Gorgeous Girls In Supply Chain: Kameel Gaines
Welcome to our series celebrating the incredible women in Supply Chain and Logistics! In a traditionally male-dominated field, it's important to shine a light on the inspiring women who are making a significant impact. Through a mix of insightful and fun questions, we’ll explore their journeys, challenges, and successes. While we acknowledge the contributions of everyone in this industry, this series aims to elevate the voices and stories of women who often get missed. Kameel Gains is our next feature.
KAMEEL GAINES
I haven’t known Kameel long, but in our quickly growing friendship, I’ve learned she’s compassionate, supportive, and sharp as hell, especially when it comes to spotting bullshit (something we have in common). From our first conversation, she was warm, welcoming, and just as excited to connect as I was. Her tenacity and drive are inspiring, and I feel incredibly lucky to have her as part of the series.
Like many of our GGs, Supply Chain found her, and she quickly realized it was exactly where she needed to be. Her passion for driver recruitment is something this industry desperately needs, and she’s making an impact with her business and podcast. Her podcast dives deep into the niche world of driver recruitment and retention, tackling key trucking industry topics with insight and honesty.
What is your current role and company?
CEO at Rig On Wheels
How did you end up in the world of supply chain?
Trucking found me, but I didn’t go looking for it. I was laid off from my corporate job, and while some might have seen that as a setback, I saw it as a chance to pivot. I knew I wanted to stay in sales and marketing because that’s what I had been doing since I started working. Plus, entrepreneurship was already in my DNA; my mom was an entrepreneur, and I had tried my hand at different business ventures before. One day, I answered an ad to become a 1099 truck driver recruiter. I didn’t know much about trucking then, but I knew how to sell, connect with people, and build relationships. And once I got into the industry, I realized this was where I was meant to be. I saw the challenges in recruiting and retention firsthand; drivers were being treated like numbers, and companies were struggling to keep them. I realized I could approach the problem differently, leading to the creation of Rig on Wheels. What started as a way to stay in sales and marketing turned into a full-blown mission to change how trucking companies attract and retain their most valuable asset: their drivers. In retrospect, my layoff turned out to be a fortunate event. It pushed me into an industry I never saw coming but one I can’t imagine leaving.
What is your favourite part of your work day?
Honestly? Building, connecting, and creating are my favorite aspects of the day. As the CEO of a small company, I assume various roles, all of which are intrinsically linked to my passion for growth, be it in revenue, relationships, or reach. I love the strategy side: closing deals, developing partnerships, and finding new ways to bring in revenue that aligns with Rig on Wheels’ mission. That’s the CRO in me. Then there’s the connection piece: engaging with my team, drivers, and clients, making sure that we’re not just recruiting drivers but actually solving problems and making an impact. That’s the CEO in me. And, of course, creating content is my playground. Whether it’s a podcast, social media, or storytelling, I love using my voice to educate, elevate, and empower people in the trucking industry. That’s the CCO in me. The best days are when all three of those roles come together: when I close a deal, have a powerful conversation that sparks change, and create content that gets people thinking and taking action. That’s when I know I’m doing what I was meant to do.
What is the least favourite part of your work day?
I’m being real? Dealing with unnecessary roadblocks. I thrive on momentum, execution, and making things happen. So when I have to slow down for things like pointless bureaucracy, avoidable mistakes, or waiting on people who don’t move with urgency, my patience runs thin. I’m an impatient perfectionist, and I like to see results. I don’t mind problem-solving, but I hate problems that exist just because someone didn’t take ownership or think ahead. And don’t get me started on repetitive admin tasks. If it’s something I can automate or delegate, I absolutely will because my energy needs to be spent on growing, creating, and leading. But even with the things I don’t love, I remind myself: I built this. I run this. And every challenge is just another opportunity to refine, improve, and keep moving forward.
What is a systemic issue in your part of the supply chain that concerns you currently?
One of the biggest systemic issues in trucking, my part of the supply chain, is the disconnect between companies and drivers when it comes to recruitment, retention, and overall driver treatment. Too many companies are focused on filling seats instead of building careers. They’ll throw money at recruitment but ignore driver experience, communication, and long-term retention strategies. Drivers are being promised the world, only to be hit with broken expectations once they sign on. That leads to high turnover, wasted resources, and a never-ending hiring cycle. Another major concern? The lack of innovation in driver recruitment. The industry is still stuck in outdated methods that don’t align with how drivers actually operate today. The way we recruit, onboard, and engage drivers needs to evolve, meet drivers where they are, use better technology, and actually LISTEN to what they need. This isn’t just about companies struggling to find drivers; it’s about drivers struggling to find companies that respect them, value them, and set them up for success. And until the industry makes retention just as much of a priority as recruitment, we’ll keep seeing the same problems over and over again. And trust me, I’m here to change that.
How would you address it if you had the power, money, or influence?
