Doug Oberhelman, chairman and chief executive officer of Caterpillar Inc., was named the sole recipient of the American Road & Transportation Builders Association’s (ARTBA) highest honor – the “ARTBA Award.” It was presented to Oberhelman Oct. 6 during the association’s national convention, held in Tucson, Ariz.
Established in 1960, the “ARTBA Award” recognizes individuals for outstanding contributions that have advanced the broad goals of the association. Over the years, recipients have included several governors, more than 25 U.S. senators or representatives, two U.S. secretaries of transportation and dozens of top leaders and executives from government and the private sector of the transportation construction industry.
“In volunteer leadership positions, speeches, and media interviews, Doug Oberhelman stands out as one of the business community’s most forceful and articulate advocates on the need for boosting federal investment in transportation infrastructure,” ARTBA President and CEO Pete Ruane said.
Oberhelman’s role as chairman of the Business Roundtable (BRT) and in the development of BRT’s September 2015 report titled “Road to Growth: The Case for Investing in America’s Transportation Infrastructure” helped keep the heat on Congress to complete action on the December 2015 highway and transit law—the FAST Act.
Over many years, Caterpillar has also been a key supporter of ARTBA’s advocacy and communications programs. The company’s group president, Rob Charter, is a member of ARTBA’s Executive Committee.
In addition to his legislative advocacy, Oberhelman was recognized for his distinguished service and volunteer leadership roles, including past chairman of the National Association of Manufacturers. He is vice president of the Wetlands America Trust, a member of the Nature Conservancy’s Latin America Conservation Council, and chairman of the board for the Easter Seals Foundation of Central Illinois.
Congratulations Doug, you are a Rock Star.