Expanded board will build a more diverse, future-focused leadership team
The American Bus Association’s decision to expand its Board of Directors marks a significant moment in the organization’s evolution—one that prioritizes growth, diversity of perspective, and leadership that truly reflects the industry it serves. As ABA approaches its 2026 centennial, the expansion signals a shift toward a more inclusive leadership structure designed to guide the industry into its next century.
For generations, ABA has been the central hub connecting motorcoach operators, tour and travel partners, destinations, and manufacturers. The expanded board strengthens that role by ensuring that the people shaping the association’s direction represent the full spectrum of the industry. It demonstrates ABA’s commitment to a “big tent” approach—one that welcomes and elevates voices across all sectors of the bus and travel economy.
Learn more about ABA’s board expansion, including strategic plan, board seat breakdown, next steps, and more.
A core goal of the redesign is expanding operator representation in a way that acknowledges the diversity of business models across the country. This includes adding more dedicated seats for small and mid-sized operators who represent the majority of companies in the motorcoach industry but historically have had fewer opportunities for national-level leadership roles. By ensuring that family-run, rural, and emerging operators sit alongside large regional carriers, the board gains a more complete understanding of member needs, operational challenges, and growth opportunities.
Equally important is the decision to broaden representation from the travel-partner community. Tour operators, destinations, attractions, hotels, and other travel businesses rely on group travel to drive economic activity. Their increased presence on the board reinforces ABA’s position as the industry’s leading connector—an association where collaboration across sectors is not only encouraged, but essential to shared success. Manufacturers and suppliers will also see greater representation, adding critical expertise as the industry navigates evolving technology, fleet modernization, and sustainability pressures.
The board expansion aligns with ABA’s three-year strategic priorities: strengthen member value, grow engagement, and position the association for long-term impact. A more diverse and representative board will directly shape the policies, advocacy strategies, workforce initiatives, and marketplace programming that influence the industry’s trajectory.
Ultimately, ABA’s board expansion is more than a governance update—it is a commitment to the future. The industry is changing, and ABA is ensuring that its leadership evolves with it. By widening the circle and embracing a broader range of voices, ABA is building the leadership bench that will carry the industry into its centennial and beyond.
This is not just about adding seats—it’s about expanding opportunity, strengthening unity, and preparing the industry for its next era of growth.
Sincerely,
FRED FERGUSON
President & CEO
[email protected]
