SPARK
SUCCESS
Realize your true potential in an industry and company as diverse as the landscape it covers. As a dedicated group of now over 44,000 strong, Penske is committed to providing all associates with the tools they need to achieve greatness.
We believe innovation thrives when talent from all backgrounds unite, so we’re always excited to welcome new voices and perspectives that can contribute to our collective success. Explore a number of opportunities across various role types, including:
Truck drivers
Warehouse operations
Maintenance and collision technicians
Customer service
Corporate/IT
Field operations leadership
Ready to shape the future of transportation together?
Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
ASTIN ROBERTSON
Senior Director of Enterprise Talent Acquisition, Covenant Logistics
“Astin has an unwavering commitment to empowering women in the trucking industry. She brings passion, creative problem solving, and a heart for people to all that she does.”
-Matt Duncan VP Enterprise Recruiting and Talent Acquisition, Covenant Logistics
Women In Trucking Association
P.O. Box 656
Merrifield, VA 22116 USA
Phone: 1-888-464-9482 www.WomenInTrucking.org
Published by: MindShare Strategies, Inc. P.O. Box 3555
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004
Billing Address: MindShare Strategies, Inc. P.O. Box 843 Springfield, TN 37172
Group Editorial Director and Publisher: Brian Everett, ABC 952-442-8850 x201 brian@WomenInTrucking.org
Managing Editor: Cassidy Mullins 952-442-8850 x215 cassidy@WomenInTrucking.org
Brynn Aiello
Courtney Bloom
Faith Boone
Brian Everett Karen Kroll
Advertising Sales: Carleen Herndon 1-888-464-9482 carleen@WomenInTrucking.org
Design/Production Managers: Todd Pernsteiner 952-841-1111 todd@pernsteiner.com Amy Pinkston amy@pernsteiner.com
Accounting/Administration/ Circulation: Karen Everett 952-442-8850 x203 karen@WomenInTrucking.org
the Driver Seat to the C-Suite
Jennifer Hedrick, CAE President & CEO
WIT Recent Progress: An Association Empowering Women, Elevating Futures
To help members and the industry at-large to understand the meaningful impact WIT is having on the industry, each year our association publishes the Women In Trucking Annual Report that highlights key accomplishments and initiatives from the previous year, as well as the impact the association played on women in the industry. The 2024 Women In Trucking Annual Report is now available – and the progress made by the association is remarkable.
Several of these initiatives encouraged the employment of women in trucking, including the activities of the WITney®
Educational Trailer, the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel celebrating female drivers, events tied to the WIT Girl Scout Patch Program, engagement of more companies as WIT members, and a record number of attendees at the tenth annual Accelerate! Conference & Expo.
Just a friendly reminder: Make sure to plan to attend the Accelerate! Conference & Expo Nov. 9-12, 2025, in Dallas, Texas.
that address challenges for women in our industry and educating government officials and other stakeholders through truck ride-alongs.
In addition, WIT celebrated those participating in the trucking industry through such programs as Top Women to Watch in Transportation, Member of the Month Program, Top Woman-Owned Businesses in Transportation, the Influential Woman in Trucking, the Distinguished Woman in Logistics, the Driver of the Year, and Top Companies for Women to Work in
Without the support of members (corporate and individual) and Partners, the Women In Trucking Association could not have achieved these successes and made such progress. On behalf of the WIT community and the industry at-large, we appreciate your continued involvement and support.
While a copy of the report has been mailed to primary contacts of all Partners and Corporate members, you also can download a digital version by visiting WomenInTrucking.org and clicking “Annual Report” under the “About” tab.
As you review this comprehensive 2024 Women In Trucking Annual Report, don’t hesitate to reach out with feedback or questions.
Parlier Director of Product Planning & Strategy
Pamela Marquez Manufacturing Project Engineer
Carly Weidenbach Production Area Manager
Noelle
Tips For Successful Career Women
What does it take for women to succeed in the workplace? The answer to this question depends upon many primary factors, including your career goals, aspirations and motivations, and overall life goals and objectives.
If you are just starting out in your career, and have chosen the trucking industry to be your career focus, make sure to choose a career path within this industry that aligns with your interests and skills. If you’re unsure of what that specific career path looks like, proactively network with others in the industry to explore options.
If you are deeper down your career path, actively manage your career by continuing to take additional initiative that will lead you where you want to go and strive for continuous improvement.
Career Moves: Practical Tips and Advice
There are 8 practical tips that successful women in the trucking industry have incorporated into their careers:
Be Self-Aware and Establish Realistic Goals. Understand and identify your strengths, weaknesses, values, and career aspirations to make informed career choices.
Find Your Passion. Remember that your career can become one of the most significant ways you live your life. Your career can provide satisfaction and motivation in life, and becomes a reflection of who you are. Jodi Edwards, a professional driver for J.B. Hunt Transport, knew she had found her passion the first time she climbed into a truck and sat in it. “I could feel the excitement,” she says. “I know it sounds silly, but you get in that truck, everything is set right, and it becomes a part of you.”
continued on page 9
THE MOST ADVANCED PETERBILT EVER
The Model 579 combines aerodynamic styling with the integrated PACCAR Powertrain for maximum fuel economy and outstanding performance. The MX engine is supported by connected truck data enabling a prognostic approach to field support to improve customer uptime. Innovative technologies and advanced driver assistance systems improve driver productivity and safety, while the spacious interior surrounds the driver in unparalleled comfort. The Model 579. In a Class of its Own.
Expand Your Relevant Skill Set. Continuously acquire new skills and knowledge to stay relevant in your chosen field. Consider earning a certification or an additional degree if it’s relevant, or take a simple online course that can help you to stay on your game. This also includes developing your interpersonal skills and other “soft skills” that will help you to succeed.
Intentionally and Actively Build Your Network. Build relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals to access opportunities and gain insights. “I was so fortunate to have met a number of people who mentored me and shared their technical knowledge and life lessons with me,” says Brianna Glowinski. During the pandemic, she became a Diesel Technician with Penske Truck Leasing, and through her talent, hard work, and attention to detail she
has risen through the ranks of Maintenance Manager Trainee and currently Maintenance Supervisor.
Be Willing to Take Risks. Women who are most successful in their careers, particularly in leadership roles, oftentimes are risktakers, says Shelley Simpson, President and Chief Executive Officer of J.B. Hunt Transport. “They can learn from failure, deal with remarks (intended or unintentional) and unconscious bias,” she says, “and have the courage to fight for what they believe in and to never give up, no matter how difficult the challenge.” Being a female leader in a male-populated industry like transportation can require the strength and confidence to deal with every obstacle or setback.
8 Practical Tips from Women In the Trucking Industry
Take Initiative and Be Adaptable. “Be courageous in the times when you can go for opportunities presented,” says Sarah Ruffcorn, President of Trinity Logistics, who was named the 2024 WIT Distinguished Woman in Logistics. “Say ‘yes’ to even the toughest projects or initiatives that will push you past your comfort zone. But also acknowledge there are chapters where you need to be brave to say ‘no,’ because you can’t take it on at that time or be honest with yourself that the opportunity doesn’t fit your strengths to better the organization.” Be open to change and willing to learn new things as the industry evolves.
Create an Ongoing Feedback Loop. Actively seek constructive feedback from your leaders, your colleagues and peers to identify areas for improvement. Not only will this incorporate continuous improvement in your daily career activities and choices but it also becomes part of your personal brand that others recognize in you. A successful woman is always looking to improve and she’s not afraid to admit if she has a professional weakness she wants to work on. This also demonstrates dedication, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
Do the Right Thing and Stay Positive. Maintain a positive outlook and approach challenges with resilience. “In my 4 million miles of driving, I came away with a few things,” recalls Stephanie Klang of her career as a professional driver formerly with CFI. “Do the right thing when no one is watching. Nothing great is achieved easily or without grit. If you do not like where you are in life, improve yourself and move up. Practice and improve every day. And be positive and kind.”
Stephanie Klang
Brianna Glowinski Shelley Simpson Sarah Ruffcorn
Jodi Edwards
2025 TOP WOMEN TO
Authentic Women Living their Best Professional Lives
2025 Top Women to Watch
Women in the trucking industry are making tremendous strides in their careers while positively bringing value and impacting their organizations. Each year, Redefining the Road magazine recognizes amazing individuals through this recognition program. This year, nearly 200 women were nominated by their peers through a rigorous process that enables nominators to provide rationale for the nomination, describe accomplishments the nominee has made in her career during the past 12-18 months, and give a detailed explanation as to ways in which the nominee exemplifies WIT’s mission.
