Shaping Safety: Meet Snizhana Samiylenko, the Woman Driving Change in the Trucking Industry
24 February 2025
In an industry often defined by high-pressure decisions and relentless challenges, Snizhana Samiylenko has carved out a remarkable path as Safety Director at USKO. With over a decade of experience in trucking, she has turned obstacles into opportunities, fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and innovation. Known for her hands-on leadership and commitment to community, Snizhana’s story is one of resilience, growth, and an unwavering dedication to making the roads—and the industry—safer for everyone. This is her journey.
What inspired you to pursue a career in logistics, and what was your journey like to reach your current role?
My journey in logistics began over 10 years ago, at a time when I had little understanding of the trucking industry. It has been an incredible learning experience, and I’ve discovered that the learning never truly stops because the industry is constantly evolving.
When I joined USKO almost four years ago, I wasn’t just joining a company—I was becoming part of a community, a family. What inspired me was the culture here, where we celebrate life together through baby showers, bridal showers, birthdays, New Year’s parties, and community events. This sense of belonging - a place where I could live life, even while at work - was exactly what I was looking for. At USKO, I’ve had the opportunity to not only grow professionally but also to create a safety team that is focused on collaboration, brainstorming, and supporting one another.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and how have you overcome them?
The trucking industry is far from easy—it can be very stressful and often demands quick thinking and fast decision-making, especially during high-pressure situations like accidents or emergencies. These challenges have made me stronger and helped shape my character.
As a woman, I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. It’s about staying resilient and focused, proving that you can contribute fresh ideas and make a real impact. Surrounding myself with a supportive team and working for a company that values collaboration and innovation has also been crucial in overcoming these challenges.
Can you share a specific project or achievement in logistics that you're particularly proud of?
I’m particularly proud of several initiatives I’ve introduced at USKO, but one that stands out is our CHP Community Events. These free training sessions are designed to help drivers, safety managers, and even mechanics improve their skills and prepare for stressful situations on the road. With police officers participating, we provide valuable insights into accident prevention, compliance, and handling violations. These events have fostered a culture of safety within our community and made a real difference.
Another achievement I’m proud of is our Driver Award of the Year program, which recognizes drivers who have had no accidents, tickets, or violations throughout the year. This program not only celebrates excellence but also motivates our drivers to uphold the highest safety standards.
Finally, our one-on-one driver training sessions have been incredibly impactful. By addressing specific questions and providing personalized information, these sessions help drivers understand the “what, why, and how” of their responsibilities, empowering them to excel on the road.
Finally, our one-on-one driver training sessions have been incredibly impactful. By addressing specific questions and providing personalized information, these sessions help drivers understand the “what, why, and how” of their responsibilities, empowering them to excel on the road.
What unique perspectives or strengths do you believe women bring to the logistics field?
Women bring a unique ability to multitask, communicate effectively, and foster collaboration—qualities that are essential in logistics. We also tend to approach problems with creativity and empathy, which can lead to innovative solutions and stronger team dynamics. Personally, I believe women contribute to building inclusive work environments that prioritize mutual support and growth. By championing teamwork and sharing new perspectives, women help create a more dynamic and resilient industry.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to build a successful career in logistics?
My advice is simple: embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Stay resilient, believe in yourself, and don’t be afraid to bring fresh ideas to the table. Find a supportive work environment and surround yourself with colleagues who encourage your development. Most importantly, strive to make a positive impact on the people and communities around you. The trucking industry may be challenging, but with determination and the right mindset, the opportunities for growth and success are limitless.