United Petroleum Transports promotes Chris Stude to chemical operations VP

United Petroleum Transports has promoted Chris Stude to vice president of chemical operations as the company looks to expand its chemical transportation business. Stude will focus on growth in existing and new markets, while the company says the move supports safety, service and a more connected network.

Why it matters: - The promotion signals United Petroleum Transports and Florida Rock and Tank Lines are putting more leadership behind chemical transportation growth. - The move is meant to support expansion in existing markets, entry into new markets, and better network efficiency across Customer Service Centers. - The company links the role to long-term growth, stronger customer relationships and improved operating capacity.

What happened: - United Petroleum Transports promoted Chris Stude to vice president of chemical operations. - The announcement was made Oct. 7, 2026, in Oklahoma City. - United Petroleum Transports and Florida Rock and Tank Lines said the promotion reinforces investment in the chemical transportation division. - Stude previously served as regional vice president for UPT’s North Region.

The details: - Stude will lead the chemical division’s growth strategy. - The strategy includes expanding service in existing markets. - The strategy also includes entering new markets. - Stude will work to build a more connected and efficient chemical transportation network across the company’s Customer Service Centers. - Matt Herndon, president and CEO, said Stude brings extensive chemical transportation expertise and a strong understanding of the company and operations. - Herndon said the promotion strengthens leadership for expanding capabilities, deepening customer relationships and supporting long-term growth. - Stude has been with UPT for four years. - Stude has about 20 years of transportation industry experience, much of it focused on chemical transportation. - The company says Stude’s experience will help guide expansion while maintaining safety, service and reliable delivery.

Between the lines: - The promotion suggests UPT is treating chemical transportation as a core growth area, not just a support business. - Stude’s remit points to a push for scale and efficiency at the same time, especially through denser lanes and fewer empty miles. - The emphasis on network coordination across UPT, FRTL and ULOGIX suggests the company wants to use its combined footprint more aggressively. - Stude said the combined footprint can improve lane density, reduce empty miles and expand customer capacity while creating opportunities to improve driver earnings.

What's next: - Stude will focus on growing the chemical transportation business across the company’s network. - UPT expects the combined footprint of UPT, FRTL and ULOGIX to support future expansion. - The company says safety and reliable service will remain central as the division grows.

The bottom line: - UPT is elevating a seasoned operations leader to push chemical transportation growth with an emphasis on efficiency, safety and customer expansion.