Based in Arlington, the organization continues to recognize individuals who advance the industry through leadership, performance, and day-to-day contributions that keep freight moving.

“Part of WIT’s mission is to recognize women for their career accomplishments, their meaningful impact on the success of their companies, and their contributions to the industry at large,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, WIT president and CEO. “These 75 professionals exemplify the mission, vision, and values of the Women In Trucking Association and truly are impressive women to watch in our industry.”

How the List Is Selected

The recognition comes from the editorial team at Redefining the Road, the official magazine of WIT. Honorees are chosen based on their character and what they have accomplished over the past 12 to 18 months.

According to Brian Everett, group publisher and editorial director, the program has recognized standout professionals in trucking for nine years. Over that time, it has grown into a benchmark for identifying leaders across all corners of the business.

A Look at Where These Leaders Work

This year’s group reflects just how broad the trucking industry really is. The women recognized represent motor carriers, third-party logistics providers, equipment manufacturers, private fleets, technology companies, and professional service firms.

Their roles cover a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Corporate management
• Operations and fleet oversight
• Sales and marketing
• Human resources and driver support
• Safety and compliance
• Technology and engineering
• Professional driving and maintenance

For drivers and industry stakeholders, that range matters. It shows how many different roles come together to keep trucks moving safely and efficiently every day.

2026 Top Women to Watch in Trucking

The full list of honorees for 2026 includes:

• Ana Maria Arce, senior manager corporate sustainability & governance, Bridgestone.
• Allison Athey, vice president, vocational sales, Daimler Truck North America.
• Jessica Bareford, director, sales training & enablement, Estes Express Lines.
• Sophia Bernard, member partner, Taylor Nelson Slattery Bernard PL.
• Molly Borkgren, enterprise account executive, 3PL, XPO Inc.
• Gina Bowker, PDC manager – Renton, PACCAR Parts.
• Lesley Boyd, vice president, operations & dedicated implementation, Lew Thompson and Son Trucking.
• Shahera Brailey, engineering manager, senior, International.
• Lori Brooks, vice president, marketing & customer experience, ArcBest.
• Wanda Brooks, compliance manager, R.E. Garrison Trucking Inc.
• Maggie Burns, director – national accounts west, Old Dominion Freight Line.
• Stacia Capponi, vice president of client services, Conversion Interactive Agency.
• Kate Chauvin, senior director of client operations, Ancora Training.
• Alison Cochran, assistant chief engineer, Peterbilt Motors Company.
• Lisa Cook, district sales manager, ThermoKing.
• Eileen Dabrowski, founder & CEO, Apex Tide Consulting.
• Heike Dasilva, group director of national sales, Ryder System Inc.
• Tammy Deschler, field operations & safety specialist, YMX Logistics.
• Rachael Doyle, executive vice president, client services, Fleetworthy.
• Tamara Draeger, CEO, Cannonball Express Transportation.
• Alicia Echols, director, safety & compliance, Bennett Heavy & Specialized LLC.
• Lisa Fingard, vice president – HR, TransX Ltd.
• Shaneka Fredrick, director II, operations, J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc.
• Michelle Gentile, vice president – vehicle supply, Penske Truck Leasing.
• Amber Harbold, regional terminal manager, Quality Carriers Inc.
• Melinda Herrera, district health & safety manager SOCAL, UPS.
• Allison Hughes, contractor relations manager, Bennett Motor Express LLC.
• Natalie Jackson, senior tractor technician, J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc.
• Chelsey Johnston, director, HR, XPO Inc.
• Shanna Kearns, vice president of corporate accounting, Peach State Truck Centers.
• Tysha Kendall, driver, tractor-trailer, WM.
• Jessie Kilgore, customized solutions manager, FedEx Freight.
• Lori Kincannon, CRO, McKinney Trailers.
• Kimberly Knight, president & CEO, Kim’s Trucker Services LLC.
• Maribeth Knueve, senior vice president of sales & marketing, Marten Transport Ltd.
• Renee Krug, CEO, Transflo.
• Julie Lawson, credit & risk manager, Direct Traffic Solutions.
• Michelle LeBlanc, CEO & founder, Drop & Hook.
• Andrea Lewis Browne, supply chain manager & quality manager, Great Dane.
• Shantel Lockett, vice president, controller, Trimac Transportation.
• Keinna McKnight, senior vice president of HR, Clean Harbors.
• Rhonda McKown, group technical safety engineer, Ryder System Inc.
• Gerri McLamb, director of transportation, Performance Foodservice – Virginia.
• Donna Miller, senior vice president, Liberty Career Finance.
• Tracey Miller, director of recruiting, Tri-National Inc.
• Amy Molski, national sales manager, Echo Global Logistics.
• Maeve Mueller, IT security & governance, Bridgestone.
• Jaime Oglesby, on-site trainer (lead driver), TA Dedicated.
• Liz Ormond, senior director, parcel transportation, Walmart.
• Maegan Ortega, HR director, Kenworth Truck Company.
• Lisa Paul, executive vice president, transportation practice leader, Alliant Insurance Services Inc.
• Katy Payne, operations manager, Truck Drivers USA.
• Brigid Plamondon, key account manager, C.H. Robinson.
• Kristyn Popejoy, director of NA materials, Peterbilt Motors Company.
• Angela Prill, vice president – intermodal network management, Schneider.
• Michelle Randazzo, CFO, Daimler Truck North America.
• Becky Reynolds, transportation manager, Dot Transportation.
• Christa Rugova, senior director, business support services, PLM Fleet.
• Nicole Sapienza, managing member, Coastwide Marine Services LLC, Evans Network.
• Susan Scott, senior key account manager, Circle K Pro.
• Shelley Sheagley, senior vice president, products, Aurora Parts.
• Shayna Sweet, manager of dealer services & operations administration, Fleet Advantage.
• Samantha Thompson, vice president, customer success & fleet telematics, Penske.
• Lesley Veldstra Killingsworth, vice president of pricing & market strategy, Polaris Transportation Group.
• Rachel Wagner, senior project engineer – vehicle programs, Kodiak AI.
• Becki Wagoner, vice president of strategic innovation & technology, May Trucking Company.
• Mandy Wells, vice president, finance, Great Dane.
• Katie White, vice president, labor, employment, ethics & compliance counsel, RXO.
• Melissa Wiesheier, district manager, WM.
• Amanda Worthen, director of driver employment, Roehl Transport.
• Cassie X. Lee, director of national accounts – Kenworth, PACCAR Financial Corp.
• Tiffini Young, VP of customer service & planning, Bay & Bay Transportation.
• Jessica Yurko, director of marketing, The Evans Network of Companies.
• Holly Zandstra, CFO, Weller Truck Parts.
• Rebecca Zeman, functional lead, enterprise transformation, International.

