One of the biggest benefits of participating in NTEA’s Generation Next program is the opportunity to grow your industry knowledge and professional network alongside others who are building their careers in the work truck industry. Whether you are new to the market or continuing to expand your role within your company, there are many ways to maximize the value of your involvement.
Here are 10 ways Generation Next participants can make the most of the experience:
1. Build relationships across the industry
Generation Next provides opportunities to connect with professionals from manufacturers, distributors, upfitters, suppliers, fleets and other industry segments through in-person events and online programs. Those relationships can become valuable resources throughout your career.
2. Take advantage of professional development opportunities
Generation Next was designed to support personal, business and professional development. Participating in webinars, networking events and industry conversations can help strengthen communication, leadership and career-building skills over time.
3. Learn from experienced industry professionals
Industry events and discussions provide direct access to experts discussing topics related to leadership, networking, professional growth and industry trends. Hearing different perspectives can help newer industry professionals broaden their understanding of the market and workplace dynamics.
4. Expand your industry knowledge
The work truck industry is complex and constantly evolving. Nothing is top secret in this industry, however, staying engaged through Generation Next can help members better understand industry terminology, market challenges, operational trends and customer needs beyond their day-to-day responsibilities.
5. Stay connected year-round
The Generation Next LinkedIn and Facebook groups give members additional opportunities to stay engaged, exchange ideas and continue conversations outside of events and webinars. These platforms help members maintain industry connections and stay informed throughout the year.
6. Read and share industry insights
The monthly Generation Next Edition e-newsletter provides members with ongoing updates, perspectives and professional development content tailored specifically for those newer to the work truck industry. Staying connected to industry conversations can help members continue learning and growing.
7. Gain perspective from different areas of the industry
One of the unique strengths of Generation Next is the diversity of its membership. Engaging with professionals from different company types and job functions can provide valuable insight into how other organizations approach leadership, operations, engineering, customer service and workforce development.
8. Sharpen leadership skills through participation
Leadership development often starts with involvement. Asking questions during webinars, participating in discussions and building connections with peers can help members gain confidence and strengthen professional communication skills. Everyone in Generation Next is welcome to come forward with new ideas.
9. Engage at the level that works for you
Generation Next offers flexibility with no required time commitment. Members can participate in ways that align with their schedules and professional goals, whether that means attending webinars, joining online discussions or networking at industry events. At the same time, increased involvement often leads to greater value and stronger industry connections.
10. Invest in your long-term industry career
Careers in the work truck industry are built through continuous learning, relationship-building and regular involvement. Participating in Generation Next will expose you to NTEA leaders, and give you the opportunity to engage with them. You will learn from experienced leaders and continue developing throughout every stage of their careers.
The more actively members engage with Generation Next resources and opportunities, the more valuable the experience can become — both professionally and personally. By staying involved, building relationships and continuing to learn, members can strengthen not only their own careers, but also the future of the work truck industry as a whole.
If you're not part of Gen Next, or would like to further expand your involvement, please feel free to reach out to myself or any of our steering committee members!