Meet Our Team

Kathleen Rowell, Founder & CEO

Kathleen founded American Moving in 2009. In an industry dominated by multi-generational, male-led companies, American Moving stands out as the only certified 100% woman-owned, union commercial moving company in the state of Massachusetts. The woman behind the company is proud of this description, but even more proud of the company she has grown from a start-up to one of the most successful moving businesses in the region.

Growing up in “Southie” (South Boston, Mass) in affordable housing, Rowell learned at a young age that nothing would be handed to her and credits this life lesson as being the catalyst for her strong work ethic. Joining the workforce part-time while still in high school, Rowell helped contribute to her family’s income. Since being a caretaker came naturally, it only makes sense that she spent over 20 years working in the health care industry, with dreams of one day becoming a nurse. Those dreams were put on hold when she divorced, becoming a single parent raising and providing for 3 young children.

A self-described “hustler,” Kathleen switched gears and got into residential and commercial cleaning. She wanted her children to have more than she did growing up, all while instilling the values of hard work she learned early on. She always told her children, “You start something, you finish something. You don’t quit.”

This go-getter never envisioned being a business owner. After being exposed to the commercial moving industry during cleaning jobs, she realized there was an incredible opportunity available as a woman in a male dominated field of 2nd and 3rd generation movers. Never one to back down from a challenge, Kathleen dug in and learned. She has grown the business from the ground up into one of the most reputable commercial moving companies in the industry.

Although now CEO of a huge staff, Kathleen is still involved in all aspects of the operation. She is quick to tell you (in her thick Boston accent) that she has never forgotten where she came from because that’s where she learned about hard work. Her background, too, has also impressed upon her the importance of giving back to the community, so she has made this a priority in the company’s mission. Whether it be a monthly donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or her work as a board member of First Literacy, Inc. Kathleen finds true joy in giving back and is an avid supporter of various organizations including Juvenile Diabetes (JDRF), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Christmas in the City, National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, and the Boys & Girls Club, among others.

Kathleen Rowell is a mover and a shaker. Her energy is contagious whether she is describing her vision for the company, the accomplishments of her children, or love for her bulldogs. It’s hard to not want to get on board whatever train this dynamic entrepreneur is driving!