Why This Matters for the Industry

For drivers, fleet managers, and decision makers, recognition like this highlights the people shaping how the industry operates today. From safety programs to fleet efficiency, from driver training to technology, these roles influence what happens both on the road and behind the scenes.

This year’s program is sponsored by XPO Inc., and those recognized will be featured in an upcoming edition of Redefining the Road magazine as well as online here.

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The recognition was presented by outgoing TCA Chairman Karen Smerchek during the association’s annual convention, held in Orlando from February 28 through March 3.

A Recognition Built on Industry Impact

The Chairman’s Choice Award is one of TCA’s more personal honors. Selected directly by the outgoing chairman, it recognizes individuals who have made a meaningful impact on the truckload sector through leadership, service, and ongoing support of industry initiatives.

For fleets, drivers, and stakeholders alike, awards like this highlight the people helping shape the direction of trucking behind the scenes. In Culp’s case, that influence spans both company leadership and industry-wide involvement.

Leadership That Extends Beyond the Office

Culp, who previously served as TCA chairman from 2024 to 2025, has played a consistent role in supporting the association’s programs and priorities. His involvement has helped strengthen participation and keep key initiatives moving forward, particularly through active communication and engagement at the company level.

His contributions haven’t stopped at internal efforts. Culp has also been involved in broader advocacy work, including support for TCA’s Elite Fleet program and ongoing discussions around a gallon-based user fee. That work has included multiple trips to Washington to meet directly with policymakers, reinforcing the industry’s voice on critical issues.

At the same time, he balanced additional leadership responsibilities, including a two-year term as chairman of the Arkansas Trucking Association.

Recognition Rooted in Character

For Smerchek, the decision to recognize Culp came down to more than a résumé of accomplishments.

“Narrowing this down to one person was not easy, but this year’s recipient truly embodies the spirit of TCA,” said outgoing chair Karen Smerchek.