Congratulations to these 75 individuals who have been named as a 2025 “Top Woman to Watch in Transportation.”
Vanessa Angulo
Senior Director, Talent Acquisition, Sysco
Sponsored the creation of the Women in Fleet campaign, an initiative aimed at attracting more women to driver roles and helping to address industry-wide workforce gaps.
Pamela Baker, MBA Founder & CEO, Core Four Productions
Founded and launched a transportation application, the Commercial All Road Assistance and Intelligence (CARAi) mobile application, specifically dedicated to the trucking industry.
Tamsin Bencivengo Director, Employer Brand, Penske Transportation Solutions
Developed innovative employer branding strategies that highlight Penske’s unique culture, values, and career opportunities, resulting in a measurable increase in talent acquisition metrics.
Nicole Boyd Driver Safety Trainer, Air Products
Developed a driver qualification tracking system that provides terminals with full visibility into driver credentials. Streamlined U.S. safety initiatives reducing preventable accidents.
Lina Castaneda Chief Customer Officer, Tai Software
Created two new departments and implemented groundbreaking programs such as Customer Feedback Loop leading to a 20% increase in retention and a 15% rise in satisfaction scores.
Marcela Castano
Principal Applied Researcher, Bridgestone Americas
Developed and led Bridgestone Americas’ efforts to certify 9 manufacturing locations to the ISCC+ Sustainability standard to make third-party-certified sustainability claims to the marketplace.
Joanna Cooper GM, Mount Holly Truck Manufacturing Plant, Daimler Truck North America
Successfully launched the Freightliner Plus series – enhanced versions of the M2 and SD models – introducing major updates to the interior and electrical systems of these popular trucks.
Theresa Davinroy Marketing Director, Tri-National, Inc.
During Driver Appreciation Week in 2024, her team ensured all of TNi’s 13 terminals delivered gifts, served meals and celebrated drivers for their hard work all week long.
Jessica Dotson Director of Business Development, Multi Service Fuel Card
In her first year on the Women In Trucking Foundation board, she raised more than $20,000 to help women in the industry grow their skills through classroom and vocational training.
continued on page 12
continued from page 11
Janice Doyon Director of Logistics, Performance Food Group
Under her leadership, regional logistics teams are up 10.8%. She also has assisted with the placement and advancement of three local logistics team members within the Northeast region.
Abbie Dunaway BI Services Manager, McLeod Software
Joined the McLeod BI Team and made an immediate impact, quickly establishing herself as the visionary for business intelligence. As the company evolved and expanded, she played a key role in shaping its BI strategy and direction.
Amanda Ellis Lead, Dealer Operations –Digital Solutions, Bridgestone Americas
Played a pivotal role in collaborating with a global team of design and production experts to develop a new service event management platform for Bridgestone’s partners and customers.
Ashley Ellison VP, Dedicated Operations, U.S. Xpress
Successfully oversees a fleet of more than 2,000 trucks and drivers along with several hundred team members across multiple accounts.
Sarah Falcon
Site Supervisor, Air Products
Led a productivity initiative to reduce distribution costs by recruiting and onboarding the terminal’s first and only outpost driver in Theodore, AL, optimizing efficiency and logistics.
Kathie Falcone
National Sales Director of Fleet Services, PACCAR Parts
Under her leadership, the fleet services team charted record revenues in 2024, up several percentage points year-over-year in a relatively flat industry.
Kimberly Fisk COO, Triumph
Critical in developing and guiding two new products at Triumph this past year –LoadPay and Instant Decision – two gamechanging technologies that will shake up the factoring industry.
CONGRATULATIONS
Angie Freeman
Chief Human Resources Officer, C.H. Robinson
CONGRATULATES
Co-founded Leadership Networking Circle, an annual cohort of leaders across the globe which invites participants into an intensive experience harnessed in education, upskilling, leadership principals and growth.
CORPORATE DIRECTOR OF LOGISTICS
Performance Food Group is proud to congratulate Janice for being named a “2025 Top Woman to Watch in Transportation” by WIT’s Redefining the Road.
Karen Fuller Executive Director of Maintenance, R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc.
Improved fleet maintenance operations across multiple terminals by analyzing financial data, optimizing resource allocation, and introducing new technologies and procedures.
Lori Furnell President , Truck Drivers USA
Built a thriving online community with more than one million followers, including countless CDL holders, reaching up to 50 million people in a single month.
Kameel Gaines CEO, Rig On Wheels
Launched the Rig on Wheels Show, a widely followed podcast and live-streaming platform addressing pressing industry issues such as recruitment, retention, diversity, and technology in trucking.
Lara Gardner VP – Intermodal Operations, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
Produced and implemented a driver and tractor routing optimization strategy in 2024, saving the company $3 million in operational costs.
Sara Graf VP, Sustainability, Culture & Communications, Estes Express Lines
Transformed employee engagement through initiatives such as an employee communication mobile app, a new careers website, and programs like Estes Extra Mile for employee recognition.
Laura Granados Controller, May Trucking Company
Oversees two 100% femaleled departments, cultivating a supportive environment where women feel empowered and equipped to excel in their roles.
Kat
Guerrero Corporate Procurement Manager, Rihm Family Companies
Published a series of children’s books on the trucking industry this past year, promoting trucking as
Candy June Hackworth Manufacturing Operations Manager, International Motors
Played a pivotal role in launching the first Women in Navistar (WIN) chapter at the Tulsa Bus Plant and consistently creates
Drive for Bob’s
continued from page 13
Heather Hines Director of Product Management, Arrive Logistics
Has been integral in the planning, development and launch of products that have created efficiencies for Arrive’s Business Development and Carrier Account teams.
Betsy Hone Sr. Manager – Talent Acquisition, Old Dominion Freight Line
As the leader of a team of eight, takes great pride in guiding an all-female recruiting team, ensuring that her team embodies her values of inclusivity and fairness.
Tracy Hughes VP, Compliance, Benefits & Spend Management, Estes Express Lines
Under her stewardship, Estes has achieved measurable success in improving employee well-being, reducing risk exposure, and driving cost-efficient benefits solutions that resonate with the organization’s core values.
Carrie Johnstone VP, Customer Experience & Innovation, Estes Express Lines
Led the launch of Estes’ industry-leading Pickup Visibility tool, revolutionizing how shippers, consignees, and third parties manage freight by delivering real-time information.
Katie Justman Director of Operations, Schneider Dedicated and passionate about fostering growth for women across the network to drive positive change while upholding Schneider’s core values along the way –excellence, integrity, safety and respect.
Kristine Kennedy Owner, President & CEO, Highway Heavy Hauling
Had the courage to start her very own trucking company in 2013 which has grown to 40 employees and more than 300 pieces of equipment.
CONGRATULATIONS
Recently named a “2025 Top Woman to Watch in Transportation” by WIT’s Redefining the Road.
Anita Kim Director, Government Affairs & Policy, Torc Robotics
Demonstrates a strong commitment to industry collaboration through active involvement in organizations such as the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association and Partners for Automated Vehicle Education.
Jennifer King Field Sales Manager, Penske Truck Leasing
Played a key role in a recent acquisition, ensuring that the new sales representatives seamlessly integrated into the company by becoming well-acquainted with products and processes.
Judith Knudsen
CEO & Owner, eTruck Transportation, LLC
Unique approach to creating an electric Class 8 semi and Class 6 box truck will bring a unique EV truck to market as she uses existing trucks as her starting point.
Becky Kraemer Director, Cargo Claims, Saia LTL Freight
Staffed her department after industry consolidation increased the workload by 20% overnight which entailed using current resources for training new employees.
Jackie Lawrence Senior Director – People Relations, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
Served as a catalyst team member in J.B. Hunt’s company-wide Elevation initiative, a platform where all employees can submit their ideas for how to make the company better.
Trisha Leckow VP of Product Technology, Echo Global Logistics
Has worked on nearly every product line business area of the company, from Truckload shipping to LTL to Salesforce and EchoShip, Echo’s webbased and mobile portal for shippers.
Kelly Lee
Operating Center Manager, May Trucking Company
Played a pivotal role in workforce development recruiting and onboarding highly qualified women into key roles while fostering a more inclusive workforce.
