NASTC 2026 Speaker Lineup: Big Names, Big Ideas and a Big Reason to Be in Nashville

If you’ve been waiting for a reason to make plans for the NASTC Conference, consider this your sign: the 2026 speaker lineup is one you won’t want to miss.

This year’s conference brings together some of the most respected voices in trucking, business, leadership and beyond for three days of education, insight, networking and—because this is Nashville—some great entertainment, too.

We’re honored to welcome Dr. Ben Carson as our 2026 keynote speaker.

A renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, author and national figure, Dr. Carson brings a unique perspective on leadership, perseverance, decision-making and overcoming challenges. His message reaches well beyond the medical field—and straight to the heart of what it takes to build something that lasts.

Friday night will bring a very different kind of energy to the stage with country music hitmaker Jeffrey Steele. Steele has written and performed some of country music’s biggest songs and brings decades of experience, stories and Nashville energy to the conference. After a full day of learning and networking, attendees will have the chance to kick back, enjoy live music and celebrate the people who make trucking happen every day.

But the 2026 lineup goes far beyond the headliners.

NASTC brings together industry experts who understand the challenges small and midsize carriers face every day—from managing costs and navigating compliance to insurance, technology, safety, business management and everything in between.

You’ll hear from people who understand the numbers. People who understand compliance. People who understand safety, insurance, technology, policy and the day-to-day realities of running a trucking company.

From Kevin Rutherford to William Fitzgerald, Brent Hutto to Jeff Davis, Jim Edwards to Ellen Voie and Kathleen Roseman to Steve Goreham, this years lineup brings together a wealth of experience and perspective. Add Tom Robertson, Danielle Chaffin and Joe Rajkovacz to the mix, and you have a room full of people who know trucking—and aren’t afraid to talk about where it’s
headed.

Expect straight talk, real-world experience and ideas you can take back to your operation.

The NASTC Conference has become a must-attend event for small trucking companies looking to learn, connect and stay ahead of an industry that never seems to sit still.

And this year, we’re raising the bar again.

Three days of ideas. Three days of connections. World-class speakers. Industry experts. Vendors who understand trucking. And plenty of Nashville along the way.

Join us October 29–31 at the Omni Nashville Hotel for the 2026 NASTC Conference—the Best Three Days in Trucking. Don’t just hear about what’s happening in trucking. Be part of the conversation.

Register today and make plans to join us in Nashville.