
Join us in Wilmington for the 2026 NCTA Annual Councils Conference & Expo
2026 NCTA Annual Conference
October 13–15, 2026
Wilmington Convention Center • Wilmington, NC
What to Expect
Join industry leaders, innovators, and peers for three dynamic days centered around the theme
“Anchored in Excellence: Safety – Technology – Talent.”
Kick things off Tuesday with a vibrant Expo Hall Welcome Reception, followed by two full days
of impactful content and networking.
Key Topics Include:
- DataQs updates and enforcement trends
- AI in HR and fleet maintenance
- ADAS, emissions standards, and emerging technologies
- Driver communication and trust
- Recruiting, retention, and leadership development
Conference Schedule
Tuesday, October 13
Arrival + Welcome Evening
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 12:00 – 4:00 PM | Exhibitor Set-Up | Exhibit Hall |
| 2:00 – 6:00 PM | Registration Open | Info Desk |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | Welcome Reception | Exhibit Hall |
| Evening | Dine on Your Own | Offsite |
Wednesday, October 14
Full Programming Day
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 – 8:30 AM | Breakfast with Exhibitors | Exhibit Hall |
| 8:30 – 9:30 AM | Opening + General Session | Exhibit Hall |
| 9:30 – 10:15 AM | Networking Break | Exhibit Hall |
| 10:15 – 12:30 PM | Breakout Sessions | Meeting Rooms |
| 12:30 – 1:45 PM | Lunch with Exhibitors | Exhibit Hall |
| 2:00 – 3:00 PM | General Session | Exhibit Hall |
| 3:00 – 3:45 PM | Exhibit Power Hour | Exhibit Hall |
| 3:45 – 4:45 PM | Breakouts | Meeting Rooms |
Thursday, October 15
Final Day + Awards
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 – 8:30 AM | Breakfast with Exhibitors | Exhibit Hall |
| 8:30 – 9:30 AM | General Session | Exhibit Hall |
| 9:30 – 10:00 AM | Exhibit Break | Exhibit Hall |
| 10:00 – 12:15 PM | Breakout Sessions | Meeting Rooms |
| 12:15 – 1:15 PM | Lunch | Exhibit Hall |
| 1:15 – 2:30 PM | Closing Session | Exhibit Hall |
| 2:30 PM | Prize Drawings | Exhibit Hall |
Awards Dinner
AN INSPIRING KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY
Colonel Freddy Johnson

Colonel Freddy Johnson is a dynamic and inspiring leader whose distinguished career in command
and service has impacted countless lives. Known for his powerful insights on leadership,
resilience, and excellence, Colonel Johnson brings a compelling presence you won’t want to miss
as he delivers this year’s keynote address.
Awards winners will be revealed live during the dinner. We encourage all attendees to stay
and celebrate together for an exciting and memorable evening.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 6:00 PM | Reception |
| 6:45 PM | Dinner |
| 7:30 PM | Awards Program |
| 8:45 PM | Closing & Celebration |
Conference Registration Rates
Registration Information
Full Conference Registration includes:
- Welcome Reception
- General Sessions & Breakouts
- Meals (Wednesday & Thursday)
- Awards Dinner Banquet
Additional Awards Banquet tickets are available for guests.
| Registration Type | Regular Rate | Early Bird |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Carrier | $525 | $450 |
| Allied Non-Sponsor | $775 | $675 |
| Sponsor | $475 | $450 |
| First-Time Fleet Manager | $100 | — |
Additional Tickets
| Additional Banquet Ticket – Adult | $95 |
| Additional Banquet Ticket – Child (under 18) | $45 |
| Companion Reception & Awards Banquet | $125 |
Additional Information
Cancellation Policy: Refunds will not be issued after
September 13, 2026. All cancellations must be submitted in writing to
lharris@nctrucking.com.
If you are not currently an NCTA member, please contact
plawrence@nctrucking.com.
Group Hotel Information
Hotel Information
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
9 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington, NC
Rates starting at $214/night
The hotel booking link will be included in your registration confirmation email after you complete your conference registration.
📅 Reservation deadline: September 15, 2026
Rates starting at $234/night
The hotel booking link will be included in your registration confirmation email after you complete your conference registration.
📅 Reservation deadline: September 14, 2026
Sponsorships & Exhibitor Information
Sponsorship & Exhibitor Opportunities
Increase your visibility and connect with industry decision-makers by participating as a sponsor or exhibitor.
Click here: Explore Sponsorship Opportunities
Exhibit in the Expo Hall
Exhibitor booths are located in a high-traffic Expo Hall at the center of conference activity, maximizing visibility and engagement.
- 10' x 10' booth with draping
- 6-ft table, two chairs, wastebasket
- One full conference registration included
- Company listing on website and materials
Booth Fee: $1,000
Base sponsorship required




























