Little Rock, Ark. — The Arkansas Trucking Association has named Alan Riels, president and CEO of Dedicated Logistics, LLC, as chairman of its Board of Directors. Riels was elected during the association’s annual conference, held April 27–29 in Little Rock, succeeding outgoing chairman John Culp, president of Maverick Transportation.
Riels is the president and CEO of Dedicated Logistics, LLC, a Crossett-based freight carrier with more than 70 trucks, which he co-founded in June 2002 with his mother, Ruth Riels. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a multi-state operation serving customers across the South, Southeast, and Midwest, earning a reputation for reliability, strong customer relationships, and a commitment to safety. He has served on the ATA Board of Directors since 2018.
“Alan represents the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience that define Arkansas trucking,” said Shannon Newton, president of the Arkansas Trucking Association. “He understands the challenges our members face—from workforce shortages to regulatory pressures—and he’s committed to advancing practical solutions that strengthen our industry.”
Under Riels’ direction, Dedicated Logistics has received multiple industry and community recognitions, including being named a regional carrier of the year by a major shipping partner and earning business leadership honors in the Crossett community. The company remains actively engaged in local initiatives and workforce development efforts in South Arkansas.
Additionally, Matt Ernst of Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment was elected to serve as an allied member, filling the position as Rush Truck Centers General Manager Ross Hoover concluded his two-year term on the board.
Ernst is general manager at Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment in Lowell, Ark. He has held roles ranging from finance manager and sales consultant to general manager at Bruckner’s locations across the country.
“This organization is strongest when its members step up to lead,” Newton said. “Matt’s expertise and industry engagement will add valuable perspective to our board.”
ATA’s Board of Directors is composed of 21 executives representing a broad cross-section of carriers and allied companies across the state. The board works collaboratively to address industry challenges and promote sustainable growth.
A longtime industry contributor, Hoover is a past chairman of ATA’s Maintenance & Technology Council and has played a key role in technician development initiatives statewide. He actively supports diesel technology programs, workforce training, and career pathway development for the next generation of technicians.
