The 2024 Women with Drive Leadership Summit held on March 7th in Toronto brought together close to 350 attendees, experts, and honoured guests to share, learn, and connect.

This year’s theme Driving a Decade of Change celebrated the profound impact of Women with Drive and the progress of trucking and logistics employers in supporting women’s professional goals.

“Women with Drive is the premiere event of its kind in our industry — with unmatched access to resources to help increase the representation and participation of women in the trucking and logistics sector,” says Angela Splinter, CEO of Trucking HR Canada. “This year’s Summit exceeded all our expectations. The stellar line-up of government leaders, industry, technology, and leadership experts inspired, educated, and engaged all attendees and will have a profound impact on their work as they move into the future.”

Among the highlights was a special address by the Hon’ Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, who talked about labour market issues and the importance of government investment in industry. The minister then participated in a fireside chat session moderated by Splinter.

Other notable speakers included David Irvine, trusted leadership advisor and best-selling author; Sean Stephens, CEO of Treefrog Inc.; and Shirley Best, Transportation Empowerment Advocate.

The day also included a 10 Years – 10 Perspective Panel showcasing experts from across the country with unique perspectives on women in trucking, and Learning Highway sessions featuring specialized industry information and resources.

Trucking HR Canada used the occasion of the Summit to formally release its 2024-2030 labour market outlook report, Driving Progress – The New Road Ahead. 

The report revealed that the industry is moving the needle on recruiting more women, youth and newcomers, the driver shortage remains an issue and employers are increasingly concerned about non-driving occupations. The report also included, for the first time in a decade, increasing input costs replaced driver shortage as the top concern for employers.

Trucking HR Canada highlighted special achievements at the day-long Summit, awarding the second Women with Drive Leadership Award to Angelique Magi of Element Fleet Management. The award was inspired by the many trailblazing women working to keep the Canadian supply chain moving, and acknowledges their commitment inclusion, and dedication to supporting their peers and nurturing the next generation of our workforce.