Schneider National, a leading transport, freight shipping and logistics company, boasts an annual revenue exceeding $5.3 billion. With over 90 years of history, the Green Bay, Wisconsin-based firm operates three primary business units: over-the-road truckload, intermodal transport and logistics, serving predominantly North America. Technology is a key enabler of growth in all segments, and the leader of that function is Shaleen Devgun, the company’s Chief Innovation and Technology Officer. Having been with the company for 16 years, including an extended tenure as CIO prior to his current post, Devgun now leads dual initiatives in advancing technology and fostering innovation to create a more sustainable and efficient freight industry.
Leading Dual Roles: Technology and Innovation
Devgun’s role blends traditional CIO responsibilities with the expansive mandate of innovation and venture investment. He oversees product management, application development, data centers and telematics. “As a network business, Schneider relies heavily on algorithmic platforms, decision science and analytics to optimize our operations,” Devgun explained. Alongside these responsibilities, he spearheads initiatives that define Schneider’s role as a disruptor in the industry.
Supporting him in these efforts is a team split across the dual facets of his role. “It’s not just about running IT efficiently; it’s also about ensuring innovation takes root, whether it’s through internal efforts or by working with external partners,” Devgun added.
The Marketplace of Movement
One of Schneider’s transformative concepts is the “marketplace of movement,” which aims to streamline and revolutionize the logistics ecosystem. “This initiative connects shippers, carriers and intermediaries more dynamically,” Devgun said. He highlights the importance of building platforms that enhance decision-making and eliminate inefficiencies in the movement of goods.
Central to this vision are investments in technology-driven platforms. “We’ve collaborated with companies like Mastery Logistics and Platform Science to build scalable, software-defined solutions,” Devgun shared. Mastery Logistics is working toward creating an ERP-like solution for transportation, automating traditionally manual processes, while Platform Science focuses on integrating software into the cab of Class 8 tractors.
Investing in Sustainability
Schneider is committed to sustainability, a mission driven by Devgun through two distinct vehicles: Scope 23 and Packerland Ventures. Scope 23, Schneider’s innovation studio, focuses on decarbonizing the supply chain. “Transportation is a top-three source of emissions,” Devgun asserted. “As a company running 10 million miles daily, we have a moral responsibility to lead.”
Scope 23 has introduced tools like GreenSite.ai, enabling shippers to measure and proactively reduce their emissions. “We’re leveraging decision science to identify actionable ways to cut greenhouse gases when it aligns with business goals,” Devgun noted. Schneider is also exploring biofuels and has deployed nearly 100 electric Class 8 trucks in its intermodal operations.
Packerland Ventures, on the other hand, invests in startups aligned with Schneider’s core competencies, such as logistics platforms and sustainability solutions. “Unlike traditional venture funds, we’re not about deal flow,” Devgun said by way of clarifying. “We invest where we can make a meaningful difference and bring scale and liquidity to founders.”
Innovation at The Grove
Schneider’s commitment to fostering innovation extends to its campus in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where The Grove serves as an incubator for ideas. Built in partnership with Gensler, The Grove brings together entrepreneurs, corporate partners and Schneider’s expertise to solve pressing industry challenges. “We aim to create pragmatic innovations that can reshape the logistics and transportation sectors,” Devgun underscored.
The space is also a hub for Schneider’s scrappy and collaborative culture. Employees from all levels volunteer for six-month rotations to tackle specific challenges or redefine processes. “This approach allows us to cultivate corporate athletes who can think broadly and deeply about the business,” Devgun said. Those who engage in the rotations return to their day jobs with a new vigor and set of insights that strengthen their more traditional work, according to Devgun.
The Role of Technology as a Strategic Enabler
Schneider’s leadership sees technology as a strategic enabler, not just a cost center. Devgun credits this mindset to the support from the company’s CEO and executive team. “None of this would be possible without their backing,” he emphasized.
Devgun believes that balancing foundational IT excellence with a forward-looking innovation agenda is critical. “As [tech executives], we must ensure today’s platforms operate seamlessly while paving the way for tomorrow’s growth,” he said. “It’s about exceeding SLAs and optimizing ERP and collaboration platforms to create new opportunities.”
Future Trends and the Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Devgun sees immense potential in marrying logistics with advanced computing technologies. “Cognitive technologies have the power to elevate human talent by removing mundane tasks and enabling higher-value contributions,” he explained. This, he believes, will help organizations rewire themselves to leverage technology as a transformative force.
For Schneider National, innovation remains a collaborative effort. “True breakthroughs happen when experts partner with centers of innovation and entrepreneurs,” Devgun says. With initiatives associated with Scope 23, Packerland Ventures and The Grove, Schneider is poised to continue its leadership in reshaping the freight and logistics industry for decades to come.
Peter High is President of Metis Strategy, a business and IT advisory firm. He has written three bestselling books, including his latest Getting to Nimble. He also moderates the Technovation podcast series and speaks at conferences around the world. Follow him on Twitter @PeterAHigh.