2023: A Look Back at TCI Transportation’s Amazing Year
Before we get too far into the new year, let’s take a moment to look back at all the great things we achieved at TCI Transportation in 2023. It was a year full of growth, new opportunities, and teamwork.
Last year, TCI Transportation saw amazing progress in every area. We made our team stronger by hiring some key people, expanded our services, opened new locations, and even acquired a fleet of brand new state-of-the-art EV yard tractors to help grow both our and our customer’s businesses. Plus, we’re really proud of bringing in new clients and keeping our existing ones happy.
What follows are some of the big moments from 2023. Remember, this is just a quick look at all the amazing things we accomplished. A big thank you to everyone in the TCI team who helped make 2023 such a fantastic year!
JUMP TO:
1. Facilities & Upgrades
2. Lonestar SV
3. CA Trucking Show
4. New Business
5. Leadership
6. Departments
7. Training
8. Awards
9. Veterans
10. Scholarships
11. TCI Cares
12. Bluewire
13. People
New Locations, Upgrades, and More.
With the addition of new as well as major upgrades to many of our current locations across the country, our fleet now consists of over 3,000 trucks, tractors, and trailers and is growing strong. On top of that, with a team of more than 1,200 highly trained professionals, not only are we better equipped to serve our customers, but our family grew as well. Here’s more information about our location updates this year…
TCI Shreveport: A Year of Growth and Service
2023 marked nearly a full year since the opening of our TCI Shreveport location, and what a year it’s been! Serving as a pivotal hub for our operations, this facility has successfully catered to key customers such as Mid-South Mississippi and Flowers. The Shreveport location stands as a testament to our expanding reach and commitment to serving diverse markets.
TCI Commerce: A Fresh New Look
Our TCI Commerce facility underwent a significant makeover this past year. The exterior remodeling has given the site a revitalized appearance, with fresh paint, vibrant new colors, and eye-catching signage. This facelift reflects our dedication to maintaining modern and inviting spaces for both our staff and clients.
TCI Fontana: Enhancing Our Presence
The TCI Fontana location has been spruced up with a new paint job, breathing new life into the facility. The update not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also aligns with our brand’s evolving image. In anticipation, new signage is set to be installed soon, further elevating the facility’s presence and visibility.
TCI Phoenix: Revitalized and Ready
December 2023 saw the completion of a new paint job at our TCI Phoenix location, part of our ongoing efforts to keep our facilities top-notch. The fresh coat of paint has revitalized the site, and we’re excited about the new signage scheduled to arrive shortly. These upgrades are part of our commitment to ensuring that each TCI location reflects the high standards and professionalism of our brand.
TCI Transitions to Eco-Friendly Operations with Acquisition of Over 40 Lonestar SV Electric Yard Tractors
In 2023, TCI made a significant move towards sustainable transportation by acquiring a fleet of over 40 Lonestar SV electric yard tractors, all supported by approved ORE funding. These innovative tractors are part of TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and operational efficiency, showcasing a significant shift towards green technology in the industry. This acquisition not only highlights TCI’s dedication to sustainable practices but also positions the company at the forefront of eco-friendly transportation solutions. For more details, you can visit TCI Transportation’s webpage on Lonestar SV Electric Yard Tractors.
The California Trucking Show: A Major Milestone for TCI and CDS.
TCI, alongside CDS, made a significant stride in our brand recognition journey by participating in the 2023 California Trucking Show held in Ontario, CA. This event proved to be an outstanding experience, contributing greatly to our aim of becoming an Outstanding Brand in the industry.
Our primary objective at the show was to enhance our brand visibility and outreach. With little initial expectation, we set a goal to increase our social media followers by 200 across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. To encourage engagement, we offered TCI hats for new followers on Instagram or Facebook, while new LinkedIn followers received a raffle ticket for a chance to win a cooler. The response was phenomenal, and we surpassed our target, gaining over 215 followers on Instagram, 32 on Facebook, and 62 on LinkedIn.
The weekend-long event was a hub of industry networking, where we engaged with leaders looking to expand their businesses, owner-operators in the market for power units and training equipment, and potential brokerage partners. The highlight was our own Frank Orozco being interviewed, a feature that was later posted on YouTube.
The event’s success was beyond our expectations and has set a positive precedent for our future participation in such industry gatherings. We eagerly anticipate joining this year’s event, ready to build on the momentum and continue our journey toward industry excellence.
