This week, Robert Braswell, Executive Director of the American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) is joined by Fred Kelley, America’s R&D Director for the Prysmian Group (Prestonite brand), for another in-depth edition of Tech Talk with TMC.

The conversation focuses on electrical wiring, maintenance, and repair standards in today’s trucks, including why proper wire selection matters, how SAE and TMC standards were developed, and what fleets, technicians, and owner-operators need to know to avoid electrical failures and roadside breakdowns—especially during harsh winter conditions.

Robert and Fred break down the differences between battery cables and primary wiring, explain why cross-linked insulation is critical, and discuss recommended SAE wire types such as SGX, SGR, GXL, TXL, and SXL. They also cover voltage drop, corrosion, preventive maintenance, and why using improper wiring during repairs can lead to major reliability and safety issues.

The episode wraps with a look ahead at the TMC 2026 Annual Meeting in Nashville, including upcoming task force discussions related to ABS power supply and electrical recommended practices.

Listeners also had the opportunity to call in with questions during this live Tech Talk with TMC discussion, making this episode a must-listen for technicians, fleet managers, and anyone responsible for keeping trucks on the road.

Learn more about the Technology & Maintenance Council at

https://tmc.trucking.org

This week on Tech Talk with TMC, co-host Robert Braswell, Executive Director of ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), joins Mark Zachos to discuss practical strategies to protect yourself and your fleet from cybersecurity threats. Robert shares insights on the latest trends in trucking technology, maintenance management, and cyber risks affecting the industry today.

Listeners call in with their questions, and Robert provides guidance on best practices, including how to secure vehicle systems, protect company data, and respond to potential cyberattacks. This episode is essential for anyone in trucking, fleet management, or transportation who wants to stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity challenges.

Learn more about TMC at https://tmc.trucking.org/

See upcoming Tech Talk topics: https://tmc.trucking.org/blog/tech-ta...

Thanks for tuning in! You can catch our shows and segments anytime on your favorite podcast app or listen live on YouTube, Facebook, iHeart, and RadioNemo.com!

Jimmy Mac and Robert Braswell return for another edition of Tech Talk with TMC. Robert serves as Executive Director of ATA’s Technology and Maintenance Council, and he brings his insight to a conversation focused on retreads, why they matter, and why fleets and drivers should feel confident using them.

Robert and Dan Shy explain what today’s retread technology delivers for safety, performance, and cost control. They outline how quality standards have changed, what fleets should expect from a strong retread program, and how retreads support more efficient maintenance planning.

The conversation highlights how retreads lower operating costs at a time when every maintenance decision affects profitability. They also explain how retreads help fleets reduce waste and stretch tire life through smart management practices.

Learn more about TMC programs and resources at https://tmc.trucking.org/

View the full list of Tech Talk topics at https://tmc.trucking.org/blog/tech-ta...

Thanks for tuning in! You can catch our shows and segments anytime on your favorite podcast app or listen live on YouTube, Facebook, iHeart, and RadioNemo.com!