Elizabeth Lopez
CFO Dealer Operations, Sun State International Trucks LLC
Inspiring progression from an entry-level position to the C-suite exemplifies her ability to overcome challenges and excel in a traditionally male-dominated field.
continued on page 16
Celebrating a Leader Who Drives Change!
Congratulations to Lori Furnell, President of Truck Drivers U.S.A, on being named one of Women in Trucking’s 2025 Top Women to Watch in Transportation!
With 35 years of experience, Lori’s passion for the trucking industry shines through in everything she does. From building connections to championing the stories of America’s drivers, she leads with heart, vision, and dedication.
Lori, your impact reaches far beyond the road—you inspire the entire trucking community. We’re proud to celebrate this wellearned recognition!
truckdriversus.com
continued from page 15
Jenny Lovering General Transportation Manager, Walmart
Her strong relationships across Walmart’s supply chain and the stores she services have strengthened her market, creating benefits for both the company’s customers and the local communities.
Brenda Mejia Head of Operations, Gatik
She played a pivotal role in Gatik’s strategic partnership with ITOCHU, a collaboration aimed at transforming the future of B2B short-haul logistics.
Erin Mitchell COO, YMX Logistics
Implements additional paths for driver training, a standard wage and skill progression, and benefits programs that will help level the playing field and attract women and minority drivers.
Laura Muir Chief Human Resources Officer, Polaris Transportation Group Serves as treasurer on the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada Board, bringing a new sense of urgency and direction that has been lacking since the federation’s inception.
Annette Munger Garrison Engagement Manager, R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc.
Developed and implemented WorkHound, a platform that allows drivers to provide anonymous feedback leading to tangible results, including an estimated $75,000 savings in retention costs.
Kandice Nadeau VP – Dedicated Contract Carriage Solutions, Penske Logistics
Implementation of LEAN initiatives and other efficiency measures have eliminated 6500+ hours of labor annually and accommodated 50% volume growth with only 13% growth in staff for the product team.
continued on page 18
CONGRATULATIONS
LAURA MUIR
WINNER OF TOP WOMEN TO WATCH IN TRANSPORTATION
As Polaris CHRO, Laura’s exceptional HR strategies have helped us create a welcoming, inclusive space for women in transportation to achieve their career goals. Thank you, Laura for your inspiring dedication!
continued from page 16
Zeliha Ozgul-Memishi
Lead Project Manager, International Motors
Served as planning committee lead for R&D’s first Robotics Competition, which encompassed 21 teams of over 200 engineers spread across five disparate locations.
Kait Parker
VP, Operations, RXO
Executive chair of the Black and African American Leadership & Development ERG, an executive in the Women’s Alliance resource group, and a mentor for young talent across the organization.
Angelic Perez
Operations Division Manager, UPS
Serves as a sponsor for Women in Transportation, a business resource group with more than 150 members that supports women in all aspects of transportation, including hub, feeder and air.
Olivia Raymond
Sr. Director, Engineering & PMO, XPO, Inc.
Leadership has been instrumental in delivering key customer-focused initiatives that improved service quality, set company records and elevated the customer experience.
Stacy Reinsel
VP of Sales – Southwest, Paschall Truck Lines
Spearheaded the strategic expansion of key accounts, resulting in revenue growth and relationship building, through the ability to identify and nurture high-value accounts.
Lauren Reynolds
VP of South & Mid-Atlantic District, Clean Harbors
Manages 250+ employees across 22 branch locations while demonstrating remarkable leadership abilities, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in her field.
continued on page 20
CPC LOGISTICS CELEBRATES OUR WOMEN
Nicole Boyd
Sarah Falcon Oshawna White
continued from page 18
Laura Ricart-Ugaz Sr. Chief Engineer, International Motors
Played a pivotal role in optimizing for the North American market the S13 integrated powertrain, the most advanced and streamlined powertrain International has ever produced.
Shannon Rigg VP Operations North West & TES, Trimac
Led Trimac’s most significant changes including managing the integration of new acquisitions and overseeing a major reorganization within the company to standardize processes.
Astin Robertson
Sr. Director, Enterprise Talent Acquisition, Covenant Logistics Group
Chaired and created the first ever Women of Covenant Conference – a weeklong internal conference that highlighted the importance of women in the workplace and having work life harmony.
Krisnhalyn Rosales Transportation Division Manager, UPS
Founded “Warming Hearts,” a philanthropic initiative that provides clothing for the Nashville Rescue Mission, supplies for local hospitals, and gifts for local nursing homes during the holidays.
Maggie Seaman National Account Manager, Penske
Actively works to bring her company together by starting initiatives such as the PENSKE PINK OUT which has grown to become a staple movement during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Jennifer Seiwell Director of Sales, Saia LTL Freight
Has been instrumental to the success of the sales team, has exceeded desired expectations of her leaders and has been a pilar for change within the organization.
Jamie Sheffield Director, Strategic Business Development , XPO, Inc.
Since transitioning to Director, Strategic Business Development, has contributed to developing and implementing new product offerings, generating $49 million in revenue during their first year.
Simone Souza Executive Director, Procurement, Bridgestone Americas
Recently promoted to Executive Director level, again crashing the glass ceiling to become responsible for all strategic sourcing for raw materials in the U.S. and Latin America.
Casey Spadafina Technician Program Manager of North America, Peterbilt Motors Company
Facilitated Peterbilt’s successful partnerships with organizations that assist transitioning military talent with leveraging transferable skills into service technician careers within the Peterbilt dealer network.
Shannon Struzik VP of People & Development, Leonard’s Express Founding member of the Leonard’s Express Women in Trucking Committee and created the annual Patricia Johnson Award to honor the co-founder of Leonard’s Express.
Melissa Suedbeck
VP of Operations, TA Dedicated Advises the U of M Mankato’s Women in Leadership program and actively nominates women to participate, supporting their growth and development.
Cheryl Sunshine Director Operations, Ryder System, Inc.
An advocate and volunteer coordinator for Free the Food Coalition, a non-profit organization focused on feeding the homeless that was founded by one of the Redding, CA technicians.
Stephanie Teasley Director II – DCS Operations, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
Sits on the board of the GROW (Growing and Retaining Outstanding Women) employee resource group and has helped GROW increase awareness and engagement with other field operations employees.
Nichole Tennyson Chief Legal Officer, Daimler Truck North America
Leads dispersed team across North America, overseeing all legal and compliance matters, corporate audit, and external affairs while advising the senior leadership team on risk and governance.
Sheena Thieschafer Director, Strategic Sales, C.H. Robinson
Played a critical role in defining the strategy, developing the team and successfully acquiring and onboarding enterprise clients in the healthcare space.
Angela Tillery Managing Director Learning Design & Delivery, FedEx
Contributed to defining and delivering an approved certification process for leaders and drivers engaged in helping FedEx deploy a more scalable and cost-effective international network.
Karen Tsang
CP Process Excellence & Innovation, Trimac
Led the successful implementation of the Process Discipline Index setting clear targets and supporting teams across Trimac to not only meet but exceed their objectives.
Stephanie Tsao Head of Legal, Plus
Her expertise and guidance played a crucial role in negotiating and structuring complex agreements that solidified Plus’ position as a leader in the autonomous driving industry.
Karla Viglasky CIO , The Evans Network of Companies
Implemented comprehensive data warehouse that pulls together 12+ data sets to provide business, agents, drivers, and customers with better visibility across the ecosystem of transportation.
Easte Wheeler Manager of Line Haul Operations, Old Dominion Freight Lines
A panelist at the April 2024 MTSU Supply Chain Summit where she participated as the youngest female on the panel sharing her insights and experiences as a woman in transportation.
Oshawna White Site Supervisor, Air Products
Organized safety session with her driver team, pulling regional leadership and EHS together to focus on personal safety, driver safety and safety culture resulting in a measurable improvement at her site.
Lynne Wilson CFO, PLM Fleet
Leads multi-year project to transition company’s ERP system which will increase productivity, reduce costs, improve collaboration, and enhance the customer experience through advanced technology.
Erin Young COO,
Conversion Interactive Agency Executive board member and treasurer of the Next Generation in Trucking Foundation helping shape the foundation’s direction and demonstrating her business acumen by overseeing critical financial strategies.
