Fleet Management News & Business Info | Commercial Carrier Journal
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/592176
WOMEN IN TRUCKING or MEN IN THE KITCHEN T his is an interesting but clever comparison, don't you think? What is your perception of women in trucking or for that matter, men in the kitchen? How unbelievable that we are actually discussing the matter. Who would have ever thought? But it seems to be pretty common place these days and I couldn't be happier. What I have learned over the years is it's all about passion and ability. Jarvis, a friend and our morning "spin" coach, will occasionally belt out this phrase to motivate the class "It's all about choices!" You know, some mornings that's all I need to hear. What is your passion and how will you achieve it? Imagine nding something you love to do and making a career of it. at's exactly what these women have done — and with every career, there are so many dierent aspects to pursue. Whether you want to design the trucks, own the trucks, sell the trucks, x the trucks or drive the trucks. It could also be about heading up an organization that promotes and supports the above and the concept of bringing more women into leadership roles creating an environment of diversity and encouraging unrecognized potential. e Women In Trucking (WIT) Association was founded by Ellen Voie in March of 2007. ere is no mistaking the goal here and in their short history, they have made some amazing accomplishments. In 2012 Women in Trucking Association was recognized by the White House as a "Transportation Innovator Champion of Change!" – and that's just the tip of the iceberg. ere are also Women in Logistics, Women and Logistics and many other organizations that have embraced this concept. Whatever your passion, you can nd a place, I promise. ere is something so exciting about being a ground-breaker, a pioneer or even being associated with one. You have entered a eld where you are the minority and have painstakingly taken steps to pave the way for yourself and others. It's easy to follow tradition and harder to take the path less traveled. Recently my husband, Tim, and I were in the market for new sneakers. Because we had dierent schedules, we decided to meet at a well-known sporting goods store. As we selected a pair, Tim realized that he was wearing sandals and did not have socks with him. As I produced a clean pair for myself, I also produced one for him out of my handbag. e young man who was the sales associate looked at Tim and said. "See, this is what I love about women. ey're such thinkers!" Women in trucking? You bet! Hey, it could have all started with the Barbie Camper — just saying. Passion and ability with the freedom to choose – in the words of my grandfather, what a great country! BY SUSAN COLLINS, DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY RELATIONS 14 IT MAGAZINE Vo l . 9 , N o . 6