In celebration of International Women’s Day this year (March 8th 2025), at MI Transport we’re marking this important occasion by celebrating women in transport and logistics, especially our MI transport female colleagues.
The logistics and transport (industry) remains disproportionately male, especially in senior positions. Research from The Chartered Institute of Logistics (CILT) from 2024 said that just 23% of workers in the industry are women, with over half of organisations lacking any initiatives or targets to improve their gender diversity.
Some great progress has been made in recent years with more women joining the logistics industry. We asked some of the amazing women who work at MI Transport for their thoughts on the logistics industry and what advice they would give to other women considering a career in logistics.
MI Transport Female Colleagues
Here’s what our MI transport female colleagues had to say:
Julie Knowles (pictured) shared how she had seen the industry change over time:
“The gender divide in logistics has changed – I started as a warehouse person in 1999, and I was the only female forklift driver in a warehouse of 176 men. Over the years the number of women in logistics has increased from labourer to artic drivers and warehouse managers to directors.”
Olivia chose to highlight the impostor syndrome that many women feel in male-dominated industries:
“Women can feel like they don’t belong in certain roles or positions despite their qualifications. Addressing this psychological barrier can empower women to take risks, apply for higher positions, and believe in their potential. Organisations can implement programs and workshops to help employees (especially women) overcome self-doubt and boost their confidence.”
Shannon encouraged those considering a career in logistics to get involved:
“If you are thinking about it, do it! It is a fast-paced industry, and you have to be hard faced at some points, but it is worth it to see the wheels turning.”
Lastly, Peach-Marie offered encouragement to those looking to build their careers:
“Be brave, be real and do not shy away from what makes you you! Build a network of support around you and never be afraid to speak up!”
This year’s theme for IWD is #AccelerateAction, so we would like to encourage any other women working in the logistics and transport industry to share their thoughts on the industry and how we can achieve progress towards gender equality.
By working together and sharing many ideas, we can keep improving the industry for the women in it. See more of our what our employees had to say on our LinkedIn.