When the Commercial Vehicle Business Summit (CVBS) wrapped up this fall, one idea continued to echo long after the final session: challenges can become opportunities.

That theme, “Turning Challenges into Progress,” wasn’t just a tagline. It captured the tone of every discussion, from conversations about shifting customer expectations to the impact of AI on how the commercial vehicle industry operates.

In a recent episode of the CVB Network Podcast, host Steve Henning sat down with Aaron Johnson, CEO of Work Truck Solutions, to reflect on what made this summit stand out. Johnson, who has been part of CVBS since its early days, said he’s continually impressed by the depth and diversity of those who participate.

“The thing I’m most impressed by,” Johnson shared, “is the level and knowledge of the people that participate — presenters, panelists, dealers, OEMs, upfitters, insurance providers. Everyone that plays a part in ensuring people have the right equipment to do their work was there, leaning in.”

That “leaning in” mindset defined the event. Rather than avoiding hard topics like supply chain volatility, tariffs, or technology disruptions, panelists and attendees embraced them.

“In the end,” Johnson added, “your customers are going through these same things. It gives us the opportunity to be where they are and help them navigate challenges so they can continue to be successful.”

From Order-Takers to Problem-Solvers

A recurring theme throughout the summit was how the industry is evolving from a transactional mindset to a consultative one.

“The notion of being order-takers has really vanished,” Johnson explained. “It’s much more about understanding our customers’ needs and bringing together solutions, even if they don’t all come from your company, to solve a specific problem.”

That shift requires more than operational excellence. It calls for steadiness – being that reliable, informed presence when markets fluctuate and customers need confidence.

When Henning mentioned a quote shared during the event, “Instead of saying challenges are happening to us, we should see them as happening for us,” Johnson connected it to one of the standout sessions led by Jim Press.

“Jim said, ‘This is our opportunity to gain market share. To demonstrate our ability to serve customers in unique ways.’ That mindset really carried through the entire event.”

Technology as a Catalyst

One of the liveliest topics was technology, especially artificial intelligence. As Henning joked, “that tiny two-letter word, AI,” seemed to be everywhere.

Johnson described one of his favorite takeaways from a panel he moderated:

“Sometimes we look at technology and ask, how can it make step two to step three faster? But maybe the better question is, how can it get us from step one to the outcome in a completely new way?”

It was a reminder that innovation isn’t just about speed, it’s about rethinking the journey. Whether it’s telematics, connectivity, or data-driven personalization, the most forward-thinking companies are using technology to reshape how they serve their customers, not just to streamline existing processes.

Connection Drives Progress

Beyond the sessions and panels, CVBS continues to stand out for the community it builds. Networking rooms and live Q&As give attendees the chance to connect with people from every corner of the industry.

“Our ability to serve customers isn’t just about operating excellence,” Johnson emphasized. “It’s about connecting with other organizations to fully meet customer needs.”

That sense of collaboration, and the willingness to face challenges head-on, is what keeps CVBS growing year after year.

Looking Ahead to CVBS Spring 2026

If you missed the fall summit, good news: our readers get early access to the session recordings, available now: click here to watch.

And it’s not too early to mark your calendar for the next Commercial Vehicle Business Summit, happening April 22–23, 2026. Each event builds on the last, bringing new insights, practical strategies, and honest conversations about where the industry is headed next.

If the Fall 2025 summit proved anything, it’s that the commercial vehicle industry isn’t backing away from challenges; it’s turning them into progress.