It’s not often that Ruan is asked to assist with an interior design project.
We are a transportation and logistics company, after all. So when the American Trucking Associations (ATA) began renovations on its new Washington, D.C., headquarters and gave Ruan an opportunity to contribute, we jumped at the chance. Now, months later, construction is complete, and the ATA has moved into its new home.
The lobby is beautifully designed with artwork and historical displays telling the story of how the association and industry it supports were built. And parked in the middle of the entrance is a red Ruan 2022 Freightliner tractor unit that “is intended to highlight motor carriers’ tenacity, grit, and dedication to plain old hard work,” according to the ATA.
What’s more, the truck isn’t just a visual piece; visitors are encouraged to get an up-close look at the unit and can even climb inside the cab to check out the equipment professional truck drivers utilize every day to advance America’s supply chains.
“The story behind the truck is really why our industry exists,” said Ruan President and ATA Chairman Dan Van Alstine. “It highlights the essential nature of what we do every day—what it takes for hardworking professionals. It creates a very big visual when you first enter, but what’s important is what’s behind it. Whether it’s legislators or friends of our industry—or perhaps folks who are not familiar with our industry—to start with the story and talk about what’s behind it: the hardworking people, the entrepreneurs with the fortitude and the grit needed to persevere and succeed. People like John Ruan.”
The timing of the ATA’s move and subsequent truck display is aligned with a major milestone anniversary for Ruan. Ninety years ago, our founder John Ruan sold the family car, bought a single truck, and hauled his first load of gravel. Nine decades later, Ruan has grown to 300 nationwide operations, operates 4,000 power units and 10,000 trailers, and employs 5,000 team members.
Check out this video featuring ATA President Chris Spear, Ruan’s Vice President of Fleet Services Brad Gehring, and a detailed look at how the tractor made its way into the ATA’s 8th floor lobby.