learn how to:  build teams, become a person of influence, negotiate with confidence, cultivate relationships, deliver powerful presentations, lead meetings effectively, understand company financials, leverage your MTA membership, interact with legislators and government agencies, strategically think & plan, and communicate effectively.

Applicants:  Emerging trucking industry leaders, from MTA member companies, across all disciplines are encouraged to apply.   Applicants range from new managers to CEOs.  Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. on July 19, 2024 to be considered for selection.  Applicants will be contacted starting on July 26, 2024 with the class selection decision.  Class selection is competitive.  There are only 20 seats available in the 2024/2025 NEXTLEADER class.  Early applications will receive preference for class selection. 

To apply, you must register online and include the following:

1) Personal Essay.  In 200 words or less describe why you are a good candidate for the NEXTLEADER program along with your career aspirations and goals.  Upload in PDF format.

2) Professional Resume.  Upload in PDF format.

3) Letter of Recommendation from your direct supervisor or company executive that explains why you are an emerging trucking industry leader, including descriptions and assessments on your professional achievements, qualifications and potential in the trucking industry, leadership abilities, and leadership experience.  This may be uploaded in the registration system in PDF format or sent separately to MTA@mntruck.org subject line: NEXTLEADER Letter.

4) Professional Headshot.  This photo can be taken with your phone against a plain backdrop, company logo, or a truck.  If selected for this program, this photo will be published in Trucking Minnesota.  

Registration Fee: The Registration fee of $3299.00 covers all expenses associated with the leadership program, including MTA event registration fees.  Participants will be responsible for transportation costs, hotel, and hotel parking.  Once the class is confirmed, each participant will receive an invoice via email for payment.  The Registration fee must be paid by August 31, 2024 to secure your spot.  

Attendance: Attendance at all sessions is critical for leadership development and getting the most benefit out of your NEXTLEADER experience.  The program includes eight in-person sessions, one online assessment, and one virtual session.  Attendance is required at all sessions. Homework assignments will be given for any missed sessions. 

Meeting Details: Sessions 1, 3, 6, and 9 will be located at the MTA’s Office Building in Brooklyn Center, MN.  The meetings will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Lunch will be provided on these days.  All other sessions will occur at the respective event locations on the designated day/time.  These details will be communicated when available.  You will be registered for these MTA events automatically with your paid NEXTLEADER registration.  

Hotel: Participants are responsible for making their own hotel reservations.  Each MTA event will have special hotel rates that will be communicated when available.  

Dress Code: Business casual (dress slacks, skirt, sweater, blouse, button down shirt, polo) is the preferred dress for the sessions.  Suits will be required for Session 5 (Truck to the Capitol) and Session 10 (Graduation).  The Session 10 (Annual Conference Golf Tournament will require golf attire (collard shirt).  

September 2024 to August 2025

Session 1 (September): Team Building, Trucking, & Interacting with Government Officials & Agencies

Session 2 (October): The Maxwell DISC Profile (Online Assessment) & Coaching Session 

Session 3 (November): John Maxwell Professional Development & Leadership Training

Session 4 (January): Leading Critical Conversations – MTA Safety Conference

Session 5 (February): Leading Change Through Influence – MTA Truck to the Capitol

Session 6 (March): Effective Negotiations and Trucking Tax & Finance

Session 7 (April): Learning Through Leadership – MTA Trucking Management Conference

Session 8 (June): Leading Across Transportation – Planes, Trains & Trucks

Session 9 (July): Leading Effective Meetings & Strategic Planning Methods

Session 10 (August): Cultivating Relationships, NEXTLEADER Council, Graduation - Annual Conference