Gold Nugget Spotlight: Miriam Baca Kotkowski | TECMA
UTEP has honored Miriam Baca Kotkowski (BBA, ’84; MBA, ’15) as a 2025 Gold Nugget for the Woody L. Hunt College of Business. Her career in transportation and logistics reflects resilience, vision, and a commitment to building opportunity across borders.
Baca Kotkowski reflected on her career with Hunt Insights.
First in the family
As the youngest of five siblings — and the first woman in her family to earn a college degree — Baca Kotkowski found motivation early.
“I wanted to prove to my father — whom I adored — that I had a mind worth investing in. Earning an education wasn’t just about credentials; it was about earning his respect.”
That determination became the foundation of her career and personal drive.
A lifelong pull toward logistics
Inspired by her father’s cattle transportation business in Cd. Juárez, she grew up surrounded by toy trucks and stories of the open road.
“Logistics felt familiar—like home. I couldn’t wait to apply my financial skills to a world I’d loved since I was small.”
Building from bold beginnings
In 1998, she co-founded Omega Trucking with her brother. Financing the venture required persistence and trust.
“Those first six months were the hardest, but I was determined. Every obstacle became fuel for the journey.”
Her motivation: providing the best education possible for her children and creating a business that could last.
Crossing borders with purpose
Baca Kotkowski finds her greatest satisfaction in delivering Mexican-made products to the U.S. with precision.
“In logistics, you’re not just moving cargo; you’re carrying your client’s reputation. Each shipment is a reflection of our dedication and pride.”
For her, every delivery is more than a transaction — it’s a connection between communities.
Women shaping the industry
When she began, Baca Kotkowski was often the only woman in the room. Today, she sees the landscape shifting.
“We’re still underrepresented at the executive level, but the tide is turning. I see more women claiming their space — and we’re just getting started.”
Advice for future leaders
“Build relationships—they’re the real currency of global trade. Be curious. Be resilient. To understand supply chain is to understand how business truly works. Whether you’re moving goods or solving problems, remember you’re a connector.”
Leading with values
As President of TECMA Transportation Services, she emphasizes opportunity, family values, and community impact.
“We aspire to be international leaders not just in logistics, but in cultivating a workplace defined by purpose and entrepreneurial spirit.”
Looking back, she credits UTEP with shaping her path.
“UTEP gave me access to an education I might not have had otherwise. Its presence opened doors for me, and the incredible people I met helped shape my values.”
