In a significant recognition of leadership and innovation within the trucking industry, Ryder System Inc. (NYSE: R) proudly announces that two of its distinguished leaders, Rhonda McKown and Heike Dasilva, have been honored as part of the 2026 "Top Women to Watch in Trucking" by *Redefining the Road*, the official magazine of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT). This annual award, established in 2018, highlights remarkable women who have made substantial contributions to the industry while promoting diversity and inclusion.

1. Celebrating Exceptional Leaders

Lesley Kerr, Ryder's Vice President of Human Resources and a board member of WIT, emphasized the importance of McKown and Dasilva's contributions, stating, "Rhonda and Heike represent the best of Ryder's culture, where strong leadership means delivering results while creating opportunities for others to succeed. Their impact reaches far beyond their individual roles, and this recognition reflects the standard they set every day."

Rhonda McKown: A Pioneer in Safety Innovation

Rhonda McKown, serving as the Group Technical Safety Engineer, has been acknowledged for her pivotal role in advancing Ryder’s driver-centric safety culture. Over the past 12 to 18 months, McKown has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at modernizing safety programs through innovative technology and collaborative leadership. Her notable achievements include:

Strengthening Personalized Driver Coaching: McKown has enhanced the coaching protocols that focus on individual driver needs.

Launching a Targeted Risk-Reduction Campaign: This initiative is designed to minimize potential hazards and create a safer driving environment.

Redesigning Fatigue and Distraction Programs: By transforming these programs into proactive, automated processes, McKown has prioritized the well-being of drivers, ensuring they remain alert and focused on the road.

Her relentless pursuit of excellence in safety has not only improved operational efficiency but also fostered a culture of care and accountability within the organization.

Heike Dasilva: Nurturing the Next Generation of Leaders

Heike Dasilva, the Group Director of National Sales, has garnered recognition for her exceptional commercial performance and her commitment to developing future leaders at Ryder. Over the last four years, Dasilva has successfully led the largest Fleet Management Solutions sales territory, demonstrating her expertise in expanding revenue portfolios while securing new business ventures. Her accomplishments include:

Achieving High Customer Satisfaction: Under her leadership, the business unit has consistently ranked among Ryder’s top performers in customer satisfaction metrics.

Mentorship and Professional Development: A dedicated mentor, Dasilva has played a crucial role in guiding emerging sales leaders into management positions. She is a former recipient of the WIT Foundation’s Leadership Scholarship and continues her own journey of professional growth by pursuing an MBA.

Community Engagement: Dasilva actively volunteers as a certified mentor for local small business owners, showcasing her commitment to community development.

2. Ryder's Commitment to Inclusivity in Trucking

Ryder System Inc. is steadfast in its commitment to promoting the employment and advancement of women in the trucking industry. The recognition of McKown and Dasilva not only highlights their individual achievements but also underscores Ryder's broader mission to foster connections and celebrate successes across the industry.

As a company that manages approximately 240,000 commercial vehicles and operates nearly 800 maintenance locations, Ryder remains a leading provider of logistics and transportation services throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With a strong focus on technology-driven innovation and industry-leading practices, Ryder has been recognized for its contributions to safety, health, security, talent acquisition, and environmental management.

3. Conclusion

The recognition of Rhonda McKown and Heike Dasilva as 2026 "Top Women to Watch in Trucking" serves as a testament to Ryder's dedication to excellence and leadership in the industry. As the company continues to innovate and inspire, it sets a standard for fostering an inclusive environment that empowers women and promotes diversity in the trucking sector. For a full list of the 2026 honorees, please visit the Women In Trucking Association's official website.

Original press release