When Karen Smerchek, president of Wisconsin-based Veriha Trucking, stepped into the role of Chairman of the Board for the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) in March 2025, she knew two things: First, she would be the first woman to lead the association. Second, the trucking industry was in the midst of some of the most challenging times in history. From promoting the interests of truckload on Capitol Hill to guiding TCA and its members through a maze of shifting policies and regulations, she has consistently risen to face challenges during the past 12 months. We had a chance to visit with Smerchek before TCA’s 2026 convention in Orlando, Florida. Read on to hear her reflections and insights into the events of 2025 and 2026.
⏵It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since our first visit and that this is your last Chat with the Chairman! What have been some of the highlights of the past year for you?
It really has gone by quickly. One of the biggest highlights has been seeing how engaged our members continue to be — especially in advocacy. Whether it was walking the halls of Congress during our Call on Washington, participating in committee work, or showing up for key industry initiatives, our members consistently leaned in.
I’ve also enjoyed the opportunity to connect with carriers of all sizes and hear directly about their challenges. 2025 wasn’t an easy year. Staying connected through the tough times is how we get to the other side. These conversations really reinforced why the work we do at TCA truly matters.
⏵What would you say has been your greatest challenge in the past 12 months, and what accomplishment are you most proud of?
The greatest challenge has undoubtedly been leading during an extended freight downturn while regulatory and enforcement pressures continued to increase. Three and a half years of market softness is unprecedented. Many of our members continue to make difficult decisions, and it’s never easy to advocate in an environment where margins are tight.
What I’m most proud of is how TCA continues to stay focused and proactive. We are leaning into advocacy. We are strengthening relationships on Capitol Hill. The “voice of truckload” is being heard, even during tough times.
⏵As you mentioned, TCA is known as “the voice of truckload” on Capitol Hill, working to bring about legislation to improve the industry. What issues have seen the most movement in Congress during your tenure?
We operate in an industry with an unparalleled sense of urgency, and progress on Capitol Hill is not always immediately apparent. Nevertheless, meaningful progress has been made across several key areas.
Truck parking continues to gain bipartisan support, and lawmakers are increasingly recognizing it as both a critical safety and workforce issue.
Cargo theft, fraud and cybercrime are finally being discussed with the seriousness they deserve, especially as criminal activity becomes more organized and sophisticated.
We’ve also made headway in raising awareness around lawsuit abuse and nuclear verdicts.
The TCA-backed Gallons-Based User Fee (GBUF) is not as far along as I would like for it to be, but the terminology is now known — and most agree it is the commonsense approach to funding our infrastructure.
⏵Last spring, the Trump administration called for enforcement of existing English language proficiency (ELP) requirements for truck drivers in the U.S. This requirement has been “on the books” for close to a century. Why is it just now being enforced?
ELP requirements have been in place for decades, but enforcement has been inconsistent. What we’re seeing now is a renewed emphasis on using the tools already available to improve safety. Increased data, heightened public awareness and a stronger focus on accountability have all contributed to this shift.
The goal isn’t to create new rules; it’s to ensure existing ones are applied consistently so every driver on the road can communicate effectively in critical situations. The goal is highway safety.
⏵What changes have you seen in the trucking industry since the renewal of ELP enforcement?
Carriers are taking a closer look at training, onboarding and compliance processes. There’s also been an increased focus on documentation and communication standards.
While this has added complexity, it has also reinforced the importance of professionalism and safety across the industry. For responsible carriers, this renewed enforcement helps level the playing field and ensures everyone is operating to the same expectations.
⏵Another area that is seeing renewed enforcement is the issuance of CDLs to non-domiciled drivers. How does this impact motor carriers?
This has created additional diligence for carriers when it comes to verifying credentials and ensuring compliance. While it may add steps to the hiring process, it ultimately strengthens safety and accountability. Consistent enforcement across states helps eliminate gaps that can be exploited and ensures that drivers operating commercial vehicles meet the same standards, regardless of where their license was issued.
⏵In addition to “cracking down” on state licensing agencies, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has also taken action against numerous driver training facilities? Why was this necessary, and how do you foresee it impacting the trucking industry in the near- and long-term future?
Ensuring high-quality driver training is essential for safety. Some training facilities were not meeting required standards, and addressing this issue was necessary to protect both drivers and the public. What has happened to date is only one step in the right direction with much more work required.
I don’t anticipate near-term impacts. We all know better training leads to safer drivers, lower turnover and stronger fleets. Closing down the CDL mills will keep improving highway safety.
⏵While 2026 will not see a presidential election, how might this year’s federal — and perhaps even state-level gubernatorial and congressional — elections shift the balance of power in the U.S. How could these shifts impact motor carriers?
Even without a presidential race, elections at the federal and state levels matter greatly. Changes in congressional leadership or gubernatorial offices can influence transportation funding, regulatory priorities and enforcement philosophies. It’s critical for our industry to stay engaged, educate candidates and build relationships early.
⏵The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which provides funding for infrastructure maintenance and improvements throughout the nation, is set to expire on September 30 of this year. What initiatives are being pursued to ensure funding for critical projects?
There is strong interest in Congress to avoid disruptions to infrastructure investment.
Discussions are already underway around reauthorization and alternative funding mechanisms, including the GBUF. TCA is actively engaged in these conversations to ensure that any solution is sustainable, fair and focused on maintaining and improving the nation’s highways. Infrastructure is critical to our industry, and continued investment must remain a priority.
⏵As your time as chairman of the board comes to an end, it’s tradition to offer a few words of advice to the incoming chair. What wisdom would you like to share with incoming chairman Mark Seymour?
My advice to Mark is simple: Listen to the members and trust the strength of this association. TCA’s power comes from its people. Our members have passion and are willing to engage and get involved. Lead with integrity, stay curious and never underestimate the value of relationships.
I’m confident Mark will do an outstanding job and continue moving TCA forward.
⏵In closing, what thoughts would you like to share with TCA’s membership?
Serving as chairman has been an incredible honor. I’m deeply grateful to our members, our staff and our leadership for their trust and collaboration. The officer group that has been alongside me on this journey has been a tremendous support.
This industry has shown its resilience and I remain optimistic about its future. Thank you for everything you do to keep America moving.
I look forward to continuing to support TCA and its mission in the years to come.
⏵Thank you, Chairman. It has been a pleasure working with you over the past year.
Photo by Jamie Nolan
Linda Garner-Bunch has been with The Trucker since 2020, picking up the reins as managing editor in 2022. Linda has nearly 40 years of experience in the publishing industry, covering topics from the trucking and automotive industry to employment, real estate, home decor, crafts, cooking, weddings, high school sports — you name it, she’s written about it. She is also an experienced photographer, designer and copy editor who has a heartfelt love for the trucking industry, from the driver’s seat to the C-suite.
