Kirsten Babb, fleet procurement manager of Fleet Advantage, was named the Overall Winner in the Rising Stars category of Food Logistics’ 2025 Rock Stars of the Supply Chain Awards, while Annie Steckroth, vice president of strategic fleet solutions at Fleet Advantage, was recognized in the Top Transportation Professional category.
Babb’s journey from her early hands-on roles in trailer maintenance to her position as fleet procurement manager highlights her dedication to operational excellence and strategic foresight. Recognized last year by Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive as a recipient of 2024 Women in Supply Chain Award, her leadership in procurement includes managing the acquisition of Class 8 tractors and trailers, where she ensures alignment with customer needs and builds strong relationships with OEMs and dealers. Over the past year, Babb has driven key initiatives for Fleet Advantage such as the redesign of the company’s casualty buyout process, which reduced vehicle delivery times by 30%, directly benefiting clients by minimizing downtime and costs. She also revamped spec review templates, achieving a 2% increase in fleet fuel efficiency — a significant improvement for large-scale fleets.
Her comprehensive expertise in sustainability, safety compliance and customer satisfaction has established her as an indispensable asset to Fleet Advantage and its clients. Her focus on fostering trust and loyalty among customers positions Fleet Advantage as an industry leader in innovative fleet management solutions.
Steckroth, with over 18 years of experience in transportation, has made a profound impact on Fleet Advantage’s strategic initiatives and its clients’ operational success since joining the company in April 2024. As vice president of strategic fleet solutions, she leads high-level consultations with corporate fleet clients, identifying cost-saving opportunities and implementing life cycle cost management strategies. Steckroth has been instrumental in expanding Fleet Advantage’s client portfolio, integrating data-driven solutions that enhance fleet performance, reduce costs and meet sustainability goals.
Additionally, Steckroth’s active involvement with industry groups, including her role on the National Private Truck Council’s annual conference planning committee, underscores her thought leadership in the transportation sector. Steckroth’s ability to navigate complex challenges, build consultative partnerships and champion diversity in the industry sets her apart as a top professional. Her contributions include enhancing Fleet Advantage’s value proposition through tailored client solutions, which have resulted in increased client satisfaction and a strengthened competitive edge for the company.
“Kirsten and Annie epitomize the innovation, dedication, and leadership that are central to Fleet Advantage’s mission,” Katerina Jones, chief marketing officer of Fleet Advantage, said. “Their outstanding achievements not only elevate our organization but also drive progress across the cold food supply chain and transportation sectors. We are immensely proud to celebrate their well-deserved recognition as leaders in their field.”
Babb and Steckroth will both be profiled in Food Logistics’ Jan/Feb 2025 print issue.
