For our 80th episode of the NTDC 2026 Series, PodWheels has the distinct privilege and honor of welcoming Derek Barrs, the Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Administration, to join us for our onsite coverage in Pittsburgh. During an interview with PodWheels Executive Producer Greg Thompson, Administrator Barrs focused a large portion of the conversation on the example being set for the trucking industry by the accomplishments of the 429 State Champions who each won their vehicle divisions while also staying safe for an entire year – just to qualify to be a part of NTDC 2026.

Administrator Barrs, the former chief official with the Florida Highway Patrol, also highlighted accomplishments of law enforcement officials who qualified to compete in the 2026 North American Inspector’s Challenges, which is being held in Pittsburgh this week alongside NTDC 2026.

As you will hear, Administrator Barrs carved out time during NTDC week to meet face-to-face with a number of the State Champions competing at NTDC 2026. Administrator Barrs and members of his FMCSA team went the extra mile by visiting the bullpens during the driving competition. Administrator Barrs noted that in his current position one of the best parts of his job is the opportunity to engage with the diverse people who keep the trucking industry and the economy moving.  Additionally, Administrator Barrs hails trucking as a noble profession that deserves more attention in workforce development.

FRIEND OF THE PODCAST SPONSOR:  The Lutzie 43 Foundation is our Friend of the Podcast for this episode of the NTDC 2026 Series. Founded to honor the legacy of Philip Lutzenkirchen, the Lutzie 43 Foundation is dedicated to make sure that the tragedy that took his life would never have to be repeated. Philip was a standout athlete, a beloved teammate, and a man of tremendous character. Today, the foundation that carries his name is working to change the driving culture across the Southeast and beyond by tackling distracted driving, impaired driving, and unsafe habits behind the wheel. To learn more about the Lutzie 43 Foundation and how you can use 43 Key Seconds to run through an important safety checklist before starting your vehicle, visit Lutzie43.org.

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