Joy Young Senior Project Manager, Torque by Ryder
As Chair of the ASQ Raleigh Section, with 1,000+ members, she has influenced and mentored countless professionals, further solidifying her commitment to advancing quality practices in transportation.
CONGRATULATIONS!
At OD, we believe our people are the secret to our success—and Betsy and Easte are living proof of that! We’re thrilled to announce that these two extraordinary women have been named Top Women to Watch in Transportation! Betsy is revolutionizing our talent acquisition and recruiting efforts, introducing cutting-edge technology, and building a strong team of female recruiters. Easte is climbing the ranks of management with grace, forging meaningful connections and inspiring everyone along the way. Join us in congratulating Betsy and Easte on this well-deserved recognition. Their dedication and leadership continue to shape the future of OD.
To learn more about open positions at
Betsy Hone Sr. Manager, Talent Acquisition
Easte Wheeler Service Center Manager - Line Haul
Boost your brand while supporting women in your workforce! The Women In Trucking Online Store offers premium co-branded apparel and gear, allowing your company to showcase its commitment to inclusion and empowerment. From custom apparel to branded accessories, we make it easy to align your brand with a movement that’s driving change. Interested? Contact Cassidy Mullins at cassidy@womenintrucking.org or 952-442-8850 x215. Check out the
Celebrating top women to watCh in 2025
Candy June Hackworth
Manufacturing Ops Manager, Tulsa Bus Plant
Candy continues to build strong record of empowering women at International.
As the manufacturing operations manager at International’s Tulsa Bus Plant, Candy June Hackworth supports more than 1,500 plant employees, leads engagement activities, manages community outreach events, and coordinates employee philanthropy.
Candy is an excellent facilitator who ensures cross-functional teams collaborate effectively and maintain open communication that is critical to the plant’s success. She has continued to build on the strong record of accomplishments she has maintained throughout her 24-year career with International and the Tulsa Bus Plant. Candy exemplifies WIT’s mission in everything she does and is constantly on the lookout for new opportunities to empower women at the plant.
Laura Ricart-Ugaz Sr. Chief Engineer
Laura Ricart-Ugaz remains dedicated to excellence and inspiring those around her.
Laura Ricart-Ugaz has dedicated her 25-plus year career with International to making commercial vehicles that deliver on customers’ needs.
She has held several positions of increasing responsibility, focusing on the strategy, design, development and calibration of engines and engine systems to the full vehicle in her current position as senior chief engineer of Vehicle Performance Integration. Laura mentors young women professionals at International and within the broader community. She also supports activities that encourage the employment of women in transportation and recently contributed to a career development book for women in the commercial vehicle industry published by SAE International.
Zeliha Ozgul-Memish Lead Project Manager
Zeliha Ozgul-Memish works collaboratively to navigate challenges and achieve results.
Zeliha Ozgul-Memish, lead project manager at International, is known for always finding an innovative solution to every challenge she faces and inspiring others to pursue a unified goal.
Zeliha drove the implementation of a new training strategy for International’s R&D team, which includes a growing number of women. Her work as planning committee lead for R&D’s first Robotics Competition included efforts to recruit female engineers and to increase their participation across the company. Zeliha was also the lead organizer for the inaugural Operations Women’s Conference, a two-day event for women across International to network and attend informative panel discussions.
our Commitment
Future generations will look back and see that we did everything possible to create a better place in which they can thrive. Our vision is to accelerate the impact of sustainable mobility. This is our guiding principle and informs all current and future decisions.
At International®, we’re committed to the road ahead and to working closely with our partners, dealers and customers to close the gap between today and the cleaner, safer world we all deserve.
Free Up Your Time: How To Prioritize the Right Tasks for AI
Business professionals in trucking are stretched for time, overloaded with tasks, and low on staff resources and budgets. Whether you’re in operations, HR/talent management, sales and marketing, or leadership, it’s likely you are constantly juggling tasks, ranging from emails, scheduling, reports, and everything in between.
“The challenge is knowing which tasks to automate, optimize, or delegate while keeping control of work that requires human expertise,” says Julie Holmes, a tech and innovation expert who was the closing keynote at the 2024 Accelerate! Conference last November in Dallas.
“I do this exercise all the time,” says Holmes. “At this point, I can’t even look at a task without automatically assessing whether AI can take some (or all) of it off my plate. Being AI-empowered means AI isn’t an afterthought—it’s a core part of my workflow. If AI can get me 60% of the way there, I’m not spending my time reinventing the wheel.”
That’s where Holmes says the “Do Lists Framework” comes into play. It helps you categorize tasks into three lists which ultimately will help to free up your time for the work that actually needs you:
1. To Do (routine busy work)
2. Should do (growth activities)
3. Could Do (bigger impact tasks).
Once you’ve built your lists, the next step is to tag each task with A, B, or C to determine how AI can help:
A = AI-Ready. AI can handle more than 80% of these tasks with little loss in quality, or possibly even better than manual effort
B = Begin with AI. AI can help, but requires some human refinement and oversight
C = Cannot be done by AI. These tasks require human judgment, strategy, or interaction, though AI may be able to support related steps.
This structured approach ensures that AI is used where it makes the most sense, without losing control of essential work.
Step 1: Create Your DO Lists
First, Holmes recommends that you map out your tasks under these three categories: TO DO (Routine Tasks AI Can Assist With).
These can involve writing emails (or at least getting started with a correspondence, data entry, writing reports, drafting documents, and writing job descriptions).
“I used to spend hours on these tasks before realizing AI could do most of the heavy lifting,” says Holmes. “Now, I let AI get me 80% of the way there and I just refine what’s needed.”
SHOULD DO (Tasks That AI Can Speed Up).
These can include such tasks as developing social media posts, training staff and documenting processes, personalized client messages, getting testimonials, doing competitive research, and developing win/ loss reports.
“For example, AI helps me draft LinkedIn posts, create variations for different audiences, and even suggest relevant hashtags,” states Holmes. “What used to be a time-consuming process now happens in minutes.”
COULD DO (Higher-Impact Tasks AI Can Help With). These could involve projects that range from developing customer case studies and analyzing data for insights to revamping processes, and summarizing and reviewing saved articles.
“I used to hoard articles, swearing I’d read them later,” says Holmes. “Now, I have AI summarize them for me, so I can digest key points in minutes rather than letting them sit in my reading list forever.”
Step 2: Apply the A, B, C System
Next, once your lists are ready go through them and tag each task. Holmes suggests you use this system to determine how “AI-ready” the tasks are:
A: AI-Ready. These are tasks AI can handle with minimal oversight. Examples of these include drafting multiple email variations, generating structured reports, or summarizing meetings.
B: Begin with AI. With these tasks, artificial intelligence can assist but human review likely
is needed. Examples of these include report writing, developing strategy analysis, or conducting competitor research.
C: Not AI-Ready. These tasks require human expertise, such as performance reviews, direct client calls, or creative strategy development, and they likely won’t have a significant amount of value in using AI. However, AI may still be able to assist with preparation, followup, and documentation.
When you’re assessing how “AI-friendly” your tasks are, Holmes suggests that you should consider tasks that occur regularly. AI thrives on repetition, meaning a reusable prompt can shift a task from “B” to “A” over time.
Step 3: The 20-60-20 Rule for AI Implementation
“AI is not an all-or-nothing tool,” Holmes points out. “The 20-60-20 rule provides a framework for integrating AI effectively.”
What is the 20-60-20 rule? It means 20% of it is human strategy (define the goal, choose the right tools, and provide clear instructions). Then 60% of it is AI Execution (you can let AI generate drafts, analyze data, and complete routine work). Finally, 20% is human oversight (review, refine, and ensure final quality).
For example, instead of writing client proposals manually Holmes uses AI to draft them based on past data (60%), and then she
refines them for final delivery (20%). “This approach saves time without sacrificing quality,” she says.
Step 4: Build Your AI-DO List
If a task is consistently handled by AI, it may be time to fully automate it, suggests Holmes. Tools like Fathom.video record, transcribe, and summarize meetings automatically, eliminating the need for manual note-taking. “I don’t waste time capturing and sending meeting notes anymore,” she says. “AI does it faster and better than I ever could. That’s one less thing on my list of things to do.”
Beyond simple automation, Agentic AI can handle multi-step workflows. As AI systems evolve, consider how AI agents could streamline entire processes, such as lead nurturing or real-time market analysis.
