Who is Mark Colson and what is his background?

Mark Colson has served as president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association since 2019. Prior to that, he worked for several Alabama-based business organizations, including the Business Council of Alabama. He holds a bachelor's degree from Huntingdon College and an MBA from Troy University. At the ATA, he served on the Strategic Priorities Committee, Truck PAC Board of Directors, and the Advisory Committee of the American Transportation Research Institute.

What happened to the previous ATA leadership?

Chris Spear, the previous ATA president and CEO, departed suddenly in late August. Colson's appointment as the 10th ATA president and CEO in the organization's 91-year history fills this vacancy.

What accomplishments is Colson known for at the state level?

During his tenure as president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association, Colson grew membership and achieved revenue records year over year across all entities. He also established the Alabama Trucking Association's political action committee as one of the most effective in the state, according to Alabama Trucking Association chairman Scott Smith.

How does the ATA relate to state trucking associations?

The American Trucking Associations operates as a national organization with state affiliates. Colson was selected from within this network: he previously served as vice chairman of the Trucking Association Executives Council and was elected by his peers at other ATA state associations.

What is the significance of this appointment for the trucking industry?

This appointment represents continuity and institutional knowledge within the trucking advocacy sector. Colson's selection from the ranks of state associations reflects the ATA's confidence in promoting experienced, peer-validated leaders who understand both regional and national trucking challenges.

Labor & Workforce

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Mark Colson Appointed New ATA President and CEO

Oct 15, 2026

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The signal

Mark Colson, president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association since 2019, has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, effective December 1. This leadership transition fills the vacancy created by Chris Spear's departure in late August.

Colson brings a track record of growth at the state level, including expanded membership, revenue growth, and establishment of an effective political action committee. His appointment represents a promotion from affiliate leadership to the helm of the national trucking industry's largest advocacy organization, which traces its roots to 1933 and represents the trucking sector across all 50 states.

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