Getting more involved with NTEA’s Generation Next made me realize that it is not just a professional network for early careerists, it is a dynamic platform dedicated to shaping the next generation of leadership in the commercial vehicle community. As a member of the Steering Committee, I’ve had the privilege to witness firsthand how this group empowers early careerists to grow, connect, and lead with confidence.
The Generation Next mission
The mission of Generation Next is to help expand networks, build relationships, and teach leadership, which ultimately results in a fresh new set of skills. This group is specially curated for industry professionals with 10 or fewer years of experience.
This community has developed into a group full of leaders, eager learners, problem solvers, and innovative thinkers. Generation Next is open to all employees of NTEA member companies looking to expand their influence and engage in meaningful professional development.
Activities that build professional capital
Generation Next initiatives are thoughtfully designed to address the unique needs of early career professionals while giving them exposure to the broader trends and leadership expectations in the commercial vehicle world.
- Networking opportunities:
- Work Truck Week: Each year Generation Next hosts their very own educational session/workshop/networking event. The Steering Committee plans, meets, and selects a speaker who is impactful, and can offer valuable lessons that can be used throughout the entirety of one’s career.
- Fall Conferences: The Gen Next Steering Committee meets each year at either the Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit or the Executive Leadership Summit. Attending these events is a great opportunity to get involved with the group. Keep an eye on your inbox for details on these events!
- LinkedIn: Can’t make it to NTEA events? Do not worry, we have our very own Generation Next LinkedIn group so you can be connected anytime, anywhere.
- Leadership development: Each year the Steering Committee puts together webinars and articles free for any Gen Next member. These are specially crafted to spread leadership tips and knowledge.
- Industry exposure: Gen Next members have access to all NTEA resources including market updates, technology trends, and regulatory updates.
- Visibility and involvement: We actively encourage members to get involved, such as by serving on the Steering Committee. This participation offers a pathway to leadership and a chance for meaningful contribution.
Why it matters
Being early in your career can feel overwhelming—especially in a complex, rapidly evolving industry like ours. Generation Next is an ideal group to ask questions, gain perspective, and test ideas. It gives emerging leaders the confidence to step into new roles and the network to lean on when navigating change.
Through my involvement with this group, I’ve been challenged to get out of my comfort zone. This was also my first big step into professional career development outside of the day-to-day operations. Gen Next has helped take my career to the next level, and if you're looking to grow professionally, it could be a great fit for you as well.