By: Shoshana Grove, IB CEO
WILDS is a community of women (and men) in the industry who are passionate about empowering women and creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Creating a Community
At the heart of WILDS is a mission to create a community of women who work in logistics and delivery services. By providing a platform for women to connect, share their experiences, and learn from each other, WILDS is helping to break down the barriers that have historically limited women’s opportunities in the industry.
A History of Success
WILDS has achieved a great deal and exceeded expectations it originally set upon its inception. They have organized regular events ranging from casual get togethers, educational luncheons and sponsored conference panels at large industry forums. They also offer mentorship opportunities to help women advance their careers. In 2021, WILDS established the Megan J. Brennan Award for Excellence, recognizing an outstanding leader who demonstrates collaboration and a holistic approach to problem-solving.
Industry Experts and Panel Discussions
WILDS events often feature keynote speakers who are experts in the logistics and delivery industry. These speakers share their experiences and insights to inspire and educate women in attendance. Additionally, panel discussions cover a range of topics related to logistics and delivery services, from sustainability to leadership.
Networking Opportunities
WILDS events are a great way for women to connect with other professionals in the industry, share ideas, and build relationships that can lead to new opportunities and collaborations. The value of these networking opportunities cannot be overstated, and attendees often leave feeling energized and inspired.
PRC Commissioner and WILDS Steering Committee member Ann Fisher with IB CEO and WILDS Chair Shoshana Grove and WILDS co-Chair Anita Pursley
Making a Difference
According to a recent Forbes article, women hold only 24% of senior leadership positions in the transportation and logistics industry. However, there is good news: a recent Gartner survey shows that the percentage of women in supply chain leadership roles has increased from 21% in 2021 to 27% in 2022. Globalia Logistics Network predicts that women will play an even more significant role in the future of transportation and logistics.
International Bridge, a proud supporter of WILDS, has made significant strides in promoting gender diversity in its C-level positions. While the industry standard for women in C-level positions is 19%, International Bridge boasts a 33% representation of women in such roles.
Despite these positive changes, there is still much work to be done to promote gender equality in the logistics and delivery industry. If you’re reading this and are interested in supporting WILDS’ mission, here are some ways you can get involved:
- Join WILDS’ community to connect with other women in the industry and participate in events and conferences.
- Support WILDS’ mentorship programs and to help women advance their careers.
- Advocate for diversity and inclusion in your workplace by encouraging leadership to prioritize hiring and promoting women in logistics and delivery services.
WILDS is an organization that is making a real difference in the logistics and delivery industry. By providing a platform for women to connect, learn, and grow, they are helping to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The events they organize provide valuable opportunities for women to network, share ideas, and learn from industry experts. Ultimately, WILDS is helping to empower women to advance their careers and achieve their goals. Let’s join forces to support WILDS’ mission and create a more equitable future for the industry.