ATA Safety Management Council Announces New Leadership

Oklahoma City, OK - The 2026 SSHR National Conference concluded last week, marking the end of the current leadership term for the ATA's Safety Management Council (SMC).

The SMC is pleased to announce that the council has elected the following individuals to new positions for the upcoming year:

• Chairman, Jeff Mercadante, Vice President of Safety & Risk at Pitt Ohio
• First Vice Chairman, Steve Ralston, Director of Transportation Safety & Compliance at Ashley Distribution Services
• Second Vice Chairman, Tim Smith
• Treasurer, Donielle Dziedzic, Director of Loss Prevention at A. Duie Pyle

Ronnie Holland, Director of Safety at TCW, previously served as Chair of the Council.

With a proven record of leadership and dedication to advancing safety practices, the new SMC leadership will guide the Council in continuing its mission to promote best practices in safety, drive innovation in the field, and support the professional development of safety professionals nationwide.

"The selection of our new SMC leadership marks an exciting chapter for the Council," said SMC Executive Director Jacob Pierce. "We are confident that this new leadership team will inspire progress, encourage collaboration, and strengthen our commitment to safety throughout our industry."

The Council looks forward to a year of continued growth, impactful initiatives, and meaningful contributions to safety under the guidance of its new leadership.