Editors note: For more great articles like this one, visit CHET’s blog at https://chet.ca/blog
You may have heard the term #MotherTrucker or have seen it on social media. The hashtag has gone a long way to shedding light on women truck drivers who are defying archaic stereotypes and excelling in an industry commonly seen as a male oriented world.
This year, we want to take it one step further by also including those amazing women who work within the trucking and transport industry. For Mother’s Day, we especially wanted to give special credit to the mothers who work in this wonderful sector. Musket Transport has taken great strides to dispel the myth that this is an industry where moms can’t work because of the hours or nature of the business. These are stereotypes of the past and as a forward-thinking company, Musket Transport is determined to continue to demystify gender stereotypes and create an inclusive and diverse working environment.
Women are a key demographic for Musket and CHET’s recruitment and outreach campaigns.
It’s crucial to raise awareness about the multifarious employment opportunities in the
transport and trucking sector. Despite women making up half of Canada’s labour force, there’s only a single digit percentage of women making up employees in the transportation and logistics industry.
Musket believes that visual representation matters and place particular focus on highlighting their current female employees to help break some of the stigmas and stereotypes that follow trucking.
In celebration of Mother’s Day this year, we wanted to showcase some of the moms that work at Musket/CHET. Not only can women be active members of this industry, but so can mothers. While many perceive this as an exclusively male dominated work environment, these mom’s successful careers are helping break that mindset.
We invite you to read through the mini biographies below of the moms who volunteered to participate in this campaign. We would like to equally recognize the moms and other women who work at Musket and CHET but are not featured below. Every one of them makes a valuable contribution to our company and to society.
MEET THE MOMS OF MUSKET TRANSPORT
Paola M.
Current position/division at Musket:
National Logistics Executive (Manager of the brokerage division for Musket Transport).
Past/starting position(s) at Musket:
Started at Musket in July 2018. My journey in logistics started shortly after completing university and post-grad program. My first introduction to logistics was in 2002 with a brokerage company, where I was introduced to the industry in a hybrid position of sales and operations. It was a very good training ground. It allowed me to walk the walk and not just do the talk. I was responsible for growing my sales but also doing the behind-the-scenes operations. It provided me a better understanding of the day-to-day intricacies, which I believe helped me be a better salesperson as I was able to relate to the operations struggles as well. From there, I eventually found my place here at Musket.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
Being a very type A personality, I am very structured and organized in all areas of my life. Prioritizing, valuing, and knowing what is important to me and how to spend my time provides me with the structure and freedom to balance that work/life balance.
I think the most rewarding part about my job for me is that my kids are excited and love to share about what I do with others. We are breaking down the stereotypes of not only the gender role associated with the industry but the stereotype around trucking altogether.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Absolutely! This industry is exciting, fast-paced, and sometimes stressful. But the fun outweighs the stress most of the time. Anyone who is interested in supply chain, world economics, and strategic thinking, this is the industry you may not have thought about but could lead to and open so many more doors and opportunities beyond their expectations. Some former colleagues that have left the industry have told me that the skills they learned in transportation carried over and excelled in their other roles and they have never regretted the learning they received being in transportation.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that you think other women or moms would find relatable or inspire them to consider working for this industry?
I think the most rewarding part about my job for me is that my kids are excited and love to share about what I do with others. We are breaking down the stereotypes of not only the gender role associated with the industry but the stereotype around trucking altogether. Not many, if any, would even consider saying they want to grow up to be a truck driver or work for a trucking company.
There is nothing sexy about that. But I think education about what that means and the intricacies around supply chain can inspire a new generation.
Transportation/logistics is not what many think it is. You work with all walks of life and deal with all types. We learn the intricacies and rules of foreign countries and the requirements of trades and imports/exports. Learning the many levels of supply chain and how transportation plays a role in that web. Transportation isn’t as simple as moving from point A to point B.
Sophia S. B.
Current Position/Division at Musket:
Corporate Communications Officer.
Past/Starting Positions at Musket:
I have held several positions at Musket, starting as an Office Administrative Assistant from 2004-2014. In 2014-2015, I worked as the PR, Social Media, Business Development, and Marketing Coordinator and was promoted to PR, Product, and Project Manager in 2015. In 2019, I began my role as a Corporate Communications Officer for Musket Transport and CHET.
Though I’ve worked in various industries, including entertainment and the public sector, I’ve built my career at Musket and CHET. I’m passionate about the value of trades and, having grown up in transportation and logistics, I saw the untapped marketing opportunities within trucking. I’ve been fortunate to test my own ideas for a private career college and private carrier.
