Mark Colson Appointed Next President and CEO of American Trucking Associations
Mark Colson has been named the next president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), effective December 1, 2026. He previously served as president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) announced Tuesday the appointment of Mark Colson as its next president and CEO, effective December 1, 2026. Colson joins ATA from the Alabama Trucking Association, where he has served as president and CEO since 2019.
Colson brings over two decades of experience in advocating for the trucking industry. His prior roles include leadership positions at the Business Council of Alabama. He has also been active within the ATA Federation, serving on committees such as the Strategic Priorities Committee and the Truck PAC Board of Directors.
ATA Chairman Greg Hodgen stated that Colson will build upon the organization's foundation with "fresh energy and a clear vision." Derek Leathers, chairman and CEO of Werner Enterprises and incoming ATA Chairman, emphasized the need for a strong, unified voice to address policy decisions impacting the industry.
Colson previously chaired a task force that developed the "Trucking Resurgence" action plan, aimed at addressing regulatory gaps and improving industry standards. His appointment marks him as the tenth president and CEO in ATA's history since its founding in 1933.
Colson has also been elected vice chairman of the Trucking Association Executives Council, representing executives of ATA-affiliated state associations. He holds degrees from Huntingdon College and Troy University and serves on the board of trustees for his alma mater.