The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) is excited to announce registration is now open for its 2026 Next Generation Certificate and OTA-Schulich ExecEd Leaders Certificate Program – two premier leadership development initiatives designed to strengthen the future of Ontario’s trucking industry.
Now entering its 12th year, the Next Generation Certificate Program is OTA’s flagship leadership communication and networking program. Developed through a member-driven process and delivered in partnership with The Humphrey Group, the three-part certificate program equips emerging leaders with the skills needed to communicate effectively, inspire action, and lead with confidence across all levels of an organization – from drivers and frontline teams to executive leadership.
Over the past decade, the program has graduated nearly 500 participants from companies of all sizes across Ontario and Canada, serving as a valuable platform for professional growth and industry connection.
“OTA’s Next Generation programs empower organizations to build critical bench strength by developing adaptable, forward-thinking leaders ready to meet the evolving demands of the trucking industry. Through focused leadership development and meaningful peer networking, participants gain the skills, confidence, and industry insight needed to navigate change, foster collaboration, and lead with impact. The result is a strong talent pipeline that supports long-term organizational success and helps ensure a resilient future for Ontario’s trucking industry,” said Mitch Thibert, Director of Operations, Contrans Flatbed Group, and OTA LEAD Co-Chair.
The Next Generation program begins in June 2026, and participation is open to OTA members in good standing, who can register here. The program registration fee is $2,175.
The OTA-Schulich ExecEd Leaders Certificate Program, developed in partnership with the Schulich School of Business at York University, builds on the foundation of the Next Generation program. Launched in 2017, the four-day program focuses on developing an innovative mindset and applying strategic leadership principles to real-world business challenges through a teamwork-oriented environment.
Participants engage in immersive, interactive learning experiences designed to cultivate innovation, enhance competitive advantage, and drive sustainable organizational growth. Graduates will have the opportunity to present their learnings and insights to industry leaders at OTA’s annual executive conference.
“As a graduate of the OTA LEAD programs, I’ve seen firsthand how relevant and impactful they are – especially in today’s environment. With our industry facing economic uncertainty, rising costs, workforce challenges, regulatory change, and rapid technological transformation, strong leadership has never been more important. The LEAD programs provide practical skills, strategic perspective, and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping Canadian trucking – while building valuable connections with peers navigating the same pressures. It’s more than professional development; it’s an investment in resilient leadership and the long-term strength of our industry,” said Antoine Dutil, Mobile Services Coordinator, Manac Inc. and LEAD Committee Co-Chair.
The OTA-Schulich ExecEd program begins in May 2026 and is open to graduates of the Next Generation Certificate Program. Eligible graduates will receive an email invitation to register. The program registration fee is $2,550.
Both programs are delivered in small cohorts to encourage engagement, collaboration, and meaningful peer connection. Space is limited.
For more information about program content, schedules, and registration, take a look at the 2026 program brochure here:
For registration questions, contact otaevents@ontruck.org
For program inquiries, contact lak.shoan@ontruck.org