Followmont unveils new diversity truck for International Women’s Day

The words “Embracing diversity in transport” adorn the new purple truck revealed this week by Followmont Transport, in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD).

Painted in purple, a colour endorsing women’s equality and symbolising dignity and justice, the new UD Quon was unveiled during a special event on the eve of IWD, Tuesday March 7.

The purple theme flows through the 14-pallet truck’s curtains, with a giant ‘W’ faded into the background.

Managing director, Mark Tobin, said the truck is dedicated to the women of Followmont Transport and acts as a travelling billboard, spreading the word of our diverse industry.

“We are very fortunate at Followmont to be surrounded by so many talented women, who all contribute to make our business the great company it is today,” said Tobin.

“It doesn’t matter if they have been here for their whole career, or they are only new, the passion and enthusiasm they bring to their roles does not waver.

“We all enjoy working as a team and we want to spread the word to have more females understand the different career opportunities available to them in transport,” he said.

“For the future of our industry, we need to show that it’s not just a career for males, but it’s a viable choice for anyone.

“It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, you just need a can-do attitude and you will succeed, whether you want to be a professional driver, a depot manager or a business analyst, it’s a great career and you’ll thrive.”

With the transport industry not always top of mind for female job seekers, the campaign aims to change people’s perception and help them understand the career paths on offer.

Local PUD driver for Followmont, Kellie Hayden, featured in a video to support the events message. She explained why starting with the company was the best career decision she has made.

“I got my truck licence four years ago and drove past Followmont every day for three years, and then six months ago I got the opportunity to join the team,” she said.

“One of the things I love about this place is the leadership and support, not only from the people that I work with out on the road, but also our leaders, our management and our training and development programs.

“I would highly recommend the transport industry to any female and would tell them to just come and give it a go.

“It’s not scary, it’s not hard, you’ll actually really enjoy it, and it will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make,” Hayden said.

The truck’s launch event was held in partnership with Commonwealth Bank and UD Trucks Australia, with Followmont staff, partners and industry peers in attendance.

Followmont says it provided an opportunity to not only celebrate women in transport, but to also discuss how to attract more females into the industry.

Lauren Pulitano, vice president at UD Trucks Australia, was the official MC for the event. “I was truly honoured when Followmont approached me to lead the celebration, seeing everyone come together shows we are all ambassadors and I feel proud to know our industry is in good stead,” she said.

Followmont’s new purple diversity truck will soon hit the road; and will also feature at the Brisbane Truck Show, being held from May 18-21.

This feature first appeared in Big Rigs.