The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) kicks off tomorrow, running March 27-29 at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville. Whether you’re an owner-operator, company driver, or just a fan of the industry, there’s plenty to check out.
The MATS Pro Talks Education Series is back, offering a packed schedule of sessions designed to help drivers and trucking professionals stay ahead in the industry. From business strategies to industry insights, these sessions provide valuable knowledge for anyone looking to sharpen their skills.
For those who love custom trucks, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship will showcase some of the most impressive rigs on the road. Competing trucks will be on display in Lot N, giving attendees a chance to see some of the best builds in the business up close. The MATS Big Rig Build-Off also returns, featuring five custom truck builders going head-to-head.
Drivers bringing their rigs to MATS can take advantage of the Truck Parking Community at 1032 Phillips Lane, right across from the main entrance. A free shuttle runs between the lot and the Expo Center during show hours. The lot isn’t just for parking—it’s a gathering spot with free coffee and espresso from Mudflap on Thursday and Friday (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Before Friday night’s concert with Colt Ford and Tony Justice, Fistful of Tacos will be serving free tacos and nachos to the first 400 guests from 5:30-7 p.m.
Many exhibitors will also have special events, giveaways, and new products on display. Shell Rotella’s booth will feature an interactive experience with trucking personalities like the Boston Trucker, Clarissa Rankin, and Tarik Al-Amin II. Attendees can record a message in the Shell Rotella Recording Studio to thank a trucker or share their own story, with donations going to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.
The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund will also hold a silent auction and 50/50 raffle at the MATS Opening Reception on Thursday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. A $1 donation at the SCF booth will let attendees spin the wheel for a chance to win prizes.
Other highlights include:
- Heatso offering a limited-time 10% discount on its Fresco 9000 MaXX electric auxiliary air-conditioning unit.
- Mother Trucker Yoga is introducing new wellness programs for CDL schools and fleets, alongside live demos and wellness products.
- Right Weigh showcasing its latest Bluetooth-enabled onboard load scales for better load management.
- RealTruck RoadWorks debuting new HALO GLOW LEDs and accessories for the Peterbilt 589.
MATS is always a great place to connect with fellow truckers, industry experts, and exhibitors. TDUSA President Lori Furnell will also be in attendance. Be sure to say hi if you run into her!
Source: Overdrive
