CHAIRMAN
John Harrison
Director, Transportation Operations, CPC Logistics Canada Ltd.
Hometown: Newmarket, ON
Career: I began working in the financial services industry. I was a mortgage broker, but always wanted to get into trucking. I left the mortgage business and went to Humber College for my “AZ” licence. I was hired by Schneider National and learned the business from the ground up. I moved over to Global Driver Services as a driver; but my management experience led me to assume greater roles of responsibility. Once Huron (CPC Logistics) acquired Global, I remained after the transition and progressed to my present role with CPC Logistics Canada Ltd.
Involvement with the PMTC: When I became GM of Global, owner Mike Keefe suggested I participate in the PMTC, as it was a great group for networking and sharing best practices. I joined the Board in 2007. My current supervisor, Bob Boyich, has encouraged our continued participation, and we are proud supporters of the PMTC.
In 2016, I was honoured being elected Chairman of the PMTC. I’m very proud to serve with such an excellent and well-skilled assembly of professionals.
I’m a firm believer that safety isn’t an operating expense, but rather an investment that pays huge dividends in numerous ways. CPC Logistics Canada has a very low driver turnover rate and we’ve received numerous awards from both the PMTC and IHSA recognizing our efforts as industry leaders in health and safety.
Interests: My favorite place is my cottage in the Haliburton Highlands. I love to read and fish up there, and I’m truly able to relax and enjoy my family time. I also love a game of golf when time permits. I serve on the Board of the Barrie Learning Centre for children with dyslexia. The transformation that takes place when these children are exposed to proper training is truly amazing and one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever experienced as a volunteer.
PAST-CHAIR
Dennis Shantz
Director Fleet Services, Home Hardware Stores Limited
Hometown: Waterloo, ON
Career: I started at Home Hardware in 1997 as a driver. After six years, I became Corporate Safety Coordinator and helped develop a safety program called Carrier Safety Management System, which we still use today. In ‘06, I became National Fleet Manager and, in 2011, was promoted to Director Fleet Services. In 2007, I joined the PMTC Board and, from 2014-2016, I was Chair. I also sat on the board for the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council. I’m currently Chair for the Central Ontario Regional Truck Driving Championships.
Involvement with PMTC: Home Hardware has been a member for 20+ years. When my predecessor retired, I became more involved. As the National Fleet Manager, I often reached out to the PMTC for advice and updates on regulatory changes, and realized the value of the PMTC and the benefits that came with membership. I still reach out to the PMTC and continue to receive informative emails and the newsletter regarding updates or changes within the industry. I also attend the Conference each year, which continues to be a wealth of information and a great opportunity to network. The PMTC is, and continues to be, a strong voice for private fleets across Canada.
Safety has always been an area I felt strongly about. With the recent inception of Ontario’s MELT program, this is a big step in the right direction in making sure we have safe properly trained competent drivers behind the wheel. I hope other provinces adopt this program, which will help make Canadian roadways even safer.
Interests: Riding my motorcycle is something I enjoy very much. Each year I try to plan a bike trip with a couple of buddies. I enjoy the outdoors, whether just going for a walk, playing a round of golf, or fishing and hunting – if I’m outdoors, I’m enjoying it.
1st VICE-CHAIR
Brad Fletcher
Logistics/Emergency Response Manager, Terrapure Environmental
Hometown: Inglewood, ON
Career: I started at Air Liquide Canada in 1997 as a dispatcher. Over the next 10 years developed into a Distribution Manager with ALC and was with ALC until 2015. In 2015, I took a role with Terrapure Environmental (formerly Newalta Corp) as a Logistics Manager and took over the Emergency Response group in 2016 with dual responsibilities for both groups.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC to be more involved and educated on the regulation and compliance side of our industry. Through PMTC, I gained key contacts that have allowed me to not only develop good business relationships, but also good career opportunities.
Interests: I enjoy playing hockey and many other sports. I also enjoy the outdoors, fishing and being at the cottage with my family.
2nd VICE CHAIR
Shari Lagala
Health, Safety & Training Manager, Patene Building Supplies Ltd.
