Mark Colson appointed American Trucking Associations CEO

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has named Mark Colson as its next president and CEO, effective December 1, 2026. Colson, who has led the Alabama Trucking Association since 2019, will become the 10th president in the history of the national trade group.

Colson succeeds Chris Spear, who departed the position abruptly on August 21. In his new role, Colson will move to Washington, D.C., to lead national advocacy efforts and advance policy priorities for motor carriers. His background includes leadership roles at the Business Council of Alabama and serving as vice chairman of the Trucking Association Executives Council.

Colson previously chaired the task force that developed the Trucking Resurgence action plan, aimed at addressing regulatory gaps involving noncompliant carriers and unqualified drivers. He also serves on the ATA’s Strategic Priorities Committee and the Truck PAC board of directors.