Kenny Zugg’s journey in logistics began over a decade ago with a simple passion for keeping things running smoothly. From AutoZone to leadership roles at Owens Corning, Ridge Runner Trucking and Carter Lumber, he’s built deep, hands-on expertise in moving parts and people. Today, as Director of Logistics at Kokosing Inc., he manages significant assets and permits with the same drive and precision. His growth is grounded in real-world experience, teamwork and a relentless push for better.
A Journey Powered by Purpose
Zugg’s road to becoming Director of Logistics began more than a decade ago in the parts aisles of AutoZone, where he first discovered a passion for keeping complex systems moving— each role since has added a new layer of experience. As Account Operations Manager at WJW Management, Logistics Manager at Owens Corning, Director of Operations at Ridge Runner Trucking and Plant Manager at Carter Lumber, he built expertise in dispatch, inventory control, production scheduling and team development.
By the time Kokosing brought him on board in November 2023 to oversee eight million dollars in portable concrete barrier assets and manage heavyweight and oversized permitting across divisions, Zugg had already earned a reputation for eliminating inefficiencies and maximizing operational performance.
Grounded in Education and Real-World Application
Zugg holds a degree in Business Administration and Management from Ohio State University and a second in Plant Management from Carter Lumber. This academic foundation balances strategic thinking with practical insight. Over the past eleven years, he has developed a robust skill set that includes Viewpoint Construction Software, WMS platforms, OSHA and DOT compliance, contract negotiation and third-party logistics partnerships. These capabilities help power Kokosing’s logistics coordination and barrier program across the Midwest.
Seeing the Whole System
To Zugg, logistics is a full-spectrum operation. It starts with accurate inventory control, where every barrier, bracket and bolt is carefully tracked. From there, it expands into route planning, real-time load tracking and proactive maintenance that avoids downtime. His monthly expense reports go beyond recording movement. They convert raw data into insights that drive cost efficiency and long-term value.
“Zugg envisions a future where logistics runs on data, cleaner fleets support environmental goals and logistics and project planning operate as a single, integrated system”
Zugg’s knowledge of permitting helps keep oversized loads compliant and on schedule across multiple states. His recent involvement with Kokosing’s Marketing Team reflects his ability to communicate the broader value of logistics. He now supports brand efforts by turning real-world results into metrics, visuals and narratives demonstrating how logistics impacts project success.
People First, Always
Throughout his career, Zugg has placed people at the center of every process. At Carter Lumber, he mentored team leads in Lean practices. At Ridge Runner Trucking, he established safety committees that improved team accountability and awareness. Today, he trains dispatchers and drivers to use key performance indicators to identify issues early and respond with agility.
He brings warehouse teams, permit coordinators and thirdparty partners into a cohesive logistics network. His leadership relies on open communication, mutual respect and a commitment to constant improvement. He believes that great systems are built through aligned efforts and strong relationships.
Focused on What Comes Next
Innovation guides Zugg’s current priorities. He is piloting telematics programs that track barrier inventory in real time and exploring AI-assisted route optimization tools. These initiatives aim to build a more innovative, more adaptive logistics model that is leaner, more sustainable and more responsive to changing demands.
Zugg envisions a future where logistics runs on data, cleaner fleets support environmental goals and logistics and project planning operate as a single, integrated system. In a field where every minute counts, his approach delivers measurable impact. Construction projects run smoothly and roads are safer. Logistics has also become a strategic asset that supports growth.
