Building a Sustainable Legacy: How We're Shaping a Better Tomorrow

Introduction: Sustainable Growth

PITT OHIO celebrated its 45^th anniversary in 2024. The company reflected on the journey that brought them to this milestone, acknowledging the unwavering dedication of its employees and the continued support from its loyal customers as the cornerstone of its success. For over four and a half decades, PITT OHIO has navigated the ever-changing landscape of the industry, embraced innovation, and fostered a culture of creativity amongst its team. With each passing year, the company has strived to develop solutions and promote sustainable practices, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry. As PITT OHIO looks forward to the future, they carry with them the lessons learned and the spirit of innovation that will lead them through the next 45 years and beyond.

The journey forward is guided by the three unwavering pillars of sustainability: People, Planet, and Purpose. These principles illuminate our path as we continue to innovate and implement initiatives that ensure we honor our commitment to the environment and our communities.

Click the image below to download PITT OHIO's 2024 Sustainability Report!

PEOPLE

The most important part of PITT OHIO’s business has always been our people. The employee culture is known for its strong emphasis on work-life balance and comprehensive benefits, including full health coverage for full-time employees. Our business success relies on our employees, and in order to grow and remain successful we invest in their professional development and well-being. Evident through multiple 2024 awards for Top Workplace, our commitment to our employees is a top priority. As we continue to expand into new regions, employee engagement becomes all the more important as we want our employees to feel PITT OHIO pride in their communities. This year PITT OHIO wants to introduce three value employees whose careers and experience underscore the company’s commitment to career growth.

The heartbeat of PITT OHIO has always been our people. With a culture that champions work-life balance and offers comprehensive benefits, including full health coverage for full-time employees, we ensure our team thrives both personally and professionally.

Our success is interwoven with the dedication of our employees, and we believe in nurturing their growth. This commitment is recognized by multiple Top Workplace awards in 2024, a testament to our unwavering focus on their well-being and development. As we plant roots in new territories, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among our employees in their communities is essential.

This year, we are excited to highlight the careers of three outstanding employees, whose journeys with PITT OHIO illustrate our dedication to career growth and excellence. Their stories are not just tales of professional advancement but are integral chapters in the ongoing account of PITT OHIO’s legacy of growth, responsibility, and community.

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Janell Berens, Director of Supply Chain Sales 

Janell Berens began her journey at PITT OHIO with a dream and determination. At just 17 years old, she worked for her local UPS while completing high school. Her ambition led her to earn a college degree in Marketing, and after a decade of sharpening her skills, Janell was recruited by PITT OHIO in 2008.

The bustling streets of Chicago, Illinois, became the backdrop to Janell's early career in local sales. Her dedication and prowess soon propelled her into larger sales roles, including National Accounts in 2015. Not one to settle, Janell embraced new challenges, stepping into the role of Supply Chain Sales Executive in January 2021. This leap required her to learn a new industry, ultimately contributing to the company's expansion.

Most recently, Janell was promoted to the position of Director of Supply Chain Sales. With each new role, Janell's story reflects a journey of growth and learning, venturing beyond her comfort zone to drive revenue and develop innovative solutions for overseas customers.

When asked about her perspective on 'growth,' Janell's words resonate with wisdom: "Growth means constantly seeking self-improvement and maintaining a continuous drive for achievement both personally and professionally. It is an endless and challenging pursuit of becoming the best version of oneself, requiring dedication and persistence."

Janell's narrative is one of resilience and unwavering commitment, embodying the spirit of PITT OHIO's legacy of growth, responsibility, and community.

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Jim Roach, Terminal Manager, Buffalo, NY 

Jim's career journey is also a tale of dedication and growth. It all began in 1990 with UPS, setting the stage for his entrance into the freight industry when he joined Roadway in 1996. By 1998, Jim's talents were recognized by Yellow Freight Company (YRC), where he started as an inbound supervisor at the busy Buffalo Distribution Center. During his time there, the center grew from 124 doors to 174, and Jim navigated various roles, including Outbound Supervisor, City Dispatcher, Shift Operations Manager, Terminal Operations Manager, and General Operations Manager, finally rising to the position of Terminal Manager just before the company's closure.

