Being a trailblazer in the trucking industry, we asked Audree Baker about the women who have positively influenced or inspired her personally and professionally in honor of #womenshistorymonth.
"I have had several women within Swift, as well as within the trucking industry, that have helped me along my career path, as well as inspired me. One of my most notable and favorite mentors was Stacie Marstella, who unfortunately passed in April 2023. She took not only myself, but countless others under her tutelage on how to be a better leader and how to make a space for yourself in a industry that is predominately male. She was a big believer that by lighting the fire of others, it does not take away from your brightness, but enhances the collective as a whole! I also want to celebrate all of the female terminal leaders, directors, and vice presidents we have at Swift (as well as the KNX family)."
As a Director of Customer Accounts at Swift, Audree is responsible for our Refrigerated, Walmart, Expedited, and Afterhours team. With her 10-year anniversary coming up in June, Audree brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her role. As a part of the Account Management Team, she has direct contact with some of our major customers and provides extensive support to our drivers.
"If they [Swift Drivers] have questions pertaining to a pickup or delivery number, want to share information and feedback on a shipper, or walk through customer expectations on service-sensitive loads, we are here for them," she said.
She advises women or anyone who wants to work in the trucking industry to speak up and let their voices be heard in meetings, events, etc., along with building and maintaining a network of both men and women within and outside of the industry who can provide you with different perspectives and advice.
Audree also shared what female empowerment means to her.
"I think female empowerment can show up in a few ways, one for personal empowerment and one for empowerment of those around you. Personally, I am always continuing to learn and experience new things. I got my MBA through Swift's Free Tuition Program, and I always volunteer for the unknown projects at work or the organizations I belong to."
When she's not putting in work at Swift, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her 6-year-old niece, who is just coming into her own little personality. She also enjoys traveling, having recently visited several European Countries (Ireland, Germany, France) and cheering on Arizona State Teams as a true Arizona native.
Audree stressed that it is okay to fail or not have something go your way and to embrace that discomfort but make a positive change from it.
Lastly, she left us with an impactful quote:
"If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are an excellent leader." —Dolly Parton
