In the November issue of Generation Next Edition, Jennifer Rogers’ article explored why Work Truck Week is such a valuable experience for early-career professionals and how it helps newcomers understand the work truck industry and their place within it. As Work Truck Week 2026 approaches, the next step is preparation — thinking intentionally about how to engage so you can make the most of the experience.
With so much happening throughout the week — from educational sessions and special events to the exhibit hall — it’s easy to feel pulled in a lot of different directions. A little planning ahead of March can help you arrive in Indianapolis feeling confident, focused, and ready to participate in a way that benefits both you and your organization.
Start with a few clear goals
Before reviewing the agenda or mapping out the exhibit floor, take a moment to reflect on what you want to gain from Work Truck Week. Are you hoping to learn more about a specific segment of the industry? Build new professional relationships? Better understand where your role fits into the broader work truck ecosystem? The event's size can be overwhelming — especially for first-time attendees — so setting just two or three personal goals can help guide your decisions throughout the week and keep your experience intentional rather than reactive.
Be strategic with your schedule and your team
Work Truck Week offers a wide range of educational sessions and networking opportunities. It's not possible to attend every session, so plan with your team on how to divide and conquer. Use the online planner to build a schedule that aligns with your goals and your company’s priorities. Consider balancing sessions that support your current role with those that provide broader industry context, such as market trends, compliance updates, or emerging technologies. Assist your team by taking notes and sharing what you learned after each session. Events like the Generation Next session are also designed specifically for early-career professionals, offering leadership insights and peer connection in a setting tailored to your experience level.
Approach networking as conversation, not performance
For many newer professionals, networking can feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be. Networking doesn’t need to be approached with an end goal. Get comfortable in fun conversation and find a connection. The most meaningful connections often start with simple curiosity. Asking questions, listening closely, and showing genuine interest in someone else’s experience goes a long way. You don’t need to have all the answers or a polished elevator pitch. Being engaged, respectful, and open to learning is often more memorable than trying to impress. Conversations with industry peers and leaders can offer insight into best practices, shared challenges, and new ways of thinking that you can apply within your own team.
Use the event to strengthen your impact
One of the greatest advantages of Work Truck Week is the opportunity to experience the industry as a whole. In day-to-day work, it can be difficult to see how business and marketing fit together across the broader landscape. Work Truck Week offers the best opportunity to gain these insights and become more valuable to your organization. You’ll see how different companies, products, and technologies connect across the ecosystem. Use these experiences to deepen your understanding of how your role fits into the bigger picture and how your organization creates value. Extend that impact by taking notes and sharing key takeaways with your team after each session.
Follow up and reflect after the event
The value of Work Truck Week doesn’t end when the show floor closes. Following up with new contacts, reflecting on what you learned, and sharing insights with your team can extend the impact of your experience. Even small actions — sending a thank-you note or connecting on LinkedIn — can help turn brief conversations into long-term professional relationships. This event only rolls around once a year, so carry the knowledge you gained and prepare for next year.
Work Truck Week 2026 is an opportunity not just to attend, but to participate with purpose. If you haven’t already done so, consider registering, exploring the agenda, and using the event planner to map out your week. A free and intuitive mobile app will be launched prior to the event.
With preparation and intention, Generation Next members can make the most of the experience — gaining knowledge, building connections, and contributing more effectively to their organizations and the future of the work truck industry.