The result? More time for what AI can’t do: building relationships with clients, coaching teams, and ultimately making strategic decisions.
Next Steps: Take Action Now
AI is here to support—not replace—your expertise. The goal is to shift from “what AI can do” to “what AI can do for you.”
Your next step? Build your DO Lists, tag tasks with A, B, or C, and pick one AI-DO task to automate today. FEATURE:
Julie Holmes is a tech and innovation expert who has been advising WIT members on AI practices since speaking at the 2024 Accelerate! Conference in November.
PRIVATE FLEETS POISED FOR MORE GROWTH
Operating private fleets is a significant initiative by many companies in their operations and supply chains. A significant number of employees who help these fleets moving are women who bring talent in various roles every day, ranging from executive management to operations, safety, diesel mechanics and professional drivers.
In fact, a majority of the top 20 private fleets in North America are current or recent members of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT), including Walmart, PepsiCo, Sysco Corp., Performance Food Group, U.S. Foods, McLane Co., Tyson Foods, Amazon, Clean Harbors, Gordon Food Service, Dollar General, Dot Foods, and Coca-Cola Bottling.
According to Tom Moore, CTP, Executive Vice President of the National Private Truck Council (NPTC), there are several reasons why companies operate private fleets.
“Top reasons include improved customer service, control of transportation costs, and enhanced control over their supply chains,” he says. “Maintaining your own fleet gives you the power to manage all aspects of your transportation operations, from scheduling and route planning to driver selection. Owning your fleet puts you in a position to adapt to changing market demands, customer needs, and the unexpected.”
Moore cites other reasons that include: hedging against outside carrier capacity; specializing in products and/or equipment;
mitigating liability, safety and risks; providing branding and marketing opportunities; and generating profits.
“Another advantage private fleets have is lower turnover,” he says. “Private fleets report a turnover of around 20% compared to a large for-hire fleet, which can run 85% to 100%.” Add to these statistics that women in particular prove to be very loyal, longstanding employees if the position they’re in brings them satisfaction, the corporate culture is female-friendly, and compensation and benefits packages are competitive, according to some of the criteria involved in the Top Companies for Women To Work in Transportation recognition program by Redefining the Road, the official magazine of WIT.
More Companies Are Going Private
The volume of domestic tonnage has been significant in recent years and is growing significantly, says Moore: “To put it into perspective, overall trucks haul 72.4% of domestic tonnage and account for 80% of transportation revenue. Private fleets represent 46% of truck tonnage and 49% of revenue.”
The growth of private fleets is significant in
We’re now seeing companies with longstanding commitment to their private fleets adding drivers and equipment.”
He says that according to NPTC’s most recent Benchmarking Survey Report, which involved 122 private fleet respondents with data collected during the first part of 2024, the industry saw a 7.5% year-overyear increase in shipments handled by private fleets. Volumes and freight value also increased 8.6% and 7.2%, respectively. Private fleet growth is expected to continue, with 72% of respondents planning to increase drivers, equipment or shippers in the next five years.
Currently, of the more than 2 million registered carriers at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 47% are private carriers.
There Are Benefits, But Also Challenges
The top four challenges for private fleets are driver-related issues, safety (accidents and injuries) and internal staffing, and costs, according to the report. Other challenges include volatile fuel costs, difficulties in backhauling, customer service, and managing capacity.
As with for-hire carriers, private fleet owners
continued on page 30
Tom Moore
continued from page 29
While safety on the road is one of the highest priorities for any trucking operation, interestingly private fleets in the United States have had a lower record accident rate since 2011, which is three times better than the trucking industry overall. In 2023, private fleets reported 0.47 recordable accidents per million miles. Safety factors that impact accident rates in private fleet operations include driver behavior, technology such as telematics and GPS tracking, and being consistent with safety rules.
The Path Forward for Private Fleet Success
There sometimes can be a misunderstanding of how a private fleet works in contrast with a contract carrier or for-hire carrier partner. Typically a private fleet is a significant, longterm commitment with fixed costs. With a for-hire or 3PL relationship, the beneficial owner of freight (shipper) only engages for what is required, when it’s needed. For many shippers that have some component of their supply chains reliant on a private fleet operation, it’s an ongoing assessment with many complicated factors. These can include changes in their business model, shifts in market demand, and “fixed cost” factors such as equipment purchases, setting up and staffing a fleet management team, dedicated technology resources, operating costs, fleet maintenance, insurance, regulatory costs and compliance, and more.
Large enterprises in particular often use a mix of private fleet, common carriage and dedicated fleet capacity for their supply chain operations. According to industry observers, this likely won’t change any time soon. But if recent trends continue, the use of private fleets will continue to increase as they support complex supply chains.
Databook: Important Benchmark Data Stats
To the right are some key benchmark data points for the NPTC’s Benchmark Survey Report which may be of high interest to supply chain executives with food manufacturers, retailers and distributors.
“Finding Her Why” in Trucking
Tracy Rushing of R.E. Garrison Trucking Shares HERstory
Tracy Rushing remembers the moment she was notified that she was selected as the 2024 Influential Woman of the Year by the Women In Trucking Association (WIT): “This recognition felt like an incredible moment of validation in a career that has been built on passion, perseverance, and the deep belief that trucking is not just my job—it’s my mission field.”
Redefining the Road magazine was able to spend some time with Rushing as she prepared to share HERstory on the main stage at the Accelerate! Conference & Expo last November in Dallas. Here are some of her experiences, perspectives, and advice she shared.
Redefining the Road: How did your career begin in the trucking industry?
Rushing: My trucking story started nearly 30 years ago with a job that didn’t seem all that special at the time. It definitely did not feel like the beginning of a career. At that time, women in this industry were often confined to roles like secretaries, assistants, and bookkeepers—in my case, a scale house operator and payroll assistant. My first fleet was a rendering fleet out of Forest, Miss., the U.S. poultry capital at the time. Little did I know that it wasn’t just a job, the drivers counted on me to get them off the scale and onto the road. I felt a sense of purpose. I spent the next several years working in every role between the scale house and human resources office. I continued to take courses and earn industry specific certifications in FMCSA and DOT compliance, safety, HR, accident investigation and even employment law. At that time, HR, recruiting, and fleet safety were one role in our company. So when the company was purchased, I had the experience and certifications to move into the safety & HR manager role for a sister company. More opportunities for me to learn.
Redefining the Road: What is your current role and responsibilities at R.E. Garrison Trucking?
Rushing: I’m Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting at R.E. Garrison Trucking, an Alabama-based refrigerated fleet with more than 800 tractors. I am responsible for ensuring that our drivers are supported, safe, and set up for success every time they hit the road. I oversee the Operational Safety Support Team, driver and non-driver recruiters, the Orientation and Onboarding Team, our Driver Development programs, and our signature R.E. Garrison Crown Driver Program. This program, which is one of my proudest accomplishments, inspires drivers, promotes good driving habits, and enhances driver profitability. We launched the continued on page 32
FEATURE: Tracy Rushing - HERstory
continued from page 31
program in 2022, and today we have more than 150 Crown Drivers who have earned increased pay, awards, and recognition for their commitment to service excellence, roadway safety, and pride of ownership. The driver support teams assigned to these Crown Drivers also are recognized each year with a “Shell Award,” which recognizes seven critical characteristics of a Crown Driver. Terry The Truckin’ Turtle is our safety mascot, which creates fun around some very serious driver safety issues.
Redefining the Road: The trucking industry is filled with interesting and memorable personalities. Is there any one individual who stands out in your experience?
Rushing: I was working as the Safety & HR manager for a local refrigerated fleet when it was time for my sons to get their first jobs –and they found them at the company where I worked. They started after school and football practice in the oil change pit, learning how to change oil, push a shop broom, run a weed eater, and count inventory.
Through those afterschool hours and summers they gained what I’ll call a “trucking grandparent.” Ms. Willie was a 75-year-old veteran over-the-road driver. Although she was teaching them about trucking, they really were learning about life. She taught lessons about how to “run on time,” the importance of keeping your word, and how to be mindful of how your actions affect others. Ms. Willie was the toughest trucker in the fleet. She did things the right way and she expected everyone around her to do things the right way as well. She took me on my first “chicken run” and what I learned on that trip and every one after is that women in trucking have the same equipment, the same lanes, the same picks and drops, and the same opportunity - but with a different set of challenges and obstacles to consider. She taught me that when I want something different, I have to
do something different.
