The Women In Trucking Association recently announced Natalie Kathain as its August Member of the Month. She is the chief human resources officer at Amerit Fleet Solutions.
As the chief human resources officer at Amerit Fleet Solutions, Kathain has been responsible for driving human resources strategy, developing talent, employee engagement, communications, and overseeing safety and compliance programs for the provider of fleet maintenance and repair programs with headquarters locations in Wal;nut Creek, California and Charlotte, North Carolina.
Kathain said she takes pride in creating and cultivating a diverse, inclusive work environment. Understanding working moms' challenges, Kathain is a voice for women in the male-dominated industry.
“When I became a manager at Amerit,” she said, “I promised myself to promote and elevate women, and I am proud of the strides we've made.”
Today, Amerit Fleet Solutions has a thriving learning and development team that crafts comprehensive training programs, fostering continuous professional growth, according to Kahtain. The Amerit team works to ensure employees are equipped with the necessary skills to excel in the fleet industry. To further enhance employee satisfaction, Kathain said Amerit Fleet Solutions’ dedicated engagement team actively promotes a positive, inclusive culture. This team now implements strategic initiatives designed to increase employee involvement and retention and recognize achievements.
Amerit Fleet Solutions also has an employee resource group program, as part of its environmental, social, and governance initiative. Amerit developed the Women’s Initiative Network, an ERG dedicated to empowering women, establishing connections, and adding value to communities while developing unity in the workplace. They meet every month, and women come together and support each other.
Kathain's advice for women in the industry is not just a suggestion but a call to action. She urges them to seek out like-minded individuals to work with:
"Find women who support each other," she said. "Build relationships and partnerships and have positive conversations with each other."
Kathain is the first C-level female executive at Amerit, marking progress for the company and the fleet management industry. Kathain said she wants women to understand they can succeed in trucking and maintenance in supervisory roles, ADP roles, director roles, senior leadership, and others.
“I want them to know that there’s growth and diversity in this industry and that we can call on so many more that we can help elevate,” she said. “We can change the narrative, the whole perspective that people now have. As we bring more women into this industry, we will be a changed industry.”
Kathain said she is honored to have the opportunity to make an impact and strive for excellence.
“Just the privilege to be in this role working alongside such an amazing team is so gratifying,” she said..
Kathain said her number one goal as is to “drive equality one mile at a time” as she fosters an inclusive workplace where every individual's voice is heard and valued, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
“I also have had amazing women who have elevated and mentored me, and I want women to be promoted, elevated, and get a seat at the table in return.," she said.
