Women in Trucking Association names Leonard’s Express VP Struzik a “Top Woman to Watch” in Transportation

Leonard’s Express is pleased to announce that Shannon Struzik, VP of People & Development, has been named a 2025 Top Woman to Watch in Transportation by Redefining the Road, the official magazine of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT). The editorial staff selected Struzik as one of 75 trail blazing women for her significant accomplishments throughout her career, particularly over the past 12 to 18 months.

“Part of WIT’s mission is to recognize women like Shannon Struzik for their career accomplishments, their meaningful impact on the success of their companies, and their contributions to the industry at-large,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT President and CEO. “These 75 professionals exemplify the mission and values of the Women In Trucking Association and truly are impressive women to watch in our industry.”

Redefining the Road magazine has been recognizing top performers in the industry through this program for nine years, according to Brian Everett, group publisher and editorial director. Those recognized on the 2025 Top Women to Watch in Transportation list work for a broad range of company types, including motor carriers, third-party logistics companies, equipment manufacturers, professional services companies, technology innovators and private fleets. Their job functions include operations (33%), corporate management (25%), sales and marketing (15%), strategic initiatives (11%), HR/talent management (10%), engineering (3%) and technology (3%).

Struzik has been instrumental in promoting gender equity at Leonard’s Express for more than 6 years, elevating women’s voices and celebrating their successes. Under her leadership, Leonard’s Express has increased the number of women in manager, supervisor, director, and VP positions from 4 to 21.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Women in Trucking Association,” said Struzik. “I’m proud to play a role in creating a work environment that empowers women to reach their full potential. From our founders to our newest hire who started today, we are committed to continue this legacy.”

Struzik is a founding member of Leonard’s Express’ Women In Trucking committee, which meets quarterly to discuss strategies to encourage the employment of women at its companies, identifies ways to develop female leaders, addresses workplace challenges, and celebrates accomplishments through internal and external recognition programs. Struzik also led the committee that created the Patricia “Pat” Johnson Award — a prestigious honor for high-performing women at Leonard’s Express who embody co-founder Pat Johnson’s passion, generosity, selflessness, honesty, independence and integrity.

Last October, WIT named Leonard’s Express a Top Workplace for Women in Transportation for the third consecutive year. Leonard’s was one of just 30 companies nationwide to be recognized for supporting gender diversity by accommodating family and work balance; offering competitive compensation, benefits, and professional growth; and providing career advancement opportunities.

“Shannon inspires our executive leaders, male and female, to be hyper-focused on professional development, to continuously create learning and coaching opportunities, and to enhance career-pathing for women employees,” said Leonard’s Express CEO Kyle Johnson. “She has been instrumental to maintaining a corporate culture that embraces gender diversity, a value that’s in our DNA.”