ABA: The Connection Between People and Places

The American Bus Association is at a critical crossroads. Our industry is navigating market normalizations in the post-COVID-19 era. We’re all adapting to evolving expectations and trends in personal and group travel. Our businesses are managing higher costs while our consumers are battling inflation. New regulations seem to be published daily. And workplace, demographic, and leisure shifts are changing, requiring each of us to adapt.

The challenges are significant, but the spirit of ABA is greater.

We are the connectors of people and places.

We are the advocates for innovation and growth.

We enable mobility, connection, and opportunity through our diverse membership and the industries they serve.

So, while the world around us may be changing, ABA will lead from the front to fiercely advocate for our people, our values, and the industries that we represent.

ABA has existed for 98 years, with 2026 marking the association’s 100th anniversary. This is an incredible achievement—something less than 1 percent of organizations ever experience. This staying power is credited to ABA’s dedicated staff and loyal members, who believed—and still believe—that together, we are stronger.

I am honored and humbled to lead ABA into its next era. We are so much bigger, broader, and more impactful than most realize. I’m energized by this opportunity to tell our story and expand our influence.

Meet ABA’s New President & CEO: Fred Ferguson

Where do you call home?

I live in the Northern Virginia suburbs with my wife, Nicole, and our two kids, Millie (7) and Teddy (4). I coach various teams for Millie and Teddy and am the biggest supporter of my wife’s business in Middleburg, Every Little Something. Visit when you’re in town!

What drew you to the American Bus Association?

My dad had his CDL for the last five years of his shortened life. While he passed away far too soon, driving saved his life in many ways. He had hit rock bottom; driving enabled him to earn an honest wage and give his life meaning and purpose. As I researched ABA and its values, I realized that much of our purpose is to serve and support people like my dad who want to make a better life for themselves.

What do you hope to accomplish as CEO?

One of the defining features of high-performing teams, businesses, and industries is a strong, vibrant culture.

This culture, an invisible rulebook that guides how we work, act, and engage with one another, is already a cornerstone of our success. Building upon this foundation of excitement, energy, and passion will be key as we continue to attract and retain the talent and resources necessary to tell our dynamic story and expand our influence. I look forward to meeting all of you as we begin this next chapter of ABA’s journey.

Sincerely,

FRED FERGUSON
President & CEO
fferguson@buses.org