Phoenix, Arizona — The Women in Trucking Association released the list of finalists for the 2024 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award, spotlighting three trailblazers in the industry.

The award, backed by the Transportation Intermediaries Association and Truckstop, honors women who have advanced leadership, innovation, and safety across North American freight. WIT’s initiative has grown into a national platform that celebrates the growing presence of women in trucking and logistics, a sector where female representation remains low.

Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, president and CEO of Garner Trucking, Inc., brings more than three decades of experience to the table. She joined the family‑owned truckload carrier in 1991, became owner in 2012, and has steered the company through rigorous FMCSA safety standards while expanding its fleet to 150 tractors. Brumbaugh sits on the boards of the American Trucking Association, the Ohio Trucking Association, and the Indiana Motor Truck Association, and she advises the Department of Transportation on human trafficking prevention.

Ramona Hood, president and CEO of FedEx Custom Critical, began her FedEx career in 1991 and advanced to oversee the company’s high‑value, time‑critical freight services. Under her guidance, FedEx Custom Critical grew its regional network to 200 hubs and implemented a predictive maintenance program that cut downtime by 18 percent. Hood is a frequent speaker on supply‑chain resilience at industry forums and has been recognized for her data‑driven approach to logistics management.

Sarah Ruffcorn, president of Trinity Logistics, joined the company in 2002 after earning a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communications from Western Illinois University. Trinity now serves 1,200 clients nationwide, offering integrated freight, warehousing, and last‑mile solutions. Ruffcorn chairs the TIA Board of Directors and leads the Women in Logistics Committee, while also serving on the Tidal Health Medical Partners Board of Directors, where she champions health‑care logistics for rural communities.

What This Means for Drivers

The recognition of these leaders underscores the importance of diversity in fleet operations, encouraging trucking companies hiring to broaden their talent pools. CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators may see increased mentorship opportunities as companies seek to emulate the inclusive cultures championed by the finalists. OTR truck drivers, in particular, could benefit from improved safety protocols and technology investments highlighted by the awardees’ track records.

Industry Reaction

While the source does not quote specific carriers, the industry has long acknowledged the value of female leadership in enhancing safety, customer service, and operational efficiency. The finalists’ achievements reinforce the trend toward data‑driven logistics, a shift that aligns with FMCSA regulations on driver hours and electronic logging devices.

Key Points

• Sherri Garner Brumbaugh owns and operates Garner Trucking, Inc. with a fleet of 150 tractors.
• Ramona Hood leads FedEx Custom Critical, expanding its network to 200 hubs.
• Sarah Ruffcorn heads Trinity Logistics, serving 1,200 clients nationwide.
• All finalists hold board positions in major trucking associations, influencing industry standards.

Looking for a better trucking job? US Trucker's free job‑matching service connects CDL‑A drivers, OTR truck drivers, and owner‑operators with 500+ top US carriers. Leave your details in the form on this page and a recruiter will call you within one business day. Trucking companies are hiring now.

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels