Meet the women shattering stereotypes across the UK
1 in 5 women work within the logistics workforce
- Only 1 in 5 woman pursue a career within logistics
- Meet the women shattering stereotypes in the male-dominated workforce
- Former Miss England contestant Milly Everatt and 23 year old Kiran Rai are part of the minority of women working in the male-dominated logistics sector
- From HGV drivers to transport managers, meet the women paving the way and why they encourage other women to do the same with Generation Logistics
With only 1 in 5 women working in the logistics workforce, it can be easy to assume why the sector is one that typically suits traditional male roles. Generation Logistics is shining a light on the women who are paving the way for gender diversity in the industry, and why they’re encouraging other women to do the same.
Former Miss England contestant, 23 year old Milly Everatt swapped her high heels for a hi-vis, as she ditched the catwalk and opted for the open roads by pursuing a career as a lorry driver. Shattering stereotypes, Milly shows that it’s not just men who can operate heavy duty vehicles, as she is now hauling 44-ton wagons across the country.
On pursuing a male-dominated role, Milly commented: “I haven’t once felt out of place or intimated, which was one of my main concerns before taking this job on. Instead, everybody has been really welcoming and supportive.”
When it comes to encouraging other women to step into the industry, Milly adds: “My best advice is just to do it. With so many roles and training opportunities available, now is a really exciting time to get involved with the industry, and the wages have been really great too!”
Joining Milly on the road less travelled is 23 year old Gurkiran Rai, a Transport Manager for DHL. After joining the business over five years on the apprenticeship scheme, Gurkiran has progressed internally and recently achieved DHL’s Employee Of The Quarter award. When asked about her reasons for joining the logistics company, Gurkiran answered: “I wanted to create a change within the logistics team and show that women are more than capable. DHL allowed me to do that and supported me through my different job titles and progression.”
For other women who may be leaving school, graduating university or simply looking to change their careers, Gurkiran encourages women to consider the logistics sector, adding: “Don’t hesitate, don’t think too much of the cons because when you list the fears they add up. It’s such an enjoyable industry all you must do is know your facts and back yourself and you will be fine. Once you start networking you have it all!”
Bethany Windsor, Programme Manager at Generation Logistics, commented: “We’re incredibly proud of the women that are shattering stereotypes across what still remains a heavily male-dominated industry, and Kiran and Milly are two fantastic examples. The push for inclusion and gender diversity across the country has prompted an increase in female logistics professionals, and in turn, changing our industry for the better.
“Whilst women in the workforce have risen across a breadth of roles, ranging from data scientists and engineers right the way through to transport managers and HGV drivers, there is still progress to be made. We encourage women of all skill sets and backgrounds to seriously consider a career within the logistics sector, as we continue to champion women and the opportunities available.”
