From Retail to Logistics Training | Miles and Mentors Ep 28

In this episode of The Miles and Mentors Podcast, host Alex Powers sits down with Katie Kaczmarek, Training Coordinator at Bridge Logistics, to discuss her career shift from retail sales to logistics training. Her journey is a testament to adaptability, continuous learning, and the impact of mentorship in the freight industry.

With 14 years in men’s retail sales, Katie never expected to end up in logistics—until a Black Friday conversation with a longtime customer led her into the world of freight brokerage. Facing the challenges of entering a new industry from scratch, she quickly embraced self-education, built strong industry relationships, and became a mentor to new hires navigating their own logistics careers.

This episode dives into the critical role of training, company culture, and networking in building a successful career in logistics. Whether you’re new to the industry, considering a career change, or leading a logistics team, Katie’s insights provide real-world advice on growth, mentorship, and success in freight brokerage.

What You’ll Learn:
✅ How a simple conversation led Katie from retail to logistics
✅ The biggest challenges of switching industries
✅ Why mentorship and company culture are key in logistics
✅ How networking and industry reputation impact long-term success
✅ The evolving role of technology and automation in freight brokerage

Episode Highlights:
📍 01:05 – Katie’s transition from retail to logistics
📍 06:19 – Overcoming the fear of entering a new industry
📍 12:13 – The unique training process at Bridge Logistics
📍 16:35 – Why networking is critical for growth in logistics
📍 21:59 – How Bridge Logistics maintains high hiring standards
📍 32:07 – The impact of technology on the freight industry
📍 38:39 – How automation is shaping logistics careers

About Katie Kaczmarek
Katie Kaczmarek is the Training Coordinator at Bridge Logistics, a family-owned 3PL brokerage known for its strong mentorship culture and commitment to quality service. With a background in military logistics and retail sales, Katie’s hands-on experience allows her to develop effective training programs that set new hires up for success.

Learn More:
🌍 Bridge Logistics Inc. – https://www.bridgelogisticsinc.com
🔗 Connect with Katie on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiekaczmarekbridge
📺 Watch on YouTube – https://youtu.be/ryJGUdxo63w

Stay Connected with The Miles and Mentors Podcast
🚛 Get insights from industry professionals:
🌐 Podcast Website – https://www.milesandmentorspodcast.com
📘 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/milesandmentors
🔗 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

💡 Want to be featured? Have a logistics story to share? Reach out at [email protected].