Kelly O'Keefe
Madera
Summary
Accomplished Transportation and Operations Manager with expertise in logistics and fleet management. Led operations for 40-50 drivers and multiple subcontracted carriers, focusing on recruitment, training, and performance management. Former trucking company owner, Assistant Plant Manager, Underground Foreman and Cal Fire, Fire Captain, skilled in team leadership, safety, and operational efficiency. Committed to enhancing performance and driving success in dynamic environments.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Transportation Operations Manager
Material Movers Inc
Fresno
06.2025 - Current
- Manage daily transportation operations supporting 40-50 company drivers and multiple subcontracted carriers.
- Lead all recruiting, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training efforts for new drivers.
- Conduct performance management, disciplinary actions, and employee terminations when necessary.
- Oversee dispatch operations and coordinate equipment and personnel to meet customer requirements.
- Serve as primary contact for operational issues, driver concerns, customer service matters, and problem resolution.
- Manage subcontractor relationships and coordinate additional transportation capacity as business demands require.
- Provide leadership and support to drivers while maintaining operational efficiency and service standards
- Collaborate with ownership regarding staffing, operational planning, and business performance.
Assistant Plant Manager
Integrated Proteins
Saint Joseph
06.2023 - 11.2024
- Assisted in managing daily plant operations and workforce activities.
- Coordinated production schedules, Staffing, and operational performance.
- Supervised employees and ensured adherence to company policies and safety procedures.
- Assisted with employee development, training, and performance management.
- Worked with maintenance, operations, and management teams to maximize productivity and efficiency.
- Participated in operational planning and problem- solving efforts to meet production goals.
Owner/ Operator
KRO Transport
Gallatin
01.2020 - 05.2023
- Owned and operated a commercial trucking company.
- Managed transportation operations, customer relationships, regulatory compliance, and equipment utilization.
- Oversaw business development, budgeting, and operational decision-making.
- Coordinated freight movement, scheduling, and customer service activities.
- Maintained compliance with transportation regulations and industry requirements.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers, vendors, and industry partners.
Equipment operator/ Underground foreman
West Tech
Clovis
09.2018 - 01.2020
- Supervised underground utility and construction crews.
- Coordinated daily jobsite operations, personnel, equipment, and scheduling.
- Ensured projects were completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
- Operated heavy equipment and managed field activities.
- Led crews, maintained productivity, and resolved jobsite issues.
- Coordinated with contractors, vendors, inspectors, and project stakeholders.
Fire Captain
Cal Fire
Madera
06.1996 - 09.2018
- Directed wildfire suppression, structure fire response, rescue operations, and emergency incidents.
- Supervised and led engine companies and hand crews during emergency incidents and daily operations.
- Conducted incident command functions and made critical decisions during emergency situations.
- Coordinated emergency response activities to optimize operational readiness and response effectiveness.
- Managed personnel and developed training programs to enhance crew performance and readiness.
- Developed and implemented training programs to maintain crew proficiency and operational effectiveness.
- Oversaw fire station operations, ensuring apparatus readiness, equipment maintenance, and compliance with safety standards.
- Ensured compliance with departmental policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Fire Science
Fresno City College
Fresno, CASome College (No Degree) - Fire Science
Porterville College
Porterville, CASome College (No Degree) - John Deere Tech Program
Merced Junior College
Merced, CASome College (No Degree) - Private Pilot
Flight School
Fresno, CASkills
- Transportation operations management
- Fleet management
- Regulatory compliance
- Logistics coordination
- Dispatch operations
- Performance management
- Safety management & Risk mitigation
- Driver training
- Construction crew supervision
- Heavy equipment operations
- Plant operations
- Project coordination
- Team leadership
- Staff development and leadership
- Safety management & Risk mitigation
Timeline
Transportation Operations Manager
Material Movers Inc
06.2025 - Current
Assistant Plant Manager
Integrated Proteins
06.2023 - 11.2024
Owner/ Operator
KRO Transport
01.2020 - 05.2023
Equipment operator/ Underground foreman
West Tech
09.2018 - 01.2020
Fire Captain
Cal Fire
06.1996 - 09.2018
Some College (No Degree) - Fire Science
Fresno City College
Some College (No Degree) - Fire Science
Porterville College
Some College (No Degree) - John Deere Tech Program
Merced Junior College
Some College (No Degree) - Private Pilot
Flight School