Redefining the Road: Did you have any other individual or mentor who had a significant influence on your career?
Rushing: Working alongside drivers has shaped my work ethic and taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and teamwork. I earned the title of “trucker”—a badge earned thanks to the unwavering commitment to not getting “out worked” or “out toughed.” My mentor, Marti Wall, taught me the importance of this commitment to one’s career. She would say: “My favorite thing about trucking is it ain’t rocket science. If you’re willing to work hard you can be wildly successful.”
Marti was one of the strongest women I have ever had the privilege of knowing. She earned her position with hard work and a “no quit” spirit. She was intentional, she knew her “why,” and relied on it to drive every decision she made. She instilled in her staff that determining your “why” is vital to your career and your mission to move America. She used her position and her
Willie Lee PipkinsBrooks
influence to create opportunities for the rest of us (“her girls,” as she called us) to be successful at whatever that looked like for each of us.
Redefining the Road: Do you think it’s important to be involved in the industry if you take your career seriously?
Rushing: Yes! Outside of my role at R.E. Garrison, I’m deeply involved in the broader trucking industry. I am active or serve on several committees, including the Safety & Maintenance Management Council of the Alabama Trucking Association; the Risk Management Advisory Committee of the ATA Comp Fund; and the Women in Trucking Membership Committee. In 2023, I was proud to be honored as the Alabama Safety Director of the Year RunnerUp and to have earned my NATMI Certified Director of Safety certification and designation as a NATMI Instructor. Service to the industry and serving as a mentor are a heavy time-lift for each of us, but time is our currency and those investments are always a good spend.
Redefining the Road: What motivates you in your career?
Rushing: My motivation comes from my faith, my family, and my trucking community. Early on when I was challenged to identify my “why,” I realized that my why had been born from hearing a story about a driver receiving Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior at our terminal in Mississippi and was telling a fellow driver about Jesus out on the road in California by the end of the week. From that story trucking became a mission field for me. For me it is the fastest way to share the gospel. Jesus is my “why.”
www.fedex.com/en-us/home.html
Playing with small trucks grows big dreams. Women in trucking are driving the aspirations of little girls who love trucking. Our office is on a factory floor, a test shop, a corporate headquarters, or the driver’s seat. We are moving and building a better world by delivering safe, sustainable and quality trucks. These Women in trucking are helping us move and build a better world, paving a legacy for generations of women to move the world we want to live in, and ensuring all roads are open to everyone.
Photo Contest: Visually Capture the Female Spirit of Your Organization
Ten years ago, the Women In Trucking Association (WIT) created the I Heart Trucking® Photo Contest to highlight the amazing and authentic women in the industry—whether they’re working behind the wheel, doing maintenance on a truck, dispatching the load, making the sale, or sitting in an office in the C-suite.
This annual photo contest is a fun opportunity to spotlight the industry’s amazing women, their passion for their careers, and to celebrate the vast talent of women in trucking,” according to WIT President and CEO Jennifer Hedrick, CAE.
There is not a specific theme for this year’s contest, so you have flexibility to get creative in your photo submission approach to show off the impressive women in your organization. Photo entries must feature a truck and incorporate the I Heart Trucking® theme which encapsulates why women in your workforce love being employed in the trucking industry or how your company celebrates women in your workforce. Be sure to get creative. Capture a solo shot or show off your corporate culture. Ensure your entry is good quality - try to minimize blurriness or adding too much filter.
You can include individual women or groups of individuals using custom signs, balloons and other props. This year, WIT also is offering a new and exclusive I Heart Trucking® T-shirt which can be purchased through the Online WIT Store if you’d like to have your subjects wearing this T-shirt for additional impact. The only requirement is that photo submissions must incorporate a truck and the I Heart Trucking® theme.
How It Works
• Submit your photo by June 30 to include the following information: Submitter’s contact information, company, photo title and description, and print-quality photo file (Note: only one photo entry per contestant and there is no cost to participate in the contest).
• After all submissions are received, industry-wide voting will determine the People’s Choice winners, and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will be awarded to the entries who receive the most votes (only one vote per person.)
Additionally, a panel of judges will determine the Judges’ Choice winners, which also includes 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Criteria for the judging panel consists of originality, use of I Heart Trucking® theme, and composition of photo.
• Winners will be highlighted in Redefining the Road magazine, via social media, and during a special reception at the annual Accelerate! Conference & Expo in November.
• For more details and to submit your entry, visit WomenInTrucking.org, Click “Community” then “I Heart Trucking Photo Contest.”
2025 Sponsor:
Winner of 2024 I Heart Trucking® Photo Contest: “Driving Into the Future,” by Volvo Group North America
WIT Connections: Elevating Mentorship for Women in Trucking
Mentorship is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. TheWomen In Trucking Association (WIT) is taking it to the next level by enhancing its mentorship program, now called WIT Connections. This initiative is designed to foster meaningful relationships within the trucking industry, providing guidance, support, and a strong sense of community for women at all stages of their careers.
WIT Connections offers mentorship in two key formats: one-on-one relationships and group networking. Those seeking personalized guidance can be paired with an experienced mentor for tailored advice, career development strategies, and encouragement. Whether you’re a new driver, a seasoned professional, or working in logistics or leadership, a mentor can help
navigate challenges and open doors to new opportunities.
For those who thrive in a collaborative environment, our group networking sessions provide a space to engage with multiple industry professionals, share insights, and build valuable connections. These group discussions foster a supportive community where women can exchange knowledge, discuss industry trends, and empower one another.
confidence and direction in your career. Members can log into the Engage platform to sign up for WIT Connections
To make this program a success, we need mentors, mentees, and group facilitators. If you have experience and a desire to uplift others, consider becoming a mentor or group leader. If you’re seeking guidance, joining as a mentee can help you gain
Anyone interested in learning more about WIT Connections is invited to attend the next Mentor Mixer on June 5. Sign up today and be part of a movement that’s driving change through mentorship.
Visit WomenInTrucking.org/mentoring to learn more.
2024 Accelerate! Conference In Review
With 1,800 attendees, approximately 180 thought leaders, 167 exhibitors and sponsors, nearly 20 featured trucks and trailers, and more than 50 networking opportunities, the 2024 Accelerate! Conference & Expo was another epic success. The three-day event took place Nov. 10-13 in Dallas, TX. Here’s a recap in photos.
different scenarios and weather conditions.
Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, WIT’s President & CEO, addresses members of the Women In Trucking community who attended the conference.
WIT celebrates its 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking winner and finalists. Pictured here: Jennifer Hedrick of WIT, Heather Callahan of Daimler Truck North America, Kary Schaefer of Daimler and 2024-25 WIT Chair, Tracy Rushing of R.E. Garrison Trucking (winner), finalists Lisa Gonnerman of TA Dedicated and Sheri Aaberg of Transport Enterprise Leasing, Kelley Martin of Daimler, and Lana Nichols of WIT.
Powerful one-on-one networking at the expo proves to be one of the primary benefits to attending the 10th annual Accelerate! Conference.
Nearly 20 tractors and trailers are featured in the Truck & Technology Tour component of the Expo, where attendees got to see first-hand emerging and current technologies in trucking.
The WITney® Educational Trailer is one of the highlights of the Truck & Technology Tour. One woman participates in WITney’s state-of-the-art driver simulator to experience truck driving in
Members of the WIT Image Team, along with WIT’s Director of Driver Engagement Jenny Fall, are recognized at the 2024 Accelerate! Conference for the work they do speaking with the media and at industry events throughout the year.
Brian Everett, Group Publisher and Editorial Director of Redefining the Road, explains primary characteristics used by the magazine to identify companies named to the 2024 Top Companies for Women to Work in Trucking list: Corporate culture friendly to women, competitive compensation and benefits, flexible hours and work requirements, professional development and career advancement opportunities.
UPS is celebrated by some of the company’s associates for receiving the 2024 Top Company for Women to Work in Transportation award.
1,800 people attend the Accelerate! Conference and have access to 60+ educational sessions in six tracks.
Nearly 170 exhibiting and sponsoring companies participate in a comprehensive expo where attendees could learn about thousands of valuable solutions, products and services that help lead to success in the transportation industry.
Interactive roundtable discussions provide dynamic peer networking opportunities during which time attendees choose specific topics to share common concerns, solutions, and best practices.
