Corporal James “Buckie” Thomas has finished ninth overall after competing in the 2007 North American Inspector Championship (NAIC) competition held August 20-26 in Minneapolis , Minnesota , according to Dan Flowers, AHTD Director.

     Commercial vehicle inspectors representing nearly every state, jurisdiction and province from the U.S. , Canada and Mexico gathered to compete last week in the event.

     The national competition consisted of a full North American Level one inspection, motor-coach inspection, non-bulk hazardous material inspection, bulk hazardous material inspection, a written exam and an oral interview.       

     NAIC is the only event dedicated to recognizing and rewarding commercial vehicle inspector excellence and has been recognized by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) as an event that “advances America .”

     “Corporal Thomas’ showing at the NAIC is a direct reflection of his commitment to making our highways as safe as possible,” stated Arkansas Highway Police Chief Ronnie Burks. “Considering the myriad of laws and regulations that our officers have to know and operate within, Corporal Thomas’ top ten ranking is quite an accomplishment for both him and the Highway Police Division.”

     Fifty-four CVSA-certified North American Standard Level I roadside inspectors competed in the event: seven inspectors represented Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan); two inspectors represented Mexico-SCT; and 45 represented the United States.