As OOIDA turns 50, group keeps mission alive at MATS

Last year, the Mid-America Trucking Show celebrated its 50th anniversary.

For the 2023 version of MATS, it’s the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association’s turn to celebrate the half-century mark.

OOIDA, which has long been a staple at the annual trucking show in Louisville, Ky., will sponsor MATS’ opening reception at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 30.

MATS is scheduled for March 30 through April 1 at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville. OOIDA started in 1973 with the goal of fighting for the rights of all truck drivers.

“For 50 years, OOIDA has been representing truckers and fighting to make their lives and industry better,” OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh said. “OOIDA has never changed our model from being started by truckers. That has continued with a board made up completely of truckers who are living the same life of its members every day. With that, we will be looking forward to celebrating the opening night at Louisville with both old and new friends alike.”

Truck to Success

In addition to celebrating, OOIDA will continue its mission of education through its Truck to Success seminar, which will be part of MATS’ Pro Talks education series on the show floor. This year’s Truck to Success presentation will focus on the most effective ways to work with brokers.

“On Saturday morning, we will offer a segment of our Truck to Success course on brokers to help educate and strengthen small-business truckers with knowledge to be more profitable in the marketplace,” Pugh said.

2 for $50

The Association plans to have a booth in the North Wing and will have the OOIDA tour truck on site as well.

As part of OOIDA’s 50th anniversary, a one-year membership at MATS can be purchased for $35 and a two-year membership will cost only $50. LL