The Business of Trucking Recruitment with Kameel Gaines

Breaking Barriers in Trucking Recruitment: A Conversation with Kameel Gaines

In a world where logistics keeps the global economy moving, the trucking industry is its beating heart. Yet, the unsung heroes behind this sector are not just the drivers on the road, but also the recruiters connecting the right talent to the right wheels. We had the privilege of speaking with Kameel Gaines, the dynamic CEO of Recon Wheels and founder of KEG Global Consulting, who has been a game-changer in the trucking recruitment space for over 13 years.

Recruitment Meets the Road

Kameel’s journey is far from conventional. Starting in sales and recruitment at a young age, she transitioned into the male-dominated trucking industry with a fire to learn and lead. Today, her companies offer third-party recruitment and brokerage services to over 50 trucking firms across the United States.

Her global team spans Canada, India, the Philippines, and the U.S., and speaks multiple languages to connect effectively with America’s diverse driver base. Whether it's a recruiter in Mohali speaking Punjabi or Spanish-speaking team members handling drivers in Texas or California, Kameel’s team knows how to meet drivers where they are — literally and culturally.

The Realities of Recruiting Drivers

Unlike traditional jobs, truck drivers rarely have resumes. Kameel’s approach? Text messages and phone calls. It’s personal, it’s direct, and it’s effective. “We talk to people, understand why they left their last job, and what they’re really looking for in the next one,” she explains.

Each driver is unique. Whether it's Peter, Singh, or Jose — better benefits mean different things to different people. That’s where Kameel’s team excels. They match the human behind the wheel with the right company culture, route, and rewards.

Bridging Expectations

Kameel is a master of managing expectations. Trucking companies want reliability, and drivers want respect, good pay, and benefits that matter. Her job is to align those interests. “We’re not married to any trucking company,” she says. “We’re partners. So if one company doesn’t fit, we submit the driver to others. There's a match for everyone.”

Standing Out in a Crowded Market

So how does Recon Wheels stay ahead in a highly competitive field? Diversity and empathy. “My team will never be all one thing,” says Kameel. With drivers from all walks of life, having a recruiting team that reflects that diversity is key.

Her unmatched work ethic, relentless pursuit of excellence, and commitment to studying the industry make her a force to be reckoned with. “Trucking chose me,” she says, and it’s clear she’s embraced the challenge with open arms.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Kameel’s story is more than business — it's about breaking stereotypes, owning your space in male-dominated industries, and leading with grit and grace. Her passion and perseverance are reshaping how the trucking world thinks about recruitment.

To every aspiring entrepreneur, especially women looking to enter unconventional fields, Kameel’s advice is simple: “No one will outwork me or out-study me — why not you?”

In the fast-moving world of logistics, Kameel Gaines is steering the future of trucking recruitment with innovation, empathy, and unstoppable drive. Whether you're a driver looking for your next gig or a trucking company searching for reliable talent — she’s the connector you need.

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