A former Republican congressman and government affairs professional has been chosen to lead a southwestern trucking organization.
The Arizona Trucking Association (ATA) announced today that former U.S. Representative Matt Salmon has been unanimously approved by the Association’s Board of Directors to serve as its next president and CEO. The Board voted to approve his appointment during ATA’s annual meeting in Tucson. Salmon will begin his new role in December 2026.
Salmon brings a combination of trade association leadership, public service, and government relations experience to ATA, according to a statement from the organization. He previously served as president of the Competitive Telecommunications Association (COMPTEL), a national trade association representing the competitive communications industry, now known as INCOMPAS. He also served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Arizona, and in the Arizona State Senate. Later, as vice president of government affairs at Arizona State University, he oversaw federal, state, community, and tribal relations.
“Matt’s experience leading a trade association and working across government gives him valuable insight into the policy and advocacy challenges facing our members,” said Parker Hancock, ATA Board Chair. “His background will be an asset as ATA continues to build relationships with decision-makers and advance the interests of Arizona’s trucking industry.”
Arizona’s trucking industry employs over 125,000 Arizonan’s, exclusively delivering the goods used in daily life to 85% of the state's communities. There are over 10,000 trucking companies in Arizona, primarily small, locally owned businesses sported by local shippers and suppliers.
The ATA provides these enterprises with a united voice and the support needed to deal with rising operating costs, lawsuit abuse, insurance pressures, truck parking shortages, infrastructure needs, and an evolving regulatory environment. These challenges make effective representation and collaboration especially important.
“I’m honored to lead the Arizona Trucking Association and advocate for an industry that is fundamental to Arizona’s economy and quality of life,” said Salmon. “The trucking industry needs a strong, effective voice in the halls of government — one that understands the realities carriers face and is willing to stand up for their interests. I look forward to working with ATA’s members to ensure their perspectives are heard, their concerns are taken seriously, and the industry has a seat at the table as decisions are made that affect its future.”
Founded in 1937, the Arizona Trucking Association represents approximately 300 member companies, including motor carriers and allied businesses that support the trucking industry.
