In Praise of Some Exceptional Transportation and Logistics Professionals
Having recently completed an interview with a columnist about the imminent Cap and Trade legislation and its potential impact on transportation costs, I was all set to use this Blog to talk about how our politicians are doing more things to harm our economy. But honestly, as I started writing the Blog, it was too discouraging and depressing. I mean if Representatives Waxman and Markey, and their fellow Democrats want to continue their attacks on commerce and business in this country, who am I to prevent their assault?
So instead, let’s talk about something positive and inspiring. I am very fortunate to know competent and very capable logistics professionals who are making a difference in their organizations. Despite the state of the industry, and the economy at large, these individuals are not standing by waiting for the ball to drop. Instead, they are taking the initiative to do what they can to not only mitigate the impact we are all exposed to, but improve their current situations, and that of the companies they represent.
I’d like to introduce you to George Harry, Laurie Youngberg, Judy Psenko, and Doug Clark, all of whom I have known for several years. Their titles or companies are not important. What is important is that each, in their own way, possesses the attributes that makes them exceptional industry professionals.
George Harry has a senior position in the supply chain for a major health care and personal products company. He is one busy individual, yet every year for the past several years, George has taken the time to promote National Transportation Week within his organization (held this year May 14th – 20th).
During the week, George sent out a daily notice to people throughout his organization extolling the value of the transportation function. In addition to sending out notices though, George and his staff organized seminars and, to make sure that it was fun, some games that underscored important transportation issues. He could easily say “I’m too busy to do this stuff.” Instead, because of his dedication, the people within his organization have a much better understanding about the importance of the work performed by the transportation group.
Laurie Youngberg has been with a major hardware products company for several years. Laurie works for things to be better – whether personally or professionally. Instead of simply accepting the status quo, or the logic that says “this is the way we’ve always done things around here,” Laurie is not afraid to change things in order to save money and improve processes.
Her success earned her a promotion to managing the logistics council for this decentralized organization. In that position she used her skills and abilities to generate millions of dollars in savings. And when Laurie recently learned that this position would be eliminated, she was already embracing the possibilities of a brighter future.
Another person who has embraced the possibilities of a brighter future is Judy Psenko. Back in the 80s, Judy was an analyst in a corporate traffic department. One thing that really stood out was her passion for learning. She read, attended seminars, and would let me know the great new things she was learning. Today, she works for a division of a large conglomerate. Guess what? In that capacity she has taken the things she has learned over the years and applied them; thus her company has benefited with savings and improvements from the programs she has initiated. One other thing - she is not afraid to say “thanks for the help.”
Finally, Doug Clark is a leader who makes a difference. In addition to being a successful business person, Doug has been the Chairman of the Board of a major industry association. I’ve served with Doug on the Board and Executive Committee of this association and have seen his wisdom, grace and exceptional leadership abilities in directing the activities of this group. Through his efforts, the association has grown and become more effective in representing its members.
In closing, I could have easily included hundreds of individuals who are exceptional and represent the profession in an outstanding manner. I am privileged to work with these people as customers and through my involvement in numerous industry associations. They inspire me with the number of hours and passion they give in order to make the transportation marketplace and their companies a better place.
Given what is happening in Washington D.C. and the ability of our politicians to really screw things up, I know from personal experience that one can overlook many of the positive things that make this country great. So to these four individuals, as well as the hundreds of others out there, thank you for being an inspiration to me and others!
LKYoungberg commented:
