Northeast Florida is America’s transportation and logistics center. The region’s two deep-water ports, three major interstates – I-95, I-10 and I-75, four railroads and an international airport system help Jacksonville rank as one of the best cities for logistics infrastructure according to Global Trade Magazine.
Mar Tyndall has a love for vehicles and an interest in the technology that keeps them running. He graduated from Lincoln Tech’s ASE-Certified automotive program and worked for Volkswagen for two years. While Tyndall enjoyed his work, he wanted to achieve more in his career. He began to explore opportunities to become a diesel technician and found the Republic Services diesel technician training program.
“I wanted a challenge and I was inspired by the challenge of working on bigger and heavier equipment,” Tyndall said.
Tyndall is a diesel technician apprentice at Republic Services, a leader in recycling, waste and environmental services. Originally from New Jersey, Tyndall moved to Jacksonville in the spring of 2023 after graduating from Republic Services’ Technical Institute, the industry's first-ever diesel technician training program. The next generation trade school provides technological education and student compensation while supporting the development of a highly trained workforce.
“When I first started, I didn’t know much about trucks,” Tyndall said. “Now, I know more than the average person.”
The training program was developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor and Lincoln Tech, a leader in post-secondary education for auto, diesel, and skilled trades, to address the national diesel tech shortage. Republic Services Technical Institute offers paid on-the-job training, high-tech classrooms, and computer-based learning. Participants work toward a technical certification tuition-free at the Institute’s state-of-the-art, 76,000-square-foot facility located in Dallas, Texas. Tyndall received an offer to attend the Institute in January of 2023.
“It’s a beautiful facility with a lot of space to work in and the instructors are so helpful,” Tyndall said. “It was an excellent experience.”
After completing the nine-week program, graduates of the Republic Services Technical Institute begin full-time work at one of the company’s 180 local business units, including Jacksonville. Graduates receive a competitive salary, health insurance, paid time off and other benefits. Republic Services operates one of the nation’s largest fleets of waste removal and recycling vehicles and equipment, including heavy-duty, professional-grade, top-of-the-line trucks.
“Every day takes a lot of hard work and dedication,” Tyndall said. “There is always something new and interesting to learn each day.”
Tyndall performs ongoing maintenance and critical repairs to keep the company’s trucks on the road.
“It’s rewarding that I can serve my community as well as our team by making sure our trucks up and running and keeping our trucks safe,” Tyndall said. “Safety is our number one priority.”
Tyndall will advance from an apprentice to a certified diesel technician after approximately 18 months on the job. He enjoys the daily challenges of his job including disassembling and reassembling equipment. Problem solving is an essential skill for a diesel technician, which can be an excellent path to a well-paying and secure profession.
“Some days are challenging, but you have to do what it takes to keep striving, be persistent and achieve your goals,” Tyndall said.
As a student, Alexanderia Crotts made the most of her university experience. Crotts graduated from the Hicks Honors College at the University of North Florida in the spring of 2024. She majored in both Transportation & Logistics and Economics, paired with a double minor in Leadership and Digital Marketing & Analytics.
Crotts is a Logistics Management Specialist at The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) in Jacksonville. NAVAIR’s mission is to provide full life-cycle support for naval aviation aircraft, weapons and systems. NAVAIR hires both military and civilian professionals. In her role as a logistician, Crotts serves as an integral part of NAVAIR’s capability to deliver and support airborne weapon systems used by the Navy and Marines across the globe.
“The most rewarding aspect of my work is knowing that my contributions help support the men and women who are serving and protecting our country,” Crotts said. “The work I do directly supports national defense, which is both meaningful and fulfilling.”
In addition to understanding logistics operations and management, Crotts’ role requires strong communication and time management skills, the ability to work well in a team environment and proficiency in tools like Excel for analyzing data and optimizing processes.
“The supply chain constantly evolves, and success lies in adapting to change,” Crotts said. “My role involves staying flexible and responsive to ever-changing demands and ensuring that the warfighter has what it needs to run smoothly and efficiently.”
Crotts was inspired to be a Transportation and Logistics major at UNF because she enjoys making processes more efficient and recognizes the value supply chains provide. As a student, Crotts was actively involved in on- and off-campus student organizations including as a liaison to the JAX Chamber Transportation and Logistics Council. Crotts completed five internships including with Magellan Transport Logistics, Crowley, Bacardi and Southeastern Grocers, among others. At UNF, which partners with industry leaders to ensure students are prepared for the workforce, these real-world experiences offered Crotts a way to learn beyond the textbook.
“My internships helped me gain understanding of the industry, identify what I’m most passionate about and discover the areas I want to pursue in my career,” Crotts said.
Crotts participated in the Intermodal Association of North America Case Competition three times, twice as the UNF representative in Jacksonville and once as the UNF Team Lead in California. She participated in the research project, “Leveraging Intermodal Capability to Build Port Capacity,” with Dr. Dawn Russell. For her Honors Capstone, Crotts worked to expand the relationships of the UNF Transportation and Logistics Society from two professional organizations to five in the Jacksonville community.
“These activities were enjoyable and allowed me to expand my network, connecting with peers, professors, UNF alumni and the Jacksonville business community,” Crotts said.
Crotts received the UNF Osprey Community Engagement Medallion, which recognizes students who demonstrate exemplary commitment to the community through their activities and engagement during their years as a UNF student. Crotts recommends all students make the most of their university experience.
