Shannon Greigo’s Global Transloading offers an array of construction needs including trucking and disposal solutions, waste analysis and administrative compliance services. The company recently opened its “Alternative Fuel Clean Dirt Division,” doubling the size of its fleet with alternative-fuel semi-trucks and belly-dump trailers, while minimizing the fleet’s environmental impact.
The company is based in Signal Hill.
Greigo spoke with the Business Journal about getting into the industry and the importance of relationships.
What made you decide to go into the industry you’re in now? What have you learned about it?
I enlisted in the Army when I was 18 years old and spent my time as an active duty soldier being a transportation manager, moving construction waste and equipment throughout Europe and the Middle East. When I left active duty, I continued on as a U.S. Army Reservist and later a U.S. Navy Seabee and was able to further advance my skills in transportation management and contracting. During this time, I realized there was a great need in the civilian construction industry for someone to assist contractors in finding innovative, cost effective, safe and compliant ways to move and dispose of and recycle large volumes of construction waste all while meeting a burdensome administrative requirement.
What is the number one piece of advice you’d give to women who want to start or operate their own businesses?
The number one piece of advice for women starting their own business is to believe in yourself and your vision. Confidence in your abilities and perseverance in the face of challenges is crucial. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek mentors, and continuously educate yourself to stay ahead. Networking and maintaining good customer service is also crucial for success. Ensuring you have a niche that sets you apart from your competitors will make you or break you.
What have you done this past year to
ensure that your business is a leader in
its industry?
Global Transloading has worked to strengthen relationships with contractors and clients through excellent service and communication. We have enhanced our marketing and branding to increase visibility and brand recognition. We have recently invested in revamping our team, stepping up professional development to ensure they are knowledgeable and skilled in the latest industry practices.
What steps do you take to build community and a positive work culture within your business?
We practice clear and open lines of communication daily and I spend a large amount of time devoted to making sure our employees feel heard and valued. Global Transloading organizes team building activities to foster camaraderie and teamwork. I encourage a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working hours and support for well-being. Global Transloading engages in community service and sustainability initiatives that employees can participate in fostering a sense of purpose and pride in their work.
What aspects of operating your business do you find the most challenging? Conversely, which aspects have been the most rewarding?
The most challenging aspect of operating my business is navigating complex logistics, ensuring efficient waste disposal while keeping costs in check all the while competing with others who work for little or no profit. Conversely, the most rewarding aspect is seeing the positive environmental impact of our services and being able to say that the work we do makes the world a better place to live.
Has being a woman in your industry provided you with a different or unique perspective over the years?
I don’t know if you can be in anymore of a male-dominated industry than construction waste hauling. This has left me with a unique perspective because I have experienced challenges related to gender bias and have had to work hard to establish credibility. This perspective has led me to foster a more inclusive work environment, advocate for diversity and bring innovative approaches to problem solving and leadership. These innovative approaches have helped broaden our range of clients and enhanced our business’ reputation and success.
Who has inspired you throughout your business journey, and what is the most important thing you’ve learned from them?
John Lindsey, a peer and prior owner of Waste By Rail Inc. (now a Republic Services Co.) has inspired me throughout my business journey. He owned and operated the only private intermodal rail yard for environmentally contaminated waste in Los Angeles. This was a very rough and tumble business with many challenges, yet through his steadfast determination he always remained positive, friendly and focused on building and maintaining harmonious relationships throughout the industry. He recently retired after a long illustrious career. The most important thing I learned from him is that failures will happen in business, it’s ok to cry, scream, threaten to quit, you have to let it all out, but once you’re done with that, get back up and keep going because you can’t win the race if you’re not in it.
What’s next for you and your company?
With the launching of our Alternative Fuel Belly Dump Division, we are entering a new era of “green trucking.” We are embracing this change and are excited to be the largest construction waste hauler in Southern California with alternative-fuel equipment.
