READING, PA — The Women In Trucking Association has named Penske Logistics vice president Aurélie Doucette as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award. This recognition highlights her two-decade tenure in the transportation sector, specifically for her operational management of dedicated contract carriage and her commitment to internal mentorship programs.
Doucette began her career at Transfreight, maintaining her leadership trajectory as the company integrated into the Penske Logistics network. Her current role involves overseeing the complex execution of dedicated freight, a position that requires balancing customer delivery schedules with the realities of fleet maintenance and driver utilization. She also serves as the executive champion for the company’s Women’s Business Resource Group, a position that influences corporate training standards and professional development pathways for staff across the supply chain.
The selection process for this award involved a rigorous evaluation of finalists, including Eileen Dabrowski of Apex Tide Consulting and Erin Mitchell of YMX Logistics. Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of the Women In Trucking Association, noted that Doucette’s ability to combine operational excellence with a focus on human capital development sets a standard for the industry. Doucette is also a two-time recipient of the Penske President’s Award, underscoring her consistent performance in high-stakes logistics environments.
What This Means for Drivers
Operational leadership at the vice president level often feels distant to a CDL-A driver, yet these decisions dictate the stability of daily route assignments. When a leader prioritizes efficient freight planning and consistent execution, it results in fewer detention issues and more predictable dispatch schedules for those behind the wheel. For an owner-operator or a company driver, this level of organizational focus means fewer surprises on the road and a more reliable workflow, which is vital for maintaining steady income in a fluctuating market.
Industry Reaction
Trade organizations are increasingly emphasizing the role of strategic leadership in navigating modern supply chain challenges. Chris Burroughs, president and CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association, stated that Doucette represents the ideal balance of operational innovation and mentorship. Brent Hutto, chief relationship officer at Truck Parking Club, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the partnership with the Women In Trucking Association serves to empower professionals who are actively improving the logistics marketplace. These endorsements reflect a broader industry push toward formalized mentorship and professional growth, factors that ultimately dictate how trucking companies hire and retain top-tier talent.
Key Points
- Aurélie Doucette manages dedicated contract carriage operations for Penske Logistics.
- The award is a joint effort between the Women In Trucking Association, Truck Parking Club, and the Transportation Intermediaries Association.
- Doucette has spent over 20 years in the industry, starting her career at Transfreight.
- The award recognizes both operational performance and the active mentorship of employees within the logistics sector.
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