*Agenda is subject to change
06:00 PM - 07:00 PM Regency Foyer
Regency Foyer
Registration & Welcome Reception
Whether you're a returning attendee or joining us for the first time, the Registration & Welcome Reception promises a vibrant start to your 2026 NationaLease Canadian Leadership Summit experience. Prepare to connect, collaborate, and embark on a journey of discovery and growth.
07:30 AM - 08:30 AM Admiral
Admiral
Breakfast
08:30 AM - 08:35 AM Regency
Regency
Welcome to the 2026 NationaLease Canadian Leadership Summit
Step into the future of industry excellence as we cordially welcome you to the highly anticipated 2026 NationaLease Canadian Leadership Summit. This premier event sets the stage for visionary insights, collaborative growth, and impactful networking. Get ready to immerse yourself in the summit's rich offerings and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
Kevin Hoyt, Controller, VEL NationaLease
08:35 AM - 09:15 AM Regency
Opening Remarks
Join us as Dean Vicha takes the stage to set the tone for an eventful and enriching meeting. Reflecting on the year gone by, Dean will provide a comprehensive review and offer insights into the remarkable progress achieved. Brace yourself for a glimpse into the exciting prospects that NationaLease has strategically set in motion, propelling a trajectory of remarkable growth beyond 2027. Dean will unveil the strategic blueprint designed to empower our members to elevate their market presence and optimize operational efficiency. As we stand at the threshold of a promising future, this session promises to ignite your enthusiasm and spark your aspirations. Join us for an engaging kickoff that guarantees valuable insights and a vision of what lies ahead on this remarkable journey.
Dean Vicha, President, NationaLease
09:15 AM - 10:15 AM Regency
General Session
10:15 AM - 10:30 AM Regency Foyer
Break
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM Regency
Member Best Practices
Join Shawn Watson of Truckway NationaLease as he shares the best practices, strategies, and lessons learned that have contributed to his organization's success. Through real-world examples and practical insights, Shawn will discuss approaches to improving operations, enhancing customer service, and driving business performance. This member-led session offers a valuable opportunity to learn from a fellow NationaLease member, exchange ideas, and discover proven practices that can be adapted and implemented within your own organization.
Shawn Watson, President, Truckway NationaLease
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM Regency
Supply Management Update—CLOSED SESSION
Learn about the latest supply management programs as Griffin Becker reviews performance levels year-to-date on our products and services and provide an update on some of our newest programs available to members.
Griffin Becker, Member Programs Manager, NationaLease
12:00 PM - 01:00 PM Admiral
Lunch
01:00 PM - 05:00 PM Regency
Speed Networking
Due to overwhelming demand, we are excited to invite you to an exceptional event that blends our tradeshow, supplier presentations, and a dash of “speed dating” charm. This unique occasion provides each member and supplier with the opportunity to have personalized one-on-one meetings, all while enjoying delightful cocktails. Don't miss out on this extraordinary experience!
06:00 PM - 08:30 PM Waterfront Warehouse
Waterfront Warehouse
Dinner
Join fellow Canadian Leadership Summit attendees for an evening of networking, conversation, and great food at Waterfront Warehouse. This dinner provides an opportunity to connect with industry peers, continue discussions from the day’s sessions, and enjoy a relaxed evening together.
08:30 AM - 09:30 AM Regency
General Sessions
09:30 AM - 10:15 AM Regency
Member Services Update
Stay informed about the latest developments at the NationaLease home office. Jane Clark will provide an update on new programs and services available through NationaLease, as well as introduce new members to our community. This session is essential for staying up-to-date with the resources and support available to your organization.
Jane Clark, Vice President of Member Services, NationaLease
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Regency
Maintenance Issue Reporting and Resolution
Keeping trucks on the road requires more than identifying maintenance issues—it requires a clear process for reporting, communicating, and resolving them quickly. This session will explore best practices for capturing maintenance concerns, improving communication between drivers, technicians, and fleet teams, and creating efficient workflows that minimize downtime. Attendees will learn strategies to strengthen issue resolution, improve service responsiveness, and support a more proactive maintenance approach that keeps fleets operating at peak performance.
Mike Blimling, Vice President of Truck Technology and Maintenance, NationaLease
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Regency
Truck Market Update
Get an inside look at the current truck market and the trends shaping the Canadian transportation industry. Luc Bellevue of Freightliner will share insights on equipment demand, market conditions, product trends, and other factors influencing truck purchasing and fleet planning. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the market and what to watch for as they plan for the year ahead.
Luc Belliveau, District Manager – Atlantic Canada-Ontario, Freightliner
Luc Leblanc, Technical Sales Representative - Canada East, Freightliner
01:00 PM - 02:00 PM Regency
Economic Update
Canada’s economic landscape continues to influence business conditions, consumer demand, interest rates, and the transportation industry. Charles Bernard, Chief Economist at CADA, will provide an overview of the current Canadian economy, examining key economic trends, challenges, and opportunities that could impact the truck leasing and transportation sectors. Attendees will gain valuable perspective to help navigate the months ahead and make informed business decisions.
Charles Bernard, Chief Economist, CADA
02:00 PM - 03:00 PM Regency
Strategies for Growing National Rental and Lease Accounts in Canada - Roundtable
Join fellow members for an interactive discussion focused on expanding national rental and lease opportunities across the Canadian market. This roundtable will explore successful sales strategies, customer engagement approaches, operational considerations, and collaboration opportunities that can help drive growth and strengthen national account relationships. Attendees will have the opportunity to share experiences, discuss challenges, and exchange ideas for identifying new business opportunities while delivering consistent service and value to customers across Canada.
Joe Gallick, Senior Vice President of Sales, NationaLease
03:00 PM - 03:15 PM Regency Foyer
03:15 PM - 03:45 PM Regency
Regulation and Tariff Updates
Stay up to date on the latest regulatory developments and tariff policies impacting the transportation industry. This session will provide an overview of recent and upcoming changes affecting fleet operations, equipment procurement, cross-border business, compliance requirements, and overall business planning. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the potential operational and financial impacts of these changes, along with strategies for navigating an evolving regulatory environment and preparing for future developments.
Mike Dearden, President, Dearden & Associates
03:45 PM - 04:45 PM Regency
NationaLease Marketing
Explore the marketing resources, programs, and opportunities available through NationaLease to help members strengthen their local marketing efforts and grow their businesses. Kevin McMahon, Senior Marketing Specialist at NationaLease, will highlight current initiatives, tools, and best practices designed to support members in building brand awareness, engaging customers, and maximizing the value of their NationaLease affiliation.
Kevin McMahon, Senior Marketing Specialist, NationaLease
06:00 PM - 08:00 PM Regency
Awards Dinner
Join us in capping off the Canadian Leadership Summit on a high note as we come together to celebrate excellence and achievement. The spotlight is on as we gather to recognize and commend the exceptional individuals who have earned the esteemed Canadian MVP Award. This awards dinner promises an evening of inspiration, camaraderie, and the chance to applaud the remarkable accomplishments of our winners. Be part of this memorable event as we toast to their outstanding contributions and mark the culmination of the summit in style.