Tracy Rushing, Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting at RE Garrison Trucking Inc., has been awarded the esteemed title of 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking by the Women in Trucking Association (WIT). This accolade was announced during the WIT Accelerate! Conference and Expo held in Dallas, Texas.
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