New Business Partnerships
In 2023, TCI celebrated the addition of several key clients and partnerships. These new relationships represent a diverse range of industries and services, further solidifying TCI’s position as a versatile and dynamic player in the transportation and logistics sector. This growth not only reflects TCI’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the market but also underscores its capability to attract and maintain significant business relationships in a competitive environment.
Shorr Packaging
2023 was a significant year for TCI Transportation as we proudly added Shorr Packaging in Ontario to our growing list of clients. This new partnership exemplifies our commitment to expanding our services in the packaging industry, providing tailored transportation solutions that meet the unique needs of Shorr Packaging.
Synagro
Another milestone for TCI was our collaboration with Synagro. As a leader in biosolids and organic residuals solutions, Synagro’s partnership with TCI marks an important step in our venture into environmentally focused transport services, highlighting our adaptability and commitment to sustainability.
Irwindale Brewing
Our venture into the brewery sector was further solidified with the addition of Irwindale Brewing as a client. This partnership underscores TCI’s capability to handle specialized transportation requirements, catering to the unique needs of the brewing industry with efficiency and expertise.
Home Chef
In 2023, we were thrilled to start working with Home Chef, a company revolutionizing the meal kit industry. Our collaboration is focused on delivering their products with the utmost care and efficiency, ensuring fresh ingredients reach customers promptly, which is paramount in the food delivery sector.
Skechers, Canada
Expanding our reach into the international market, TCI is excited to announce our partnership with Skechers in Canada. This collaboration not only signifies our growth beyond the U.S. but also showcases our ability to meet the logistics and transportation demands of a major international retail brand.
Leadership: Charting the Course for 2024.
In early January 2024, TCI’s leadership team gathered in Phoenix for our annual planning session. This crucial meeting set the tone for the year ahead, outlining strategies and goals to drive our success in 2024. But it wasn’t all boardrooms and strategy discussions; the team also embraced the opportunity to bond and invigorate their spirits in a unique way.
This retreat was more than just a planning exercise; it was a reaffirmation of our leadership’s commitment to guiding TCI towards another successful year, fueled by collaboration, foresight, and a shared vision for the future.
TCI Departments: A Year of Dynamic Progress and Achievement
As we reflect on the journey of TCI in 2023, it is imperative to highlight the remarkable progress and achievements across our various departments. Each department played a pivotal role in driving our success, showcasing innovation, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Their collective efforts not only enhanced our service offerings but also strengthened our position in the industry.
Brokerage
Our TCI Global Logistics team in Grapevine, TX, had a standout year with a remarkable 50% year-over-year growth. This success was driven by their ability to offer creative solutions like Drop Trailer, Power Only, and Refrigerated expertise. The final months of 2023 were transformational, with a significant increase in headcount due to an acquisition, introducing Reefer LTL Consolidation. This expansion allows us to cater to a broader range of customers, including those we couldn’t reach before.
IT
In 2023, the IT department at TCI achieved numerous significant milestones, demonstrating their dedication to advancing technology, enhancing operational efficiency, and pursuing strategic growth. Their efforts spanned various domains, contributing to the overall improvement of the company’s business operations. Alongside their achievements, they also ensured to incorporate fun into their work, balancing professional accomplishments with enjoyable experiences. This approach not only improved the company’s functioning but also fostered a positive and dynamic work environment.
Accounts Payable
Maintaining our core functions with precision, the Accounts Payable team is now gearing towards a transformative 2024. Plans are underway for full automation and an integrated process-to-payment solution, aiming to revolutionize our financial processes.
Accounts Receivable
TCI’s Accounts Receivable department achieved record low past due balances in 2023, a commendable feat in challenging economic times. This success is attributed to the dedicated efforts of team members like Joy Hacker, Carolina Romero, Dina Sanchez, and Alzen Mack Lee. Their commitment, along with the support from colleagues and stakeholders, sets a positive trajectory for the department in 2024.
Billing
The Billing team underwent several changes in 2023. The launch of the My Mentor Program was a highlight, fostering a culture of mentorship and learning within the company. This program successfully paired 40 mentees with experienced mentors from different leadership levels.
Operations
The Operations team’s notable achievement in 2023 was the Flowers Baking Start-Up, the largest in TCI’s history, involving the initiation of 10 locations and the hiring of over 230 employees. This project was a collective effort spanning multiple departments. Additionally, our work with the MidSouth Baking account led to a revenue increase of 383% from 2022 to 2023. The team also strengthened their collaboration with Sales, resulting in successful start-ups with new and existing clients. The introduction of Customer L10 meetings, starting with the Flowers accounts, is set to enhance our client engagement further in 2024.