Hometown: Innerkip, ON
Career: My background is in Safety and HR. My family has been in construction and transportation all my life. My spouse also runs his own trucking company from our home, so I’m never away from it. I suppose it was only natural that I gravitated to this industry. With my roles starting in administration moving up to Fleet Manager and to Heath & Safety and Human Resources, it’s been a career of continuous learning and navigating through the changing times in our industry, while meeting amazing people along the way!
Involvement with PMTC: In 2004, I joined a group of very passionate people who are truly interested in shaping trucking for the better and moving forward in our ever-changing times. PTMC membership continues to be a positive for Patene. The support, along with the networking/information from all the members, is immeasurable!
Interests: I enjoy family time, holidaying in Mexico, RV camping, music, farming and my pets (210 sheep, 25 Muscovy ducks, 2 peacocks, 2 horses, 3 dogs and a friendly Holstein cow).
DIRECTOR
John Bowen
Fleet Sales Manager, Volvo Trucks Canada
Hometown: Oakville, Ontario.
Career: I joined Volvo Trucks Canada in November 2016, and assumed the role of Fleet Sales Manager. I began my career in the late ‘70s with Mack Trucks (Canada), and took my experience to Navistar Canada in the early ‘90s. After a brief time with the Canadian head office, I was transferred to Navistar’s world headquarters in Chicago and was part of the team accountable for product development. I returned to Canada (Navistar) in the late ‘90s as Sales Director for Canada.
Involvement with the PMTC: I’m an active member of the PMTC, Canadian Trucking Alliance and, most recently, I was Chairman for the Allied Trades Division of the Ontario Trucking Association.
Interests: I enjoy being involved in charity work with a number of local organizations.
DIRECTOR
Philippe Camp
National Account Sales Executive, Paccar Leasing Company Ltd.
Hometown: Waterloo, ON
Career: I’m a 30-year full-service leasing veteran, having represented several major industry providers. I’m experienced in all facets of Paccar’s business: major account management, rentals, leasing, finance, and working with OEMs.
Involvement with PMTC: I’m a three-year board member, and joined to be involved and to contribute my knowledge to this worthy transportation interest group.
Interests: I have several hobbies and sports-related activities that occupy me, with much time devoted to three grown children and their lives.
DIRECTOR
Gerald Carroll
Director of Risk Management & Customer Relations, Fortigo Freight Services Ltd.
Hometown: Etobicoke, ON
Career: I’ve been in transportation for 20+ years. I started as a dispatcher and then went into an operational role and eventually wanted to become more engaged in Safety. I have lead different teams over my career to focus on the drivers and their needs. Help the drivers see a company with a lower CVOR level tends to be awarded more business; more business means more loads; and more loads means a greater success for drivers.
Involvement with PMTC: This is my first year with PMTC and the other members I have met share the same passion as me, to make this industry safer and better. I joined the PMTC because they want what is best for the industry and they encourage members to share information so that we can all become better.
Interests: I love spending time with my 22-year-old son Skyler and my twin 18-year-old girls, Sierra and Soleil. I’m also a football official (on-field instant replay coordinator for the CFL assigned to the Toronto Argos). I love photography and being outdoors.
DIRECTOR
Ted Dezsenyi
District Maintenance & Safety Compliance Specialist, FedEx Ground
Hometown: Holland Landing, ON
Career: I drove for 15 years specializing in tankers for Shell Canada and Harmac Transportation. I was Safety Coordinator at Harmac Transportation for two years and then Safety Manager at Epic Express for five years. I’m currently Maintenance & Safety Compliance Specialist for the Canada Region at FedEx Ground (13 years).
Involvement with PMTC: I was exposed to PMTC from my time at Harmac through Safety Director Don Ames. At FedEx, I felt we could benefit from membership in several areas; it’s a great relationship and we receive great support. I’m glad to serve on the board to help steer the PMTC in a direction that benefits all members and their customers.
Interests: Having my wife beat me at golf, riding my Harley, snowmobiling, and volunteering with the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.
DIRECTOR
Jim Dimech
Director of Distribution, Merchant On-Site Gases, Praxair Canada Inc.
Hometown: Dundas, ON
Career: 18+ years at Praxair Canada Inc. in various roles including Logistics Planner, Asset Coordinator Manager, Western Canadian Logistics Team Leader, National Distribution Resource Analyst, National Logistics Manager, Associate Director of Distribution, and Director of Distribution.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined in January 2015. PMTC and Praxair have always had a strong relationship. I wanted to continue this relationship when I came into my previous role. Praxair and I view the PMTC as the industry leader in protecting the views of the private trucking industry and providing the information private fleets need to stay on the cutting edge of the industry.
