Jim Mullen was acting administrator and chief counsel of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from 2018-2022. (John Sommers II for Transport Topics)
February 9, 2026 4:00 PM, EST
Key Takeaways:
- The Truckload Carriers Association named trucking policy expert Jim Mullen its next president effective April 6.
- TCA leaders said Mullen’s regulatory experience and industry relationships position him to advance the association’s strategic priorities.
- Mullen will be introduced to members at the TCA Annual Convention from Feb. 28 to March 3 in Orlando, Fla.
Truckload Carriers Association selected trucking policy expert Jim Mullen as its next president Feb. 9.
Mullen, who steps into the role April 6, possesses a background in trucking regulations, legislation and laws. TCA said he is widely regarded as a trusted leader and subject matter expert. He will be responsible for guiding the association as it continues to expand its impact, strengthen member value and advance strategic priorities on behalf of members.
“Jim’s depth of experience, steady leadership and strong understanding of the issues facing our industry make him the right person to lead TCA into its next chapter,” TCA Chairman Karen Smerchek said. “His appointment reflects our commitment to continuity, momentum and delivering meaningful value to our members.”
Current TCA President Jim Ward, who took the position in 2022, is retiring. He was already serving as chairman when he was selected as president. Smerchek expressed her appreciation for his leadership.
“Jim Ward has provided exceptional stability, vision and service to TCA and the truckload industry,” Smerchek said. “Under his leadership, the association strengthened its influence, expanded member engagement and positioned itself for continued growth. We are deeply grateful for Jim’s contributions and the strong foundation he leaves for the future.”
Jim Ward will retire from his post after leading TCA since 2022. TCA Chairman Karen Smerchek said Ward has provided exceptional stability, vision and service to TCA. (Seth Clevenger/Transport Topics)
Mullen serves as executive director of the Clean Freight Coalition, of which American Trucking Associations is part. The role has allowed him to build relationships with stakeholders across the transportation and supply chain sectors. He previously served as acting administrator and chief counsel of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from 2018-2022.
“I am honored to join TCA and grateful to the association’s leadership for their confidence in me,” Mullen said. “I look forward to working closely with TCA’s officers, staff and members to advance the association’s mission and support a strong, safe and competitive truckload industry.”
Mullen is scheduled to be introduced to members at the TCA Annual Convention, which runs Feb. 28 to March 3 in Orlando, Fla.
“Trucking is the backbone of our economy and critical to the nation’s supply chain,” Mullen said. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead TCA and support the industry in a responsible, practical and forward-looking way.”
