Recognition from WIT

The president and CEO of WIT, Jennifer Hedrick, expressed her admiration, stating, “Women In Trucking is honored each year to name a leader in our industry who demonstrates remarkable grit, talent and passion to advance opportunities for women in trucking. We’re thrilled to give this honor to Tracy Rushing this year. Tracy’s commitment to this profession and desire to mentor future leaders is an example for all of us.”

Award Sponsored by Daimler Truck North America

Sponsored by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), the award highlights the contributions of female pioneers in the trucking sector.

Rushing shared her appreciation, “I’m incredibly grateful to be named 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking but this honor isn’t mine alone. It belongs to all the women who have paved the way and continue to push our industry forward. I’m just proud to be a part of this community of strong, dedicated women who work tirelessly to keep America moving. We’re all in this together, and I’m thankful every day that I get to be a trucker.”

Panel Discussion and Announcement

The announcement followed a panel discussion titled “Becoming an Influential Woman in Trucking,” featuring finalists Lisa Gonnerman, VP of Enterprise Services at TA Dedicated, and Sheri Aaberg, COO at Transport Enterprise Leasing. Facilitators included Kelley Martin and Heather Callahan of DTNA, recognized as 2024 WIT Top Women to Watch in Transportation. Rushing later captivated nearly 2,000 attendees with her personal experiences and insights.

Rushing’s Journey and Contributions

Beginning her career three decades ago in a scale house, Rushing progressed into leadership roles, driven by perseverance and mentorship. She offered insights into her early days in trucking, underscoring the significance of building relationships within the industry. Her inspirational message encouraged others to discover their “why” in trucking and to create a legacy of support and opportunity.

Rushing’s active involvement includes memberships in SHRM, TCA, and the Alabama Trucking Association’s SMMC. She serves on various committees, including ATA Comp Fund’s RMAC and as chair of TCA’s Safety, Recruiting, and Retention Committee.

A Vision of Community

Reflecting on the conference, Kelley Martin noted, “This year, Daimler Truck North America attended the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo with the theme ‘one of many.’ It’s about being part of a larger community, not just the only one or the best one, but one of many. The finalists for the Influential Woman in Trucking Award embody this vision. Through their dedication and hard work, they are paving the way for women to excel and thrive in our industry. Additionally, I’d like to congratulate Tracy Rushing for being named the 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking. Her outstanding career and unwavering passion have made a lasting impact on the trucking industry and beyond and she is truly deserving of this prestigious honor.”

Tracy Rushing’s achievements are paving the way for the next generation of leaders in trucking, leaving a legacy of empowerment and progress.

Source: The Trucker and WIT

The post Tracy Rushing Honored as WIT’s 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“The award was developed in 2010 to recognize female leaders and to attract and advance women in the trucking industry,” explains WIT in their press release. “The award highlights the achievements of female role models and trailblazers in the trucking industry.”

Finalists for the 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking Award:

Lisa Gonnerman, vice president of enterprise services, TA Dedicated

Lisa Gonnerman is a seasoned professional in the trucking industry with over 32 years of experience. Her leadership in safety practices has shaped national policies, and she is dedicated to mentoring future leaders, particularly women in trucking. She has held prominent roles, including National Chair of the American Trucking Association (ATA) Safety Management Council from 2019 to 2021, and was named ATA National Safety Director of the Year in 2016. Her influence extends to organizations like the Minnesota Safety Council, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, and the FMCSA’s CSA subcommittee.

Sheri Aaberg, chief operating officer, Transport Enterprise Leasing

Sheri Aaberg is renowned for creating empowering workplaces within the trucking industry over the last 24 years. Since joining TEL in 2014, she has driven the company’s growth from 1,200 to over 9,300 leased vehicles, and expanded operations from Chattanooga to Indianapolis. Her leadership roles include serving on the board of the Used Truck Association and active participation in various industry forums. Her efforts have significantly contributed to TEL’s excellence in performance and team development.

Tracy Rushing, executive director of safety, RE Garrison Trucking Inc.

Tracy Rushing began her career 30 years ago in Forest, Mississippi. Her extensive knowledge in safety management and driver relations has been pivotal since joining RE Garrison in 2022. Rushing is an influential member of several industry associations, including Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM), Truckload Carriers Associations (TCA), and Safety & Maintenance Management Council of the Alabama Trucking Association (SMMC). Her achievements include being the Alabama Safety Director of the Year Runner-Up in 2023. Known for her commitment to mentoring women in the trucking sector, she continues to champion their roles in this essential industry.

The 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking finalists will share their insights during a panel discussion at the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo in Dallas, Texas, from November 10 – 13, 2024, where the winner will deliver a HERstory speech.

Source: The Trucker/ Women in Trucking 

The post Celebrating the 2024 Finalists for the Influential Woman in Trucking Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.