A Q&A with Santa, and Fleet Manager Mrs Claus, of North Pole Inc
As part of Teletrac Navman’s Going the Extra Mile campaign, we’ve launched an International Women’s Day special featuring four women from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the US who work and thrive in the transport industry.
These inspirational women, and many more, continually go above and beyond to keep the transport sector moving safely. And in keeping with this year’s theme, #BreakTheBias, they champion a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.
In our latest Going the Extra Mile episode, you can hear from the women themselves sharing their experiences working in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Without further ado, meet our International Women’s Day hidden heroes:
Beth Jones, transport manager at T Alun Jones UK
Beth Jones is a transport manager at T Alun Jones – a family-run haulage, storage and distribution company in Mid-Wales that operates a large fleet of vehicles from one of four sites on the Shropshire/ Powys border. Beth is responsible for managing the fleet, safeguarding driver wellbeing, and driving forward the business’ operational efficiencies.
When asked what her advice is for women considering a career in transport, Beth commented: “Just go for it and show them how it’s done. Don’t take no for an answer. They’ll soon get to love you and appreciate how the variation of personalities works brilliantly.”
Courtney Sertdemir, talent acquisition manager at the Australia Post Group
Interviewed by Jennie Tran, marketing executive at Teletrac Navman, Courtney Sertdemir specializes in external recruitment for transport across the Australia Post Group and Startrack. Courtney drives diversity in the region and promotes an inclusive workforce.
Speaking on entering a predominantly male industry, Courtney commented: “I think if anyone wants to go into the transport industry, they should be given the opportunity and not be fearful or have doubt because it is somewhat male-dominated.”
Angie Daugherty, general manager at United Road Towing US
As general manager at United Road Towing, Angie Daugherty works for one of the largest towing companies in the US – a leading provider of equipment towing and recovery services. In her role, Angie works hard to destigmatize the male-dominated industry and champion women in the sector.
When asked about her career progression, Angie commented: “I’ve always been in an industry to help others. Nursing is my trade, but the towing industry is my passion. Not a lot of people get the pleasure of working and getting paid to do what they love so much. And I do. I am one of those blessed ones.”
Fiona McDonagh, Membership Manager at Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
As membership manager at Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand, Fiona works for a forum that representing 1,200 individual road freight transport companies, which operate 14,000 heavy trucks across New Zealand. Fiona is passionate about putting the focus back on those behind the wheels in the industry. She works alongside others to improve the wellbeing and workplace culture in the transport sector.
In Fiona’s interview, she speaks on the benefits of more women being represented in the industry. She commented: “We bring skills and experiences to roles in a way that gives us a different perspective… whilst it’s a very traditional space, we are making inroads, and it’s exciting to see more and more women come into roles that men have primarily done.”
As well as shining a light on the experiences of women in the sector, this International Women’s Day we’ve made a $3,000 reward to Catalyst, a global non-profit working with companies around the world to build workplaces that work for women. Catalyst is a brilliant resource for gender, leadership, and inclusive talent management. It does excellent work in increasing the representation of women in leadership and promoting equal access to career opportunities.
If you'd be interested in making a nomination for our next Hidden Hero award, please contact Heather Waters to find out more.