Tweet
Women are playing an increasingly important role in the trucking industry, demonstrating their skills and dedication behind the wheel and in leadership positions
.
Demographics and impact
- In 2024, women made up 9.5% of professional drivers.
- This number has seen fluctuations, reaching 12.1% in 2023.
- Women are also well-represented in other key roles within the trucking and logistics sector: 74.5% in human resources/talent management, 38.5% in dispatcher roles, and 38.5% in safety, according to the 2024-25 WIT Index.
- Furthermore, women hold a substantial number of leadership positions: 28% in C-Suite/executive roles, 34.5% in supervisory leadership positions, and 29.5% on boards of directors, .
- Research suggests that women truck drivers are safer, with 50% fewer accidents on average than their male counterparts, according to the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI).
- They also tend to have fewer violations and safety incidents.
- Hiring women can help address the driver shortage facing the industry and contribute to improved retention rates, as women are more likely to stay with companies that provide a supportive work environment.
Despite the positive trends, women in trucking continue to face obstacles:
- Gender discrimination and stereotypes:Women often encounter skepticism about their abilities and may face bias regarding pay and opportunities.
- Workplace harassment and safety concerns:This includes harassment on the road and concerns about personal safety, particularly at truck stops and rest areas.
- Limited facilities and accommodations:Truck stops and rest areas may lack adequate facilities for women.
- Work-life balance: Women often carry the primary responsibility for caregiving, making it challenging to balance work and home life in a demanding profession like trucking.
- Physical and mental health challenges: Long hours, irregular schedules, and isolation can impact physical and mental well-being.
- The Women In Trucking Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging the employment of women in trucking, promoting their accomplishments, and minimizing obstacles they face.
- WIT offers various programs, services, and resources to support women in the industry, including scholarships, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts.
- Other organizations, such as Real Women in Trucking, also provide support and resources for female truck drivers.
- Historically, women like Luella Bates, the first officially employed female truck driver, and Lillie Elizabeth McGee Drennan, the first licensed female truck driver in Texas and the owner of the first female-owned and -operated truck fleet, paved the way for women in trucking.
- Today, many women are achieving success in the industry, like Terri S., a Swift Transportation driver who achieved Million Mile Driver status, recognized for her safety and performance.
- Companies like GLT Logistics have been recognized for their commitment to creating a supportive environment for women, with a majority of women in their workforce and leadership roles.