The Arkansas Trucking Association has named two new vice presidents to its leadership team.
Sarah Newman has been promoted to vice president of operations, and David O’Neal has been named vice president of engagement. Both appointments became effective Sept. 16, 2025.
Newman recently celebrated her 23rd anniversary with the ATA, where she has worked as director of operations since 2002. In her expanded role, she will continue overseeing the association’s finances, serving as liaison to the Safety Management Council and Maintenance & Technology Council, and leading the planning and execution of association events. Her responsibilities will also extend to supporting broader initiatives that advance the mission and goals of the association.
A key architect of several signature programs, Newman guided the establishment of the 501(c)(3) Technician Scholarship Program, which has awarded $105,000 to 14 recipients since its launch in 2017, and created the Technician Curriculum Advisory Committee, which helps Arkansas institutions achieve Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) accreditation.
O’Neal brings three decades of transportation industry experience to his new role, marking a return to the association. He previously was director of safety services, where he established the inaugural Arkansas Road Team and Share the Road program, and later as vice president of safety programs & industry engagement.
His career also includes leadership positions with FedEx Freight in Harrison, Ark., FedEx Ground in Pittsburgh, Pa., and most recently, as senior associate at Scopelitis Transportation Consulting.
As vice president of engagement, O’Neal will shape strategic communication efforts in support of the association’s priorities, enhance member engagement, and serve as managing editor of the award-winning Arkansas Trucking Report.
“These leadership appointments strengthen our ability to serve our members and advance the trucking industry in Arkansas,” said Shannon Newton, president of the Arkansas Trucking Association. “Sarah’s deep operational knowledge and David’s industry experience and communication expertise ensure that our association is well-positioned for continued growth and impact.”