Women Leading The Road Ahead

Transportation is one of the most complex and essential systems in the world. Every day, millions of people rely on trucks, fleets, and logistics networks to move goods safely and efficiently. Behind those miles are people — and increasingly, women — who are helping lead the industry forward. From drivers navigating long-haul routes to safety leaders overseeing fleets and operations, women are playing a growing role in strengthening operations, improving safety, and leading across the transportation industry.

As part of our Women in Motion series, we asked several women across the transportation ecosystem to share their experiences. Their responses offered an honest look into the realities of the industry — the challenges, opportunities, and leadership it takes to run modern transportation operations. Among them are Kendra Payette, Senior Safety & Training Manager at Halvor Lines; Emily Plummer, Over-the-Road Driver at Prime Inc.; and Marcy Murillo, an EHS leader at an enterprise consumer goods organization. Each brings a unique perspective — from frontline driving to safety leadership to enterprise-scale operations — yet their stories share a common thread: resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to protecting people on the road.

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The Work Behind the Wheel — and Behind the Scenes

To the outside world, transportation can seem straightforward: trucks move freight, fleets operate on schedules, and safety programs keep things running smoothly. But those inside the industry know the reality is far more complex.

For Emily Plummer, who has spent 26 years driving for Prime Inc. and accumulated 3.5 million safe miles, the responsibility extends far beyond operating a truck. “The one thing most people don’t see on a daily basis is my goal to keep everyone around me safe,” Emily explains. “I treat every vehicle around me like they are my family, so we can all make it home.”

That mindset — protecting every driver on the road — reflects a level of vigilance and care that defines professional drivers at the highest level.

For Kendra Payette, safety leadership begins before most people even start their day. Her mornings often begin reviewing overnight reports, weather alerts, and incident updates to stay ahead of potential risks. Her role blends planning, coaching, and rapid problem-solving. “A typical day involves staying ahead of potential issues,” Kendra says. “There’s also the emotional labor that often goes unseen — supporting people after an incident and making tough decisions. Every unseen effort contributes to safer drivers, safer roads, and a stronger organization.”

For Marcy Murillo, an EHS GTM Director at an enterprise consumer goods organization, transportation safety operates at an even larger scale. She supports safety strategy, training, and operational alignment across a complex network of teams and facilities. Her days begin early, often balancing family responsibilities with the demands of a role that requires constant awareness. “Transportation safety is a 24/7 responsibility,” Marcy explains. “Drivers are on the road at all hours, which means safety support may be needed at any moment.”

Whether supporting frontline employees, traveling to field locations, or working through strategic initiatives, her focus remains the same: protecting people and strengthening operations. Across these stories, one theme becomes clear: the most impactful work in transportation is often the work people never see. It’s the preparation, vigilance, and leadership happening behind the scenes that keeps drivers safe and businesses running.  

Breaking the Misconceptions About Women in Transportation

Despite the growing presence of women across the industry, outdated assumptions persist. For Kendra, stereotypes were part of her early experience.“Growing up in trucking, I learned that people didn’t always see women as a natural fit for hands-on roles,” she says.

Experience quickly proved otherwise. The industry relies far more on skill, discipline, and decision-making than physical strength.

Emily has seen similar assumptions on the road, where some people think the job is too demanding for women. “I’m willing to try anything, just to show it can be done,” she says. And after more than two decades and millions of safe miles, she has.

Marcy believes many misconceptions stem from a lack of visibility. “Women have been part of transportation for decades,” she explains. “They’re simply under-recognized.”

The reality is that women are already leading complex operations, driving long-haul routes, managing safety programs, and supporting thousands of employees. Women in transportation are not the exception — they are essential to the industry’s success.

Building an Industry Where Women Can Thrive

Representation is growing, but retaining women requires more than recruitment. It requires environments where they can succeed long term.

Kendra emphasizes clear growth opportunities: “Make sure women can thrive in the transportation industry. That means safer facilities, better training experiences, strong culture, and pathways to leadership.”

Emily stresses fairness and opportunity: “The best way to retain women is to treat us like everyone else. We aren’t always delicate flowers — most of us love a good challenge.”

Marcy highlights recognition and inclusive workplaces, mentorship programs, and stronger visibility for female leaders as keys to retention. Ultimately, success comes down to culture: organizations that invest in people and recognize contributions build stronger, more resilient teams.

Advice for the Next Generation

For young women considering careers in transportation — whether as drivers, safety professionals, mechanics, or operational leaders — the message is clear: there is a place for you here.

Kendra advises: “Find mentors who can help teach you, navigate challenges, and open doors. Keep safety as your foundation and show up prepared and confident.”

Emily encourages action: “Just do it. Don’t listen to those who say women shouldn’t be out here. Take that leap of faith — it might change your life.”

Marcy emphasizes skill and pride: “Learn the craft. Stand your ground. Take pride in the impact you make. You’re not just doing a job — you’re helping keep the world moving.”

Transportation offers far more opportunity than most realize. Beyond driving, there are careers in safety, compliance, logistics, training, operations, and technology — roles that shape how the industry evolves. For women willing to step forward, the possibilities are significant.

Celebrating the Women Who Keep the World Moving

Transportation is about movement — goods across highways, fleets across regions, and people toward new opportunities. It’s also about progress.

The women featured here represent leadership, resilience, and expertise pushing the industry forward. They are drivers, safety leaders, problem-solvers, mentors, and innovators — often working behind the scenes to ensure every driver, passenger, and community stays safe. Their impact extends far beyond the road.

As we continue celebrating Women in Motion, we’re proud to highlight the voices shaping transportation today and inspiring the next generation.

Join us for the Women in Motion panel on March 25 at 9:00 AM PST, where these conversations will continue live. Together, we’ll explore how women across transportation are driving innovation, strengthening safety, and building the future of the industry.

Register here.

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