“I met him in 2018, and I immediately saw his passion for the industry,” she continued. “What impressed me even more was his humility; someone with his knowledge and experience who never seeks the spotlight, never boasts, and is always willing to step in and help.”

She also pointed to his willingness to take on additional responsibility when needed, including stepping up during a leadership transition period.

“He also stepped up in a big way when I delayed my chairmanship for a year … and doing all of this, while serving a two-year term as the chairman of the Arkansas Trucking Association,” she concluded.

Why This Matters for the Industry

For drivers and fleets watching from the ground level, recognition like this reinforces what strong leadership looks like in trucking. It’s not just about running a successful operation. It’s about supporting the broader industry, advocating for practical policy, and contributing to programs that improve conditions across the board.

As the trucking landscape continues to evolve, leaders who stay engaged, accessible, and committed to progress play a critical role in keeping the industry moving forward.

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The announcement took place at the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo in Dallas, where industry leaders gathered to highlight the women shaping the future of transportation.

“Dee Dee’s leadership exemplifies the spirit of this award,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT. “Her dedication to professional development, inclusion, and a positive workplace culture reflects the very best of what this award celebrates. We are honored to recognize her contributions to the advancement of women in trucking.”

A Career Built on People and Purpose

Cox brings three decades of experience in human resources and workforce development, with a focus on several industries, including textiles, flooring, and transportation. At Old Dominion, she has played a major role in improving how the company recruits, trains, and retains its people—from the shop floor to the corporate office.

Through her leadership, OD’s management trainee, supervisor development, apprentice, and internship programs have opened new career paths for both men and women looking to build long-term futures in trucking. These efforts have helped raise retention rates and strengthen diversity across the company.

“I am thrilled and honored to be recognized as the recipient of this award. The real recognition goes to Old Dominion Freight Line for allowing me and the team to develop these programs. Our leaders at OD supported these opportunities, which have helped us continue to fulfill our vision of being the premier transportation provider while maintaining our unique OD Family atmosphere,” said Cox.

Supporting the Next Generation of Trucking Leaders

Cox was announced as the 2025 winner after taking part in a panel discussion titled “Becoming an Influential Woman in Trucking.” Other finalists included:

• Cindy Ellers, chief customer officer for Fleetworthy
• Katerina Jones, chief marketing officer for Fleet Advantage
• Leah Shaver, president and CEO of the National Transportation Institute

The panel was moderated by Jill Quinn, president of Centerline Drivers.

“We are honored to celebrate the incredible achievements of Dee Dee and all of this year’s finalists,” said Quinn. “At Centerline, we are committed to driving progress for women behind the wheel and across the industry. By amplifying the stories and impacts of these influential leaders in trucking, we aim to encourage more women to see the rewarding possibilities within this field.”

Leadership That Lasts

Since joining Old Dominion, Cox has grown her HR and talent acquisition teams from just one person to nearly 40 across the country. She also developed a leadership training program that ties directly into OD’s core values and family-first culture—ensuring the company’s next generation of leaders carry those same principles forward.

Her work continues to make an impact well beyond Old Dominion, inspiring fleets across the industry to prioritize leadership development, inclusion, and employee engagement as essential parts of success.

Image Source: WIT, Dee Dee Cox

Other Source: The Trucker

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“From delivering essential goods to supporting millions of families with good-paying jobs, the trucking industry has a powerful story to tell.  The Mike Russell Award showcases the creativity and dedication of individuals and organizations that amplify the stories of the hardworking men and women who are driving our country forward,” said ATA Chief Operations Officer Sarah Rajtik. “This award recognizes people who go above and beyond to improve the image of trucking, while inspiring others to contribute in the future.”

Great West Casualty Company, a longtime supporter of this initiative, proudly sponsors the 2025 award.

“Great West Casualty Company is proud to support an award as significant as the Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award,” said Steve Ponder, Senior Vice President of Great West Casualty Company. “Thanks to the influence of past and future award winners, the image of trucking has become increasingly positive each year.”

About the Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award

This annual award recognizes individuals, companies, and organizations that creatively advocate for and promote the trucking industry. This award is presented to an individual, motor carrier, trucking organization, and industry supplier who demonstrates excellence in creating a positive image for the trucking industry.

Last year’s award recipients included the Ohio Trucking Association, Meijer Logistics LLC, and DDC Freight Process Outsourcing LLC.

