Gatik, a leader in autonomous middle-mile logistics, has appointed Clint Kneip as the new Head of First Responder Engagement. Kneip’s role focuses on strengthening relationships with first responders and supporting Gatik’s First Responder Interaction Protocol (FRIP) for its Freight-Only operations. With over 20 years of experience in safety oversight, Kneip’s appointment will enhance Gatik’s safety and compliance efforts as it expands its autonomous operations across the United States.
Kneip’s background includes significant contributions to commercial vehicle safety during his time with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and his expertise will play a crucial role in developing comprehensive training programs for emergency scenarios in autonomous vehicle (AV) operations.
Key Highlights:
- Clint Kneip will lead First Responder Engagement at Gatik, focusing on safety and compliance in Freight-Only autonomous operations.
- His experience includes over 20 years with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), where he improved commercial vehicle safety and collaborated with major safety agencies like the NHTSA and FHWA.
- Kneip played a key role in developing policies for automated driving systems as the Chair of the CVSA’s Commercial Motor Vehicle – Automated Driving System Working Group.
- In his new role, Kneip will lead training programs, develop instructional materials, and facilitate interactions between first responders and Gatik’s autonomous vehicles.
- He will collaborate with Gatik’s Compliance and Government Relations teams to align the company’s policies with national and state standards, also engaging with law enforcement agencies to support AV legislation.
Strengthening Gatik’s Autonomous Operations
Kneip’s appointment will allow Gatik to elevate its standards for safety and compliance, supporting the company’s mission to deploy autonomous technology responsibly. Rich Steiner, Gatik’s VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs, emphasized Kneip’s impact on enhancing safety protocols in high-traffic and emergency situations, saying, “With Clint on our team, we’re ensuring that our autonomous operations not only meet but exceed the expectations of first responders.”
In his new role, Kneip will develop scenario-based training, covering critical aspects such as highway merges, accident response, and emergency stops. His leadership will ensure Gatik’s Freight-Only operations remain community-focused and compliant with local regulations.
About Gatik
Founded in 2017, Gatik specializes in autonomous middle-mile logistics, providing short-haul, B2B services to major companies. Gatik’s Autonomous Transportation-as-a-Service (ATaaS) platform supports safe, reliable deliveries, reducing congestion and improving supply chain efficiency. Gatik’s driverless commercial delivery service launched with Walmart in 2021, and the company has operations in Texas, Arkansas, and Ontario.
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