UPS is proactively shaping the future of its operations leadership through strategic career development programs. Recognizing the evolving expectations in leadership and the undeniable value of diverse perspectives, UPS has launched initiatives like the LEAD program. This intensive 11-week training is specifically designed to attract and retain women in operations, ensuring a more inclusive and effective leadership landscape.
The LEAD program focuses on equipping high-potential, part-time managers with the essential job skills and robust mentorship necessary for significant career advancement within UPS. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering critical areas such as delivering world-class customer service, mastering driver training techniques at UPS’s advanced Integrad facilities, and upholding a safe workplace environment. This holistic approach aims to cultivate well-rounded and future-ready operational leaders.
Alt text: Diverse group of women supervisors participating in UPS LEAD career development program training session, fostering collaboration and leadership skills.
Nichole Curtis, a package operations supervisor, emphasizes the program’s importance: “Diversifying leadership in our operations gives us more well-rounded, equipped teams. People have different expectations from their leadership than they did 20-30 years ago, and you need people with different life experiences and views to get that.” This sentiment highlights the program’s alignment with modern leadership demands and the strategic advantage of diverse leadership teams.
The initial results of the Ups Career Development Program are promising. A pilot program in Southern California saw eight women graduate, with two already achieving promotions to full-time positions. Alexandra Suliscalleja, UPS West Region vice president of operations, noted the transformative growth of the trainees, “It’s been incredible to watch these [trainees] grow from their first day to their graduation day.”
Elizabeth Hesting, Delta Coast Territory vice president, points to the broader industry trend and UPS’s commitment: “The entire transportation industry is recruiting more women, and we’re determined to keep that talent at UPS.” The UPS career development program, particularly the LEAD initiative, is not just about training; it’s a strategic investment in creating a diverse, skilled, and future-proof leadership pipeline, reinforcing UPS’s position as a leader in both logistics and inclusive workplace practices.
