Navistar and the Women In Trucking Association presented Rebecca Brewster, president and chief operating officer of the American Transportation Research Institute, with the third annual Influential Woman in Trucking award Tuesday after a panel discussion at this week's Truckload Carriers Association's annual meeting in Las Vegas.

The Influential Woman in Trucking award seeks to recognize women in the trucking industry who make or influence key decisions, have a proven record of responsibility and who mentor and serve as a role model to other women.

"We want to call attention to the many contributions that women have made to the trucking industry," said Jan Allman, vice president, manufacturing operations, Navistar. "It's not easy to play and win in what has traditionally been a male-dominated world, and women like Rebecca demonstrate that it can be done."

Brewster's leadership has influenced industry leaders and policymakers on numerous important topics including safety, driver retention and driver health. Her work and presence is well-known, as she is often sought out for her expertise and professional opinion on a host of industry topics she examines.

"We are excited to honor a woman who has had so much influence on commercial trucking," said Ellen Voie, WIT president and chief executive officer. "Under Rebecca's guidance, the American Transportation Research Institute's research has given us insights into efficiency, safety and driver well-being, touching every aspect of our industry."

Brewster has served as president and COO of ATRI, an independent research arm sponsored by the American Trucking Associations, for the past 10 years. She is also an ex officio member of the Transportation Research Board Executive Committee and an active member of its Truck and Bus Safety Committee.

"This year, we received more than 100 nominations for the Influential Woman in Trucking award, and Rebecca rose to the top in a field of exceptional candidates," said Voie. "It was a very difficult year to select a winner because many of our nominees, and certainly all of our finalists, have also done much to influence the industry."

For the first time, WIT and Navistar honored three runners-up for this year's award at the TCA event, including: Sandra Ambrose-Clark, president, ESJ Carrier Corp.; Lana Batts, co-president, Driver iQ; and Judy McReynolds, president and CEO, Arkansas Best Corp..

 "These women are visible role models for our industry, helping us to pave the way for the next generation of women who will become leaders and innovators in the trucking environment," Voie added.