by Courtney Bloom, on May 1, 2025 5:00:00 AM
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Katie Petrie as its May 2025 Member of the Month. Petrie is the Head of Human Resources at American Expediting Logistics.
In an industry that keeps the world moving but often operates behind the scenes, few voices echo with the same blend of passion, resilience, and purpose as Petrie’s. With nearly a decade of experience in transportation and logistics, her story is a testament to intentional growth, courageous decision-making, and people-centered leadership.
Her journey into the trucking industry began in an unexpected place – Harley Davidson, in the luxury recreational space. However, it was during a graduate school internship at XTRA Lease that she truly discovered her calling in transportation. That opportunity opened the door to a full-time role in Missouri, where she managed talent strategy for a company operating an impressive 90,000-trailer fleet across 50+ locations.
Over seven years, she evolved from Talent Manager to HR Director, sharpening her strategic skills and deepening her commitment to the field. That foundation prepared her for her next chapter at American Expediting Logistics, where she started as a Senior Director and now serves as Head of HR, leading with clarity, compassion, and vision.
Passion with Purpose
What drives her? It’s the profound impact of logistics on the world. “The supply chain is the unseen force that powers our world,” said Petrie. “Knowing that my work has a direct impact on the economy and on people’s lives keeps me motivated.”
That motivation is clearly paying off. She’s helped her teams achieve numerous accolades, including the Women In Trucking “Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation” (2024) and Delaware Valley HR Excellence Awards for Total Rewards (2023) and Talent Development (2024).
Resilience in Action
Early in her career, she took a leap of faith by relocating her family from Wisconsin to Missouri to pursue an opportunity in logistics. It was a challenge that tested her resilience but ultimately shaped her career. “That decision required personal sacrifice,” she said. “But it proved to be one of the most rewarding risks I’ve ever taken.”
Support from her mentors played a key role in her journey. Influential figures such as Steve Bishara, Kim Berriman, and Dr. Joel Nadler helped refine her leadership approach and expand her strategic thinking.
Leading the Future of HR
Her professional goals are both focused and inspiring. In the next year, she aims to expand her strategic impact within American Expediting Logistics. Over the next five years, she envisions scaling her leadership across a larger organization – continuing to champion a people-first culture that drives business success.
She offers this advice to women entering the industry: “Don’t be afraid to aim high. This industry needs your ambition, perspective, and voice.” And her favorite career wisdom? “Be a business partner first. Understand your area but never lose sight of the broader business goals.”
Beyond the Office
Away from the logistics world, she’s a mom of four, a fitness enthusiast, and a music lover with a soft spot for '70s to '90s tunes. She grew up on a dairy farm, loves experimenting with new recipes, and is always ready for the next family adventure. “Seeing the world through my kids’ eyes is so magical,” she said.
Currently binge-watching Navy SEALs, she finds joy in balance between leading teams, raising a family, and staying connected to her roots.
To Petrie, HR is more than a department – it’s a catalyst for organizational change. “I’m passionate about building inclusive, people-focused workplaces that drive business results,” she says. It’s a mission she’s living every day, helping transform the transportation industry from the inside out.
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