Celebrating Women’s History Month

Get To Know Some of the Inspiring Women Leaders at Navegate

March is Women’s History Month — a time to honor the bravery and achievements of trailblazing women of the past while elevating women’s voices today.

The work we accomplish at Navegate is at the intersection of transportation, logistics, and technology, which can be difficult for women as these are typically male-dominated professions, which is why part of Navegate’s ongoing journey is eradicating gender bias and inequity in our industry. We aim to do this by assembling a team that prioritizes innovation and collaboration above what is seen as “traditional.”

“Navegate stands out in this largely male-dominated field because of how we strive to empower women as leaders across our organization,” said Chad Bickett, Navegate’s chief operating officer. “We have more women in these leadership roles than is generally seen across the industry, and the women we have are a driving force. I have the utmost confidence in them.”

We’re inspired all year long by the women across Navegate who bring various accomplishments and backgrounds to work every day, from the pathways to our offices in Chicago, Shanghai, and the Twin Cities. In honor of Women’s History Month, hear from a handful of the trailblazing and brilliant women leaders at the heart of our success:

Inside Navegate for Women’s History Month:

• Christene Jovanovic, Director of Air Freight Services

• Caroline Nathan, Account Manager

• Jolee Rief, Customs Brokerage Manager

• Shannon Olson, VP, Global Accounts

• Leah Jackson, Supervisor, Key Accounts

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Christene Jovanovic, Director of Air Freight Services

What steps can we take to increase diversity and support women in the logistics and supply chain industry?

Leaders and businesses can help women in the industry by seeing them as an asset to the company, just like any other employee. In addition, establish a program that demonstrates how to advance to the next level through training and opportunity. Finally, close the gap by providing competitive compensation plans, support, and develop your personnel.

What change would you like to see for women in the workplace in the next ten years?

All employees, including women, should be receiving a standard salary with 3% yearly increases and a quantifiable bonus incentive. In addition, businesses need to support and enhance work-life balance and flexibility in schedules to protect the company and employee morale.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career in a traditionally male-dominated industry like ours?

My advice to women is to demonstrate their organizational and multitasking skills. Speak up to help in the implementation of process and culture changes. Support one another and cross-train on your own if necessary. Show enthusiasm for the position and be proud of yourself. Every day in this profession is chaotic, so keep a level head and remember that you can only manage what you can control.

What is your hope for the next generation of women and girls in the logistics and supply chain industry?

I hope that the next generation of female logistics and supply chain professionals know more than just the computer system. I want them to have the strength and motivation to ask about the hows and whys of a process or a document. I don’t want them to focus only on domestic or international; I want them to come in with an open mind, ready to learn a little bit of everything and discover which fits them best.

Is there a woman at Navegate who you feel is a change-maker and elevates the lives and careers of those around them?

Karin Bentjen is not just hands-on operationally and knows the day-to-day challenges, but she also has an open-door policy. You can talk to her about anything and be confident that you are in a safe setting where she will provide excellent professional advice.

Caroline Nathan, Account Manager

What steps can we take to increase diversity and support women in the logistics and supply chain industry?

To increase diversity and women in our company (and industry), I believe we need to be proactive and intentional when promoting new and open positions.

What change would you like to see for women in the workplace in the next ten years?

I would love to see more diversity and women in positions of authority, particularly at the executive and senior management levels.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career in a traditionally male-dominated industry like ours?

Be confident; your thoughts and opinions are just as valuable as anyone else’s.

What is your hope for the next generation of women and girls in the logistics and supply chain industry?

I hope that women leaders in the logistics and supply chain industry become the norm for future generations and have the opportunity to work in an environment where they see themselves represented at all levels.

Jolee Rief, Customs Brokerage Manager

What is your hope for the next generation of women and girls in the logistics and supply chain industry?

My wish for the next generation of women joining the profession is that they gain the necessary tools, strengthen their network, have a passion for the industry, and use empowerment and knowledge to achieve their goals and uplift others.

Is there a woman at Navegate who you feel is a change-maker and elevates the lives and careers of those around them?

Undoubtedly, all the women of Navegate are inspiring. My most recent example is Desireé Benton, who exemplifies strength, confidence, generosity, equality, respect, and empowers the women around her by being true to herself.

Shannon Olson, VP, Global Accounts

What are barriers or gender biases you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

Logistics has long been “a good ol’ boys club.” But, after 16 years in the industry, I am optimistic that more of my client meetings now include women. At Navegate, we have incredible women leading our teams. So, hopefully, more of our industry peers will shift their mindset to do the same.

What steps can we take to increase diversity and support women in the logistics and supply chain industry?

Companies must commit to gender diversity. This commitment must start at the very top. Women need to be in leadership positions all across the industry; Dedicated recruitment and mentoring are valuable tools that can help make this happen. Women leaders cannot be the only ones to raise the next generation of female leaders; men in executive positions must take the initiative, identify brilliant women, and foster their growth.

Who is the woman who inspires you most?

My grandmother inspires me the most; She was Mrs. Minnesota and Mrs. America’s second runner-up while simultaneously working in sales. It was not an easy undertaking in the 1960s, especially with five children.

What is your hope for the next generation of women and girls in the logistics and supply chain industry?

I hope that opportunities will be based on talent and drive in the future.

Is there a woman at Navegate who you feel is a change-maker and elevates the lives and careers of those around them?

Katie Illa empowers those around her. She educates and supports her peers regularly.

Leah Jackson, Supervisor, Key Accounts

What steps can we take to increase diversity and support women in the logistics and supply chain industry?

Companies and leaders should continue to mentor and promote women in the supply chain industry to increase diversity and support.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career in a traditionally male-dominated industry like ours?

I advise women to seek out a good mentor! Women want to support other women in the industry, so if you encounter someone in your career which inspires you, ask for advice and learn from them. Remember, if she can do it, so can you!

What is your hope for the next generation of women and girls in the logistics and supply chain industry?

My wish for the future generation entering the logistics and supply chain profession is that they work hard and take the industry by storm!

Is there a woman at Navegate who you feel is a change-maker and elevates the lives and careers of those around them?

Shannon Olson has been an incredible mentor to me over the last 15 months, and I can’t wait to see where I go with her guidance and support.

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Navigating Further, Beyond Women’s History Month

According to Christene Jovanovic, Navegate’s director of air freight services, “we don’t need a month to honor the women in our organization since they perform a fantastic job all year. In addition, I am proud that Navegate has more women in management positions than most logistics companies. I look forward to welcoming the women who enter the industry as businesses and our male counterparts continue to move the needle forward.”

Every day, women are breaking new ground in the industry, finding new ways to strengthen and advance supply chains worldwide. We salute all the women serving in the logistics, transportation, and technology industries and believe that together we can break the bias in our communities, industries and end the cycle of prejudice with our children and future generations. At Navegate, we look forward to driving towards a more inclusive industry.

To learn more about Women’s History Month, visit womenshistorymonth.gov.

Interested in joining a dynamic team of diverse problem solvers and innovative logistics and technology leaders who are changing the way we “do” supply chains? Check out the open positions on our career page!