Jim's expertise was not confined to Buffalo alone. His role demanded travel to other terminals, where he leveraged his experience to introduce and implement best practices, policies, and procedures, ensuring safer and more productive operations across the board.

In September 2023, fate brought Jim to PITT OHIO as an Outbound Supervisor at PITT OHIO’s Buffalo terminal. His remarkable skills quickly earned him a promotion to Terminal Manager by April 2024. Under his leadership, the terminal moved to a new building, more than twice the size of the previous one. This transition marked a period of rapid growth for PITT OHIO's venture into New York, necessitating new equipment and personnel to match the rising business levels.

The dock staff and linehaul drivers doubled in numbers, supplemented by the addition of several new direct lanes out of Buffalo. Jim reflects on this transformative period with pride: "A lot has happened in a short time here in Buffalo, and I am glad to be part of the team. I look forward to seeing what the future holds!"

The exciting journey at the new terminal location is far from over, and with seasoned professionals like Jim in control, PITT OHIO is poised to navigate the promising developments ahead.

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Jeff Mercadante, Chief Safety & Risk Officer (CRSO) 

During Jeff’s remarkable 36-year tenure with PITT OHIO, the company has been honored with numerous safety awards by the American Trucking Association and State Associations. Jeff himself was the recipient of the prestigious 2021 ATA National Safety Director Award. He attended West Virginia University, where he majored in Business Management. His extensive experience and dedication to the field of safety and risk management have made impactful contributions to the industry.

Jeff began his journey at PITT OHIO in 1988 behind the wheel of a truck, navigating the highways with a strong work ethic and a commitment to safety. With each mile driven, he honed his skills and earned the reputation of a reliable and diligent driver.

It was in 1998, when Jeff’s keen eye for safety and his natural leadership qualities saw him rise to the position of Safety Manager. He embraced the role with enthusiasm, understanding that PITT OHIO was on the cusp of significant growth. Recognizing the need for stronger procedures, he introduced innovative measures to the safety program. Although the cultural shift towards increased safety regulations was challenging, Jeff’s motto from his driving years, “Give me the tough runs, that’s what I like to do,” reflected his readiness to tackle any obstacle.

By 2003, Jeff’s dedication earned him the title of Director of Safety. Here, he identified the potential to elevate PITT OHIO’s safety standards even further. His tenure saw the introduction of advanced safety training for drivers and dockworkers, laying the foundation for a safety-first culture within the company. Jeff’s next step was to become the VP of Safety, where he oversaw the insurance program and continued building on the robust safety training initiatives.

Under his guidance, the safety team flourished, and their efforts were mirrored by the commitment of PITT OHIO’s drivers. Jeff’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and the relentless pursuit of excellence. He remains ever grateful for the opportunities at PITT OHIO and acknowledges the pivotal role played by the company’s president, Chuck Hammel III. Through Chuck’s leadership, the company’s impressive safety record has been achieved, marking a legacy of responsibility and community.  “Chuck visionary leadership provided the necessary tools and trust to foster a culture of safety,” said Jeff.  “His steadfast support and belief in the safety department enabled us to introduce robust procedures and innovative training programs. His leadership nurtured an environment where safety was not just a protocol but a core value, making PITT OHIO the safest carrier in the industry.”

PLANET

The year 2024 marked a significant expansion for PITT OHIO, with a remarkable increase in our operational footprint. The company strategically acquired seven terminals across six different states, adding 472 new dock doors and 285,000 square feet of facility space. This expansion and continued modernization of our fleet added an impressive 6 million more miles driven compared to 2023. This rapid growth, while beneficial for our business, resulted in a 9% increase in year-over-year emissions. We recognize the impact on our planet and are committed to transparent emissions reporting and mitigation efforts.

According to the Mastio & Co. 2025 State of LTL Report, a quarter of shippers believe carbon information is important now or will be in the future. PITT OHIO continues to lead in Scope 3 emissions reporting and collaborates with customers to seek carbon reduction strategies.

