ITC Business Council – Ladda Love Hawkins

Ladda Love Hawkins – Member of the Business Council for Logistics and Transportation

 

Ladda Love Hawkins is the Director of Community Engagement at the African American Women in Trucking Association (AAWTA), where she plays a pivotal role in empowering women of color in the transportation and logistics industry. Founded in 2022, AAWTA provides a valuable platform for its members to network, share experiences, and access resources that enhance their careers in a predominantly male-dominated field. Ladda’s journey in the industry began as a trucking insurance broker, where she developed a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges of the logistics landscape.

 

Ladda holds several insurance licenses, including risk management and property & casualty designations, as well as the Transportation Risk Insurance Professional designation. These qualifications have been instrumental in her success and have equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate the intricacies of the industry.

 

Among her key initiatives, Ladda has successfully launched the AAWTA Marketplace, which serves as a vital resource for members to connect and conduct business. She takes great pride in her professional accomplishments, particularly in owning and operating her independent insurance agency for four years, a testament to her dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.

 

Since starting her career, Ladda has witnessed significant changes in the industry, especially regarding pricing dynamics and overall economics. Currently, she identifies profitability for small owner/operators as one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. Looking ahead, she foresees an increased focus on automation and real-time reporting, which will enhance safety and transparency within the logistics sector.

 

Ladda is particularly excited about the evolution of safety devices, recognizing their potential to improve operational efficiency and safety standards. For those new to the industry, her advice is to focus on a specific niche to establish a strong foundation.

 

When facing setbacks, Ladda emphasizes the importance of understanding the root cause of challenges to develop effective solutions. She draws daily inspiration from the everyday individuals she encounters in the field, whose resilience and dedication motivate her.

 

Outside of her professional commitments, Ladda enjoys easy hikes and spa time, activities that help her unwind and maintain a balanced lifestyle. As a member of the International Trade Council’s Logistics and Transportation Business Council, Ladda is committed to advocating for diversity and inclusion within the industry, striving to create pathways for success for underrepresented groups.