Rikki Shinkle has been working for M.T.S. for over 15 years. In her role as fleet manager of the Dayton, Ohio terminal, she oversees the company’s trucking operations, including managing on-time deliveries and pick-ups, ensuring the safety of drivers, and making sure customers are happy.

Rikki, who has worked in the trucking industry for over 25 years, first began her career in trucking while working during the summers at a small distribution center in West Virginia owned by a family member. As she progressed in her career, Rikki transitioned into dispatch work while working for Meyer Distribution.

A career in trucking “fell into my lap.” When Rikki’s friend recommended she apply for a job in trucking early in her career, Rikki did. She was already very familiar with the industry having worked for her family’s business. She also had other family members in the industry: her father, uncle and husband are all professional truck drivers.

When asked what Rikki loves most about working the trucking industry, she said it is working with the drivers. Rikki said, “I love hearing their stories.”

Rikki encourages other women who are interested in joining the trucking industry to consider it. She said, “I would tell them that the trucking industry is a second family and home.”