WATERS International Trucks, Truck and Tractor

In Biloxi for the MISSISSIPPI ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS (MASS) Conference? Stop by and see the Waters Bus Team to grab some free goodies and talk all things bus with us! IC Bus

The 2024 MAPT Conference was a resounding success, marking another milestone in our commitment to advancing pupil transportation within Mississippi's school districts. Our dedication to support, advocacy, and excellence was evident throughout the event. This year WATERS offered a robust lineup of educational sessions, including OnCommand Connection, Cummins Insite, and accident reporting. A special thank you to John Hughes and Morgan Scribner for sharing their knowledge. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Cobbins Brothers Gospel Group for their inspiring performance at the reception, and to The McGees for providing their signature musical touch that truly made the event memorable. Thank you to all attendees, sponsors, and participants for your contributions to making this event exceptional.

IC Bus recognized Waters Truck & Tractor Company as the 2023 IC Bus Dealer of the Year. Every year, one dealership is recognized for their top performance, leadership within the industry and support of their surrounding communities. “I am honored to receive recognition as the IC Bus Dealer of the Year and for the opportunity to serve our customers,” said Mike Waters, dealer principal. “This success would not be possible without support from our team members who display our company values each day. We’re grateful for our long-term partnership with IC Bus in delivering best-in-class products and services to our customers throughout Mississippi." Read full announcement here--> https://lnkd.in/ettZhgMf

In Loving Memory of Charlie Hawkins Jr. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our colleague and friend, Charlie Hawkins Jr. Charlie, a beloved member of our team and a pillar of our community, passed away peacefully at his home on May 28th, 2024. Charlie was more than just a colleague; he was an exemplary sales professional whose dedication to his customers was unmatched. As aptly described by our VP of Sales, John Sumrall, "You didn't just get the product when you bought from Charlie, you got Charlie also." He embodied the value of being with customers for the life of their business, ensuring not only their satisfaction but also fostering genuine relationships. Born on February 6, 1951, in Kosciusko, MS, Charlie was a proud graduate of Kosciusko High School and The University of Mississippi. He owned and operated Mid-State Motor Company with his father before joining Waters Truck and Tractor Kosciusko. A building in which he owned and sold to us! He began his career with us in a duel Truck and Bus Salesperson. Soon Charlie realized his true passion lay in school bus sales and his career excelled until his retirement in 2011.

It is with great sadness we share with you the passing of Mr. Chuck Imbler, Sr. Chuck was not only a great neighbor in business, but also a true friend of Ray Waters Jr. and the Waters Family. Chuck was the owner of Truck Center, Inc. and Idealease of Tupelo and the legacy he built within the Tupelo community is unmatched. “Chuck was a profound influence on so many that knew him and worked with him. He cared very much for his employees and his customers. He believed that doing the right thing was always the correct decision in all situations. We always strive to carry those principles with us every day in the dealership. We are saddened at the loss of a great man.” ~Glynn Franklin, Branch Manager. “We should all aspire to be as good of a person as Chuck Imbler was.”~ Jimmy Robbins, IC Bus Sales

We are extremely excited to promote James Edwards to the role of Service Manager in the Meridian location! In the past two years, James has exhibited what I would call “extreme professionalism.” His desire to do his best in all things and help everyone else do the same is infectious. He embodies the WATERS family value of a customer first mindset as well as anyone I have ever met. I know that he will continue to do so in his new role and we look forward to seeing him put his stamp on the service department. Please take the opportunity to congratulate James as you have time! - Josh Waters James states “I am overwhelmed with excitement for this new challenge and opportunity with WATERS. I have always had a strong work ethic and compelling motivation to see how far I can push myself. I have the utmost respect for the Waters family and have learned a great deal from them and my fellow co-workers. There will be more to learn going forward but as a team, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. I have been blessed in my life to be married to my best friend, April Burke Edwards, of 21 years. We have two sons. Jaxon will be going into his senior year at Mississippi State and majoring in biology with a minor in psychology and a pre-med emphasis. Fisher will be going into the 9th grade where he plays tennis on the varsity team at Newton County High School. Welcome James to his new role! jedwards@waterstruck.com

WATERS International Trucks, Inc. is excited to welcome Austin Middleton to our family as he assumes the role of Parts Manager in Meridian, MS! Austin has an extensive background in the commercial truck parts business and has achieved success at every level along the way. He arrives at WATERS with an impressive reputation in the region and he will be an asset to the Meridian location and the organization as a whole. We are thrilled to have him join our crew! From Austin - “I am originally from the small town of Star, Mississippi which is just south of Jackson. I moved to Meridian in 2019 for a professional opportunity and have since met my wife Bailey and made a home out of it. We do not have children yet, but we do have dogs and goats that keep us occupied around the house. We are both very adventurous and enjoy traveling, camping, hiking and exploring the outdoors. I have over 10 years of experience working in truck dealerships and have worked in many different roles in different departments. I am very excited and humbled to have the opportunity to be in this position. Since I have been in the Meridian area, I have heard nothing but great things about Waters and the organization. I look forward to doing my part in the continued success of not only the parts department but the dealership as a whole. My vision is to lead by example and encourage my team to achieve their full potential, while promoting continuous improvement and positive customer experiences every time.” Please welcome Austin to the family! amiddleton@waterstruck.com

Mack Livingston, our Director of Parts, retired this week after 46 years of service. His gentle guidance and correction are unmatched, and his strong Christian character has been greatly appreciated these 46 years. There is only one way to say it, We love you Mack! We hope you have many long and happy years of retirement! "I know I will be missed, but you already know what to do. Be honest, treat people fairly, and the good Lord will bless that. Don't just do work for your customers, but do the very best work you can do. Treat them like what they are, the best customer(s) you have!" -Mack Livingston

We wrapped up the International Trucks S13 Trailer Tour this week in Meridian! Thank you to everyone who joined us for a delightful lunch and had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the groundbreaking International S13 Powertrain. They didn't just learn about it—they felt the difference firsthand! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make the tour a success! Shawn Nesbitt, MBA

Today was a beautiful day to host the International Trucks S13 Trailer Tour in Columbus! Our valued customers joined us for a delightful lunch and delved into the innovative International S13 Powertrain. They didn't just hear about it—they experienced the difference firsthand! Thank you to all who came out today. Brace yourselves, Meridian—we're bringing the excitement your way next week! 🚛💨 International Trucks Shawn Nesbitt, MBA