Our average carbon dioxide emissions per shipment in 2024 were estimated at 58 kgs, slightly higher than the previous year. Despite this, our operations improved fleet MPG by 1% annually, saving 778,000 gallons of diesel fuel and avoiding 8,000 metric tons of CO2. Our fleet also became younger, with the average vehicle age dropping from 5.8 years in 2023 to 4.6 years in 2024, thanks to investments in newer equipment and technology. We are dedicated to tracking this data closely and identifying areas where emissions reductions and cost savings overlap.

Beyond our growth, we achieved some exciting milestones. In December, we celebrated 100,000 electric miles driven! Our small fleet of six battery electric vehicles (BEVs) combined for one hundred thousand road miles in just over two years. Though this represents a small fraction of our operations, we look forward to seeing this figure rise in the coming years. In 2025, we are doubling our BEV fleet and continuing to procure off-road electric vehicles where applicable. Notably, in 2024, PITT OHIO added a BEV off-road yard truck at our terminal in Indianapolis. The projected fuel savings each year and positive feedback from operators are encouraging signs for our future.

In 2024, PITT OHIO harnessed the power of nature, producing an impressive 387 MWh of renewable power. This was not just a mere statistic but a testament to our commitment to a sustainable future. The result? An avoidance of 130 tons of CO2 emissions—a significant stride in our environmental stewardship. This was no small feat. Since 2017, PITT OHIO has been pioneering the use of renewable energy assets across three of our facilities. The electricity generated from these wind and solar installations either powered our operations or was sold back to the power grid, contributing to a greener planet. As PITT OHIO's commitment to innovation and sustainability continues, we look forward to maintaining industry leadership in these spaces.

Last year, PITT OHIO reached 100,000 electric miles from its small fleet of six battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in under three years. These electric miles, though just a fraction of our total operations, symbolize our commitment to both sustainability and innovation. This achievement is but a glimpse into the road ahead, where our dedication to a greener future propels them forward.

PITT OHIO found itself expanding its horizons, with new territories, customers, and an ever-growing fleet of trucks driving our mission forward. Our carbon footprint, however, responded in kind, reflecting the inevitable increase in emissions that came with such expansion. Yet, these numbers tell a deeper story of ambition and dedication, a narrative where sustainability meets growth head-on. We measure our carbon emissions per shipment, known as carbon intensity, to truly capture the essence of how the less-than-truckload (LTL) mode of transportation moves goods efficiently. While the past year saw an uptick in emissions, it was a testament to our widening service territories and the new customers we proudly served. This chapter, filled with challenges and triumphs alike, sets the stage for a future where PITT OHIO continues to innovate and strive towards a greener tomorrow.

As we mark our 45th year, PITT OHIO's commitment to long-term growth and sustainability is clearer than ever. We are constantly exploring new technologies that offer benefits not just to their customers, but also to the wider community and the environment. These advancements have significant impacts on their decarbonization efforts, employee wellness programs, and cost-saving measures. At PITT OHIO, sustainability isn't just a buzzword—it's a cornerstone of their strategy for better business.

PURPOSE

PITT OHIO's purpose is driven by the principle of doing business better. As the company continues to expand its footprint in new regions and services, its unwavering commitment to customers and communities remains steadfast. Those familiar with the PITT OHIO brand recognize the company's consistent investment in the community through both economic opportunities and charitable giving. This dedication is reflected in the company's overall headcount, which has increased by 2% since 2023, bringing the total to over 3,100 employees.

Top Place to Work

Being recognized as a Top Workplace is a testament to PITT OHIO's commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment. The company prioritizes employee satisfaction, professional development, and work-life balance, ensuring that its workforce is motivated and engaged.

Safety Record

Maintaining a strong safety record is a cornerstone of PITT OHIO's operations. The company is dedicated to implementing rigorous safety protocols and continuous training to protect its employees and ensure a secure workplace. This commitment to safety not only enhances productivity but also fosters a culture of trust and responsibility. In 2024, PITT OHIO earned its eighth President’s Trophy from the American Trucking Association for operating the safest fleet in the country.

