Celebrating the Women of Trucking During Women’s History Month

TMAF is once again celebrating the outstanding women of the trucking industry throughout the month of March in recognition of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month.

Through the Women of Trucking profile series, TMAF shines a light on the growing number of women who are supporting the industry and features stories of women professionals keeping America moving forward every day.

The stories of TMAF’s Women of Trucking will be featured on the Meet the Truckers section of the TMAF website and shared on TMAF’s social media channels as well.

Joyce Sauer Brenny, Founder & CEO, Brenny Transportation, Inc.

Joyce Sauer Brenny began her career in trucking in 1981 as a semi-truck driver hauling railroad ties. In 1986, she transitioned into sales and management at a large carrier. Ten years later, Joyce founded her own logistics and trucking company, Brenny Transportation, in St. Joseph, Minnesota in 1996.

Brenny Transportation, a Certified Women Business Enterprise, has been named a Top Place for Women to Work by Women in Trucking (WIT). Joyce, who has a “definite passion for people,” has made it her personal mission to support other women at her company and in the transportation workplace. Joyce said she believes it is “her purpose to improve the trucking industry for those who have dedicated their life to serve in the noble profession of trucking and transportation.”

Throughout her career, Joyce has held numerous leadership positions. She currently serves on the Minnesota Trucking Association Board of Directors and the American Trucking Associations Safety Policy Committee, and she is the current President of The St. Christopher’s Trucker Relief & Development Fund. Joyce was the first woman trucker to chair the Minnesota Trucking Association.

Joyce has also received recognition for her work in trucking. In 2012, she was named the most influential woman in trucking by WIT.

Tracy Brito Denora, Executive Director, New Jersey Warehousemen & Movers Association

Tracy Brito Denora has spent nearly 20 years with the New Jersey Warehousemen & Movers Association (NJWMA) and is now the company’s first Female Executive Director.

Tracy first started working in the trucking industry when she was in high school during the 80s while working for her family’s moving company, Apollo Moving & Storage a North American Van Lines Agent in Newark, New Jersey. After college, Tracy worked as the production manager for a magazine publishing company for ten years. Speaking about her return to the industry, Tracy said, “Moving is what I know best and love, and I enjoy helping New Jersey moving companies in any way I can, whether it’s assisting in their license renewals, tariffs or every day moving issues.”

Tracy’s goal for her work within the industry is to help consumers before hiring a moving company by raising awareness of the dangers of not using licensed public movers because of the risk of moving scams.

When asked what Tracy would tell other women who are interested in joining the trucking industry, she said, “Go for it! Don’t be hesitant by the stigma that this industry is predominately male…simply not true. In the last decade I have seen so many women work their way up to senior management and owners. We have two women on our Board of Directors that own their own moving company. We have created a NJWMA Women Moving Women Group, and the size of our group doubled by our second meeting this past February.”

Speaking about the women of trucking, Tracy said, “I am proud of every woman in this industry; they are fierce!”

Renee Amar, Executive Director, Louisiana Motor Transport Association

After a career in policy and public affairs, which included jobs working for the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry and the National Federation of Independent Business, Renee Amar joined the Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA) in November 2020 and serves as Executive Director.

When speaking about what drew her to the trucking industry, Renee said, “I am a huge advocate for the business community…The trucking industry is important to our economy. [Everyone] is impacted by the trucking industry.” Renee went on to say, “I’m passionate about the impact we have on the economy and telling that story. I don’t think people truly realize how much trucking impacts their lives.”

Renee takes great pride in her job and the essential role that truck drivers play during crises when deliveries become even more difficult. During severe weather, such as hurricanes, which impact Louisiana frequently, it requires you to “put your problem-solving cap on” to figure out how to make deliveries when “roads don’t look like how they normally do and you don’t have access to certain things.”

Speaking about the ice storm that hit Louisiana this February, Renee discussed her role in coordinating water deliveries to communities in the state that were frozen over. She felt rewarded by the work, saying, “I was a part of connecting some really great people with potable water — getting them in touch with members that will drop whatever they are doing to go pick up what is needed and have it delivered.” She said, “It’s incredibly moving to me. We’re not just integral as part of the process — this is a set of people that are unlike any other.”

Renee encourages other women to join the industry saying, “you’ll meet some of the best people you’ve ever met before.” The women in the industry, she says, are “some of the most tenacious, persistent, smart and sophisticated women that I’ve ever met.”

Heather Paraino, Senior Corporate Counsel, UniGroup C.A.

Heather Paraino, the Senior Corporate Counsel at UniGroup C.A, has been part of the UniGroup legal team for over twenty years.

Heather has been working in the trucking industry since 1997 when she “jumped at the chance to join the UniGroup team, an iconic St. Louis Company, right out of school.” Heather said, “As a history-buff, it was so interesting to learn about the background and context of our nearly a century-old industry.”

Speaking about her love for the trucking industry, Heather said, “Trucking is one of the rare ‘legacy’ industries that not only remain vital to our national economy, but that continues to innovate…There are few other industries with such a rich history and personal family-owned culture that’s also innovating to remain relevant and vital to the U.S. and even world economies.”