Project Management
Project Management saw the implementation of optimized start-up procedures, enhancing operational efficiency. We celebrated the graduation of four trainees from the Driver Manager Trainee program, bolstering our leadership pipeline. Additionally, the publication of the Regional Manager Training Manual has standardized training across the team.
Training Achievements in 2023
Electric Vehicle (EV) Training
In a significant step towards embracing the future of transportation, we sent four technicians from our Southern California team for specialized Electric Vehicle (EV) training. This initiative underscores our commitment to staying ahead in the rapidly evolving automotive industry, particularly in the realm of sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
Tire Industry Association (TIA) Training
Continuing our focus on comprehensive skill development, we also conducted Tire Industry Association (TIA) training. This program is crucial in ensuring our team is well-versed with the latest standards and practices in tire maintenance and safety, a vital aspect of vehicle management and road safety.
Both of these training programs represent our dedication to not only keeping pace with industry advancements but also ensuring our team is equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide the best service and expertise in the field.
Awards & Recognitions
Fleet Safety Awards: 1st Place Achievement
TCI is honored to receive the 1st Place Fleet Safety Award from the California Trucking Association, a leading organization in the trucking industry. This prestigious award annually recognizes companies in California that are at the forefront of implementing groundbreaking safety programs and nurturing talented professionals in the field.
Receiving the Fleet Safety Award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to safety and loss prevention in our operations. It highlights the effectiveness of our approaches in ensuring the safety of our fleet, which includes management commitment, active employee involvement, and continuous innovation in our safety programs.
This recognition is not just an accolade but a reflection of our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety in the trucking industry, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed industry expectations in safety and operational excellence.
Additional Awards
- FreightWaves Top 500
- Top Green Fleet
- FourKites Premier Carriers
- Top 100 Truckers List
- ATTICRRG Best Use of Safety Technology
- In the Running: Truckload Carrier Association Fleet Safety Award
Excitingly, TCI is among the Top 3 contenders for the Truckload Carrier Association’s Fleet Safety Award for 2023. The winner will be announced in March 2024, and we eagerly await the results, hopeful for another accolade to add to our achievements.
Veterans Program at TCI: Honoring Service and Commitment
Flag Installation Project
In 2024, TCI is undertaking a special project to further honor our veterans. We are in the process of installing poles and American Flags at each of our facilities. This initiative is not just about displaying the national flag; it’s a symbol of our respect and gratitude towards those who have served our country. It’s a project that we’re actively working on and one that we’re incredibly proud of.
Veterans Day 2023: Special Tribute
On Veterans Day 2023, we had the honor of presenting a special Veterans tractor to David Parks, a valued member of the TCI family and a proud 8-year Army veteran. David, who has been with us for three years, truly represents the core values of TCI – dependability, professionalism, and a deep commitment to service. What made this presentation even more meaningful is that David drives for the Grainger account, a company also founded by a veteran. This gesture was our way of expressing gratitude to David and all our veteran team members for their outstanding service and dedication.
Art Contest and Next Veteran Truck Presentation
Looking ahead, we are excited to announce an art contest for our next military-themed tractor wrap. This unique vehicle will be presented to one of TCI’s Woman Veterans on June 12th, 2024, in celebration of Women Veterans Day. This day marks the anniversary of the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948 by President Harry S. Truman, a pivotal moment that allowed women to serve as regular members of the military. This upcoming event is not just a celebration but a recognition of the significant contributions and sacrifices made by women veterans in our armed forces.
The Gerry Flynn Scholarship Program
We are excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for the Gerry Flynn Scholarship in 2024. This program is a cornerstone of our commitment to supporting education and empowering the next generation. It’s designed to provide financial assistance to promising students who are embarking on their academic journeys.
The Gerry Flynn Scholarship represents more than just financial aid; it’s an investment in potential and an opportunity to foster growth and development in young, aspiring minds. We encourage all eligible students to apply and take this step towards achieving their educational goals and aspirations.
TCI Cares: Giving Back in 2023
2023 was a year where TCI deeply engaged in giving back to our communities, reflecting our commitment to social responsibility and support for those in need. Each of these initiatives reflects TCI’s dedication to making a positive impact in various communities and supporting important causes, strengthening our commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Local Law Enforcement Thanksgiving Thank You Lunch
In a heartwarming gesture of gratitude, Laura Lara from TCI, along with our Local Ministry in San Antonio, TX, organized a Thanksgiving lunch for local law enforcement and their families, serving around 75 to 100 officers.
