American Central Names Wilt President as Kretsinger Steps Down Due to Health
Truckload carrier American Central Transport announced that Phil Wilt has been named president, succeeding Tom Kretsinger Jr., a well-known industry executive who held that position since 2005.
Kretsinger, who serves as CEO and chairman of the carrier, said the step was related to his health issues. Kretsinger has been active at American Trucking Associations, including service on its executive committee and a policy committee.
“I am excited about this succession planning,” said Kretsinger, who has been diagnosed with ALS. “It is something the leaders at most companies fail to do, but not ACT. At the end of the day, this is not about any one person. It’s the team that counts.”
Phil WiltKretsinger has been the third generation to lead the company, which he joined in 1998 after working at the family law firm for 17 years.
Wilt, who will retain his title as chief operating officer, has been with ACT, based in Liberty, Missouri, for a decade, including eight years as senior vice president of human resources and safety. Prior to joining ACT, he served in transportation management roles for two food industry companies.
“Phil has been a part of our management team for many years, and I have tremendous respect for his accomplishments and management style,” Kretsinger said. "Phil has done an outstanding job as our COO and making him president will expand his leadership to the entire company.”
Wilt told TT that the carrier will continue emphasize strong relationships with its drivers, including a move to build to a new office building adjacent to its maintenance facility to demonstrate the commitment to drivers at the 300 truck fleet.
“I’m honored to be given this opportunity to serve the company in this capacity and will continue to base my work on the core values that ACT has had in place for many years,” he said.