Heather also discussed the amazing people of the industry as one of the reasons she loves trucking. She said, “Maybe it’s because there’s such a strong family — often multi-generational — engagement in much of the moving industry, but I have found there to be a real sense of pride among United’s and Mayflower’s network of movers. As a woman, I have found it to be a welcoming and supporting industry to establish my career.”

When asked what advice she would give to other women interested in joining the industry, Heather encouraged them to join. She said, “The industry is a great place for talented people to establish and grow their careers. There are also plenty of industry veterans who are willing to be mentors/helpful to someone just beginning their careers. You need only ask.”

Heather has held several leadership positions within the transportation industry. She was appointed Chair of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Household Goods Consumer Protection Working Group and has been invited by the U.S. government to speak at conferences sponsored by the U.S. DOT. In 1997, Heather was named UniGroup’s “Woman of the Year.” Prior to her work at UniGroup, Heather was as a legislative assistant for a Member of the U.S. Congress.

Jana Jarvis, President, Oregon Trucking Associations

Jana Jarvis joined the Oregon Trucking Associations as President in February 2015. Earlier in her career, when Jana worked for Johnson Controls, a battery manufacturer, she was first exposed to the trucking industry and recognized how critical trucking is to the economy and U.S. supply chain.

Jana has always had a positive impression of trucking and deep respect for truck drivers. When she was younger and first began traveling alone, her father would always tell her, “If you need help, let a truck driver help you.” Jana’s positive impression of trucking is initially what drew her to the industry when the job opportunity at Oregon Trucking Associations presented itself. Jana said, “I always knew that trucking was integral to economic growth and opportunity in our country. Our country moves the majority of all our goods and products through trucks.”

When asked what Jana loves most about working in the trucking industry, she said, “It’s hard to pinpoint one thing.” Jana went on to say, “The people are fabulous. From the business owners to our association’s members, to the staff to the drivers.” With the contributions of the trucking industry, which are even more apparent during times of crisis and recovery, Jana said, “there’s a lot to be proud of within this industry.” Speaking about the brave truck drivers who have continued to deliver during the pandemic, putting their own health on the line, Jana said, “I don’t know what industry could have possibly made me prouder as I watched the trucking industry’s work during the pandemic.”

Jana encourages women interested in joining the industry “to follow through on the opportunity.” She said, “There’s a lot of opportunity for women in this industry. From driving a truck, to working at a trucking company, to running one, to being in an association, there’s tremendous opportunity for women.”

Jana also spoke about the rising number of women working in trucking and how proud she is of them and their work. She said, “We tend to think of the industry in masculine terms but it’s going through a bit of a transformation. When I say there’s opportunities for women in the industry, I mean it. It’s important we let women know that opportunities exist for them in trucking through a variety of jobs and career opportunities.”

Mandy Graham, Chief Operating Officer, Great West Casualty Company

As far as career aspirations went, Mandy knew she wanted a lifelong career that was full of adventure and making a difference. Joining the trucking industry delivered on both. Having worked in the industry for over two decades, Mandy thrives knowing each day brings new challenges and opportunities, and that our country depends on trucking to maintain its livelihood. From providing relief during national disasters to delivering medical supplies and groceries, Mandy has a deep respect for trucking and feels honored to be a part of it.

Having seen the many sides of trucking, her first role was that of a dispatcher, where she learned first-hand the dedication, hard work, and sense of duty that truck drivers share. Later her journey at Great West Casualty Company started in Underwriting Support. With experience and education came new positions, bringing more direct involvement with motor carriers and the industry, she was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2017.

When asked about her career highlights, Mandy replied that people are what make the difference. “Our industry is driven by family-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, owner-operators, you name it. There is no single ‘right recipe’ for a motor carrier. They vary in size, specialty, service area, the list goes on. Every trucker has their own unique story, yet they all play an important part in our industry and share the qualities of dedication and resiliency.” Mandy has always been amazed at truck drivers’ commitment to service, regardless of what is thrown at them. In an ever-changing industry, she expressed how trucking truly is the backbone of America.

“I would encourage anyone, including women, who are considering joining the industry to do so. It is much more diverse than one might think and that is a large part of what makes it special.” Mandy is confident that if anyone is looking for a lifelong career that provides daily adventure with a sense of purpose and community, they can find a professional home in trucking.

Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, Chair, American Trucking Associations

Sherri Garner Brumbaugh is current Chair of the Board of the American Trucking Associations, the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. She is the second member of her family to be elected ATA chair; her father led the federation from 2002–2003.

Following the Board of Directors of American Trucking Associations electing Sherri as Chair, she spoke at the ATA Management Conference & Exhibition through a video message. In the video, which can be viewed here, Sherri shared the story of how she first got involved in the trucking industry. From going trucking with her father at an early age, to helping with the family business in her pre-teen and teenage years, trucking was part of Sherri’s life from a young age.

Sherri serves as President of Garner Transportation Group, which was founded by her parents, Vern and Jean Garner, in 1960.

