Annual Conference
Save the Date! Attend the 2026 OTA Annual Conference on September 21-22
Join us in Columbus on September 21–22 for the 2026 OTA Annual Conference presented by Pilot Company, an exclusive gathering for Ohio’s trucking and transportation executives. This premier event offers industry-focused programming, meaningful networking, and access to the latest products and services that support operational excellence. Additional speaker and session details will be announced as the event approaches.
Registration includes all educational sessions, vendor exhibits, networking receptions, and the option to attend the Monday evening PAC Dinner (separate fee and pre-registration required).
Conference Highlights
- Engaging Keynotes & Expert Breakouts: Hear from industry leaders and subject-matter experts as they share insights, trends, and practical strategies to help you navigate today’s evolving landscape.
- High-Value Networking: Connect with peers from across the state, exchange best practices, and expand your professional network in a collaborative setting.
- Solutions from Industry Vendors: Explore innovative products, services, and technologies from trusted exhibitors—offering tools and resources to strengthen your business and support future growth.
Please contact Bradie Berry at bradie@ohiotrucking.org or (614) 519-6462 to learn more.
Schedule
Day 1 | Monday, September 21
9:00 a.m. Exhibitor Set-Up
9:30 a.m. OTA Board of Trustees Meeting
11:30 a.m. Opening Lunch for All Conference Attendees & Vendors
12:00 p.m. OTA Annual Membership Meeting & State of the Association Address
12:30 p.m. Opening Keynote: Making Sense of the Market, Jonathan Starks, FTR Transportation Intelligence
2:00 p.m. General Keynote: State Trends, Legal Risk & the Trucking Resurgence Plan, a panel discussion with Mark Colson, Alabama Trucking Association, Shannon Newton, Arkansas Trucking Association and Doug Marcello, Saxton & Stump
3:30 p.m. Concurrent Education Sessions
4:30 p.m. Industry Vendor & Attendee Networking Reception (open to all conference attendees and exhibitors)
6:30 p.m. Conference PAC Dinner at Three Creeks Kitchen + Cocktails in Gahanna (additional fee and separate pre-registration is required)
Day 2 | Tuesday, September 22
8:00 a.m. Breakfast for All Conference Attendees & Vendors
8:30 a.m. General Keynote: Adapting and Growing in a Fluctuating Market, a panel discussion with invited carrier members
10:00 a.m. Closing Keynote: Leading Enforcement: Perspectives from Ohio's Regulatory Agencies, a panel discussion with invited agency leaders
11:30 a.m. Chair & Awards Luncheon honoring the incoming OTA Chair, Fleet Safety Award winners, Safety Professional of the Year, and OTA Hall of Honor recipients
CLICK HERE for a full event schedule
Conference Location & Host Hotel
The Renaissance Columbus Westerville - Polaris Hotel will serve as the host hotel. The event will take place inside the Admiral Ballroom.
Renaissance Columbus Westerville - Polaris Hotel
409 Altair Parkway
Westerville, OH 43082
A hotel room block has been secured at a rate starting at $164 per night. You can reserve your room here. The deadline to book within the block is Friday, August 28, 2026.
Exhibit at the 2026 OTA Annual Conference
Secure a tabletop exhibit to showcase your products and services to key decision-makers statewide. A Tabletop Exhibit Package includes:
- One 6’ skirted table
- Two chairs
- Electric service (upon request)
- Listing on the OTA conference app
- One full conference registration (includes admission to programming sessions, networking receptions, and conference meals)
- Ability to submit a 2-3 minute “commercial” for attendees to view during conference breaks (this video should be a MP4 file with a 16:9 resolution; deadline to submit is August 28, 2026)
Sponsor the 2026 OTA Annual Conference
Put your brand in the spotlight! Explore sponsorship opportunities by contacting Director of Business Development Deb Seiple at 614-653-1991.
Opportunities are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nominations Open for Fleet Safety Awards & Safety Professional of the Year
Showcase your company’s commitment to safety by applying for these prestigious awards.
The Fleet Safety Awards, presented by Great West, An Old Republic Company, honor carriers with the best safety records based on accident-frequency ratios. Winners are determined by accident-frequency ratios, which are based on mileage and accidents reported to the Ohio Department of Transportation within a calendar year.
The Safety Professional of the Year recognizes industry experts who demonstrate excellence and passion in the field of safety. Judging criteria include professional contributions, safety leadership, and industry involvement.
Nominations are due by Friday, July 31. CLICK HERE to nominate your company for a Fleet Safety Award. CLICK HERE to nominate a safety professional. Award winners will be recognized at the Chair and Awards Luncheon on September 22.
Attend the Conference PAC Dinner on Monday, September 21
Join fellow conference attendees for an evening of great food and industry advocacy at the OTA PAC Dinner on Monday, September 21 at 6:30 pm proudly sponsored by Stoops Freightliner.
Enjoy a chef-inspired menu at Three Creeks Kitchen + Cocktails, known for its elevated comfort food and welcoming atmosphere in downtown Gahanna.
Thank You to Our 2026 Conference Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Conference PAC Dinner Presenting Sponsor
