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From page 47:

It was always assumed that I would ultimately work in the family business, a third-generation International logistics and customs brokerage firm.  While there was a period that suggested dreams do not always come true, things turned around.

In 1991, after a short career in the advertising industry, I decided to enter the firm. I didn’t want to leave my home in Philadelphia. so I agreed to manage a soon-to-be-opened office there.

In those days, the industry was male-dominated at the upper management level.  I remember attending my first meeting of the local brokers’ association and inadvertently serving as the ‘token female.’ I must admit, however, that I personally had experienced little or no resistance from my colleagues as a result of my gender.

It was somewhat of a different story within our company. The firm was smaller in those days and its (all-male) managers each had been with the firm for 25 years or more. Each of them had a feeling of a propriety interest and it was up to me, I felt, to prove myself.  I did so by getting my broker’s license in 1995, and gently (I hope) insinuating myself into their good graces.  In time, they acknowledged my ability and they also supported me wholeheartedly.

In March 2002, I was elected president and chief executive, succeeding my father and grandfather.

Our company just celebrated our 90th birthday and, while many things have changed since 1915, we remain devoted to our core values of service, employee development, innovation and pursuit of integrity.

For a once male-dominated industry, our payroll is now comprised of approximately 75 percent women, many of who are in leadership positions. I have also added a female member on our board of directors.  This not only allows for a broader perspective on issues, but it also sends out the message that we are focused on the importance of diversity and equality.