June 9 2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Every Role, Every Step: The Making of a Leader
Kristy Knichel isn’t your typical CEO. Before she ever stepped into the leadership spotlight, she got her hands dirty—literally and figuratively—working nearly every job in her family’s logistics business. In this powerful storytelling session, Kristy shares her journey from the ground up: from learning the ropes on the front lines to ultimately earning her place as President and CEO of Knichel Logistics. Her path wasn’t paved by a title—it was built on tenacity, humility, and a drive to truly know the business inside and out.
Now at the helm, Kristy uses her experience to inspire the next generation of logistics professionals, with a special passion for empowering women to rise and lead in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Whether you're a rising leader or a seasoned pro, this session offers an honest, energizing look at what it means to grow, lead, and lift others along the way.
15-Minute Chronicles: Stories That Leave a Mark
About the Speaker
Kristy Knichel
CEO/President, Knichel Logistics, Inc.
Kristy Knichel, a proud Pittsburgh native and second-generation logistics executive, has been at the helm of Knichel Logistics since 2007, when she succeeded her father, William Knichel, as President. In 2009, she became the majority owner, solidifying her role as a trailblazer in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Under her leadership, Knichel Logistics has grown exponentially, achieving certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) status, and reaching an impressive $100 million in annual revenue by 2022.
Kristy’s strategic vision and relentless drive have positioned Knichel Logistics as a top-tier service provider within the intermodal marketing community (IMC). She has diversified the company’s offerings to include over-the-road brokerage, less-than-truckload (LTL), and specialty services, while spearheading continuous technology enhancements to improve operational efficiency. Her goal is ambitious yet attainable: to elevate Knichel Logistics into the top 50 logistics brokers in the U.S.
Meet the Moderator
Gary Cornelius
VP of Business Development
Gary is the VP of Business Development of TCW, Inc., leading their Sales, Marketing, and customer-facing teams. He has 37 years of experience in transportation and logistics, including leadership roles in both Sales & Operations. Gary has been with TCW for 18 years, with his current tenure starting in 2013.
Gary serves as the co-Chair of TMSA’s Education Committee and is on the TMSA Board of Directors. He also does philanthropic work through The American Cancer Society, including advocacy, Relay for Life, and publicly speaks throughout the Southeast for the Society.
When not working or volunteering, Gary spends time with family at the lake, traveling and kayak fishing.