Yvette Martinez
Yvette is a self-made leader in the logistics industry, currently serving as a supervisor at M-OK Freight Lines Corp, where she oversees dispatch operations, daily logistics, and the company’s brokerage department across multiple locations. Her path to success was anything but traditional.
Beginning her career in 2018 with no prior experience, she entered the industry determined to build a better future for herself and her family. Entirely self-taught, she developed her expertise through persistence, long hours, and a commitment to learning every aspect of the business. Her journey has not been without obstacles—coming from a challenging environment and overcoming incarceration, she made a conscious decision to change her life and create a new path forward.
Her drive led her to expand her experience with American Carrier Transport, where she spent three years mastering intermodal drayage and successfully managing operations across two major terminals in Chicago and Houston. Today, she has returned to M-OK Freight Lines Corp with a renewed vision—focused on growth, leadership, and building strong operations within the company.
At the core of her success is her role as a mother. Her three daughters serve as her greatest inspiration and daily motivation, reminding her why she continues to push forward. She is passionate about proving that no matter where someone starts, transformation is always possible through hard work, resilience, and belief in oneself.
She also credits the mentors who played a significant role in her journey. She is deeply grateful to Mark Pontarelli for his guidance, patience, and the invaluable lessons that helped shape her understanding of the industry. She also recognizes Phil Miceli, who gave her the initial opportunity in 2018 that helped change the course of her life, and later welcomed her back with continued support and belief in her potential.
Her story is one of perseverance, growth, and purpose—a testament to the power of second chances and the strength it takes to build success from the ground up.
• Triton College - AAS Business Administration, Management and Operations
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, consistency, and the people who believed in me before I fully believed in myself. I came from a difficult background and even faced incarceration, but I made a decision that my story wouldn’t end there. I started in this industry in 2018 with no experience and taught myself everything I could—learning through mistakes, long hours, and staying committed to growth. Most importantly, my three daughters inspire me every day to keep pushing forward and to show them that change is possible, no matter where you start.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to stay coachable and never let your ego get in the way of growth. Early in my career, I made plenty of mistakes, but instead of taking correction personally, I learned to see it as an opportunity. That mindset helped me grow faster and build confidence in my abilities over time.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don’t let where you come from or what you don’t know intimidate you. This industry can be challenging, but there is space for you to grow and lead. Be willing to learn, ask questions, and put in the work—even when it feels uncomfortable. Confidence comes with experience, not before it. And most importantly, don’t underestimate your ability to rise above your circumstances.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in logistics right now is keeping up with the fast pace and constant changes in operations, especially in dispatching and brokerage. At the same time, that creates opportunity—people who are adaptable, willing to learn, and able to problem-solve quickly can really stand out. There’s also a growing opportunity for more women to step into leadership roles in this industry, which is something I’m proud to be a part of.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, accountability, and perseverance are the values I live by. I believe in doing the right thing, owning my mistakes, and continuing to grow every day. I also value loyalty and gratitude. I wouldn’t be where I am without the people who gave me a chance and guided me along the way.
I want to recognize my current boss, Phil Miceli, for believing in me back in 2018 and giving me the opportunity to build a better life—and for welcoming me back with open arms. His leadership and belief in me made a lasting impact, and I carry that with me every day. I also want to recognize and thank my former boss, Mark Pontarelli at American Carrier Transport, for his guidance and patience in teaching me the ins and outs of the business. His attention to detail helped me grow and become sharper every day—I’m truly grateful for his mentorship.