The 2025 Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards, in association with BP, is celebrating exceptional women who are transforming the industry through innovation, leadership and vision.
Two of this year’s judges explain why female role models are vital for attracting a new generation of women to the fleet sector.
Keely Priestman (pictured), general manager at Palletline, and a judge for 2025’s Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards, has worked in the industry for more than 20 years.
Priestman said she has seen an increase in the number of women working in the sector, more generally in office-based administration and management roles, but more recently in ‘physical’ roles, too.
She added: “I passed my LGV Category C licence seven years ago and still get a real buzz from being behind the wheel, so I would encourage any woman with an interest to give it a go.
“That’s vital in this sector, representation is everything. If you can see someone like you thriving in a role, you’ll be more likely to try it yourself.
“When I lead driver inductions, I always say: “I won’t ask you to do anything I wouldn’t do myself.” That message matters. It helps break down the perception that logistics is only for the physically strong. It’s a job anyone can do with the right tools, support and mindset.”
Priestman said that Palletline continually review its processes to ensure drivers can work safely and effectively and that tools such as electric-assisted pump trucks help make the job safer and less physically challenging.
Priestman has been a judge for the Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards for six years and is a previous winner.
She said: “Every year I’m blown away by the determination and excellence shown by nominees. But the fact that so many feel they must go the extra mile just to be recognised speaks volumes.
“It’s still not as easy as it should be for women to progress or to be seen as equals in this industry.
“While I’ve seen more women stepping into senior roles, the fear of not being ‘enough’ still lingers. That’s why the awards are so important.
“They spotlight achievement at every stage of a woman’s career and challenge companies, especially smaller ones, to create more inclusive workplaces.
“Winning a T&L Award was a career highlight for me. I still pinch myself that I stood out among so many inspiring women, some of whom I continue to look up to today.
“These awards don’t just celebrate success; they inspire women to step forward, speak up, and push past their comfort zones.”
Fleet News, media partner of the Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards, recently launched Empowering Women in Fleet – an initiative designed to spotlight and celebrate the achievements of women in the fleet sector.
The first female RAF fast jet pilot will be one of two inspirational speakers at Fleet News’s first Empowering Women in Fleet regional meeting this week.
Vanessa Young, director at Ketra Logistics, and a judge for 2025’s Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards, said that winning the Everywoman Transport and Logistics Freight Leader award has been a career highlight this year.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding and has boosted my confidence and professional growth,” said Young.
“Since receiving the award, Ketra Logistics has continued to see 20% growth in a challenging economy. The biggest accomplishment is maintaining our service levels and customer base, as we continue to put the customer at the heart of every decision.
“What stood out about my fellow finalists and the awards was the shared commitment to advancing the transport and logistics industry, particularly in bringing awareness to the imbalance in gender equality.
“Each finalist brought unique perspectives and innovation, making the experience both humbling and inspiring.
“I was grateful to be recognised for this award, and it has motivated me to continue striving for excellence and contributing positively to our great industry.”
The sold-out Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards ceremony takes place this week on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at Park Plaza London Riverbank.
Check out the finalists here
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Jessica is event and digital content co-ordinator for all our events.
She was the web producer at Fleet News, Commercial Fleet and Smart Transport until April 2023.
She started her career as a content writer for a digital marketing agency that specialised in financial services, where she worked for more than two years.
Jessica was awarded the degree of Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Multimedia Journalism in 2017.
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