Professionals from XPO celebrate being named as a 2024 Top Company for Women to Work in Transportation.
Women having fun on the red carpet with Marilyn Monroe at the “Hooray for Hollywood” reception. Later, 1,000+ reception attendees enjoyed the iconic music of Frank Sinatra.
WIT Board of Directors Works on Association’s Long-Term Strategic Roadmap
A strong strategic plan provides a roadmap for achieving an industry association’s vision and objectives. The active participation of a board of directors in this process is essential for ensuring a sustainable and thriving future.
With this in mind, the WIT Board of Directors, partners, and members of the WIT team met Feb. 25-26 in Dallas to assess progress on its current plan and to begin dialogue and work around developing its next long-term plan. According to WIT’s President & CEO Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, this
work is crucial to achieving the mission of WIT over the short and long-term.
The association engaged Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, of Vista Cova to lead the strategy session. Vista Cova is a firm that guides organizational leadership through processes of visioning and mission to align the strengths of an organization to the needs of members and key stakeholders –which was part of the goal of the strategy meeting.
Each year, the WIT Board, partners and key team members engage in strategic planning
initiatives, a key commitment toward WIT members and the future of the organization.
“This talented group of leaders is committed to advancing the mission of WIT while making meaningful advancements of women within the trucking industry,” concludes Hedrick. “We will share more details soon about WIT’s long-range strategy as we continue to develop it. We’re excited for the next chapter of WIT under the guidance and leadership of these professionals in the trucking industry.”
WIT announces New 2025-26 Board of Directors:
Newly elected WIT Officers on the Executive Committee are:
• Chair: Sarah Smith, Senior Vice President of Human Resources with Penske Transportation Solutions
• Vice Chair: Jennifer Plumlee, Vice President of Transportation with J.B. Hunt Transport Services
• Treasurer: Jim Taber, National Accounts Manager, Arrow Truck Sales
• Secretary: Bonnie Michael, Vice President of Transportation, UPS.
Newly elected members of the Board of Directors are: Armida Gonzalez, Assistant Plant Manager with Peterbilt Motors Co.; Kelley Martin, Director, Aftermarket Strategic Pricing, Daimler Truck North America; Melissia Reeves, Managing Director – District Operations with FedEx Freight; Sheena Thieschafer, Director, Strategic Sales– Healthcare with C.H. Robinson; and Annie Wilson, National Accounts Sales Manager with Great Dane; Jaye Young, B2B On Road Marketing Director, Michelin.
Individuals continuing their terms on the WIT board of directors are: Ingrid Brown, an owner-operator with Rollin B LLC; Domenica Farmer, Area Vice President with WM; Lesley Kerr, Vice President of Human Resources with Ryder System; Ryan McDaniel, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain with Walmart; Emily Poladian, President of Bridgestone Mobility Solutions; and Nicole Wiggins, Chief Diversity Officer with International.
From Left to Right: Jennifer Plumlee of J.B. Hunt Transport, Sarah Smith of Penske Transportation Solutions, Jim Taber of Arrow Truck Sales, Bonnie Michael of UPS, Ryan McDaniel of Walmart, Kelley Martin of Daimler Truck North America, Sheena Thieschafer of C. H. Robinson, Domenica Farmer of WM, Lesley Kerr of Ryder System, Ingrid Brown of Rollin B LLC, Nicole Wiggins of International, Melissia Reeves of FedEx Freight, and Armida Gonzalez of Peterbilt Motors.
WORKFORCE RESOURCE GUIDE
Welcome to the 2025 Workforce Resource Guide! This resource is published by Redefining the Road magazine to help HR/talent professionals, leaders, and others who are responsible for workforce management activities to find potential providers of valuable services and capabilities. Resources in this guide include recruiting and training resources, driver schools and corporations offering driver training, colleges and universities, associations, consultants, and more. All companies listed in this Buyer’s Guide are either paid advertisers or corporate members, and are not in any way officially endorsed by the Women In Trucking Association (WIT).
RECRUITING & RETENTION
Drive My Way
216-435-0945
www.drivemyway.com
Drive My Way is a next generation recruiting marketplace that puts drivers first making truck driver recruiting personal again, matching drivers with jobs they love, and helping employers recruit for retention.
Asurint asurint.com
CDLjobs.com CDLjobs.com
Drive My Way drivemyway.com
Fastport, Inc. fastport.com
JobsInTrucks.com jobsintrucks.com
Tenstreet, LLC tenstreet.com
The Kenan Advantage Group thekag.com
TransForce transforce.com
TruckDriver.com truckdriver.com
TRANSPORTATION STAFFING
DriverSource, Inc.
800-887-9095
driversource.net
Provides CDL recruitment and full-service logistics staffing to its many diverse customers nationwide.
HandledNow, LLC handlednow.com
Your go-to for reliable Class A CDL drivers, direct hire solutions, and trucking lightindustrial staffing.
CPC Logistics Inc
800-274-3746
cpclogistics.com
Delivering customized solutions to private truck fleets of industry leaders, third-party logistics businesses, for-hire carriers, and LTL carriers in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Centerline centerlinedrivers.com
Elite HR Logistics Elitehrlogistics.com
Fstaff Fstaff.com
Global Executive Solutions Group globalesg.com
Linamar Transportation linamar.com
Living Spaces livingspaces.com
The Wenger Group/Wenger Feeds wengerfeeds.com
TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOLS
160 Driving Academy 160drivingacademy.com
Above and Beyond CDL Driving Academy aboveandbeyondcdl.com
American Professional Driving Services americancdlpro.com
College of Southern Maryland csmd.edu
Del Mar College Transportation Training delmar.edu
DLTS dltscareers.com
Eastern Iowa Community Colleges eicc.edu
FleetForce Truck Driver Training DriveFleetForce.com
Fort Hays Tech/North Central ncktc.edu
Fox Valley Technical College fvtc.edu
Global Truck Academy globaltruckacademy. com
Interstate Truck Driving School interstatedriving.com
KRTS Transportation Specialists krway.com
Lake Cumberland CDL Training School lakecumberlandcdl.org
Legacy International Corp legacyschools.com
Mister P Express misterpexpress.com
OTR Drive School otrdriveschool.com
Pima Community College Center for Transportation Training pima.edu
Pinellas Technical College pcsb.org
Riverland Community College riverland.edu
Roadmaster Drivers School roadmaster.com
Southern State Community College Truck Driving Academy sscc.edu
SRS Distribution srsdistribution.com
Superior Truck Driving Academy superiortda.com
Tulsa Technology Center tulsatech.edu
Bridgestone congratulates Marcela Castaño, Simone Souza and Amanda Ellis for being named 2025 Top Women to Watch in Transportation by WIT’s Redefining The Road
Marcela Castaño, PhD Principal Applied Researcher Sustainable Materials and Circular Economy
Souza Executive Director Procurement
Simone
Amanda Ellis Lead Dealer Operations, Service Digital Solutions
COMPANIES THAT PROVIDE DRIVER TRAINING
Covenant Logistics
888-259-6206
covenantlogistics.com
Capabilities in expedited, dedicated, warehousing, and managed freight transportation executed through a blend of management systems and employees empowered by a values-based corporate culture.
Estes
866-378-3748
estes-express.com
Estes Express Lines is a leading, full-service freight transportation provider offering LTL, time critical, volume & truckload, global and custom solutions.
FedEx fedex.com
FedEx connects people and possibilities through our worldwide portfolio of shipping, transportation, e-commerce and digital supply chain services.
Landstar
877-696-4507
landstar.com
Landstar’s network of independent entrepreneurs provide customers with personalized service at the local level with the global reach and resources of a multi-billion dollar company.
Old Dominion Freight Line odfl.com
Logistics specialists partner with you to build a custom LTL freight solution to exactly match your business needs.
Penske Penske.com
Penske Corp. is a diversified, on-highway, transportation services company whose subsidiaries operate in a variety of industry segments, including retail automotive, truck leasing, transportation logistics and professional motorsports.
Ryder ryder.com
The most comprehensive, port-to-door supply chain and transportation solutions in North America customized to your needs that include proprietary technology and an experienced workforce to perfect your operation.
Saia saia.com
Saia is people-focused and safety-driven, with a history of stability that comes from over a century in the industry. When you join us, you get a team that has your back and a culture built on doing things the right way.
