Not Your Average Wednesday for Our Head of People, Rachel

Pass Logistics, Jolene Wooderson, Rachel Hill  

It was far from an ordinary Wednesday for our Head of People, Rachel, as she had the pleasure of joining Jolene, a former teenage British figure skating champion and now an HGV driver for Pass Logistics, on the road.

Rachel shared her experience:

"As you’d expect when you put two people who love to chat in a confined space, we covered everything—from religious beliefs and career highs and lows to favourite music and just about everything in between!

I absolutely love Jolene’s passion for what she does. Growing up, she spent many days in the truck with her dad, reliving fond memories of life on the road—like eating her packed lunch within the first hour and then complaining she was hungry for the rest of the journey, until her dad finally treated her to fish and chips.

Now a driver herself—and married, with two stepsons also in the industry—Jolene truly loves her job. After ten years in hairdressing and six in nursing, she set herself the challenge of passing her Class 1 licence before turning 40—a goal she smashed with two weeks to spare!”

With her two daughters choosing careers outside of driving, Rachel asked Jolene how she felt about the profession.

"It’s tough. My dad went through some terrible moments on the road that have stayed with him and always will. I know my mum worries about me being out there too, but honestly, there’s no better feeling. My cab is my sanctuary, and having the chance to turn the tables and take my dad as my passenger in a previous role was a real ‘pinch me’ moment!

Music is a big part of my life—we listen to all sorts, though country music is a favourite. You’ll often find me putting on a show in my cab—it’s my own personal concert venue! And for the longer journeys, it’s usually an audiobook…”

On working for Pass Logistics, Jolene had this to say:

"It’s a great place to work—I’m really happy here. I have a good work-life balance, and the team genuinely cares. The office staff are always checking in and so supportive, and I can talk to anyone. Brendan, our mental health first aider, is always there too, but as a team of drivers, we really look out for each other. The hard work from the planning team makes our job that bit easier, and this is my favourite truck I’ve ever driven—it’s so comfortable and has everything I need."

 A Few Questions for International Women’s Day

If you could have dinner with any woman, past or present, who would it be?
"Pink—she’s an icon! So down to earth, she accepts everyone for who they are and doesn’t care what people think."

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received from a woman?
"Don’t change who you are for anyone!"

Finally, what advice would you give to young women starting in your industry?
"Go for it! Don’t let anyone talk you out of it."

A Memorable Experience

I had an amazing time with Jolene—not just witnessing her incredible skill (she handled the unit and reversed onto our customer’s bay like it was a Mini!) but also learning about what inspires her, the values she’s passed on to her children, and her love for both her profession and Pass Logistics.