Conference Agenda

Golf Grab and Go Breakfast
Sponsored by R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc. and Trailiner Corp.
Oasis Grill Pool Patio

FSA Golf Tournament - Shotgun Start
The JW Marriott Golf Clubhouse - Palm Desert

Conference Registration
Sponsored by Armstrong Transport Group
South Registration Desk

Welcome Luncheon

Upon your arrival and conference check in, this luncheon is a great start for you to seek out old friends, meet new ones and start your networking!
Sponsored by Covenant Logistics & PLM Trailer Leasing
Springs Terrace and Ballroom

Opportunity for Strategic Networking

There will be available designated meeting areas for you to have one on one meetings. There will be tables and chairs available on a first come first serve basis to facilitate your networking and meetings.
Sponsored by Cornerstone Systems, Inc.
Santa Rosa Ballroom

Autonomous Technology

See the cutting-edge technology behind self-driving trucks. The capabilities and advancements in self-driving technology for heavy-duty vehicles will be on full display. Get a glimpse into a future with advanced sensors, cameras, and radar systems that allow trucks to navigate roads without human intervention. This technology will improve safety, efficiency, and reliability in the logistics industry.
Springs Salon A-E

WITney® Educational Trailer

Experience a custom-made state-of-the-art driver simulator courtesy of Advanced Training Systems that allows attendees to experience truck driving in different scenarios, regions of the country, and weather conditions. Interact with the kiosks on trucking 101, common myth busters, general Q&A, and a quiz on whether trucking would be the right career fit.
Springs Salon A-E

FSA Member Networking

Please stop by to meet with your fellow FSA members in a room set aside exclusively for networking and sharing best practices on current industry challenges. This time is available to meet casually with your fellow supply chain professionals. No suppliers allowed for this members-only event.
San Jacinto Ballroom

First Time Attendee Reception

If this is your first time attending the conference please attend the First Time Attendee Reception to meet other new comers as well as Food Shippers of America’s Officers, Board Members, Advisors and 2025 Conference Co-Chairs.
Sponsored by PLS Logistics Services
San Jacinto Ballroom

Welcome Reception

Come enjoy a cocktail, reconnect with old friends and reach out to make new ones while enjoying the California twilight!
Sponsored by FST Logistics and Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC
The Grove

Welcome Buffet Dinner

Continue your networking and catching up with old (and new) friends while enjoying a buffet dinner immediately following the Welcome Reception.
Sponsored by Amazon Freight, Arrive Logistics, and Surge Transportation
JW Pavilion

Cigar Social

New for 2025. Indulge in a curated selection of premium cigars while mingling with fellow enthusiasts in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, this event promises great conversations, fine cigars, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sponsored by Burns Logistics Solutions Inc. and Refrigerated Food Express

Continental Breakfast
Sponsored by NFI Industries, Inc. and Royal Transportation Services, Inc.
Springs Terrace

Shippers & Receivers Private Breakfast

Designated time for member company attendees to interact and get an update on Food Shippers of America activities. David Domencic, Director of Procurement, ARMADA and President of Food Shippers of America will open the annual meeting at 7:15 AM. Earnie Seibert, Treasurer of Food Shippers of America, will provide the annual Treasurer’s Report as required by the Food Shippers of America Bylaws. Mary Kearney, Direct of Sales, Kottke Trucking and Media Advisor of Food Shippers of America will finish with FSA’s latest media interactions and efforts.
Springs Salon A-E

National Anthem

Joe Everson will perform a live-action painting while singing the National Anthem.

Welcome and Opening Comments

Dave Domencic, Director Transportation Procurement, ARMADA and President of Food Shippers of America will open the 69th annual conference and introduce our 2025 Conference Co Chairs.

John J. Murphy Scholarship Presentation & Where Are They Now?

We are pleased to have the 2025 recipient of the John J Murphy Scholarship present to receive the award from Steve Stein, Chairperson of Food Shippers of America and Senior Director Logistics and Supply Chain, Michigan Milk Producers Association. All 2025 award recipients will be acknowledged at this time.

SESSION 1
69th Annual Conference Keynote Speaker: Bob Costas

Bob Costas is an acclaimed American sports broadcaster, journalist, and author. Bob has been a prominent part of the coverage of every major sport over the past three decades. Renowned for his articulate commentary and in-depth interviews, Bob has won multiple Emmy Awards and has been recognized for his ability to blend sports coverage with cultural insights.

Conference Break
Sponsored by Capstone Logistics
Sinatra Ballroom Foyer

Joe Everson Painting, Bob Costas Book, and Herschel Walker Football Raffle

After the break, an original Joe Everson painting, books autographed by Bob Costas, and footballs autographed by Herschel Walker will be given away through a random drawing. Must Be Present to Win

SESSION 2
Technology Success and the Change Management Behind It Moderated by Zach Schuchart

Join us for an engaging panel discussion with leading shippers as they share their journeys of successfully integrating transformative technology into their operations. Each panelist will highlight a specific solution that has significantly impacted their network, from enhancing efficiency to driving growth. They’ll delve into the change management challenges they faced along the way, the strategies they used to overcome them, and the valuable lessons learned. Discover how they navigated the complexities of implementation, achieved buy-in from stakeholders, and realized a strong ROI from their technology investments.