The industry is never boring. No matter the role, there are always challenges and changes influenced by external factors. While positions like commercial drivers or truck/trailer mechanics require specific skills and a certain lifestyle, there are many other roles in the industry that should appeal to a broader range of people. The challenge lies in overcoming the stereotypes and diversifying the industry to make it more competitive.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
My position, combined with the timing of becoming a mother just before the pandemic, offers a unique advantage. I can do most of my work remotely as long as I have an internet connection and access to my team. Two of my team members already work remotely, and one is on-site for photography and videography. The shift to virtual meetings during COVID has normalized remote work and made it easier for me to transition into working motherhood.
My husband is very supportive and involved in our children’s lives, which helps me balance my roles. With the addition of our second child, I’m confident my work-life balance won’t suffer. As an organized person, it’s easy for me to plan out a content calendar for over a year, and I trust my team to execute the plans. Most importantly, my job is a creative outlet, which makes it enjoyable.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Yes! I’ve had women ask if it’s possible to work in this industry as a mom, which sparked the idea for this campaign. While the driver role is often the focus, it’s equally important to showcase moms across other divisions at Musket/CHET. This industry offers numerous career opportunities and could benefit from having more women in the field.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that other women or moms would find relatable or inspiring to consider working in this industry?
Becoming a mother inspired me to write a children’s book, Just in Time! Trucks for Kids, during my maternity leave. It was a fun project I collaborated on with a talented illustrator. I wrote the book to have something relatable to read to my daughter. The premise of the book highlights how every item in our lives is delivered by truck, giving me a platform to educate my daughter and share the industry with her.
Most children are drawn to trucks and heavy equipment, so it’s an incredible opportunity to connect that interest with my job. I believe all parents can benefit from working in an essential service that is so vital to society. Even though there’s still work to do in raising public awareness, the impact of our jobs is undeniable.
Anna K.
Current position/division at Musket:
Linehaul Supervisor Montreal/USA Corridor (start March 2022 – current).
Past/starting position(s) at Musket:
Import – Export Coordinator 2013 to 2015; after 2 years in 2015 promoted to position City Dispatcher (2015 – 2016); promoted in 2016 to position Montreal Dispatcher /US LH support (until February 2022).
How many years in the industry?
10 years in the industry (one year working in a Forwarding company and nine years working for Musket Transport Ltd). I discovered my passion in logistics just when I began my career in a Forwarding Company as a Customer Care Associate. I’ve been in the transport world for over a decade now.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
Organization is the key to success. As a mom, I use time-saving hacks (shopping during lunchtime, etc.) and I share home responsibilities. At work, I set my priorities and I maintain open communication with my Manager and colleagues, so my time spent at work is easy and most productive.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Definitely, if you are looking for adventure and challenges, I strongly suggest working in the transportation and logistics field. It’s an opportunity to constantly learn, but beyond that, it’s an industry that can fill you with a sense of purpose. Especially in today’s ever-digital world, our ability to connect people and businesses is critical.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that you think other women or moms would find relatable or inspire them to consider working in this industry?
I think that innovation and creativity are an important part of this industry. The logistics industry offers satisfaction, great compensation, and benefits. My job gave me confidence that I would be able to do it best anywhere. Wishing all Mommies good luck!
Nadine B.
Current position/division at Musket:
Intermodal Customer Service Representative.
Past/starting position(s) at Musket:
Customer Service Representative Exports Coordinator, and Linehaul Dispatch Clerk.
How many years in the industry?
Five years.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
My schedule is set so I can do school drop-offs and pick-ups without interrupting the day’s workflow. Musket has also made it very convenient in the past year where most mothers had to become teachers during virtual learning by allowing me to work from home. Otherwise, I have a healthy balance in having my evenings and weekends for any extracurricular activities I have to attend with my daughter.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Yes, it is a fulfilling industry, not very demanding where it takes away from mom/family life. My schedule is set so I am able to do school drop-offs and pick-ups without interrupting the day’s workflow. Musket has also made it very convenient in the past year where most mothers had to become teachers during virtual learning by allowing me to work from home.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that you think other women or moms would find relatable or inspire them to consider working in this industry?
It is a male-dominated industry, which can have you feeling a bit intimidated, as I was when I started five years ago. However, over time I have become more assertive and found my footing. I have learned so much so far and it has made me more comfortable and confident even outside of work.
