As an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois, Wiggins was contemplating law school and a future as a litigator.<\/p>\n
That vision shifted when her sister, who worked at International, encouraged her to apply for an internship there. Curious to learn more about Corporate America and the opportunities it might offer, Wiggins took the leap and was hired in the Aftermarket Procurement organization. She then progressed through various roles in supply and purchasing, product development, and supplier management \u2013 ultimately working as Supplier Diversity Director and Head of Diversity and Inclusion.<\/p>\n
Wiggins transitioned more fully into the People and Culture space just before the global pandemic \u2014 a time of unprecedented change and challenge. Navigating that period reinforced one of the most important skill sets of her career: being adaptable. Trucking is a cyclical industry, she says, and learning how to pivot, reinvent, and remain resilient during times of uncertainty has been a defining professional growth experience. That ability to adapt has not only strengthened her leadership skills but also sharpened her understanding of how organizations and people can thrive amid change.<\/p>\n
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- Wiggins was named Chief Diversity Officer in 2021.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u201cAs I reflect on my journey with this company \u2014 the multiple roles, projects, and opportunities I\u2019ve had within this industry \u2014 I truly wouldn\u2019t have it any other way,\u201d says Wiggins. \u201cI\u2019ve had the chance to work on exciting product launches and collaborate with incredible people from all walks of life, both internally and externally, which has made the experience incredibly rewarding.\u201d<\/p>\n
Finding Meaning and Momentum\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n
Throughout her career, Wiggins has had the opportunity to work on high-impact initiatives, including product launches that remain standout moments in her career. She says watching a vehicle move from concept to production \u2014 and ultimately into the hands of a satisfied customer \u2014 has been deeply rewarding. These moments underscore what she values most about the industry: teamwork, innovation, and the tangible results of collaboration.<\/p>\n
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\u2018As I reflect on my journey with this company \u2014 the multiple roles, projects, and opportunities I\u2019ve had within this industry \u2014 I truly wouldn\u2019t have it any other way\u2019 \u2014 Nicole Wiggins<\/p><\/div>\n
Equally meaningful has been the opportunity to engage directly with customers, listening to their feedback and learning how both products and experiences can continuously improve. Her involvement in events hosted by the Women in Trucking Association (WIT) has further deepened those connections, allowing her to engage with commercial customers and drivers in ways that bring the industry\u2019s purpose to life.<\/p>\n
While Wiggins has received several awards and recognitions over the years, she approaches accolades with humility. For her, recognition is less about personal achievement and more about the impact behind the acknowledgment. The true measure of success, she believes, lies in whether the work creates meaningful, lasting change for people and communities.<\/p>\n
At the heart of Wiggins\u2019 continued growth in the trucking industry is her family. As a mother of two \u2014 one still in undergraduate studies and the other early in his career \u2014 she is deeply motivated by the example she sets. Being a visible leader and role model matters, not just for her children, but for others who may look to her as inspiration. She embraces this tenant as both a responsibility and a legacy she hopes to leave behind for others.<\/p>\n
That sense of purpose has been shaped by a strong support system. Wiggins credits her parents, husband, siblings, and children with instilling in her the belief that she is capable of whatever she sets her mind to. Professionally, she has also benefited from mentors, allies, advocates, and sponsors who have challenged and guided her throughout her career. These relationships have reinforced her belief in the power of community \u2014 a value echoed in her involvement with the Women in Trucking Association. WIT, she says, creates an essential space for women across the industry to learn, grow, and connect, helping to foster visibility and opportunity in a field not always seen as traditional for women.<\/p>\n
Looking ahead, Wiggins\u2019 short- and long-term career and life goals are centered on continuing to make a positive, meaningful impact. She is exploring ways to extend her influence through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, not only within her organization but across the broader trucking community. Her guidance to women considering careers in trucking is simple yet powerful: Be open, be curious, and don\u2019t limit yourself based on outdated perceptions. The industry needs diverse voices, perspectives, and leaders willing to take up space.<\/p>\n
Outside of work, Wiggins stays grounded through her family, her faith, and a strong commitment to wellness, working out four to six days a week for both physical health and mental clarity. She finds joy in traveling with her family, spending time together, and even participating in a long-distance family book club. Volunteering and supporting those in need has also become an important focus, reflecting her deep passion for people.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt my core, I\u2019m passionate about people \u2014 helping them grow, feel seen, and reach their potential,\u201d says Wiggins.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat passion extends far beyond my job title and influences how I show up in every part of my life.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"