Gatik, a leader in autonomous middle-mile logistics, has appointed Clint Kneip as Head of First Responder Engagement. In this role, Kneip will strengthen relationships with first responder agencies and lead the company’s First Responder Interaction Protocol (FRIP) for Freight-Only operations. His efforts will ensure the safe and compliant operation of Gatik’s autonomous freight vehicles across the U.S., supporting the company’s mission to enhance safety and compliance.
Kneip’s extensive experience in safety protocols and collaboration with national safety organizations will be pivotal as Gatik scales its Freight-Only deployments. “Clint’s expertise in commercial highway transportation safety will be invaluable as we expand,” said Rich Steiner, Gatik’s VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs. “He will help us exceed expectations for safety by building scenario-based training programs for first responders, including urban traffic situations, highway merges, and emergency protocols.”
Kneip brings over 20 years of experience from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), where he served as Captain of the Commercial Vehicle Section. He was instrumental in improving commercial transportation safety and worked closely with key national entities like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). As Chair of the CVSA’s Automated Driving Systems Working Group, Kneip helped develop guidelines for commercial vehicles with automated systems, influencing national policy.
At Gatik, Kneip will proactively address community needs, conduct training, and ensure seamless communication between first responders and Gatik’s autonomous vehicles. He will also support the Compliance and Government Relations teams, ensuring alignment with national and state standards, and provide expert testimony to influence autonomous vehicle legislation.
“I’m excited to join Gatik and contribute to advancing safety in the autonomous vehicle industry,” said Kneip.
Kneip’s appointment underscores Gatik’s commitment to working closely with first responders and maintaining a high standard of safety in autonomous logistics.
Gatik is the leader in autonomous middle-mile logistics, transforming B2B supply chains with its Autonomous Transportation-as-a-Service (ATaaS) platform. Focused on short-haul, B2B logistics for Fortune 500 retailers, Gatik prioritizes safe, reliable deliveries while reducing congestion and streamlining freight movement. In 2021, Gatik launched the world’s first fully driverless commercial delivery service with Walmart. Its autonomous Class 3-7 box trucks are commercially deployed across Texas, Arkansas, and Ontario. Partnered with industry giants like Isuzu Motors, Cummins, Ryder, and Goodyear, Gatik was founded in 2017 by autonomous technology veterans and has offices in Mountain View, Dallas-Fort Worth, Arkansas, and Toronto.