SESSION 3
No Hands on the Wheel: The Future of AV Trucks Moderated by Chris Caplice

The adoption of autonomous cars has been much faster than that of trucks, especially for heavy-duty long-haul trucking. This panel of executives from leading autonomous vehicle technology companies will debate the current state and future prospects of autonomous trucks. The discussion will cover various topics, including regulatory hurdles, public perception, impact on shipper and carrier operations, and the spatial and temporal timeline for adoption.

Conference Housekeeping

Conference Attendee Buffet Lunch
Sponsored by Fuel Transport and Zipline Logistics
JW Pavilion/The Grove

Invitation Only: Speaker and Sponsor Luncheon
Springs Salon A-E

SESSION 4
Transportation Outlook and What to Consider Going Forward with Eric Starks

Join Eric Starks, Chairman of FTR, an award-winning economic forecasting firm with a laser-like focus on commercial freight and equipment demand. He will provide clear, concise guidance on the market’s direction.

Herschel Walker Football and Bob Costas Signed Book Raffle

Autographed books and footballs will be given away through a random drawing. Must Be Present to Win

SESSION 5
Where's My Freight? Moderated by Corey Ritenour

In today’s fast-paced logistics environment, freight visibility is crucial for optimizing supply chain operations. The well-rounded participants on this panel will provide a comprehensive exploration of freight visibility, discussing its significance, benefits, and the evolving landscape of logistics. We will examine how effective visibility solutions can transform operations for shippers, carriers, and receivers while addressing challenges and best practices. This presentation will culminate in a summary of key takeaways, emphasizing the critical role of freight visibility in modern logistics. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for enhancing visibility in their operations and insights into future developments in the field.

Conference Break
Sponsored by PECO Pallet
Sinatra Ballroom Foyer

SESSION 6
Theft and Fraud in the Supply Chain Moderated by Thom Albrecht

Theft and Fraud have become persistent issues in the overall supply chain. The panel of experts will address how we got here, what has been and is being done to combat this disruption, and how we can work together to minimize the impacts. A special focus will be on the direct and indirect effects on the food supply chain and how we as food shippers can detect, deter, and prevent future disruptions.

Conference Close of Day 

The day’s highlights will be reviewed by the Conference Co-Chairs, along with conference housekeeping, before the day ends in preparation for the evening events.

Opportunity for Strategic Networking

We will have available designated meeting areas for you to schedule your one-on-one meetings.
Sponsored by Cornerstone Systems, Inc.
Santa Rosa Ballroom

Cocktail Reception
Sponsored by PECO Pallet and Trimble, Inc.
Springs Terrace

Annual Banquet Event
Sponsored by Advanced Transportation Services, DTL Transport Inc., and Giltner, Inc.
Sinatra Ballroom

After Dinner Drink & Dessert Reception
Sponsored by ShipEx and Surge Transportation
Springs Ballroom

Continental Breakfast
Sponsored by Hirschbach Transportation Services, Inc. and Werner
Springs Terrace

Opening Comments & Food Shippers Gives Back

Conference Co-Chairs Clyde Coleman, Jim Hamm, and Steve Hart will start the day with a recap of the opening day’s key takeaway points then Food Shippers of America President Dave Domencic will present the organization’s annual “Give Back” acknowledgments to: American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), Feeding America, and FIND Food Bank.

Herschel Walker Football and Bob Costas Book Raffle

David Domencic, Director Transportation Procurement, ARMADA and Food Shippers of America President will give away autographed books and footballs through a random drawing. Must Be Present to Win.

Golf Awards Presentation

Justin Allen, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Andrus Transportation and Food Shippers of America Golf Chairman will announce the golf tournament winners. WINNERS MUST BE PRESENT TO RECEIVE AWARDS

SESSION 7
69th Annual Conference Keynote Speaker: Herschel Walker

Herschel Walker is a renowned business leader, former professional athlete, and dedicated community advocate for education and mental health. At the University of Georgia, he helped win the 1980 national title, was selected as an All-American three times, and was the recipient of the 1982 Heisman Trophy. He was also a member of the U.S. bobsled team in the 1992 Winter Olympics, held a world record in the 60-yard dash, and earned a fifth-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He achieved an undefeated record in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). As an entrepreneur, Herschel has led successful ventures in the food service industry.

Conference Break
Sponsored by Trius
Sinatra Ballroom Foyer

SESSION 8
Economic Update with Bob Costello

Bob Costello, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the American Trucking Associations returns to present current economic data and its effects throughout the Supply Chain. This session is too important to miss and you will be able to bring valuable information back to your teams and executive leadership.

Conference Closing

Darica Schneider, Senior Director Transportation Operations, Univar Solutions and incoming Food Shippers of America President will close the 69th Annual Conference.