If I had the power, money, and influence to fix this? Oh, trust me, I’d shake this industry up. First, I’d force companies to stop treating recruitment like a numbers game and start treating drivers like the professionals they are. That means transparent pay, better onboarding, and a real investment in retention. You can’t just throw sign-on bonuses at drivers and expect them to stay—you have to create a culture where they want to stay. Second, I’d revolutionize driver recruitment by making it data-driven, digital-first, and driver-focused. Trucking is still using outdated methods to hire drivers in a world where technology, social media, and automation should be leading the way. I’d invest in a modernized recruitment platform that actually connects companies with the right drivers, matching based on values, job expectations, and long-term fit, not just filling a seat. Third, I’d demand better treatment of drivers. This industry runs because of people, not just trucks. I’d push for policies that hold companies accountable for driver well-being, better working conditions, improved communication, and real driver support programs. And let’s talk about diversity. Trucking is still behind when it comes to women, younger drivers, and minority representation. I’d use my influence to make trucking more inclusive because a diverse industry is a stronger industry. At the end of the day, if I had the money and power, I wouldn’t just tweak things, I’d rebuild the driver experience from the ground up. Because if we don’t start putting drivers first, the industry will keep spinning its wheels… and I don’t do stagnant.
What is one piece of advice you have for young women entering your field?
Own your space, know your value, and move with confidence. Trucking and logistics? It’s still a male-dominated industry, and you will walk into rooms where people underestimate you. Let them. Then show up, speak up, and make it clear that you’re not here to play small. Learn the business, not just your role, but the entire game. Understand the numbers, the strategy, and the power moves being made behind the scenes. Knowledge is leverage, and in this industry, you need to be both smart and strategic. Also, don’t wait for a seat at the table, build your own. Whether you’re in recruiting, operations, sales, or running your own business, you have to network, create opportunities, and never rely on permission to level up. And finally, don’t let them box you in. You don’t have to choose between being assertive and being respected. You can be both tough and compassionate, both direct and dynamic. Be exactly who you are, and let the results speak for themselves. The industry needs more women who aren’t afraid to own their power. Be that woman.
What are your top 3 podcasts? (do not have to be industry related)
The Rig on Wheels Show – Of course, my own show makes the list! It’s the #1 truck driver recruitment podcast, where we tackle real conversations about recruiting, retention, and the business of trucking. I bring on experts, industry leaders, and drivers to talk about what really matters in this space. If you’re in trucking, you need to be listening!
Let’s Talk Supply Chain – This podcast brings fresh perspectives on logistics, innovation, and the future of supply chain. It highlights the strategies, challenges, and successes shaping the industry, while also amplifying diverse voices and forward-thinking ideas. Sarah Barnes-Humphrey does a great job making complex topics accessible and engaging.
Earn Your Leisure – Because business and wealth-building matter no matter what industry you’re in. EYL breaks down entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and the mindset you need to win. It’s all about ownership, growth, and making smart money moves.
Who are your top 5 women in supply chain to follow on LinkedIn?
How do you deal with creeps you encounter in your work day?
I handle creeps the same way I handle any unnecessary distraction—I shut it down immediately and keep it moving. This is a business, and I operate like a CEO. If someone thinks they can cross the line, waste my time, or bring nonsense into my space, they’ll quickly learn I don’t play those games. I set clear boundaries and enforce them without hesitation. Whether it’s in person, over the phone, or online, I make it clear that I’m here for business, not foolishness. And if someone doesn’t respect that? They lose access to me, my business, and my network, period. At the end of the day, I know my worth, I know my mission, and I refuse to let anyone disrupt that.
What is your favourite way to unwind?
My favorite way to unwind? Travel, a good book, and a smooth glass of whiskey or wine. I love exploring new places, soaking in different cultures, and just getting away to reset my mind. Whether it’s a weekend trip or planning for my future home in Querétaro, Mexico, travel fuels me. When I’m not on the move, you’ll probably find me curled up with a great book, something inspiring, something strategic, or just a good story that lets me escape for a bit. And at the end of the day, nothing beats a glass of whiskey when I need to reflect or a good wine when I just want to vibe and relax. Unwinding isn’t about shutting off; it’s about recharging so I can get back to making moves.
What have you recently changed your mind about?
Lately, I’ve changed my mind about how much I need to do everything myself. For the longest time, I believed if I wanted it done right, I had to do it myself. I’m an impatient perfectionist, so trusting others with my vision hasn’t always been easy. But I’ve realized that growth requires delegation. If I’m going to scale my business, my brand, and my impact, I have to empower my team, trust the systems I put in place, and focus on the bigger picture. I’ve also changed my mindset around marketing and sales. I used to think having the best product or service was enough, but in reality, it’s about visibility, messaging, and strategy. That’s why I’m leaning all the way into content creation, social media, and high-level promotion; if people don’t know about it, they can’t buy it. So now? I’m moving differently. I’m focused on working smarter, leveraging my team, and making sure my brand is seen, heard, and paid.
Must haves to get you thru the day?
iPhone – My lifeline. Calls, emails, content, deals; if it’s happening, it’s happening through my phone.
Zipfizz – Because energy is non-negotiable. No crashes, just steady fuel to keep me moving.
Google Calendar – If it’s not on my calendar, it doesn’t exist. Structure = success.
Earbuds – Whether I’m on calls, listening to podcasts, or blocking out distractions, these stay in rotation.
Solid notebook & pen – Because even in a digital world, there’s power in writing things down. Ideas, strategies, and to-do lists hit different on paper.
Social media for Kameel:
