CLDA Connect

The conversations may have ended, but the connections made at CLDA CONNECT PHL continue to leave a lasting impact. From valuable industry insights to meaningful networking, the Philadelphia Connect event was a powerful reminder that some of the best opportunities in our industry begin with simply showing up.

Hosted at Maggie’s Waterfront Café, CLDA CONNECT PHL brought together members from across the United States for an evening of education, collaboration, and meaningful business connections. The room quickly filled to standing room only, creating an atmosphere filled with energy, conversation, and opportunity. It was a clear reminder that when logistics professionals come together, great things happen.

A special thank you goes to our event sponsor, Key Software Systems (KSS), whose commitment to the customized logistics and delivery industry helped make this event possible. KSS didn’t just sponsor the event—they showed up in a big way. Their entire team was on-site, connecting with members, sharing insights, and demonstrating what true partnership looks like. Thank you to Chris Miller, Heather Vacca, Charlie V. Pisciotta, Dave Fajerman, Brian Montibello, Raymond Yuen, and Gary Kellstrom for investing your time, sharing your expertise, and supporting the CLDA community.

Before the evening’s educational session began, CLDA President Lorena Camargo welcomed attendees and shared a few remarks about the importance of bringing our industry together through education, advocacy, and networking. Her message set the tone for an evening centered on collaboration, professional growth, and strengthening the relationships that make our association so valuable.

The evening featured an outstanding panel discussion moderated by Charlie V. Pisciotta of Key Software Systems (KSS). Charlie led an engaging conversation around technology, innovation, and the future of final-mile logistics. Joining him on the panel were Harold Boyett of Blue Streak, Tim Kravitz of Logistics Technology HQ, and Adam Autera of CDL Last Mile. Together, they shared practical insights, real-world experiences, and actionable strategies that attendees could immediately apply within their own businesses. It was another example of CLDA’s commitment to delivering education that helps members grow and stay ahead in an evolving industry.

Beyond the educational session, attendees also had the opportunity to experience a little Philadelphia culture. Maggie’s Waterfront Café served up local favorites, and I have to admit, my personal favorite was the Philly cheesesteak eggrolls—they definitely lived up to the hype.

What made the evening even more memorable was the timing. With the World Cup match playing on every screen throughout the venue, you might have expected everyone’s attention to be fixed on the game. Instead, something remarkable happened. As more CLDA members and guests arrived, the conversations took over. The focus shifted from the televisions to the relationships being built around the room. Business cards were exchanged, ideas were shared, partnerships were discussed, and new friendships were formed. It was a perfect reminder that while sporting events may bring people together, meaningful networking is what keeps our industry moving forward.

One of the highlights of the evening was seeing so many CLDA leaders together in one place. Members had the opportunity to connect with CLDA Board Members, Committee Chairs, committee volunteers, and fellow members from across the country. The event truly became a meet-and-greet, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, exchange ideas, and build relationships with the leaders helping shape the future of our association.

As the CEO of Express Errands & Courier and a CLDA Board Member and Marketing Committee Chair, I’ve experienced firsthand the value of being involved in this association. Some of the most meaningful relationships I’ve built—and some of the greatest opportunities for my business—have come from showing up, volunteering, serving, and engaging with fellow members. That’s one of the many reasons I’m so passionate about encouraging others to take advantage of everything CLDA has to offer.

If you’re looking to maximize your CLDA membership, my advice is simple: show up.

Networking is the new currency. People do business with people they know, trust, and remember. You can’t sit behind a computer waiting for opportunities to find you—you have to be intentional about getting into the room, making introductions, asking questions, and building genuine relationships. Your next client, referral partner, mentor, strategic alliance, or lifelong friend may be just one conversation away.

One of the greatest benefits of CLDA CONNECT events is that they are free for CLDA members. They provide an incredible opportunity to learn from industry experts, engage with solution providers, meet association leadership, and expand your professional network—all at no additional cost. Whether you’re a longtime member or attending your very first Connect event, these gatherings are one of the most valuable benefits of CLDA membership.

Philadelphia was an incredible success, and the momentum continues.

We’re already looking ahead to our next CLDA CONNECT event on October 8 in Scottsdale, Arizona, proudly hosted by OpenForce. If you’ve been thinking about attending your first Connect event—or if you’ve attended before and know the value these gatherings provide—I encourage you to join us. I look forward to seeing familiar faces, welcoming new members, and continuing to strengthen the relationships that make CLDA such an incredible community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, our outstanding panelists, our dedicated volunteers, the CLDA Board of Directors, Committee Chairs, and especially Key Software Systems (KSS) for helping make Philadelphia a memorable success.

Because at the end of the day, our industry moves packages—but our association moves people. And it’s those relationships that continue to move our businesses, our careers, and our industry forward.

See you in Scottsdale!

By Roslyn Ellerbee
CEO, Express Errands & Courier | CLDA Board Member | Marketing Committee Chair