Chris Cooper to Lead Alabama Trucking Association
The board of directors named Chris Cooper as the interim president of the Alabama Trucking Association starting December 1.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in People
The Alabama Trucking Association board has unanimously appointed Chris Cooper as interim president, effective December 1. He will succeed current president and CEO Mark Colson, who is departing to lead the American Trucking Associations.
Why it matters
The transition occurs as Mark Colson moves to a national leadership role within the American Trucking Associations. The appointment of Cooper maintains administrative continuity while the association develops a long-term plan for the vacancy.
The trucking sector in Alabama currently employs more than 125,000 workers. Mark Colson is the tenth person to serve as president of the American Trucking Associations since the national organization was established in 1933.
The players
Chris Cooper
He is the incoming interim president of the Alabama Trucking Association and former CEO of Boyd Bros. Transportation.
Mark Colson
He is the outgoing president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association who will lead the American Trucking Associations.
Alabama Trucking Association
This is a trade organization representing the interests of the trucking industry and the more than 125,000 workers employed in the sector across Alabama.
American Trucking Associations
Founded in 1933, this national federation serves as the largest and most comprehensive trade association for the United States motor carrier industry.
The details
Chris Cooper brings extensive industry experience, having previously served as CEO of Boyd Bros. Transportation and as the association's first third-generation chairman in 2022. Mark Colson will continue to assist with the leadership transition through the end of November.
Timeline
1933 marks the founding year of the American Trucking Associations.
Mark Colson began his tenure as Alabama Trucking Association president in 2019.
Chris Cooper became the association's third-generation chairman in 2022.
Mark Colson concludes his leadership role on November 30, 2026.
Chris Cooper assumes the role of interim president on December 1, 2026.
Market Landscape
The appointment reflects broader industry consolidation trends where regional leadership is increasingly tapped for national roles within the American Trucking Associations. This shift impacts the competitive environment by drawing experienced executives from local associations into the national fold.
This transition ensures continuity for a sector that employs 125,000 Alabamians, maintaining stable operations for the businesses they support. The change should have no immediate impact on daily retail prices or local shipping services for consumers.
The takeaway
Effective leadership transitions are critical to maintaining the advocacy strength of major industry trade associations. Businesses and workers in the sector should watch for further announcements regarding the long-term plan for filling the permanent presidential vacancy.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership, visit the Alabama People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Yellowhammer News.
