Women in Trucking: Breaking Barriers in the Industry

The trucking industry has historically been male-dominated, but that is steadily changing. More women are joining the profession, taking advantage of opportunities, challenging stereotypes, and making meaningful contributions. Many companies recognize women's unique strengths in the industry and how they can contribute to fleet profitability. 
 

The Increasing Role of Women in Trucking

In recent years, the number of women working as drivers and in leadership positions within trucking companies has risen noticeably. According to Women in Trucking (WIT), approximately 12.1% of professional truck drivers are women, and their presence in executive roles continues to grow. Women now make up 31.6% of C-suite executives and 43.5% of dispatchers in the trucking sector, demonstrating their expanding influence beyond driving.

Why More Women Are Choosing Trucking

Several factors are attracting women to careers in trucking:

• Competitive Salaries and Benefits. Trucking can offer financial stability, often providing higher pay than other fields requiring similar levels of training.

• Improved Technology. Modern advancements have helped make trucks more comfortable and easier to operate.

• Support Networks. Organizations like WIT offer mentorship, networking, and advocacy to support female drivers.

• Fleet Education. Trucking companies continue to educate themselves on the safety, reliability, and profitability women can bring to the industry.

Why the Trucking Industry Needs Women

• Addressing the Driver Shortage. The trucking industry continues to face a significant driver shortage, with the American Trucking Association estimating a need for over 60,000 drivers. Women represent an untapped workforce that can help fill this gap and keep the supply chain running smoothly.

• Enhancing Safety on the Road. Studies suggest that female truck drivers tend to have fewer accidents, violations, and compliance issues than their male counterparts. Their cautious and safety-conscious approach can benefit trucking companies and public road safety.

• Boosting the Economy. The trucking industry moves over 70% of goods in the U.S. By increasing the number of women in the profession, the industry can maintain efficiency and reliability in transporting goods across the country.

Ways the Industry Can Support Women

To aid in the continued growth of women in trucking, industry leaders can:

• Refine Recruitment Strategies. Develop targeted hiring campaigns that showcase trucking as an attractive career for women.

• Enhance Workplace Safety. Implement improved safety measures, educating traditional drivers on the importance and need of female drivers and how to support them in the industry. Work with shippers and receivers to provide reasonable accommodations, safe parking, restrooms, and cargo securement options.

• Expand Training and Leadership Programs. Provide career development opportunities that help women understand the opportunities and advance in the industry.

Women continue to impact trucking, proving it can be a viable and rewarding career choice for all. As companies continue to hire quality professional drivers, the industry can benefit from a diverse workforce. By breaking barriers and reshaping perceptions, women will help play an even more significant role in shaping the future of trucking.

Source:

https://www.womenintrucking.org/press-releases/women-comprise-12.1-percent-of-commercial-driver-workforce