The November 8, 2004 issue of The Journal of Commerce includes an article (pp. 36-48) entitled "Women in Trade and Transportation: Changing the Face of the Industry" that features Sandra A. Scott, Director, International Relations, Yellow Roadway Corporation, and Karen A. Lobdell, Senior International Account Executive, Roadway Express, Inc.
This issue profiles twenty women holding important and influential positions in the industry. These women explain how they reached this destination in their career, some of the challenges they faced, and provide advice to other women entering the industry.
On the whole, the women revealed their optimism about a trade and transportation division that is less gender-specific and more focused on ability and know-how.
Karen Lobdell started her career with Roadway Express 21 years ago. Since then Roadway has grown into a global transportation service provider. States Lobdell: "As a leader in international trade, I've learned that it is in constant motion. If you are looking for a challenge, it's the place to be."
Key qualities of successful women are excellent organizational skills and consideration to the smallest detail, but the most important thing is to enjoy what you do. Difficulties can be reduced by having a solid value system, first-rate role models, and connecting with successful women you respect as mentors.
Lobdell loves "the fact that the international markets encourage a consultative approach with clients" and she enjoys "the ability to help them understand the complexities involved."
Sandra Scott began her career as a billing and rating clerk in the 1960s at a time when transportation was regulated. Canada was then the only international market served by U.S. carriers. The changes she's seen during her career have challenged her to be creative in applying the skills she's learned
Her formula for success includes: "working hard, being smart, remaining committed to a cause, belief in myself, and loyalty...." Scott believes that her best asset is her constant hunger for knowledge.
She was involved in the design and development of many government initiatives and programs, including the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism and the Automated Commercial Environment and International Trade Data System. She monitors international legislative and regulatory development.
Scott has been dedicated to continuous improvement. She took every opportunity to learn all she could and was fortunate to have significant mentors at different points in her career.
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