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1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
“I joined CLDA after serving as Vice President of the XLA (Express Logistics Association), where we represented expedited air courier companies specializing in Next Flight Out (NFO) services for life sciences, express parts, and other time-critical shipments. Joining CLDA was a natural fit, as many of our NFO shipments relied on local and regional courier companies for seamless last-mile delivery.
OTG Cargo, where I serve as President, operates as both an Indirect Air Carrier (IAC) and a trusted express ground agent for many former XLA members. The integration with CLDA has facilitated a more unified approach to logistics, fostering stronger collaboration between air couriers and ground operators that benefits everyone involved.
This merger has been incredibly rewarding, allowing us to work together on advocacy and educational efforts that enhance understanding and performance across both sectors. As a result, we can deliver a more robust logistics solution to our clients while also building a stronger, more cohesive industry community. I’m also grateful for the opportunity to represent our industry directly with the TSA, ensuring they understand our security responsibilities. Our recent TSA white paper and the accompanying industry-supported recommendations for improving air cargo security are achievements I take great pride in. Through CLDA, we’ve established a framework for collaboration that enhances security and strengthens our relationship with key regulatory bodies.”
2. What unique opportunities for networking and education has your role on the CLDA board provided, and how have these opportunities enhanced your professional development?
“My role on the CLDA board has been invaluable for my professional growth and the value I bring to our members. The strong collaborative ties that CLDA has with other associations, the TSA Cargo division, and the airfreight industry provide a unique platform for advocacy, particularly around complex compliance and security issues.
Engaging directly with the TSA and other key stakeholders allows us to influence policies that impact our industry, giving our members a voice in decisions that shape their daily operations. These partnerships foster a collaborative environment where we share best practices and develop innovative solutions that directly benefit CLDA members, from enhancing air cargo security to streamlining ground logistics for last-mile delivery.
The network I’ve developed through CLDA has deepened my understanding of the broader logistics landscape, enabling me to deliver greater value to our members and enhance their competitiveness and operational efficiency.”
3. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
“I’ve been in the courier industry for over 40 years and have always recognized the valuable work done by CLDA. When the opportunity for the merger between XLA and CLDA arose, it seemed like a natural fit. Both associations had memberships that were very familiar with one another, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
XLA represented expedited air couriers, while CLDA had a robust network of ground logistics providers. This merger created a well-rounded association capable of serving the full spectrum of logistics needs. It was this synergy that convinced me to join CLDA, and I’ve been grateful for the opportunities it has provided to enhance industry collaboration and better serve our members.”
Indianapolis, IN, Nov. 12, 2025 – Registration is now open for the Final Mile Forum, presented by the Customized Logistics & Delivery Association (CLDA). The annual gathering of those involved in the supply chain will be held from Wednesday, Feb. 19, to Friday, February 21, at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina.
“The FMF is all about making connections that improve the bottom line,” says CLDA President Joel Pinsky. “Year after year, those who attend tell us about the ROI they have received from attending. Attendees value being about to meet the trailblazers and technology visionaries in the last mile. Those involved in the conference share their experience, the tools and the knowledge it takes to meet the challenges of the modern logistics landscape.”
The conference will also feature roundtable events where shippers and carriers can connect and networking opportunities where those in the industry can share ideas.
Sponsorships and booths in the Exhibit Hall are also now available, with more information available on clda.org
The conference will offer fuel for growth and knowledge to succeed and provide an investment for those in the final mile. It will feature information and opportunities for carriers, freight forwarders, freight brokers, 3PLs, suppliers of products and services to the logistics industry, shippers, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, drivers and independent contractors.
CLDA members and exhibitors receive discounted registration rates, and an extra $100 is available for those registering by Jan. 8, 2025. For more information and to register, go to the Education & Events tab of clda.org.
About The CLDA
The Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA) represents the first to final miles of the supply chain in the US and worldwide. This non-profit professional association serves the needs of its 2,900 essential service members: logistics professionals, carriers, shippers, drivers, air cargo logistics providers, 3PLs, and vendors servicing today’s supply chain companies. The CLDA gives its members access to a diverse network of logistics professionals looking to create new business opportunities and share decades of practical insights. They provide an avenue for amplifying members’ voices on critical issues and help them participate in the regulatory discussions shaping the industry. The CLDA keeps members informed and educated on trends, current issues, and best practices. For more information, see clda.org.
