Abstract:

Despite extensive career opportunities, women remain underrepresented in the transportation and logistics industry, occupying only significantly less than half of the jobs (Gartner 2023). This disparity persists due to noticeable entry barriers, particularly in roles requiring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) expertise. Currently, role models in the transportation and logistics sector are predominantly male. The extensive array of tasks and career opportunities offered by the transportation and logistics industry is often unknown, and the strong emphasis on STEM fields is perceived as a barrier by women (Putz 2018). There is a need for awareness, information, and encouragement.

The sustainable transport department aims to address the described gender gap by developing sophisticated, gender-sensitive, encouraging educational materials, videos, workshops, and networking events to inspire women to pursue careers in transportation and logistics and to develop opportunities for educators and employers as well. Within one of their projects, they will support the latter with modern resources to better showcase career opportunities in the male-dominated transportation and logistics industry. Focusing on sustainability, STEM, and digitalization as key drivers of the industry, the department seeks to empower women professionally and dismantle traditional gender roles.

This paper presents preliminary findings from the initial assessment of entry barriers for women in logistics professions. The analysis focuses on a survey with female teenaged students, university students, women taking alternative educational paths, and HR professionals regarding their interest in the industry, entry barriers, and motivations. The study aims at involving quantitative as well as qualitative interviews with 3-5 HR experts.

References:
[1] Putz (2018). Gamified Workshops to Create Awareness about Sustainable Transport. Dissertation.
[2] Gartner (2023). Women in Supply Chain Survey: Key Findings. Retrieved online at https://www.gartner.com/en/supply-chain/trends/2023-women-in-supply-chain-survey-highlights, March 14th, 2024.

Keywords:

Female careers in logistics, education, teaching material, sustainable transport.