Wreaths Across America
Our Fontana Team participated in Wreaths Across America at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Riverside, joining many others in honoring our fallen heroes. It was a proud moment for TCI to support and remember the sacrifices made for our freedom.
Opportunity Village
Partnering with Opportunity Village, which aids people with disabilities, our Nevada team sponsored and decorated a Christmas tree for the Magical Forest event, giving back to a community that has touched the lives of some of our team members’ families.
Boy Scouts in GA
In a fun-filled initiative, TCI purchased hockey game tickets for the Atlantic Boy Scout charter, allowing a group of scouts and their parents to enjoy an exciting outing.
Soldiers Best Friend
Participating in the 13th Annual Golf Tournament to support Soldier’s Best Friend, TCI helped provide service dogs to U.S. military veterans with PTSD or TBI. Our involvement included a donation of $1500 and distributing goodie bags at the event.
In addition, TCI’s community engagement extended to collaborations with Bithiah’s Family Services, The Union Station Homeless Services, and Maggie’s Place, enhancing our social impact. We supported children in foster care, provided meals to the homeless during the holidays, and donated toys and funds to support mothers and children. Additionally, our new affiliation with Women In Trucking aligns with our efforts to empower and recognize the significant contributions of women in our industry.
The Bluewire Severity Report: TCI’s Commitment to Safety
TCI is proud to announce our latest achievement in safety: All TCI companies have successfully maintained federal data that falls below the national safety risk levels. This milestone is particularly significant as it reflects our continuous commitment to maintaining high safety standards across all our operations.
The Bluewire Severity Report helps us understand how risky our operations might be. It gives our insurance partners useful information about possible safety issues that could lead to major accidents or legal problems. By using this report, we can find and fix these safety risks before they turn into serious problems.
This proactive approach to managing safety risks helps us work better with our insurance partners to prevent big accidents and legal issues. Our success in this area shows how committed we are to keeping our operations safe for everyone involved.
People, Promotions, and Anniversaries at TCI in 2023
Each of these individuals, whether celebrating an anniversary or stepping into new roles, has contributed to TCI’s growth and success. Their dedication and hard work are greatly appreciated and valued.
Anniversaries
- Jana celebrated her 5-year anniversary with TCI.
- Driver Casey Green from the Phoenix terminal received his 5-year award.
- Congratulations to Donald Wesley and Ron Hacker from our Phoenix and Pomona terminals, respectively, for their continued service.
Leadership Additions
- Mike Margarone joined as the new VP of Sales for the Lease/Rental Division, also overseeing Used Truck Sales and the Kalmar dealership.
- Fred Virga came on board as the new VP of Sales for the Dedicated Logistics Division.
New People and Promotions
- Heather Opp and Devon Owens stepped into key roles in Phoenix as the new service manager and rental porter, respectively.
- Josh Bird was promoted to Regional Operations Manager for Northern California/Pacific Northwest.
- Tracy Masterson in Phoenix, Wesley Fell in Mettler, TX, and Julissa Macias at CDS Oakland received promotions, enhancing leadership in critical operational areas.
- Chloe Alarcon joined the rental team and was promoted to rental agent.
- Orlando Orozco was promoted to Driver Manager at Smart n Final Brea.
- TCI welcomed Keith Pillow in Fontana, Brittany Alcaraz in Pomona, and Joseph Crew in Las Vegas, bolstering our rental team.
- Shani Lee and Jennifer Brown joined our expanding team in Shreveport, LA.
- Stephen Dewitz brought his talents to the Midland team.
- Celina Acuna in Walnut, CA, took on a crucial billing role, and Keisha Powell in Alabama and Johanna Alcala in Fontana joined the billing team remotely, showcasing our commitment to growing a diverse and skilled workforce.
Each of these individuals, whether celebrating an anniversary or stepping into new roles, has contributed to TCI’s growth and success. Their dedication and hard work are greatly appreciated and valued.
2024 Is Off and Running!
As we close the chapter on an eventful 2023 and step into 2024, we do so with great enthusiasm and optimism. The achievements of the past year have set a solid foundation for what promises to be an even more dynamic and successful year ahead.
Our team, with its blend of seasoned professionals and fresh talent, is more prepared than ever to take on the challenges and opportunities that 2024 will bring. We are committed to building on the momentum of the previous year, continuing to innovate, grow, and lead in our industry.
Let’s carry forward the spirit of hard work, dedication, and community that has been the hallmark of TCI. Together, we are not just running towards our goals; we are sprinting towards a brighter, more successful future. Here’s to making 2024 a year of unparalleled achievements and continued excellence at TCI!
