The Ceiling Smasher

Gina Reckart

Owner, Reckart Logistics

As the owner of a successful logistics company, Gina Reckart knows what it’s like to bust through glass ceilings. Born and raised in Elkins, Gina grew up in an entrepreneurial family. Her parents owned a sporting goods store so, as a child, she watched them build their business, and even got to help them in the store. “Watching my parents, I learned that you have to work hard, be patient, and believe in yourself,” Reckart says.

After earning her degree in finance at West Virginia University, Reckart began to work for the federal government. When she witnessed the 9/11 terrorist attack on the Pentagon while on a business trip, she realized how much she needed West Virginia and the serenity of the mountains. “It’s my home. As soon as I crossed the state line, I felt the fear I had been feeling since the attacks start to ease.”

Reckart decided to focus her career in West Virginia, and she gained invaluable experience and knowledge while working in the local health care system. In 2004, through several years of hard work, perseverance, and sleepless nights over her dining room table, Reckart Logistics was born. The company has grown into a successful woman-owned organization that employs 33 people and serves the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“Know your industry and know your business. Beyond that, you just have to believe in yourself.”

“Our employees are family. No question—good employees are your best asset as a business owner,” she says.

Reckart hopes women won’t be afraid to stay in West Virginia and follow their dreams here so that we will see more and more female Mountaineer-owned businesses. “There are a lot of opportunities for people who stay here and start a business,” she says. Her advice for female entrepreneurs is simple. “Do your research and know your stuff. Ask for help. Talk to your mentors. Just keep working hard, and when you’re ready, you will know it.”

Reckart says she’s an excellent listener and welcomes employees who go to her with new ideas. “I’m not afraid of change. That’s how you make progress.” And that’s exactly what she plans to do. “We are going to continue expanding and growing. Eventually, our children will take over. Leaving a legacy to my children is so important to me.”

Written by Megan Huff

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