Tom Howells served as President of the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association (WMCA) for 35 years, from 1979 until his retirement in 2014. He was a highly respected figure in Wisconsin’s transportation industry and nationally recognized for his leadership and advocacy. On October 19, 2025, we learned the unfortunate news that he had passed away.
Tom Howells was known for his integrity, dedication, and enthusiasm. His legacy includes significant contributions to highway safety, industry professionalism, and legislative advocacy. Thank you Tom, for your service, dedication and leadership. The Wisconsin trucking industry is forever grateful.
Career Highlights:
- President of WMCA (1979–2014): Led the association representing over 1,100 companies operating commercial motor vehicles in Wisconsin.
- Established Wisconsin’s first state trucking association “Road Team”: Promoted highway safety and recognized safe truck drivers.
- Founded the President’s Safe Driver Club (1996): Honored professional drivers with exemplary safety records; the club grew to over 1,350 members.
- National Leadership:
- Served as National Chairman of the Trucking Association Executives Council (1992–1993).
- Chaired the Wisconsin Highway Users Alliance (2003–2013).
Awards & Recognition:
- WMCA Haul of Fame Inductee (2004): For outstanding service to the trucking industry and community.
- J.J. Keller President’s Award (2007): Prestigious recognition from peers and the American Trucking Associations.
- ATA President’s TAEC Leadership Award: Honored for nearly 30 years of advocacy and support for the trucking industry.
Education:
- M.A. in Public Administration – University of Wisconsin-Madison (1970–1971)
- B.A. in Economics – Earlham College (1964–1968)
Tom Howells Memorial
MEMORIES OF TOM
| While Tom was just preparing for retirement, I was just getting involved with the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association. I know Tom gave a great deal of his life to the association and was a great ambassador for Wisconsin trucking. And while I never had the chance to know him very well, he was the president when my great uncle, Richard “Buck” Jenkins, was honored with the Babbitt Award.
Tom was incredibly welcoming to me when I was there for his induction…and I know Buck had a great deal of respect for him. And that says a lot about Tom. Rest well Tom, you’ve earned it. Jon Coca |
I only remember a bit of Tom from when I was a kid and young man. I remember him being gracious and friendly even to us young people. My Grandmother, Grandfather and my Dad all thought highly of Tom. The tradition of having a joke to start a meeting, hit the middle of a meeting and end a meeting turned into something we all looked forward to.
God Speed Sir.
Best regards,
Bill Skinner
Skinner Transfer Corp
| Tom was an amazing leader for our association and always respected everyone’s time and effort. I appreciated my time serving with him on the board and appreciate his friendship. His commitment not only to our association but the industry was our foundation for 35 years. Thank You to his family for sharing home with us.
Greg Klimek |