Industry and Carrier Awards

PITT OHIO's commitment to excellence and innovation has been consistently recognized with a collection of prestigious awards in 2024. These accolades not only honor the company's dedication to operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability but also highlight its role as a leader in the logistics and transportation industry. Below are some of the noteworthy awards and recognitions that PITT OHIO has proudly received:

• PITT OHIO & Maven Secure a Prestigious “Top 5” Finalist Spot for the 2024 CSCMP Supply Chain Innovation Award
• PITT OHIO Named Top Workplace in Pittsburgh, PA
• PITT OHIO RECEIVES 3rd SUPPLY CHAIN SUSTAINABILITY AWARD FROM CUSTOMER PARKER HANNIFIN
• PITT OHIO Announces Two Quest For Quality Awards
• PITT OHIO Celebrates Cleveland’s Positive Work Environment with 6th Top Workplace Win
• PITT OHIO Celebrates Positive Work Environment with Top Workplace Win in Cincinnati
• PITT OHIO Earns 4th Pennsylvania Motor Truck Associations President's Trophy for Safety Excellence
• PITT OHIO Earns Eighth American Trucking Associations President's Trophy for Safety Excellence
• PITT OHIO Honored as 2023 Logistics Plus Titanium LTL Carrier of the Year
• PITT OHIO Announced as 2024 CIO 100 Award Winner
• PITT OHIO Honored as 2023 Penske Logistics Freight Management Carrier Awards Recipient
  
  

"We’re Always There for You"

The slogan "We’re Always There for You" encapsulates PITT OHIO's promise to its customers, employees and communities. This pledge reflects the company's dedication to reliability, excellence, and personalized service. PITT OHIO strives to exceed expectations and deliver exceptional value in every aspect of its business.

Community Engagement and Charitable Giving

Being a responsible business involves being a good community neighbor. PITT OHIO actively engages in fundraising events, charitable donations, and sponsorships. In 2024, PITT OHIO employees donated nearly $150,000 to six impactful and amazing causes that are important to their employees and community. These contributions included support for:

• Special Olympics of Pennsylvania: Helping to empower athletes with intellectual disabilities and promote inclusion and acceptance.
• Autism Speaks: Funding research and providing resources to improve the lives of individuals affected by autism.
• Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Providing a safe environment for children and youth to develop skills and build character.
• Make a Wish Foundation: Granting wishes for children with critical illnesses to provide hope, strength, and joy.
• Fisher House Foundation: Providing accommodation and support to families of service members receiving medical care.
• Student Sustainability Design Challenge: Encouraging young minds to develop innovative solutions for sustainability challenges and fostering environmental stewardship.

PITT OHIO's sustainability initiative is grounded in the belief that doing business better is not only about economic success but also about making a positive impact on society. Through its purpose pillar, the company continues to demonstrate its dedication to creating a better future for its employees, customers, and communities.

Conclusion

PITT OHIO embarked on an ambitious journey to electrify its Harrisburg terminal. With over three years of planning, the project is nearing its grand unveiling in June 2025, featuring a powerful 600-kilowatt charging cabinet and six advanced electric trucks. Generous funding from the PA Department of Environmental Protection and collaboration with industry leaders made this transformation possible. As construction progressed, the terminal buzzed with activity, and employee engagement discussions highlighted the collective effort towards a brighter, more sustainable future.

PITT OHIO seeks to create a workforce that is also actively engaged in sustainability, driving the company towards a greener and more sustainable future. In 2024, PITT OHIO discovered engagement is sustainability on the front line is strong and we will continue enhancing employee engagement and frontline training.  Even small improvements in miles per gallon have a tremendous impact on our efficiency and this work starts with our drivers.

Scope 3 emissions will continue to move into the forefront.  PITT OHIO continues to collaborate closely with customers and industry partners to share our pioneering Scope 3 emissions calculations. By engaging stakeholders, sharing best practices, and leveraging innovative tools, PITT OHIO aims to enhance accuracy and transparency in emissions reporting.

PITT OHIO's journey is far from over. The road ahead is paved with opportunities and challenges, each one a testament to our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community. Our story is not just about the miles driven or the terminals acquired; it's about the people who drive our success, the innovative solutions that set us apart, and the relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow. With every step forward, we honor our legacy while embracing the future, ensuring that PITT OHIO remains a signal of reliability and progress. Together, we are not just shaping the future of transportation; we are crafting a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

More information on PITT OHIO’s sustainability programs can be found at www.pittohio.com/sustainability, including our CO2 Track tool which allows customers to run their own carbon emission reports.