ATRI Strengthens Leadership with New Board Members from Industry Giants

ATRI Welcomes Two Industry Leaders to Its Board of Directors

The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has recently announced the addition of two prominent figures from the transportation industry to its Board of Directors: Mike Ludwick, President and CEO of Bison USA, and Michael Kiely, President of Global Government Affairs at UPS. Their appointments mark a notable enhancement to ATRI’s leadership, bringing in decades of experience and insight into the transportation sector.

Leadership Profiles

Mike Ludwick has been a vital part of Bison Transport since 1997, where he initially served as an independent contractor providing IT services, before moving on to hold significant positions within the company. In June 2024, he was appointed as the President and CEO, showcasing his growth within the organization. His leadership extends beyond Canadian borders, as he also oversees Bison USA, the company's American subsidiary. Moreover, Ludwick has been an active member of ATRI's Research Advisory Committee from 2019 to 2024, contributing to the institute's mission.

On the other hand, Michael Kiely began his journey with UPS in 1992 as a management trainee, progressively climbing the ranks through various financial and accounting roles across several locations, including New York, Georgia, and Belgium. In 2001, he was appointed Managing Director of Finance and Accounting for UPS's Northern European operations, overseeing financial management across seven countries. His transition to UPS’s Government Affairs division in 2005 eventually led him to be the President of U.S. Government Affairs in 2020, and in 2023, he took on the role of President of Global Government Affairs. In these capacities, Kiely has been instrumental in shaping legislative strategies for UPS at both state and federal levels.

ATRI's Vision and Future

Welcoming the new board members, ATRI Chairman Derek Leathers expressed confidence in their ability to contribute to ATRI’s essential research efforts. “ATRI has always benefitted from an engaged Board of Directors, and we welcome the addition of Mr. Ludwick and Mr. Kiely,” said Rebecca Brewster, ATRI's President and COO. Their combined knowledge will pose a significant advantage in guiding research that underpins the safety and efficiency of the freight transportation system in America.

ATRI serves as the trucking industry’s non-profit research organization, dedicated to investigating critical issues concerning freight transportation. Their ongoing research is vital for understanding and improving the logistics that sustain the country’s infrastructure and economy.

Conclusion

The appointments of Mike Ludwick and Michael Kiely to the ATRI Board of Directors are seen as a strategic move to strengthen the organization's leadership and broaden its perspective. As members who have shown long-term commitment to ATRI and the industry, their insights will undoubtedly enhance ATRI’s influence and effectiveness in addressing the challenges facing the transportation sector. The ongoing evolution of the board aligns with ATRI's mission to support a safe, secure, and efficient transportation system. Their immediate contributions will likely set the tone for the organization's future initiatives and research projects.

In summary, ATRI looks forward to a promising future, propelled by the enriching leadership provided by Ludwick and Kiely, who are both poised to make significant strides in advancing the research and understanding of freight transportation’s pivotal role in the country's overall economic landscape.