Schneider 800-558-6767
schneider.com
Offering one of the broadest portfolios in the industry, Schneider’s solutions include Regional and Long-Haul Truckload, Expedited, Dedicated, Bulk, Intermodal, Brokerage, Warehousing, Supply Chain Management and Port Logistics.
UPS ups.com
Operating in 200+ countries and territories, UPS is committed to moving our world forward by delivering what matters.
Walmart walmart.com
Traveling over 900 million miles a year, our private fleet of over 12,000 Class A drivers deliver countless loads of merchandise to Walmart and Sam’s Club locations across the nation while representing the values associated with our Spark.
CONSULTING
Canadian American Business Council cabc.co
Cultivate Advisors cultivateadvisors.com
Marsh McLennan Agency marshmma.com
Tenney Group thetenneygroup.com
The National Transportation Institute driverwages.com
Transport Futures transportfutures.net
Ventura Consulting Solutions, LLC venturaconsultingsolutions.com
EDUCATION
AAA School of Trucking aaacdl.com
Ancora Training ancoraeducation.com
Butler Tech butlertech.org
Driver Education Network drivereducationnetwork.com
Eastern Wyoming College ewc.wy.edu
Elite Truck School elitetruckschool.com
Jones Technical Institute jtech.org
North American Council for Freight Efficiency nacfe.org
Northwest College nwc.edu
Patterson High School — Patterson Joint Unified School District patterson.k12.ca.us
Prince George’s Community College pgcc.edu
Stargate Driving Academy stargate driving academy.com
Trainix LLC trainix.io
Transportation Center of Excellence www.minntran.org
TransTrain transtrain.com.au
U.S. Truck Driver Training School ustdts.edu
Waukesha County Technical College wctc.edu
ASSOCIATIONS
Alabama Trucking Association alabamatrucking.org
American Bakers Association americanbakers.org
American Truck Dealers (ATD) atd.org
American Truck Historical Society aths.org
ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council trucking.org/Technology_Council.aspx
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance cvsa.org
Commercial Vehicle Training Association cvta.org
Independent Carrier Safety Association safecarriers.org
Indiana Motor Truck Association www.intrucking.org
International Society of Recruiting and Retention Professionals rrsociety.com
Minnesota Trucking Association mntruck.org
Mississippi Trucking Association mstrucking.org
National Automatic Merchandising Association namanow.org
National Association of Independent Truckers naitusa.com
National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools napftds.org
National Association of Small Trucking Companies nastc.com
National Home Delivery Association nationalhomedeliveryassociation.com
National Road Carriers natroad.co.nz
National Tank Truck Carriers tanktruck.org
National Waste & Recycling Association wasterecycling.org
National Defense Transportation Association ndtahq.com
Nebraska Trucking Association nebtrucking.com
Next Generation in Trucking Association nextgentrucking.org
North Carolina Trucking Association nctrucking.com
NZ Trucking Association nztruckingassn.co.nz
Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association ooida.com
Owner-Operator’s Business Association of Canada obac.ca
Queensland Trucking Association qta.com
Retread Tire Association retreadtire.org
Rhode Island Trucking Association RITrucking.org
Road Transport Forum N.Z. rtfnz.co.nz
Southwest International Trucks southwestinternational.com
Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association www.scranet.org
Tennessee Trucking Association & Foundation tntrucking.org
Tire Retread & Repair Information Bureau retread.org
Transportation Marketing & Sales Association tmsatoday.org
TRAA-Towing and Recovery Association of America towserver.net
Transport Women Australia Ltd transportwomen.com.au
Transportation Club of Dallas/Fort Worth tcdfw.org
Trucking HR Canada truckinghr.com
Trucking Industry Defense Association tida.org
Truckload Carriers Association truckload.org
Western States Trucking Association westrk.org
Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association witruck.org
HEALTH & FITNESS
B-Lean Fitness bleanfitness.com
Healthy Trucking Association of America healthytruck.org
Novo Nordisk novonordisk-us.com
Nox Health noxhealth.com
Rolling Strong rollingstrong.com
Trucker’s Body Shop truckersbodyshop.com
MARKETING & ADVERTISING
Conversion Interactive Agency 866-235-9288 conversionia.com
Conversion is a full-service advertising agency providing innovative recruiting, retention and training strategies for the transportation industry.
Alter Marketing altermarketingservices.com
Blue Edge Marketing blueedgemarketing.com
Drop & Hook Content dropandhookcontent.com
Fusion Now FusionNow.io
Group1201 group1201.com
LaunchIt Public Relations launchitpr.com
MindShare Strategies mindshare.bz
The Vernon Company vernonpromotions.com
Truck Drivers USA truckdriversus.com
VideoRequest videorequest.io
REGULATORY/SAFETY
Dickies and Red Kap go.wwof.com/women-in-transportation
Drivewyze Inc. drivewyze.com
J. J. Keller & Associates jjkeller.com
National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association ndasa.com
SambaSafety sambasafety.com
Transportation Compliance Services USA truckSafety.com
Tyler Technologies tylertech.com
INSURANCE
Claims Shield
631-804-5981
claimsshieldinc.com
Specializes in the recovery of damage to tractors/ trailers, cargo damage, loss of use, diminished value and towing/impound fees.
ACUITY
acuity.com
Amwins amwins.com/transportation
Bill Fralic Insurance Services bfralic.com
Cadence Insurance cadenceinsurance.com
Camargo Insurance Agency camargoinsurance.com
Canal Insurance Company canalinsurance.com
D.W. Story & Associates dwstory.com
Dixon Insurance dixoninsurance.com
DMC Insurance dmcinsurance.com
Goodman-Baker Insurance Agency goodmanbakerins.com
Good’s Insurance Agency goodsinsuranceagency.com
Great West Casualty Co. gwccnet.com
HNI Risk Services hni.com
HUB International Transportation Insurance Services hubinternational.com
Hudson Insurance Group hudsoninsgroup.com
J.M. Wilson jmwilson.com
Marvin Johnson & Associates mjai.com
Motor Carrier Insurance Education Foundation mcief.org
NAL Insurance nalinsurance.com
National Interstate Insurance Co. natl.com
National Truck Protection Co. ntpwarranty.com
Network Truck Insurance Services truckerinsurance.com
Next Health Plan nexthealthplan.com
Northland Insurance Co. northlandins.com
Palomar Insurance Corp. palomarins.com
Progressive Insurance progressive.com
Progyny progyny.com
Reliance Partners reliancepartners.com
Sentinel Insurance Partners sentinelins.com
Sentry Insurance sentry.com
Treaty Oak General Agency treatyoakga.com
TrueNorth Companies truenorthcompanies.com
USI Insurance Services usi.com
Endless job opportunities
Career development resources
We make sure career progression is a focus by providing tuition assistance, mentorship opportunities and over 170 learning and development courses.
Networking and resource groups At Schneider, you’ll be able to join organizations where you can connect with others who share similar backgrounds and experiences, such as the Schneider’s Women’s Network.
Award-winning benefits
and more.
CONGRATS, KATIE
2025 TOP WOMEN TO WATCH IN TRANSPORTATION
Katie Justman, Director of Operations at Schneider, has dedicated her 26-year career to leadership, growth and mentorship, reinforcing Schneider’s commitment to safety and fostering a positive workplace culture.
As a founding member of the Schneider Women’s Network, Katie has created a supportive environment for women to thrive. She also mentors young leaders in Schneider’s Accelerated Development Program.
“ “
As women in transportation, we must build a community where we support and celebrate each other, break down barriers and set a powerful example for the next generation of leaders.
Katie’s exceptional leadership and her dedication to advancing career opportunities for women will continue to shape the future of the transportation industry.
Congratulations Jenny Lovering:
WIT’s 2025 Top Woman to Watch in Transportation
Jenny began her Walmart career as an order filler in 2005 and now currently leads Walmart’s facility in Lewiston, ME with over 180 drivers, servicing more than 130 Walmart stores across the New England market. Jenny was selected to serve on the National Board of Wreaths Across America and under her leadership, 100 Walmart Private Fleet Drivers transported over 100,000 wreaths to national cemeteries in 2024.
All of Jenny’s efforts have significantly contributed to the professional growth and development of her peers and the broader transportation community, especially women who are looking to enter, grow, or advance their transportation and supply chain careers.
There’s a road for everyone at Walmart!