Interests: Cooking, landscaping, canoeing/fishing, and spending time with my 17-month-old son.
DIRECTOR
Sanchia Duran
Account Manager, Sales, Shaw Tracking
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Career: I’ve been with Shaw Tracking for 20 years, starting as an assistant to the GM. I moved into customer service and then became an account manager looking after existing customers. The last 10+ years have been spent in direct sales and account management, helping new fleets embrace technology and enabling established technology users to get more out of their technology investment.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined to get more involved in the industry and give back. I wanted to really learn the industry not just sell to it. Joining the PMTC has educated me on the current issues facing the industry in all areas, not just technology. The PMTC has enabled me to meet and work with people in all areas related to transportation. My goal is to get licenced to drive a truck, not as a livelihood, but to relate to what a driver has to do in the job and have firsthand experience what it is like to drive a truck.
Interests: Travel – I work so I can see places I’ve never been. I love to explore and try new things. Hiking, camping, snowboarding, cross country skiing, biking, swimming, eating great food, drinking fine wine, all while seeing new places with family and friends.
DIRECTOR
Fred Hildebrand
Vice President, Tallman Idealease
Hometown: Mississauga, ON
Career: I’ve been involved in the industry since high school. In 1985, I graduated from York University and was hired by Rentway Truck Leasing & Rental (a division of Trimac). I was in several management roles until being promoted to VP-Ontario Division in 1998. Following the sale of Rentway to Penske (2000), I spent two years as a consultant. In ‘02, I joined Commercial Babcock (now Morgan Corp.) to run their sales and marketing departments. In 2007, I re-entered the full service leasing business with Western Toronto International (now part of the Tallman Group). The Tallman Group has grown quickly, both via acquisitions and at existing facilities, expanding its geographic presence in Ontario and its product line offering.
Involvement with PMTC: In 2010, the CEO of Idealease North America asked me to fill their seat on the PMTC Board. I’ve found this role to be particularly rewarding as the PMTC proactively works on issues and subjects that affect not only the trucking industry, but the general public as well. The focus on the Young Leaders Group is of particular interest, as it’s necessary for individual companies and the industry as a whole to strive to recruit young talent.
Interests: Family, hockey, travel, water sports.
DIRECTOR
Jason Hinton
Director, Corporate Purchasing & Distribution, Burnbrae Farms Limited
Hometown: Burlington, ON
Career: I’ve held various transportation and logistics roles with Loblaw and Sobeys prior to joining Burnbrae Farms, Canada’s leading egg supplier in 2011.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC in 2012 on the advice of fellow member Terry Maw. I’m passionate about the transportation industry specifically as it pertains to emerging technologies and legislative compliance. Burnbrae Farms is very proud of our track record in fleet safety and efficiency.
Interests: I enjoy hockey and golf, but now dedicate my time to chasing around my two sons (which I wouldn’t trade for anything).
DIRECTOR
Steve Lawn
Fleet Manager-Commercial Fuels, Parkland Fuel Corporation
Hometown: Etobicoke, ON
Career: I started as a licenced automotive and truck coach technician in 1988, and have held fleet management roles for the past 25 years at Canada Post Corporation, Superior Propane and now Parkland Fuel Corporation.
Involvement with PMTC: I’ve been involved with the PMTC for many years as a member and regular attendee of the Annual Conference. I joined the board in 2013-14. The PMTC offers opportunities to share ideas amongst fleets with similar operating conditions and is a great voice for the private fleet community. I have a great interest in the ever-changing truck specification and regulatory environment.
Interests: Volunteer head coach in the Etobicoke Dolphins Girls Hockey League, home renovations, and watching the Jays and Leafs play.
DIRECTOR
Marcus Mares
Canadian Sales Manager, PeopleNet Canada
Hometown: Guelph, ON
Career: In my teens I was an elite level tennis player. To save up for university, I took a break from coaching tennis to drive long-haul trucks in 2001. That ‘summer job’ has kept me in the industry ever since. I’m a graduate of the University of British Columbia (B. Comm.-Accounting), later earning a CMA-CPA designation from the Society of Management Accountants of Ontario. Working with vehicle telemetry technologies for the past 10 years, I’m passionate about technology, strategy and beautiful trucks.
