Rihm Kenworth has been named a Top Company for Women to Work for in transportation by the Women in Trucking Association.
This award highlights companies in the industry that are a desirable place for women to work, the Women in Trucking Association says. The association selected Rihm Kenworth for its corporate culture that supports gender diversity, flexible hours and work requirements to accommodate family and life balance, competitive compensation and benefits, training and continued professional development and career advancement opportunities.
Nearly 150 nominations were received, and more than 7,000 votes were cast to identify the top 50 companies to be named to this list. The award is especially meaningful to Rihm Kenworth’s CEO and President Kari Rihm.
“My goal is to help create a professional pathway for women to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated business,” says Rihm. Eight years ago, Rihm’s life shifted when she became owner of the Kenworth truck dealership, after the tragic passing of her husband. The business had been in her husband’s family since 1932. Since taking the reins, Kari is one of just a handful of women-owned Kenworth dealerships in the country, and she has expanded the business exponentially, paving the way for future growth. Last year, the company celebrated its 85th anniversary.
“Before I worked for Rihm Kenworth, Kari Rihm was a mentor to me,” says Kristin Oftedahl, marketing communications manager for Rihm Kenworth. “I observed the value Kari brought to her company and the industry. It inspires me and other women to excel in a male-dominated arena. Now working for Rihm, I experience those values first-hand. Rihm Kenworth is a place where people come first, no matter what gender. This positive culture stems from the Rihm family appreciating its people, and from Kari overcoming adversity.”