How to Nominate

Created in 2007 to honor Mike Russell, a former ATA Vice President of Public Affairs and a dedicated supporter of the trucking industry, this award is judged by an impartial panel of experts. Judges evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

• Creativity

• Frequency

• Reach

• Impact

• Execution

Completed nominations must be submitted to ATA’s Industry Affairs Department by August 4. Winners will be announced during the 2025 ATA Management Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to take place from October 25 to 28 in San Diego, California.

For more information or to submit your nomination, please visit the official nomination page.

Celebrate those who go the extra mile to highlight the vital contributions of America’s trucking industry. Submit your nomination today!

Source: American Trucking Associations (ATA)

Image Source: American Trucking Associations (ATA)

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Recognizing Excellence in Transportation

PepsiCo awarded Averitt this top distinction for their outstanding truckload services, highlighting their unmatched reliability and impressive performance.

“This award is a testament to the dedication of our associates and their commitment to delivering outstanding service,” shared Kent Williams, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Averitt. “We are proud to be recognized by Pepsi and look forward to continuing to meet and exceed expectations.”

A Standout Partner for PepsiCo

Among the South Division’s top five carriers for truckload volume, Averitt was specifically recognized for its superior on-time delivery performance, which exceeded PepsiCo’s stringent benchmarks. This reliability played a crucial role in earning the company this recognition.

Delivering Versatile Transportation Solutions

Averitt’s truckload services span a variety of industries, providing solutions for dry van transport, hazmat shipping, and production and event logistics. Their consistent quality and dedication to customer success position them as a leading choice for partners like PepsiCo.

For more information on Averitt’s truckload offerings, visit Averitt.com/Truckload.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Averitt

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Recognizing Future Trucking Professionals

NGIT has introduced the Student of the Month Award, aimed at highlighting outstanding young individuals who exhibit commitment and resilience as they work toward a career in trucking. The very first recipient of this honor is Drew, an 18-year-old student from Parke Heritage High School in Rockville, Indiana.

According to NGIT, Drew’s dedication did not go unnoticed. A national trucking company based in Kentucky discovered him after seeing his performance on Facebook during the National Truck Driving Championships. They conducted further research on his background and connected with him through their Indiana network. Their decision paid off—Drew has already secured a $75,000 job offer, marking a significant milestone in his trucking career.

Honoring Industry Leaders

The second award, the Career Catalyst Award, shines a spotlight on carriers that establish exceptional entry points into the trucking industry. Whether it’s charting career opportunities for technicians, drivers, or administrative professionals, this award recognizes the crucial role carriers play in nurturing future talent.

By launching these two awards, NGIT continues to make strides in bridging the gap between education and the trucking industry, inspiring both students and industry leaders to invest in the future of trucking.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Next Generation in Trucking

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“We are honored to be included among America’s Most Reliable Companies, as it is a strong testament to the hard work of our people,” said Spencer Frazier, executive vice president of sales and marketing at J.B. Hunt. “Every day our teams reflect our values of integrity, respect, innovation, safety, and excellence. We strive to create the best customer experience with every interaction, ultimately delivering high service levels and strengthening the relationships we have with our customers. We know people do business with people they trust, and we look forward to building on that in the years to come.”

The award recognizes companies that excel in key areas such as integrity, customer attentiveness, consistent quality, and accountability. Newsweek and Statista emphasized that reliability means building trust through dependable service and high standards. The complete list of honorees is now available on Newsweek’s website.

How Companies Were Evaluated

Selections for Newsweek’s 2025 list were based on an independent nationwide survey that included feedback from over 1,700 U.S. participants. Organizations were evaluated across five critical dimensions:

• Likelihood of Recommendation
• Ease of Doing Business
• Value for Money
• Consistency in Deliverables
• Reputation for Dependability

A Year of Outstanding Achievements

This recognition is just one of many accolades J.B. Hunt has earned recently. The company was also named one of “America’s Most Responsible Companies” for its efforts in corporate responsibility and sustainability. Additionally, USA Today recognized J.B. Hunt as one of “America’s Climate Leaders,” celebrating its focus on eco-friendly practices. The company has also been included in TIME’s list of the World’s Best Companies and continues to rank among the most admired businesses globally. Furthermore, J.B. Hunt has been acknowledged for its commitment to creating a supportive workplace for veterans.

Source: The Trucker

Image: J.B. Hunt

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