Truck shows have something to offer everyone in attendance. Traditionally these shows have been conventions about business and recruiting matters related to trucking, but more recently they have evolved to include entertainment and contests. They are educational resources for those wanting to know all the latest trends in the trucking industry, they link business owners to vendors, and they are recruiting grounds for people looking for jobs. But most importantly, they are venues for those in trucking to network, exchange business cards, and talk about ways to become more efficient and productive in the coming years.

While there are countless truck shows held annually, here are some of the top venues. If you go to any this year, at least try to make one of these:

• The Great West Truck Show. Held in Las Vegas from May 30-June 1, the GWTS is for anyone utilizing heavy or medium duty trucks within their businesses, including owner operators, private fleets, company drivers, and for-hire trucking company management. The GWTS claims to be the only major truck show held annually in the western United States. In 2008, over 18,000 people attended the show, which also features a truck beauty competition and 300,000 square feet of trucks, trailers, parts, and services. http://www.greatwesttruckshow.com/2012-great-west-truck-show-information/

• Trucking Virtual Career Fair. Virtual job fairs are typically attended by some of the best carriers in the nation. These fairs allow truck drivers to connect with employers through the Internet at a designated URL. Candidates can have live conversations with recruiters and submit resumes. http://truckingvirtualcareerfair.com/

• The Great American Trucking Show. Held at the Dallas Convention Center from August 22-24, this show is the second-largest trucking trade show. There are more than 500 exhibitors representing truck, trailer, engine, component and parts manufacturers, as well as services catering to the heavy and medium-duty truck industry. Attendees can apply for jobs, attend education seminars, and get the latest updates from industry leaders.  http://www.gatsonline.com/2012-gats-show-information 

• Charlotte Diesel Super Show. This two-day event held annually in October is a place for trucking professionals, enthusiasts, and guests. The weekend is typically filled with truck drags, entertainment, and demos. https://www.dieselsupershow.com/products-page/the-charlotte-diesel-super-show/

• The Mid-America Trucking Show. This Louisville, Kentucky-based show is a huge draw for thousands of trucking professionals. Held March 21-23, it is a forum for the heavy-duty trucking industry, providing face-to-face interaction between industry representatives and trucking professionals. MATS offers concerts, truck beauty contests, seminars, and fleet forums. There’s something for everyone at this show. http://www.truckingshow.com/

What shows have you attended? What did you come away with? We’d love to know your experiences, comments and recommendations!