Media Contact
Andrea Obston
aobston@aomc.com
1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
As a result of in depth business strategy discussions with CLDA board members, Priority Courier Experts is now immeasurably safer in all our business practices. These improvements have protected PCE from many legal challenges and has safely preserved our business labor model. This involvement has also helped us expand into CDL trucking to significantly improve our business.
2. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
I realized that even a strong mid-sized business is not big enough to stand up against all the legal and regulatory challenges that are regularly arising that are mission critical harmful to our industry. It is only by banding together that we have a chance to protect our businesses and continually improve them. The willingness of CLDA member companies to help is each other in both business strategy/operations and Government Advocacy cannot be found in any other industry Association or group.
1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
Most recently with Xcel Delivery Services, we expanded into the Phoenix, AZ market when I joined the company. I reached out to many friends and colleagues that I have met over the years with CLDA and the business that we have received through CLDA members is easily in the millions of dollars. Creating long-lasting relationships does not happen overnight. It does take time and a commitment to put yourself and your company out there for others. It takes the willingness to help others. In my experience, the effort you give comes back many times over. I know that it has for me through the CLDA.
2. What unique opportunities for networking and education has your role on the CLDA board provided, and how have these opportunities enhanced your professional development?
When I first join the CLDA, I literally knew very few of the members or much about the association. Getting the opportunity to serve on the board allowed me to meet so many smart and amazing people. I was only 28 years old when I joined the board and it allowed me to network and form lifelong friendships with people whose experience, advice, and guidance have been invaluable in my career and business. I have learned so much just from being able to send a quick email and get advice or from listening to experiences and shared struggles that others have had.
3. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
In 2000, I was the President of Canyon State Courier, Inc and was encouraged to join and run for the board of the MCAA, now CLDA, by Al Foos my VP of Operations. He had been involved with the CLDA since its early days when it was known as the MCAA, Messenger Courier Association of the Americas. Al introduced me to Kim Household a competitor of ours from Hot Shot Services in Phoenix. Kim had also been a part of the MCAA for many years. I had a meeting with her about some local business we were collaborating on and she asked me about running for the board of the MCAA. She then proceeded to tell me that if I wanted to be on the board to meet her in the lobby of the hotel on the first day of the conference and in her words, “You’re on the board.” I met her in the lobby and she proceeded to walk me around to person after person in the pool, in the convention area, and in the bar, telling each one that they were to vote for me. Each one quickly responded with, “Yes Ma’am.”
Needless to say, I was elected to the board with her support. At the time I did not know all that much about the association, but it has definitely had a profound effect on my career and the success of the companies that I have been associated with. I had the pleasure of serving on the board from 2000-2004 and left the board as Second Vice President of the Association. In 2018, upon joining Xcel Delivery Services, I was elected again to rejoin the board. I thoroughly enjoyed the first two terms on the board and it was an easy decision to serve again. I grew up in the courier industry, my grandfather started a courier company in Southern California in 1963 and my dad went off on his own to start his company in 1985 in Arizona. I know a lot of our CLDA members grew up in the business and when it’s in your blood, it’s in your blood. Because of that, I enjoy giving back to the industry that has supported me and my family literally for generations.
In today’s fast-evolving logistics landscape, staying connected with industry leaders and keeping up with the latest trends is crucial for success. That’s why the CLDA Final Mile Forum, taking place February 19-21, 2025, in San Diego, California, is the premier event you can’t afford to miss. Designed specifically for final mile carriers and logistics service providers, this forum offers unmatched opportunities to network with influential industry peers, explore cutting-edge solutions, and gather valuable insights that will help optimize your business. Now is the time to mark your calendar and register for the most important final mile event of the year.
Whether you are looking to connect with potential partners, learn about the latest trends shaping the industry, or optimize your business practices, the CLDA Final Mile Forum has something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the key reasons why you should make this event a priority on your 2025 calendar.
One of the biggest draws of the CLDA Final Mile Forum is the networking opportunities. This event brings together top carriers, shippers, and logistics professionals from across the country, offering a rare chance to connect with thought leaders and decision-makers in the industry. Whether you’re looking to forge new business partnerships or deepen existing relationships, the Final Mile Forum will provide the space and time to do so.
In an industry where relationships are key to success, this event enables you to expand your network, opening doors for future collaborations and business growth.
