The NATDA is a proud supporter of the nation ’ s veterans through Wounded Warrior Project ® ( WWP ) and its free programs , designed for veterans returning to civilian life . Through its 2022 NATDA Trailer Show fundraiser , NATDA seeks to ensure that veterans are supported all throughout their recovery .
“ I am truly grateful to serve those who have served us ,” said Amy Ackerman , Vice President of NATDA . “ When my father returned from Vietnam , veterans did not have the support that the Wounded Warrior Project is able to provide today . NATDA is happy to help support an organization that touches so many of our nation ’ s veterans in such a positive way .”
The Proud Tradition of Veterans in the Trailer Industry Veterans have a valued history and strong presence in the trailer industry , whether in manufacturing facilities , trailering component distributors or dealerships themselves . The industry is filled to the brim with men and women who have served in the United States ’ military branches .
Joshua J . Coster , President of Wil- Ro , Inc ., exhibited at NATDA ’ s Trailer Show for the first time last year . The Nashville-based veteran and entrepreneur has experience ranging from training a full team of Marines to managing operations of entrepreneurial global companies .
“ I take great pride in having the opportunity to create careers for veterans in my organization because I believe that veterans can positively impact any industry in which they are involved ,” said Joshua J . Coster , President of Wil-Ro , Inc . and proud veteran . “ The military , like any other discipline , prepares veterans with transferable skills that help them to operate with a purpose , manage multiple responsibilities , and execute with a sense of urgency – all necessary skills in a fast-paced workforce .” fast-growing company , Valcrum , he is passionate about leading and seeing people succeed , particularly if those people are veterans in the industry .
Thankfully , the trailer industry is fortunate enough to have plenty of military veterans amongst its ranks . Motivated , purposeful workers are a luxury the industry is lucky to have .
“ OEM manufacturers , welders , mechanics – many of them are veterans ,” explained Mario Robles , Valcrum ‘ s Managing Member and proud veteran . “ They have the discipline to ensure quality and they take pride in their work . The stuff they build ? That ’ s the best product you can buy .”
Wounded Warrior Project at the NATDA Trailer Show In Nashville , attendees will see Sal Gonzalez , an alum of the Wounded Warrior Project program , speak at the 2022 NATDA Trailer Show . A veteran , musician , husband and father with an America ’ s Got Talent appearance under his belt , Gonzales appears content with life .
Following the events of 9 / 11 , Gonzalez joined the US Marine Corps right out of high school , but was injured while serving in 2004 . Upon his return , Wounded Warrior Project met him at his bedside , supporting him even during his first days at the hospital .
“ Wounded Warrior Project helped me realize anything was possible ,” Gonzalez smiled . “ My injury didn ’ t define me . It was up to me to decide what the rest of my life would be like .”
To show your support for the Wounded Warrior Project , please visit bit . ly / 3rV0Lxc .
For veteran and New Product Award Winner Mario Robles , being a veteran is a point of pride . A managing partner at his
24 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org