Involvement with PMTC: I first joined the PMTC in August 2015. Currently I serve as a Director of the PMTC and a Director on the YLG. I love talking numbers and trucks, and this was a natural venue for me to meet like-minded individuals who are more knowledgeable than me, and can provide me with opportunities to further understand transportation and logistics.
Interests: Tennis, golf, soccer, hockey and astronomy.
DIRECTOR
Terry Maw
VP Sales – Ontario, Trailer Wizards
Hometown: Hillsburgh, ON
Career: For 32 years, I’ve been involved with all aspects (sales, rentals, leasing) of transport trailers, working for manufacturers, dealers, and leasing companies.
Involvement with PMTC: I’ve been a PMTC member for about 20 years and became a Director in 2007. I believe helping the PMTC will, in turn, help the industry and make the roads safer for all. The industry has been very good to me and this is one way I can give back.
Interests: Aside from spending time travelling with my family, I enjoy all sports, especially NFL football, fishing and snowmobiling. I also play some hockey.
DIRECTOR
Ryan McDonald
Director of Transportation, Gordon Food Service Ontario
Hometown: Guelph, ON
Career: I’ve been in the industry for more than a decade. I am the Director of Transportation for the Ontario division of Gordon Food Service, which consists of 375 drivers and support staff. Previously, I was with Challenger Motor Freight as Director of Operations and Director of Engineering & Quality. I’ve also held progressive roles with Purolator Courier and General Motors.
Involvement with PMTC: I have been a member of PMTC since September 2016 and am a strong supporter of the Young Leaders Group.
Interests: In addition to a passion for transportation, I enjoy vacationing to the south with family, reading, fitness and trying new culinary creations.
DIRECTOR
David Parsons
Distribution Supervisor, Sleeman Breweries Ltd.
Hometown: Waterdown, ON
Career: I’ve been in my current role since 2008. Prior to that, I was with Maple Leaf Consumer Foods, United Parcel Service, and The Beer Store.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC in January 2009 through Sleeman Breweries, but I had a good working knowledge of the PMTC through a previous employer. I wanted to get more involved in our industry, to learn best practices from those around me, and put these to use, where applicable. I’m the son of a driver and my passion comes from him, trying to make it a little better for everyone behind the wheel and their families. I try to treat my drivers like I hope a dispatcher would treat my father.
Interests: I’m a new father, and now there’s never enough time in the day, but I’m having so much fun. I follow Scottish football; with the five-hour time shift they tend to be early Sunday mornings. You can see me weekends at the local Scottish bakery loading up on sweets and Scotch pies. Other than that, I’m trying to be more active with the PMTC and taking extra classes outside of work. I just finished an advanced Excel class and I’m looking to move onto something else, possibly going back to university.
DIRECTOR
Kim Richardson
President, KRTS Transportation Specialists Inc.
Hometown: Caledonia, ON
Career: I’ve been in the industry all my working life. For 30 years, I’ve worked with hundreds of trucking companies in the education and training sector. I’m President of KRTS Transportation Specialists Inc., an award winning educational facility. Our family businesses include The Rear View Mirror (an online industry publication) and TransRep Inc., which brings quality products and services to industry. I helped develop the Voluntary Apprenticeship Program in Ontario for Commercial Truck Drivers. From 1992 to 2000, I was President and co-founder of the Truck Training Schools Association of Ontario (TTSAO). I was TTSAO Chairman (2015-2017) and currently I’m President of the Association. In 1998 I was co-chair of the Public Relations Committee for the Commercial Vehicle Training Alliance. I’m Past Chair of the Ontario Trucking Association’s Allied Trade Division and a board member of Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI). I also serve as an advisor to the Woman’s Trucking Federation of Canada and I’m on the membership committee for the Truckload Carriers Association.
Involvement with PMTC: I’ve been actively involved with the PMTC since Mike Millian became President. I joined the PMTC because many of our customers are members and because I liked the direction the PMTC was heading. PMTC members are some of the best in the business. I have a passion for quality education and to promote and help the young leaders in our industry.