As the final mile sector continues to grow, so do the opportunities to collaborate and expand your reach. The forum’s interactive sessions and networking events are designed to help you meet potential partners who can enhance your business capabilities. Whether you’re looking for a new technology provider, additional fleet services, or innovative ways to streamline your delivery operations, the forum is your gateway to expanding your business connections.
Beyond networking, you’ll have direct access to leading solution providers in the exhibit hall, where you can discover the tools and services that will help you optimize your business processes.
Technology and innovation are reshaping the final mile industry. To stay competitive, businesses must continuously improve their operations. At the Final Mile Forum, you’ll have the chance to explore cutting-edge products and services designed to help you run your business more efficiently.
From last-mile technology solutions to fleet management tools, exhibitors will be showcasing a wide array of offerings aimed at reducing costs, enhancing delivery speed, and improving customer satisfaction. This event gives you direct access to industry-leading providers who are committed to helping your business succeed.
Keeping up with the ever-changing logistics landscape is crucial for sustained success. The CLDA Final Mile Forum will feature informative sessions led by industry experts, covering everything from regulatory updates to the latest market trends. Whether you’re navigating supply chain disruptions, adjusting to new regulations, or seeking to improve operational efficiency, the forum’s educational sessions will equip you with the best practices to optimize your operations.
Attendees will also hear from experts on how market trends and customer demands are shaping the future of last-mile logistics, providing you with a competitive edge.
The 2025 CLDA Final Mile Forum promises to deliver three days packed with actionable insights, practical advice, and networking opportunities that can have a lasting impact on your business. Here’s what to expect during the event:
While the San Diego setting is undoubtedly a beautiful backdrop, the real value lies in the opportunities to learn, network, and grow. FMF will help you build the relationships and gain the knowledge you need to drive your business forward in 2025 and beyond.
Don’t miss your chance to attend the industry’s most important event of the year. Registration is now open, and spots are filling up fast! Secure your place at the 2025 CLDA Final Mile Forum and position your business for success in the ever-changing final mile logistics landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran or just starting out, FMF is the key to unlocking new growth and profitability in the coming year. Visit our registration page and sign up today.
As we head into the final quarter of 2024, I want to share some exciting developments within our association and future opportunities for your companies.
Thank you to everyone who participated in our membership survey. Your invaluable feedback helps shape our future initiatives. You expressed a strong desire for more access to industry-specific resources to help you stay competitive in the ever-evolving final mile landscape. You also want more networking and peer-to-peer opportunities to learn from each other.
The CLDA Board of Directors and team are already working hard to implement new programs and enhance existing offerings to meet those needs. At the end of September, we had the first CLDA Connect in Atlanta. This networking event brought together industry leaders, board members, local carrier companies, and drivers to meet and network, expanding their opportunities. Don’t worry if you missed it; we are planning more events like this in 2025.
To support the continuing development of your teams, we are launching a digital on-demand series later this month to provide more education tailored to foster your company’s growth. This series offers opportunities to improve your operational efficiency and increase your bottom line. As a CLDA member, you gain free access to these valuable resources.
Speaking of opportunities, our 2025 Annual Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and time is running out. These sponsorships offer year-round exposure to a highly targeted audience and will close on December 31, 2024. If you want to enhance your visibility and position your company as a leader in the final mile space, I encourage you to secure your sponsorship today.
Additionally, don’t miss out on the chance to showcase your brand at our premier event, the Final Mile Forum. Both Exhibit and Sponsorship Opportunities are available for this must-attend event with the best and brightest in our industry. Whether you want to network, generate leads, or increase your presence in the final mile sector, the Final Mile Forum is the prime platform to achieve your business goals.
As always, our mission remains steadfast. As we plan for 2025 and adjust our strategies to meet your needs, CLDA will continue to provide you with the education, advocacy, and networking necessary to succeed in the final mile logistics industry. Together, we will continue to grow and thrive in this dynamic community.
Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement, and I look forward to what’s ahead!
1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
Being on the CLDA board has given me invaluable insight into the logistics industry. It’s helped me refine my strategies for growing Express Errands & Courier by connecting with industry leaders and staying ahead of key trends. Also, being surrounded by peers who have been in the industry for 20+ years has been incredibly valuable. In addition to the professional connections I’ve made through CLDA, I’ve also developed lasting friendships that have enriched my journey.
