Just like that, six months have passed since I stepped into the role of Executive Director of CLDA.
I continue to be grateful for the opportunity to serve this association alongside such a dedicated group of volunteer leaders and a truly outstanding staff team. Over the past six months, I have had the pleasure of getting to know many of our members and learning more each day about the industry you have built your businesses and careers around. It has only deepened my appreciation for the work you do and the value CLDA can bring to this community.
If we have not yet had the chance to meet in person, I hope to see you on July 9 at CONNECT PHL. As a South Jersey native with a father who was born and raised in Philadelphia, I am especially excited to welcome CLDA members to my corner of the country. I encourage you to stay for the weekend, explore our nation’s first capital, enjoy the food and history of Philadelphia, or head down to the Jersey Shore, where I grew up. I may be biased, but I will put the Jersey Shore in July up against just about anywhere. If you are planning to come in and want recommendations, send me a note. I would be glad to point you in the right direction.
There is a lot taking shape at CLDA, and I am excited to share more as the year continues. For now, here are a few highlights and a look at what is ahead.
First, MOVEMENT by CLDA and its sister publication, DISPATCH, are being released to the world. Since my first week on the job, I have looked forward to improving and streamlining CLDA’s email communications. MOVEMENT will be our monthly, members-only hub for CLDA updates, educational features, member opportunities, and association news. DISPATCH, our weekly newsletter, will focus on timely industry updates, advocacy matters, and the information you need to stay informed from week to week.
We are also making meaningful progress in advocacy. CLDA continues to work on behalf of our members to help shape policy, influence important conversations in Washington, and protect the way this industry does business. One thing I have learned quickly is that advocacy is often most successful when members do not have to feel its impact every day. But that does not mean the threats are not real. Issues affecting independent contractor models, transportation operations, labor rules, and regulatory compliance continue to move quickly, and CLDA needs engaged members helping to carry that message forward.
I encourage you to consider supporting CLDA’s advocacy work with a monthly donation here. I also invite you to consider applying to join the Government Affairs Committee. The best time to get involved is before an issue reaches your doorstep.
In education, we have updated our internal member education portal with new navigation and video content, and we are working on several new initiatives for 2027. More details will be shared soon, but this is an area where I believe CLDA can continue to provide real, practical value to members year-round.
Finally, I am very excited about what is ahead for Final Mile Forum 2027 in Orlando. It is still a little early to share everything, but I can say with confidence that we are building something special. Our goal is to make FMF 2027 one of the strongest, most valuable, and most talked-about CLDA events in years. Registration is just around the corner, so keep an eye on your inbox.
Thank you again for the warm welcome, the candid feedback, and the continued commitment so many of you bring to CLDA. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Michael Wright
CLDA Executive Director
