Long-time leader of The Transportation Alliance (TTA), Al LaGasse, was celebrated with a “roast” at their 105th Annual Convention & Expo, Mobilize 2023. Mr. LaGasse’s illustrious career at the TTA began nearly 46 years ago, when he was just 23 years old, fresh out of college.
Originally named the International Taxicab Association, the organization subsequently transitioned into the Taxicab, Livery & Paratransit Association, then the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Associations – eventually landing on the TTA moniker. Mr. LaGasse explains why: “In 1990, we stopped being the ‘taxi association,’ We changed our rules to allow any private, for-profit transportation company providing for-hire transportation to join. That was because TTA was fighting and winning the legislative and legal battles for all for-hire operators, and we needed to expand our base of membership and dues to pay for those battles. It has always been a challenge to navigate between the similarities and differences between these various types of services, but our similarities are more important than our differences today just as they were back in 1990. The for-hire vehicle industry must stay united in TTA. Don’t let anything divide and weaken us.”
The expo, which was held in Myrtle Beach, SC, September 19-23, featured three days of networking, learning, and growth through a packed schedule of keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and more.
“I plan on relaxing for about six months and then I’ll figure out what I’m going to do with the rest of my life,” joked Mr. LaGasse, who officially retires as CEO Dec. 31. “Most of all I am thankful for you simply giving me the chance to manage the day-to-day affairs of this association and ultimately you gave me a true voice on the leadership team. Being a key person at this organization really has meant a great deal to me and I thank you for the opportunity, your support, and your friendship.”
Source: The Transportation Alliance
