To help fleets build deeper internal expertise, J.J. Keller has launched a new training and certification program designed specifically for safety, compliance, and operations professionals who work with motor carriers.

A Program Built Around Real Fleet Scenarios

The Certified Transportation Regulatory Expert Certification Program focuses on the practical application of the FMCSRs rather than rote memorization. Participants work through live drills, interactive instruction, tabletop exercises, and audit simulations that reflect real-world situations fleets encounter during enforcement activity and internal reviews.

The curriculum covers a broad range of compliance responsibilities, starting with regulatory structure and interpretation, DOT registration requirements, insurance obligations, and recordkeeping standards. It also includes detailed training on driver qualification files, Drug and Alcohol Testing Clearinghouse requirements, and strategies to reduce audit exposure.

Hours of Service compliance and electronic logging device management are addressed with an emphasis on log auditing, applicable exceptions, and preventing falsification. Vehicle maintenance programs, driver vehicle inspection reports, cargo securement, hazardous materials compliance, and the role of advanced safety technologies are also part of the program.

In addition, participants receive training on CSA scoring, safety ratings, and effective responses to Notices of Violation and claims, areas that often present the greatest risk for fleets.

Format and Certification Details

The CTRE Certification Program is delivered as a five-day, in-person course held at J.J. Keller’s corporate headquarters in Neenah, Wisconsin. Small group instruction allows for discussion, hands-on learning, and scenario-based problem solving.

Participants receive access to compliance resources during the program, along with ongoing updates to help them stay current as regulations evolve. The certification is valid for three years, with recertification available through a remote examination.

Supporting Fleet Leaders Under Compliance Pressure

J.J. Keller positions the program as a way for fleets to develop internal leadership and consistency around regulatory compliance rather than relying exclusively on outside consultants.

“Fleet professionals are under constant pressure to maintain compliance while managing operational demands,” said Dustin Kufahl, vice president of consulting and training services at J.J. Keller, in a news release.

“The CTRE Certification Program gives them the tools, knowledge, and confidence to not only meet the regulatory requirements but to excel as leaders in their organizations. On top of that, they earn an industry credential recognizing their achievement.”

Kufahl emphasized the program’s practical value, adding, “This certification is more than a credential; it’s a career accelerator. Participants walk away with practical strategies to reduce legal risk, improve safety practices, and protect their fleets from costly violations.”

What Fleet Operators Should Take Away

For fleet owners and safety leaders, structured compliance education can play a direct role in reducing violations, improving inspection outcomes, and strengthening risk management practices. Building in-house regulatory expertise allows fleets to respond faster to enforcement actions and maintain consistent standards across terminals and regions.

Enrollment is now open for upcoming sessions, with the first scheduled for March 2 through March 6, 2026. Additional information is available at JJKeller.com/CTRE or by calling 833 708 4633.

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

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Mark Siebenaller, vice president of service operations at J. J. Keller, said the company is proud to be part of the effort. He explained, “Our Permits Team is honored to guide the tree and truck through 10 states and 14 whistlestop appearances. We’re proud to help ensure safe transport of this national symbol.”

This haul is being done in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and the Society of American Foresters. The job isn’t as simple as putting the tree on a trailer and rolling out. Because of the size and route, permits are required in every state the load moves through, and that’s where J. J. Keller makes the difference.

The company’s Permit Service runs around the clock and handles close to 100,000 loads a year. Siebenaller added that helping with the move lines up with the company’s values: “Our Permit Service aligns with J. J. Keller’s core values of protecting people and businesses, so everyone returns home safely.”

Silver Belle will be harvested in late October and make appearances throughout the country on the way to the Capitol. The planned stops include:

• Carson City, Lovelock, Elko, Las Vegas, and Hoover Dam, Nevada
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Amarillo, Texas
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Lenexa, Kansas
• St. Louis, Missouri
• Paducah and Lexington, Kentucky
• Chillicothe, Ohio
• Eighty Four, Pennsylvania
• Joint Base Andrews, Maryland

The lighting ceremony is scheduled for early December once the tree reaches Washington, D.C.

If you want more background from drivers who’ve hauled previous Capitol trees, there are stories available from past hauls that give a behind-the-scenes look at the experience.

Source: JJ Keller and The Trucker

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