Postcast: Driving Innovation in Intermodal Freight – Insights from Shelli Austin

The freight industry is constantly evolving, and intermodal logistics are at the heart of this transformation. On this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto sits down with Shelli Austin, president of InTek Freight and Logistics, to discuss her unconventional journey into freight, the challenges and opportunities of intermodal transportation, and how she’s mentoring the next generation of industry leaders.

From Theater Tech to Transportation Leader

Shelli Austin’s path to becoming an industry leader is anything but typical. She started her academic journey in theater technology, specializing in pyrotechnics and stage production, before pivoting to business. Despite her creative roots, Shelli didn’t envision a future in freight, not until a temporary job auditing freight bills sparked a new passion.

“I didn’t want to sit in someone else’s position and do exactly what they did. I wanted to build something new for our customers. I don’t like doing just the same old thing. So that’s how it all started,” Shelli shares.

Her creative background gave her a unique perspective, allowing her to approach logistics challenges with innovative solutions. Over time, Shelli climbed the ranks in transportation, eventually co-founding InTek with business partner Rick Lagore. Their combined strengths, Rick’s financial acumen and Shelli’s operational expertise, proved to be the perfect formula for success.

Turning Frustration into Freight Solutions

Before founding InTek, Shelli spent years on the shipper side of the business, often feeling frustrated with providers who failed to meet expectations. When Rick approached her about starting their own transportation company, she saw an opportunity to create real change.

“This was my chance to go in, make a difference, and do things better for the people working with us than what we experienced,” Shelli explains.

Initially focused on regional truckload brokerage, Shelli was skeptical when Rick suggested expanding into intermodal logistics. But after seeing the potential for cost savings, sustainability, and complex problem-solving, she became a passionate advocate for intermodal solutions. Today, InTek is a leading name in the industry, providing innovative and efficient logistics strategies that benefit both customers and the environment.

Cracking the Intermodal Puzzle

Intermodal transportation doesn’t just focus on moving freight; it strategically combines different modes of transport to maximize efficiency. Shelli describes intermodal as a complex puzzle involving three key components:

1. The Bridge (Trucking Portion): The first leg of transportation, getting goods from their origin to the rail.
2. The Rail: The backbone of intermodal, offering cost-effective, long-haul transport.
3. Final Delivery (Last-Mile Trucking): Ensuring goods reach their destination efficiently and securely.

“Intermodal is the puzzle. There’s all these different parts and pieces—you’ve got the bridge, the rail, and the final delivery, each with its complexity,” Shelli says.

Understanding the nuances of each segment is crucial to delivering value. Shelli emphasizes that intermodal logistics requires expertise, creativity, and a deep understanding of the supply chain to create sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

Mentorship and Industry Leadership

Shelli’s success didn’t happen in a vacuum. Mentors like David Ladd from FedEx and her business partner Rick Lagore played pivotal roles in her growth. Now, Shelli is paying it forward by mentoring young professionals through her involvement with the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) and the IU Kelley School of Business.

“We complement each other. We don’t have the same strengths, and that has been super helpful throughout all the years,” Shelli notes about her partnership with Rick.

Through initiatives like IANA’s scholarship committee and student case competitions, Shelli is helping shape the next generation of logistics leaders. She believes that fostering new talent not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the entire industry by bringing in fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

The Future of Freight: Innovation, Sustainability, and Adaptability

Looking ahead, Shelli is optimistic about the future of intermodal logistics. She believes that adaptability, innovation, and sustainability will be the driving forces behind the industry’s continued growth. As environmental concerns become more prominent, intermodal solutions offer a greener alternative to traditional trucking.

“You’ve got to have the love and the passion for this. We’re talking planes, trains, and automobiles. There’s nothing sexy about that. But if you love it, you’ll thrive,” Shelli says.

Shelli encourages industry professionals to embrace change, seek out new solutions, and stay ahead of emerging trends. From leveraging technology to improve efficiency to focusing on sustainable practices, the future of freight is full of opportunities for those willing to innovate.

Final Thoughts: Leading with Passion and Purpose

Shelli Austin’s journey proves that with passion, creativity, and a bit of grit, you can breathe new life into even the most ordinary corners of any industry. Her journey from theater technology to intermodal logistics leader demonstrates that success often comes from unexpected places. By embracing challenges, fostering collaboration, and continuously seeking new solutions, Shelli is revolutionizing intermodal freight and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.

To hear more about Shelli Austin’s insights and initiatives, listen to this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.