Retired, Decorated U.S. Navy Blue Angels Pilot Will Keynote Traffic Club of Chicago’s 117th Annual Dinner
May 15, 2025 event to be held at Navy Pier’s Historic Aon Grand Ballroom
CHICAGO—April 16, 2025 (James Street Media Services)—The Traffic Club of Chicago (TCC) will host its 117th Annual Dinner on Thursday, May 15 in the Aon Grand Ballroom at Chicago’s Navy Pier. U.S. Navy retired Commander Frank Weisser, a former U.S. Navy Blue Angels pilot; decorated combat veteran; and Stunt Pilot for the Top Gun: Maverick movie, was chosen as this year’s speaker because of his career focused on discipline, leadership, and resilience—qualities that resonate within the transportation and logistics industries.
“As a former Naval aviator I couldn’t be more thrilled to bring Commander Weisser to the Traffic Club’s Annual Dinner,” says TCC President Steven Blinn—who was a Virginia Military Institute graduate and a highly decorated Naval aviator war veteran.
Weisser’s life exemplifies the positive results of precision, teamwork, and high-stakes decision-making, and his keynote will offer lessons in adaptability and excellence—the same mindset needed to navigate today’s supply chain landscape.
Those who attend will:
hear firsthand about flying with the Blue Angels and working on the Top Gun: Maverick movie featuring a can’t-miss AV presentation showing top stunts;
gain leadership insights from someone who has performed under extreme pressure; and
network with top professionals in transportation, logistics, and supply chain.
Click here to learn more about Frank Weisser
The reception and dinner will be held May 15 from 6–11 p.m. at the Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier in downtown Chicago. The club’s annual golf outing will be held the day before on Wednesday, May 14 at the Cog Hill Golf Club in suburban Lemont.
May 14 Golf Outing
Course 1: $230/person
Course 2 (Ravines): $265/person SOLD OUT
Course 4 (Dubsdread): $375/person
Includes breakfast, greens fees, golf carts, course contests, and networking BBQ after golf
Networking BBQ Only: $85/person
12294 Archer Ave., Lemont, IL
Shotgun start 9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.
May 15 Dinner
Members & Guests: $325
Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier
840 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL
6:00 p.m.—Reception and Networking
7:30 p.m.—Dinner
10 p.m.—Networking
The deadline to register is quickly approaching. Advance reservations are required for all the events, and can be made by the following methods:
Online registration
Sponsorship & advertising opportunities
Sign up for an annual dinner sponsorship today to secure your company a seat at the head table.
The Traffic Club is now accepting sponsorship and advertising applications. All companies sponsoring the dinner at the $1,500 level or above will secure a seat at the head table for a senior executive from their company. Act quickly—head table seating is only guaranteed until capacity is reached.
Head table guests will enjoy an exclusive Networking Cocktail Hour before the event and will be announced upon entry to the annual dinner. Sponsors will also be recognized on signage for the event, the Waybill newsletter, and event mailings.
Proceeds from the annual dinner and golf outing are used to fund the Traffic Club of Chicago Scholarship Program, which distributes more than $26,000 in scholarships each year. The more funds raised = more scholarships that can be awarded! To make this year’s event a success, please consider becoming an event sponsor or advertiser.
Why sponsor?
✔️ Prime exposure to 700+ industry leaders and decision-makers
✔️ VIP branding opportunities at this high-profile event
✔️ Direct contribution to the TCC Scholarship Fund, empowering the next generation of supply chain professionals
The deadline to sign up for a sponsorship or advertising is April 25th, 2025.
Secure your high-profile sponsorship today! Simply complete the sponsorship inquiry here, and we’ll handle your registration and send an invoice:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SY7RS5
Questions about the Traffic Club of Chicago or need assistance with registration?
Email staff@traffic-club.org
Call (312) 893-9976
About The Traffic Club of Chicago
The Traffic Club of Chicago, founded in 1907, is one of the nation's oldest transportation associations. The Club is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of the transportation and logistics industry, keeping its members abreast of industry happenings while, at the same time, assuming a responsible role in civic, cultural, and charitable activities in the Chicago area. An annual schedule of programs and events provides opportunities to network with industry professionals. A scholarship program supports the organization's philosophy of direction and guidance. More information can be found at www.traffic-club.org or follow the Traffic Club of Chicago on LinkedIn.
MEDIA CONTACT
Bill Fahrenwald
James Street Associates
708-528-0681