One of the issues important to Sherri is supporting the industry’s efforts to combat human trafficking. Sherri, who works closely with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT), trains every new employee at Garner Trucking with the TAT training resources to identify human trafficking. America’s truck drivers, our eyes and ears on the road, are uniquely positioned to identify and report suspected cases of human trafficking. Garner employees are empowered to recognize the signs of human trafficking during their first orientation session.

Throughout her almost 35 years of experience in the trucking industry, Sherri has served in several leadership positions, including the Board of Directors of the Ohio Trucking Association, Indiana Motor Truck Association, and Truckload Carriers Association. Sherri also served as the acting Secretary of the Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking for the Federal Department of Transportation. The committee provided recommendations to former Secretary Chao to address human trafficking issues as they relate to all U.S. transportation sectors.

Sherri aspires to be a role model for other women to recruit more female drivers and executives. Garner Trucking has received numerous recognitions in recent years, including being awarded as a Top Trucking Company for women to work for in transportation.

Natashia Gregoire, Managing Director, Communications, FedEx Freight

As the managing director of Communications and Culture for FedEx Freight, Natashia’s oversees FedEx’s corporate communications, including internal and external communications, as well as the company’s Culture, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and Citizenship efforts.

Natashia started at FedEx in 2012 and supported the FedEx global business through a number of communications roles. Natashia transitioned to her current role at FedEx Freight in 2019, which is where she had an opportunity “to truly learn more about the day-to-day operations up close.” Natashia said, “Over the past two years at Freight, it’s been remarkable to be among our incredible team members who move the goods we consume and show up day after day to transport essential supplies during the pandemic. I feel so lucky to have this front row view to how trucking moves our economy.”

When asked what Natashia loves most about working in trucking, she said, “The people and their stories. Everyday, I get to hear and learn so much about our drivers — the places they have been, the experiences they have, and the impacts they are making for our customers and communities. It is truly amazing work and I am excited to be a part of telling those stories every day.”

Natashia encourages other women to consider the diverse career opportunities available to women in the trucking industry. She said, “Trucking, like any other industry, needs professionals of all types — HR, finance, marketing, etc. So, I encourage women to explore the opportunities that trucking has to offer and find their lane.” Speaking about the career opportunities available to women, Natashia said, “I know some amazing, trail-blazing women in the industry who are paving the way from the cabs of our trucks to the executive offices of companies like FedEx Freight. Ten years ago, I would not have envisioned myself working in trucking, but today I’m serving in a leadership role that is helping to shape the culture of the organization.”

Rikki Shinkle, Dayton Terminal Fleet Manager, M.T.S.

Rikki Shinkle has been working for M.T.S. for over 15 years. In her role as fleet manager of the Dayton, Ohio terminal, she oversees the company’s trucking operations, including managing on-time deliveries and pick-ups, ensuring the safety of drivers, and making sure customers are happy.

Rikki, who has worked in the trucking industry for over 25 years, first began her career in trucking while working during the summers at a small distribution center in West Virginia owned by a family member. As she progressed in her career, Rikki transitioned into dispatch work while working for Meyer Distribution.

A career in trucking “fell into my lap.” When Rikki’s friend recommended she apply for a job in trucking early in her career, Rikki did. She was already very familiar with the industry having worked for her family’s business. She also had other family members in the industry: her father, uncle and husband are all professional truck drivers.

When asked what Rikki loves most about working the trucking industry, she said it is working with the drivers. Rikki said, “I love hearing their stories.”

Rikki encourages other women who are interested in joining the trucking industry to consider it. She said, “I would tell them that the trucking industry is a second family and home.”

Mary Beth Halprin, Vice President, PR & Corporate Affairs, Volvo Group North America

Mary Beth Halprin has been working in the transportation industry for the majority of her 20+ year career in marketing and communications. She joined the Volvo Group in August 2019.

Raised in Michigan, Mary Beth grew up in the heart of the automotive industry. Her father was a car designer for Ford Motor Company and inspired three of his daughters, including Mary Beth, to join the transportation industry too. As Mary Beth said, “I was born into the industry…I got my passion and foundation from growing up around so many who worked in various parts of the business.” She was especially inspired by her sisters’ work as an electrical engineer and regional field rep for Ford dealers, respectively; both of whom were some of the few women in their jobs at the time.

Working in the industry is a passion for Mary Beth. “It’s something I truly enjoy,” she said. “I am humbled by how important trucking and transportation is to the U.S. economy. The industry itself is truly a global village,” continued Mary Beth.

From the role of many companies, including the Volvo Group, to assist those in need during the pandemic, to the most recent industry relief efforts to help Texans recovering from severe weather, Mary Beth appreciates trucking’s philanthropic outreach. Speaking about her job, Mary Beth said, “To me, it’s fulfilling on so many levels because, I can see the way the industry impacts people’s lives.”

In speaking to other women who are interested in joining the trucking industry, Mary Beth said she would discuss the exciting innovations taking place within the industry and the “need for all types of talent, skills and experiences.” She said, “This is one of the best times to be part of the trucking industry. We are driving many new emerging technologies. We are reshaping how transportation of the future will look, be powered and how we will improve our environment. That’s exciting!”

One of the items on Mary Beth’s bucket list is to be able to drive a truck on the open road one day. She aspires to get her CDL.