Brandi H.
Current position/division at Musket:
Vendor/Business owner of Forward Motion Maintenance.
Past/starting position(s) at Musket:
My starting position at Musket was as a shunter. That went on to running equipment, pressure washing, and occasionally delivering loads.
How many years in the industry?
It will be 18 years this year I have been working in the industry and driving.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
Luckily, now being a vendor, I can somewhat set my own hours. It helps with the juggling of being mom and worker. For years I ran long haul, and for the most part, trucking is long days, local or OTR. When I became a mom, my main goal was to be at home as much as possible to watch my child grow up and be present. I loved the highway but I love being “mommy” more!
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Yes, as long as you have support, choose the right time, and the appropriate role within the industry.
Nilou K.
Current position/division at Musket:
Operations Supervisor.
Past/starting position(s) at Musket:
Support Staff and then promoted to Load Planner.
How many years in the industry?
Over 13 years of experience in the industry.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
Making sure that after work and on weekends I spend quality time with my family.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Yes, I would recommend this industry to other women/moms. Although this has historically been a male-dominated industry, I believe this is a great industry that women can also excel in.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that you think other women or moms would find relatable or inspire them to consider working in this industry?
It’s important to have the willingness to learn throughout your career, always be a team player, and go the extra mile to succeed as a team.
Ninette Q.
Current position/division at Musket:
Driver in the container division.
How many years in the industry?
Nine years.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
As a proud mom of two kids, it wasn’t easy at first being away from my family for more extended periods of time, but through this, I’ve learned to be more thankful for the time I spend with my family. They’re understanding of my schedule, and we’re able to compromise.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
I’d strongly recommend every woman to join the trucking industry with Musket Transport! At first glance, the job may look intimidating, but as a woman, this is the best job I’ve had, and it has been such a fulfilling experience.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that you think other women or moms would find relatable or inspire them to consider working in this industry?
At first glance, the job may look intimidating, but as a woman, this is the best job I’ve had, and it has been such a fulfilling experience. This job gives you the reins to become your own boss and allows the flexibility to create your own schedule. I’ve gained agency and stability through being empowered in my career with the company.
Rachel B.
Current position/division at Musket:
Driver Payroll.
Past/starting position(s) at Musket:
Maintenance and Repairs Department/Gatestaff at Southdown Yard.
How many years in the industry?
Eight years this July.
How do you organize your work-life balance as a mom in transportation and logistics?
Having good time management is key! It can be a juggling act, but knowing how to prioritize tasks and compartmentalize work life from family time is so important. The great thing about transportation and logistics is that it goes round the clock – you can always find shifts to work with your schedule whether it’s mornings or evenings, city driving or linehaul.
Would you recommend this industry to other women/moms?
Yes! 100% yes. The stigma that it’s a man’s industry needs to be dropped. There are so many roles for women in this industry, from drivers to mechanics, dispatchers to operations coordinators, and more. It’s a fast-paced industry, but that’s a big part of the appeal.
Anything else you’d like to offer about your experience that you think other women or moms would find relatable or inspire them to consider working in this industry?
As a mom, you want to provide the best life for your kids, and that is hard to do with a minimum wage or low-income job. Advancing in a career is hard when you have kids to care for. Working in transportation can provide amazing opportunities for financial freedom if that’s something that’s important to you.
Diana (AZScholarshipRecipient2021)
Tell us about your unique experience with the industry:
I started CHET late 2020 while working in the healthcare field. CHET worked with me as I was busy between work and home time with their flexible class time schedule in the evenings and during the day. I would recommend this to anyone, especially women interested in driving for a living. There are so many opportunities available after graduation in different fields with excellent pay. Getting the certificate is just the beginning, as I see many students that have graduated from here complimenting their success to CHET as owner-operators and employed in the transportation industry. The company understands the importance of a balanced schedule and the success of their students. Many thanks to the staff here for my success!
About Musket Transport
A reputable transportation and logistics company, Musket Transport Ltd. has been serving Ontario-based companies for over 25 years, providing them the confidence of knowing their products will get where they need to go anywhere in North America.
ABOUT CHET
Commercial Heavy Equipment Training Ltd. (CHET) was formed over two decades ago, in 1997, as a subsidiary of Musket Transport Ltd. to provide a high caliber of training to the industry through its graduates. Our focus is on nurturing skills, safety, and training to ensure students succeed in their chosen profession.
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