by Women In Trucking Staff, on May 1, 2024 9:35:08 AM
ARLINGTON, Va. – May 1, 2024 – The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Arelis Bonilla as its May 2024 Member of the Month. Bonilla is the president and CEO of Aria Logistics.
Bonilla was inspired by her father, a truck driver. She cultivated a deep-seated aspiration to follow in his footsteps and loves working in the transportation industry. Knowing that every day is different, she said, “I love the day-to-day challenges.” She enjoys the critical on-demand thinking that is imperative in her field of work and makes every day interesting and rewarding.
At just 20 years old, Bonilla embarked on a self-employment journey while pursuing a full-time college education, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Berkeley College in 2009.
Despite encountering financial adversity during the 2008 financial crisis, she persevered, delving into business logistics and transportation. Drawing from her past setbacks and a fervent desire to effect positive change and leave a lasting imprint on the industry, she took the bold leap to establish her own company.
Her journey began in 2013 with the acquisition of her first delivery truck, sparking her mission to transform transportation management for shippers and consumers alike. Through Aria Logistics, she has led the way in providing top-tier service, guaranteeing the seamless delivery of large and bulky items from warehouse to customer, thereby establishing new benchmarks in last-mile home delivery. Bonilla highlights the critical importance of persistence, innovation, and decisive action in entrepreneurship. With a deep understanding of business complexities, she embodies resilience and steadfast dedication.
The inception of Aria Logistics was not devoid of apprehension, yet Bonilla approached the challenges with fortitude and optimism, embracing failures as invaluable learning experiences. Starting as a modest operation, she assumed multifaceted roles encompassing sales, marketing, and customer service. Despite the hurdles, Bonilla persisted, drawing upon each encounter as a stepping stone toward growth. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, she navigated new markets, diversified offerings, and forged strategic partnerships. Today, Aria Logistics boasts a workforce of over fifty exceptional individuals, each instrumental in propelling the company forward.
She loves to mentor saying, “just sharing my story in itself is a form of mentorship.” Directing women to the great organizations out there, such as Women in Trucking, is another way to receive valuable information to help anyone looking to get involved in the trucking industry. Women interested in joining the trucking industry should thoroughly research the field to understand its demands and opportunities. Networking with other women in the industry can provide valuable insights and support.
Bonilla envisioned a venture that delivered exceptional services, fostered employment opportunities, and contributed to community advancement. Her pride in Aria Logistics as a minority, women-owned business underscores her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity.
Distinguished by its unparalleled customer service, Aria Logistics sets a new benchmark within the industry under Bonilla's guidance. Recognizing that satisfied customers are the cornerstone of success, Bonilla endeavors to create unforgettable experiences for all clientele interactions. Through active listening and a customer-centric approach, she tailors solutions that foster unwavering loyalty and trust.
Taking care of physical and mental well-being is essential for a demanding lifestyle. Women should advocate for themselves professionally and embrace technology to enhance efficiency. Pursuing opportunities for advancement and career growth while staying motivated and committed to their goals will help ensure success in the trucking industry.
Bonilla was inducted into the Prestigious Marquis Who’s Who Biographical Registry and recognized as a Top Woman-Owned Company in Transportation, which underscores her exemplary leadership and industry prowess. She actively engages in various organizations, remains attuned to industry developments, and advocates for inclusivity and empowerment. Bonilla's unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with her status as a certified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise, solidifies her position as a trailblazer within the entrepreneurial landscape. She plans to continue to grow and expand her footprint to even more diverse home deliveries.
Not only is she an extremely successful business owner, but Bonilla also has two children, a boy, and a girl. She is immensely proud of them and is extremely involved in their interests. She attends as many volleyball and basketball games as she can. She was extremely excited to hear that not only was she a WIT Member of the Month, but for May since May also celebrates Mother’s Day.
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About Women In Trucking Association, Inc.
Women In Trucking Association, Inc. is a nonprofit association established to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments and minimize obstacles faced by women working in the trucking industry. Membership is not limited to women, as 17 percent of its members are men who support the mission. Women In Trucking is supported by its members and the generosity of Gold Level Partners: Arrow Truck Sales, Bridgestone Americas, Daimler Truck North America, FedEx Freight, Great Dane, J.B. Hunt Transport, Michelin North America, Navistar International, Inc., PACCAR, Penske Transportation Solutions, Ryder System, Walmart, and WM. Follow WIT on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. For more information, visit www.womenintrucking.org or call 888-464-9482.
