The transportation industry in the United States has long been dominated by men, with women making up less than 12% of the workforce according to a 2022 report from the Women in Trucking Association. Even fewer women hold leadership positions in this sector, where the demands of the job, from managing logistics to navigating regulatory complexities, present significant challenges. However, more women are breaking into this space, leading companies, and proving that they have what it takes to thrive in this high-pressure environment. Their contributions are reshaping the industry’s future, demonstrating the power of diversity in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Maira Kidassova is an example of such a woman. As the founder and owner of an interstate car transportation company in the U.S., she has not only carved out a niche for her business but has also become a shining example of leadership in an industry that still remains overwhelmingly male. Despite the challenges and barriers that come with entering a male-dominated space, Maira’s determination, strategic thinking, and leadership have enabled her company to grow and succeed.
“When I first entered this industry, I realized very quickly that I was one of the few women in the room,” Maira recalls. “It’s not just about being a woman in transportation—it’s about proving that I can lead just as effectively, if not better, than anyone else.”
Maira’s journey into the U.S. transport industry wasn’t easy. Entering the market with no prior experience, she had to build her business from the ground up, learning the ins and outs of the field while competing with more established, male-led companies. Yet, her fresh perspective and ability to make critical decisions under pressure set her apart. “I had to make tough calls early on,” she says. “From handling regulatory challenges to ensuring every logistical detail was perfect, there was no room for error.”
Her leadership style is rooted in pragmatism and empathy, qualities she believes are essential for succeeding in such a demanding field. “In this industry, you can’t lead by force or fear—you lead by example, by showing that you’re capable and that you care about the details,” Maira explains. “That’s how I earned the respect of my clients and my team.”
Her ability to navigate the complexities of running a transportation company, from managing logistics to maintaining compliance with FMCSA regulations, has earned her a reputation for reliability and excellence. Maira’s company has secured contracts with major brokerage firms, dealerships, and car rental services across multiple states, proving that women can succeed at the highest levels in this field.
Maira is candid about the additional challenges she has faced as a woman entrepreneur in a sector where men typically hold the reins. “There were times when I felt like I had to work twice as hard just to be taken seriously,” she says. “There’s an unspoken assumption that this is a man’s world, and breaking through that mindset was one of the biggest hurdles.”
Despite these challenges, Maira views her role as an opportunity to challenge stereotypes and inspire other women to enter the transport industry. She acknowledges that her position comes with a sense of responsibility to show that gender doesn’t determine one’s ability to lead. “I want other women to see that it’s possible. You don’t have to follow the path that’s already laid out for you—you can create your own,” she adds.
Maira’s experience aligns with broader trends in women’s leadership in male-dominated industries. According to a 2021 McKinsey report on gender diversity, companies with women in leadership roles see a 15% higher profit margin compared to those without. A shining example is Judy McReynolds, CEO of ArcBest, one of the few women leading a major logistics company in the U.S. Like Maira, McReynolds has challenged industry norms, proving that women can not only survive but thrive in the transportation sector. Both women’s stories show that determination, leadership, and an innovative mindset can break down long-standing barriers.
Maira’s leadership has also been tested in the high-stakes environment of U.S. transportation. From ensuring that her fleet meets all safety regulations to handling complex logistics for cross-state deliveries, her decision-making skills have been critical to the company’s success. “Every day brings a new challenge,” she says. “Whether it’s a last-minute client request or a new regulation that changes how we operate, you have to be adaptable and ready to make decisions under pressure.”
Her ability to stay calm and focused in high-pressure situations has earned her the trust of her clients and team alike. Maira emphasizes that good leadership in this industry isn’t about controlling every situation—it’s about empowering your team to make smart decisions and creating a culture where everyone is accountable. “I’ve built a team that knows the importance of precision. In our line of work, there’s no margin for error, so we make sure every detail is checked and rechecked,” she explains.
Maira Kidassova’s journey as a woman entrepreneur in the male-dominated U.S. transportation industry is a powerful reminder that leadership knows no gender. Her ability to lead with confidence, make tough decisions under pressure, and build a successful business from the ground up is proof that women can and should play a larger role in this sector.
As Maira puts it, “Being a woman in this industry isn’t a disadvantage—it’s an opportunity to show that we belong here. We can lead, we can innovate, and we can succeed.” Her story is a testament to the resilience, skill, and determination required to break barriers and thrive in a field that has long been dominated by men.