Interests: I live in beautiful Caledonia, Ontario with my wife and business partner, Lisa. I enjoy spending time with our adult children Matt and Jamie, and their spouses Julie and Dusty, and grandchildren Easton and Paisley.
DIRECTOR
Kevin Riley
Vice President, Transportation and Distribution, Maple Leaf Foods
Hometown: Milton, ON
Career: Upon graduating from McMaster U., I worked with Purolator Courier. I progressively moved into more senior transportation management roles within Purolator Courier, Grand & Toy, and The Beer Store. In 2002, I started with Maple Leaf Foods. In 2004, I earned my CITT-Certified Logistics Professional designation (CCLP®).
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC in 2000. I’ve been an active member of the Board of Directors since 2003 (and Past Chairman in 2009 and 2010).
Interests: Travel, hockey, and baseball.
DIRECTOR
Chris Swartz
VP, Supply Chain, Wolseley Canada
Hometown: Welland, ON
Career: I’ve spent 20+ years in the supply chain and the distribution business. I’ve held leadership roles in organizations both globally and regionally. This would include Gordon Food Service, Wal-Mart Canada, Canada Bread and currently as the VP of Supply Chain of Wolseley Canada. Over this period I’ve gained in-depth experience and knowledge with private, common, contract and independent carriers.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC in 2015. It’s a great network of knowledge and resources. I’m passionate about safety and leadership development.
Interests: I like to participate in community efforts and organizations – most recently with the Darling Home for Children and the Milton District Hospital Foundation.
DIRECTOR
Michael Thompson
CEO, ISB Canada
Hometown: Kitchener, ON
Career: I have over 20 years experience building highly successful businesses within the insurance, technology, and travel industries. Prior to joining ISB in 2013, I was at the helm of a major Canadian company whose innovative, 1:1 marketing technology solutions were embraced by Fortune 100 companies to foster better customer relationships and drive incremental revenue. Before that, I was North American VP of a leading global travel company where we created the largest wholly owned consumer travel business in North America.
Involvement with PMTC: ISB and I joined the PMTC in 2015 when the opportunity arose to sponsor the Fleet Safety Awards. After my first PMTC conference, I realized that ISB’s Making Eligibility Easy Driver Qualification platform was a perfect fit and complement to the PMTC’s safety mandate. The desire to improve road safety at the very beginning of the process by hiring the best quality drivers has become my passion. As a result, MEE has participated in every PMTC event since 2014.
Interests: My wife and I enjoy our three amazing children, golfing, traveling and classic cars.
DIRECTOR
Claudio Venditti
Executive Account Manager, Penske Truck Leasing Canada Inc.
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Career: I started in the business selling trucks for a Ford heavy truck dealer. Eventually, I moved to the OEM world with Freightliner and now full service leasing equipment with Penske Truck Leasing.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC with Penske because it’s a great way to interact with people in various areas of the transportation industry.
Interests: Golfing and traveling.
DIRECTOR
Andrew Walker
Ontario Distribution Manager, Molson Coors
Hometown: Keswick, ON
Career: I’ve spent six years in my current role, 13 years in warehouse and transportation supervising, and 10 years as a tractor-trailer driver.
Involvement with PMTC: I want to improve the industry, as well as use and share PMTC information within Molson Coors to benefit the safe operations of our fleet.
Interests: Golfing, family time and training dogs.
DIRECTOR
Imre Zalan
Fleet Manager, Chemtrade Logistics
Hometown: Oakville, ON
Career: I started my transportation career as a driver back when a chauffeur licence was moved to an A licence in late ‘70s. During this time, I was enrolled at Sheridan College for my CITT certification. With six years of driving experience completed, I moved into a management role at CP Express & Transport. With several company changes, my career progressed with private fleets, for hire fleets, and I provided third party service and managed third party services. The various commodities ranged from LTL, Beer, Fuel, Automotive JIT, Salty Snacks, Pop and now Hazmat bulk chemicals.
Involvement with PMTC: I joined the PMTC so I would be able to network and keep informed with industry rules, regulations (and be aware of any changes). After a few years, I was approached to be a board member and volunteer as a director.
Interests: I enjoy all the outdoor life Ontario and the great country of Canada has to offer. I also enjoy spending time with my wife of 25 years and my son, playing old-timers hockey, and jogging with the dogs.