2. What unique opportunities for networking and education has your role on the CLDA board provided, and how have these opportunities enhanced your professional development?
The networking and educational opportunities have been incredible, by far the best! From attending our annual FMF conference to engaging in deep-dive discussions with industry experts, I’ve gained fresh perspectives that have elevated both my business acumen and leadership skills. As the Membership Chair, I’ve had the privilege of fostering new relationships and promoting growth within the CLDA community, which has been both rewarding and transformative for my own development.
3. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
I first heard about CLDA through a client who spoke highly of the association’s impact. They couldn’t recall the name right away, but once I found CLDA, I knew it was home for Express Errands & Courier. After attending a few FMF conferences, I realized that joining was the game-changer my business needed. Now, as Membership Chair, I’d love to be of service to others. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn and say hello!
1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
Being on the board of the CLDA has opened so many doors for me over the past 2 years. I’m having discussions with other board members I never would have been able to have without this board position. The closer connections have helped me navigate through some challenging times in our industry, and I’m so glad to have several people at my fingertips to call and ask for advice. I’ve known many of them for years, but not at this level, and they are truly a wonderful group of individuals who lead this association.
2. What unique opportunities for networking and education has your role on the CLDA board provided, and how have these opportunities enhanced your professional development?
Because we have such a diverse board, it’s allowed to learn how different size companies, in different markets navigate this ever-changing landscape of the final-mile world. Before the board, I only knew how my company was run, but now I have a much different perspective and appreciation for how companies much larger, and smaller than me operate. There is so much goodness that comes from gaining different perspectives, and this board has given me that, times 10!
3. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
Being a second generation-owner, I knew about the CLDA through my father. We’ve been members for over 30 years, but it wasn’t until I started going to the conferences, joining committees, and eventually joining the board, that I truly came to appreciate all that the CLDA has to offer. It’s truly a special group.
1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
Being a member of The CLDA Board has been a jolt to my professional development as a business leader. The CLDA board looks at trends in the final mile delivery industry, whether it’s education, advocacy or collaboration. Being a board member has given me first hand insight into what is happening in the final mile industry and how to prepare my business for the future.
2. What unique opportunities for networking and education has your role on the CLDA board provided, and how have these opportunities enhanced your professional development?
Serving as a Co Chair on the Final Mile Focus was a unique opportunity to look at Industry Verticals, Industry Affiliates who support Carriers and Shippers and trends in the final mile. Once called the Executive Leadership Summit or ELS, serving as a board member, I chose the unique opportunity to launch with the ELS Chair an educational opportunity to bring carriers, shippers and affiliates in a virtual education format which was a huge success. This was my first opportunity to plan, organize and execute a virtual webinar and the experience was outstanding.
3. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
Our firm has been a member of the CLDA for many years and my father, George E. Pillow Jr was a board member when the CLDA was called the MCAA. I would like to thank Jason Burns Sr and Steve Howard for encouraging me to become more active in the association and running for the board. The CLDA is the preeminent association for the final mile industry. Serving on the board is a privilege and has truly allowed me to network with the industry’s finest professionals.
1. Can you share a specific example of how your involvement with the CLDA board has positively impacted your career or business?
Being on the CLDA board has significantly enhanced my leadership skills in areas like governance, strategic planning, and decision-making, which are directly applicable to my business. This role has also offered me the chance to collaborate with other industry leaders, allowing us to work together to advance the industry. These interactions have broadened my professional network and provided valuable insights, which have been instrumental in driving my company’s growth and refining our strategic initiatives.
2. What unique opportunities for networking and education has your role on the CLDA board provided, and how have these opportunities enhanced your professional development?
My role on the CLDA board has provided extensive networking opportunities, allowing me to connect with other members and gain a deeper understanding of their business challenges and concerns. This exposure has enabled me to advocate effectively for the industry’s interests and contribute to its advancement. The professional relationships and exchanges of advice have been invaluable for my personal and professional development, enhancing my industry insights and developing close friendships.
3. How did you hear about CLDA, and what convinced you to join?
I first learned about CLDA through the company I worked for before starting my own business, as they were a member. One of my mentors, Phyllis Apelbaum – a past president – strongly encouraged me to join, emphasizing its value. Her recommendation convinced me to become a member right away, and I’ve since found it to be an incredibly rewarding experience and continue to finding value.
