There are women running cargo terminals at some of the world’s busiest hubs. Women negotiating significant freighter contracts. Women writing the code that underpins digital cargo booking platforms, and women mentoring the next generation of aviation logistics professionals. Yet ask anyone outside the air cargo industry to picture an air cargo professional, and the image that comes to mind is rarely that of a woman. That is a problem the industry must actively work to correct – and the Women in Air Cargo Awards, hosted by CAAS Int, is one way forward.
Now in its second year, the Women in Air Cargo Awards aims to empower change, celebrate achievement, and shape a more diverse future in air cargo. It does this by giving the floor to those women whose leadership, contributions and dedication are positively impacting the direction of our industry.
Recognizing women in Air Cargo matters
Air cargo is a dynamic, global industry that keeps world trade moving and connects international communities. Historically, it has been male-dominated and still today, global estimates state that around 20-21% of the air cargo and logistics workforce is made up of women – with figures quickly thinning out the further up the ladder you go. Also, unlike its ‘glamorous’ sister industry: the passenger side of aviation – air cargo tends not to be in the forefront of people’s minds when they think of airports and aviation, and therefore isn’t a particularly visible industry to young talents looking to start their career. It is even less attractive to women, as long as female role models are not immediately visible.
The Women in Air Cargo Awards were established with the prime purpose of addressing this imbalance by celebrating the outstanding women who are driving innovation, leading teams, and inspiring future generations.
Inspiration, visibility, and validation
Recognition matters. It boosts morale and self-confidence, inspires others to aim higher, and validates the hard work that often goes unseen. When women are celebrated for their achievements, it sends a powerful message that their voices and talents are valued. This acknowledgment can be the catalyst for broader organizational change, opening doors to leadership roles, mentorship opportunities, and skills development for women everywhere.
Awards create visibility. They put names, faces, and stories in front of the entire industry. They tell the young woman studying logistics at university that there is a career for her here. They tell the mid-level cargo manager that her expertise is noticed and valued beyond her own company’s four walls. And they send an unambiguous signal to industry leadership that talent is distributed broadly – and that the structures needed to harness it must be equally broad.
Spotlight on excellence: who should you nominate?
Often, the most deserving individuals are modest about their achievements – it is therefore up to you to ensure that their names are put forward. Take a moment to think about the women you work with or whose stories you’ve heard. Perhaps it’s a logistics manager who streamlined operations during a crisis, an innovator who implemented new technology to improve efficiency, or a team leader who has advocated for positive change in the workplace. The awards aren’t limited to those in executive positions – talent exists at every level: from warehouse supervisors to customer service representatives to product specialists, ground handlers, data analysts, ramp supervisors, or sales leads, and anyone else who sets the standard others aspire to. You know who she is. Your job is simply to tell us.
Consider nominating women who:
- Demonstrate exceptional leadership and vision
- Drive innovation and problem-solving in air cargo operations
- Mentor and empower other people within the industry
- Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace
- Show commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices
- Consistently go above and beyond in their roles, inspiring others through their work ethic and integrity
The Women in Air Cargo Awards exist because recognition does not happen automatically. It has to be deliberate, consistent, and driven by people who care enough to act.
The nominations window is open until 10JUL26, so nominate now. Our industry – and the women who make it exceptional every single day – are counting on you: https://caasint.com/women-in-air-cargo/
THANK YOU!