“Getting involved allowed me to form relationships that I cherish and gave me the ability to learn academically and professionally during my undergraduate career,” Crotts said. “Involvement as a student helps you connect with professionals that you otherwise would not meet and build relationships that can support your career growth.”
The opinions and views expressed belong solely to Alexanderia Crotts and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense (DoD) or its components.
“I’ve always had an interest in business,” said Searcy. “After taking an introductory course in supply chain management, I became interested in the industry.”
Searcy is a Pricing Coordinator at Trailer Bridge. Founded in 1991 by industry pioneer Malcom McLean, Trailer Bridge began with a focus on the Puerto Rican trade lane offering consistent weekly barge service. Since expanding into domestic transportation in 2012, the company’s Logistics Division has grown to include full truckload, intermodal shipping, cross-border solutions and drayage. Trailer Bridge has a global presence with locations in the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe.
Searcy joined Trailer Bridge in 2022 shortly after graduating from Georgia Southern, where he earned dual bachelor of business administration degrees in logistics and supply chain management and finance. As a teen, Searcy had an interest in pursuing a degree in criminology. After taking a few classes at Georgia Southern, he discovered he didn’t have a passion for it. Searcy’s academic adviser encouraged him to explore business and logistics careers.
“There are so many goods that are transported by land, air and sea from all over the world,” Searcy said. “Working with ocean freight services resonated and appealed to me.”
As Pricing Coordinator at Trailer Bridge, Searcy provides quotes and manages ocean account contracts for both domestic and international customers. Trailer Bridge provides comprehensive ocean freight services designed to streamline shipping across North America, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and international markets. In his role, Searcy collaborates and works closely with sales, account management, truck operations teams and customers shipping goods to and from the United States. Searcy’s position requires proactive planning, problem-solving and analytical skills.
“My job is where it all starts,” Searcy said. “I enjoy being a part of the process, seeing the journey evolve from start to finish and working with our teams.”
Searcy appreciates the company culture at Trailer Bridge, which is built on service to colleagues, customers and the communities where they live, work and play. Searcy was nominated to join the company’s 2025 Extreme Leadership Training Program, which focuses on developing future leaders within the company’s businesses.
“Our leadership want to invest in you and help you build your skillset,” Searcy said. “It really feels like family here.”
For those interested in pursuing a career in logistics, Searcy encourages students to network and seek mentors in the industry. He says strong communication skills and computer proficiency in programs such as PowerBI and Excel are vital. Most importantly, do your research and find a career that ignites your passion.
“My advice is don’t stress about it, but figure out what you like to do,” Searcy said. “You’ll be successful if you enjoy what you’re doing.”
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Northeast Florida has long been considered a transportation and logistics center. With its access to water and strategic position in the Southeast, Jacksonville is a critical path in the global supply chain, which is why so many transportation and logistics companies have a presence here.
The Jacksonville region is also developing talent needed for transportation companies. With industry-related career academies in many of our K-12 school districts and programs offered at Florida State College of Jacksonville, University of North Florida, and Keiser University, the region’s educational institutions are building skilled supply chain professionals. The positive impact of these programs is both immediate and far-reaching.
If you’re interested in this career, review its Career Pathway to see what skills and education are needed to get a job and succeed in this ever-evolving industry. Earn Up consistently works with leaders and educators in the space to align the needs of employers with the available talent in Northeast Florida.
Transportation & Logistics Companies in the Region
“The Big Brothers Big Sisters Beyond the School Walls program took us to JAXPORT where my Big Sister worked and it opened my mind to pursue a career in the field,” said McWhite.
McWhite is a pricing analyst at Crowley, a U.S.-owned and -operated company serving customers in domestic, international and government markets through logistics, supply chain, and energy services. The global ship owner-operator and services provider has more than 170 vessels and serves customers in 36 nations and island territories. In her role, McWhite supports sales team members with customized price quotes and develops customized pricing solutions to meet unique client needs. Her position requires data analysis, negotiation and contract management skills. Communication, team work, problem solving and adaptability are equally important.
“You need to stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and be comfortable using them,” McWhite said.
McWhite joined Crowley in 2023 as a Rotational Development associate, working in the Crowley Logistics business unit under the Sales, Land Transport, and Freight Services departments. Crowley's Rotational Development Program is designed for recent college graduates to gain experience in various functions within the Logistics business unit. The program lasts 12 months and consists of three rotations each lasting four months. After completing the program, McWhite was promoted to her current position in 2024. Working at Crowley is rewarding because it allows McWhite to develop exemplary customer relationships and contribute to the company’s success.
“The team at Crowley is amazing,” said McWhite. “There are a lot of opportunities at Crowley for professional growth as well as personal growth.”
McWhite joined Crowley after graduating from Florida A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management. She earned an associate’s degree in business and the nationally recognized Certified Logistics Associate certification from Florida State College at Jacksonville.
Prior to graduating from First Coast High School, the Big Brothers Big Sisters program inspired McWhite to pursue an educational path that focused on logistics. It served as a launchpad for her success. She describes the impact of the program’s mentoring and educational experiences as life-changing.
“Before I joined the program, I did not know what it was like to have a mentor,” McWhite said. “The relationships helped me grow and develop my goals.”
In full circle moment, McWhite became a mentor in the program at Crowley and took on the role of Big Sister to Shazijyah last year. She is excited and humbled to give back and help inspire the next generation.
“Being a Little prepared me to be a Big,” McWhite said. “I am one of the fortunate ones who was able to advance my career at an early age. Many are not as fortunate. I want to mentor others and help them achieve their full potential.”
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