As the global business landscape continues to evolve, women in leadership roles are driving significant change, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations. Among these influential figures is Ellen Voie, the founder of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT). Established in 2007, WIT has become a leading organization in promoting gender diversity and providing a platform for women in the transportation and logistics sectors. Voie’s leadership journey, achievements, and commitment to creating opportunities for women in male-dominated industries make her one of the most admired women leaders to watch in 2025.
A Journey of Resilience and Vision
Ellen Voie’s career trajectory is a remarkable testament to adaptability and perseverance. Initially pursuing a career in broadcast journalism, Voie’s path took an unexpected turn when she returned to Wisconsin to care for her ailing mother. While there, she accepted a position in the drafting department of a steel fabricating plant. Her career in the transportation industry began after she transitioned to a role in shipping, where she eventually became a Traffic Manager after obtaining certification. This was the start of her journey into the trucking industry, where she would go on to have a lasting impact.
For nearly two decades, Voie worked as a freelance consultant. In the late 1990s, she was hired by a large Midwest carrier to explore strategies for hiring and retaining women in the trucking sector, a field dominated by men. Recognizing the lack of representation and the need for a more inclusive environment, Voie was inspired to create an organization that would amplify the voices of women in the transportation industry. This led to the founding of the Women In Trucking Association in March 2007, which quickly became a pioneering force in advocating for gender diversity within the sector.
A Hands-Off Leadership Style: Trusting the Team
Voie’s leadership style is characterized by trust, empowerment, and independence. She emphasizes the importance of allowing her team members the freedom to work autonomously, especially in the context of a virtual work environment. “Our associates must be self-motivated and able to work independently,” Voie explains. Her leadership approach reflects her belief that a successful team is one that can thrive without constant oversight.
“Technology plays a crucial role in helping us work as a team across the United States, but our ability to succeed hinges on the self-discipline and independence of each individual within the organization,” Voie adds. Her leadership philosophy is shaped by the necessity to adapt to a results-oriented work culture, allowing the team to function effectively while staying aligned with the overarching goals of the organization.
Overcoming Initial Challenges: Establishing Credibility
Like any entrepreneur, Voie faced significant challenges when launching WIT. One of the greatest obstacles was establishing credibility in an industry where women were underrepresented. In the early stages, Voie set a target to recruit 500 members in WIT’s first year—a goal she successfully achieved. However, the real challenge came with retaining members and proving the organization’s value during renewal periods.
“Delivering on the promises made to our members was critical,” Voie reflects. “Establishing trust through results was essential to ensuring their continued support.” Through dedication and hard work, WIT’s membership grew steadily over the years, solidifying the organization’s place as a key player in promoting gender equality in the trucking industry.
Guiding Leadership Values: Integrity and Honesty
Integrity is a cornerstone of Voie’s leadership philosophy. She believes that being transparent and honest is essential to building trust within any organization. “Honesty is the best policy,” Voie says. “I evaluate each project or idea before making a commitment to proceed. If people can’t trust us to follow through, they’ll start questioning everything we do.”
For Voie, the act of keeping one’s word is paramount to earning respect as a leader. She maintains that the foundation of strong leadership lies in consistently delivering on promises and building a reputation for reliability. “An honest person is a respected leader,” she adds. This approach has been instrumental in building the credibility and success of WIT.
Mentoring Future Generations of Women Leaders
Voie has made it her mission to inspire and mentor the next generation of women leaders, especially within industries like trucking, which have traditionally been male-dominated. She believes that by highlighting successful women in roles such as drivers, CEOs, safety directors, and diesel mechanics, young women can be encouraged to consider these career paths. Voie notes, “We need to help women envision themselves in these roles, so they can begin to see the endless possibilities that exist for them.”
One of Voie’s most innovative initiatives in mentoring younger generations has been the creation of a truck driver doll, designed to introduce young girls to career opportunities in transportation. “By providing a toy that represents a career opportunity, we hope to inspire the next generation of women to pursue these roles,” she explains.
Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
For women looking to pursue leadership roles, Voie offers valuable advice: “Ask a lot of questions, do thorough research, and find a mentor who can guide you.” She stresses the importance of shadowing experienced professionals in the desired field and immersing oneself in the learning process. “Once you’ve decided that a career path is right for you, immerse yourself in learning, take as many classes as possible, and strive to become an expert in your field.”
Voie encourages women to be persistent, regardless of the obstacles they may face. “Don’t let others deter you,” she advises. “There will always be people who try to discourage you, but with determination and hard work, you can overcome any challenge.”
The Role of Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership
Diversity and inclusion have been central to Voie’s leadership approach. WIT was founded with the explicit goal of creating a more gender-diverse workforce in the transportation sector. Voie believes that a diverse workforce leads to better decision-making and outcomes. “Studies have shown that women tend to be more risk-averse, which results in safer driving and more calculated decision-making in leadership roles,” she explains.
Additionally, research has demonstrated that diversity in the workforce is directly linked to higher profit margins and overall business success. “Attracting more women to all levels of the organization not only promotes a more inclusive work environment but also drives performance and profitability,” Voie notes. Through her advocacy, she has shown that promoting diversity is both a moral and strategic imperative for any organization.
Maintaining Resilience and Motivation
Throughout her career, Voie has maintained resilience and motivation by constantly challenging herself. Whether it is earning a Class A commercial driver’s license, becoming a private pilot, or going skydiving, she lives by the mantra that growth comes from stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. “You’ll never know what you’re capable of doing unless you push yourself,” she says.
Voie’s adventurous spirit is not just about personal growth; it also serves as an inspiration for others. “I want to be the person who enjoys life by exploring new opportunities and embracing challenges,” she adds. This mindset has helped her remain focused and driven even in the face of adversity, ultimately leading to her success as a leader.
Proudest Achievement: Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Voie’s proudest achievement is the creation of the Women In Trucking Association and the Women In Trucking Foundation. Through these organizations, Voie has helped countless women find rewarding careers in transportation. “These organizations have grown beyond my wildest dreams,” she reflects. “I’m proud to have played a role in creating a platform that empowers women in this industry.”
Her recognition as a “Transportation Innovator Champion of Change” by the White House in 2012 was a landmark moment in her career. Additionally, Voie has been invited to serve on national committees such as the Department of Transportation’s Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee. “Being able to serve at this level gives our members a voice in the regulatory process,” she says.
Looking Toward the Future
Though Voie retired as CEO and President of WIT in 2023, she continues to serve as the organization’s founder and is frequently invited to speak at industry events. She also hosts a weekly radio show, Women In Trucking, on SiriusXM’s Road Dog channel. Looking ahead, Voie has plans to write a book about her experiences in building WIT and advocating for women in transportation.
On a personal note, Voie enjoys spending time with her family, including her two grown children and three young granddaughters. She remains passionate about flying and exploring new challenges, often taking to the skies in her Cessna Skyhawk airplane. Voie’s commitment to empowering women and her lifelong love of adventure will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.
Honesty is the best policy. If people can’t trust us to follow through, they’ll begin to question everything we do
