The Virginia-based American Trucking Associations (ATA) has formed what it calls the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) to advocate for, and conduct on a limited basis, essential research in the transportation community, with an emphasis on the trucking industry's essential role in a safe, efficient and viable transportation system. Walter B. McCormick Jr., ATA’s president and CEO, said the ATRI will be a “think tank” organization designed to provide ATA members with scientific research aimed at backing up industry positions on matters of public policy.
Michael W. Wickham, chairman and CEO of Roadway Express and current head of the ATA Foundation, will chair ATRI.