From Hourly Job to CEO: Shelley Simpson’s Trucking Journey

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Shelley Simpson, President and CEO of J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.

Join them as they explore:

Shelley’s journey from an entry-level job to CEO - How her father’s advice and mentors shaped her path
The pivotal moment when she realized trucking was her long-term career
How J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. is leading digital transformation with technology-driven logistics
The role of mentorship and sponsorship in leadership success
Why J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. celebrates its Million Mile Drivers and the importance of driver safety
The company’s vision to create the most efficient transportation network in North America
Shelley’s thoughts on balancing career growth with personal life and how J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. supports working parents
What’s next for J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. and the trucking industry

Shelley Simpson is a visionary leader and President & CEO of J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., shaping the future of freight through innovation, digital transformation, and strategic leadership. Starting as an hourly customer service rep in 1994, she climbed the ranks, leading J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.’s intermodal, dedicated, and brokerage divisions. She spearheaded J.B. Hunt 360®, transforming freight logistics. Passionate about mentorship, workforce development, and women in leadership, she fosters a culture that values people and progress. Under her leadership, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. is driving toward its vision of creating the most efficient transportation network in North America.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:02 - 00:06:10] Shelley Simpson shares her unexpected entry into the trucking industry, beginning as a customer service representative at J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. Although she initially aspired to be a teacher, she switched to a business career after discussing financial stability with her father. A classmate introduced her to J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., where what she thought would be a short-term job evolved into a career-defining opportunity. She reflects on her early career days, realizing the vastness of the logistics industry. Brent and Shelley talk about how mentorship, curiosity, and a strong work ethic helped her advance through the ranks.

[00:06:10 - 00:12:00] Shelley reflects on how mentorship and sponsorship played a crucial role in shaping her career. She highlights the impact of Kirk Thompson and Craig Harper, two leaders at J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., who helped guide her professional growth. She explains the difference between a mentor and a sponsor, emphasizing that sponsors actively advocate for your career advancement. Shelley shares how their guidance pushed her beyond her comfort zone, leading to pivotal promotions. She stresses the importance of building strong relationships and how leaders should be intentional about developing the next generation.

[00:20:00 - 00:28:44] Shelley discusses the Million Mile Driver program, which recognizes drivers who have logged one to five million accident-free miles. She describes how these drivers are celebrated with a special ceremony, bonuses, and company-wide recognition. J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. has now honored over 5,000 Million Mile Drivers, reinforcing its commitment to safety, respect, and driver appreciation. Shelley shares how these drivers are the heart of the company, often acting as mentors to newer drivers. Brent highlights the demanding nature of truck driving, making this achievement even more remarkable.

[00:28:44 - 00:36:00] Shelley explains how J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc 360®, the company’s digital freight platform, is transforming how shippers and carriers connect. In 2015, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. identified a gap in the market, realizing drivers were using their website to search for loads. This insight led to the development of a fully automated, real-time load-matching system. The platform helps reduce wasted time for drivers, improve freight efficiency, and provide better pricing and transparency. Brent and Shelley discuss how technology is shaping the future of trucking and how J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. is committed to staying ahead.

[00:36:00 - 00:44:25] As the conversation wraps up, Shelley shares J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.’s long-term vision for the industry. She discusses the company’s focus on automation, AI, and supply chain optimization, ensuring greater efficiency and sustainability. She also highlights how J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. is investing in digital freight matching to help drivers and shippers maximize productivity. Brent and Shelley discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, including driver retention, evolving regulations, and industry-wide innovation. Shelley closes by emphasizing J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.’s commitment to putting people first while driving technological advancements.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. instructions on how to do this are here.