As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is important to recognize the significant contributions that women have made to the trucking industry. Despite the fact that the industry has traditionally been male-dominated, women have been breaking down barriers and making their mark in this field.
According to recent data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), women make up around 7% of truck drivers in the United States. While this may seem like a small percentage, it is worth noting that this number has been steadily increasing over the years. In fact, the number of women in trucking has increased by nearly 70% since 2010.
So, why are more and more women choosing to pursue careers in trucking? For one, the industry offers good pay and benefits, as well as opportunities for advancement. Additionally, many women find the freedom of the open road to be appealing, as well as the opportunity to see different parts of the country.
Of course, there are still many challenges that women face in the trucking industry. For one, the long hours and physical demands of the job can be daunting. Additionally, women may face discrimination and harassment from male colleagues or customers.
However, despite these challenges, women in trucking are persevering and making a difference. They are proving that they are just as capable and skilled as their male counterparts, and they are inspiring other women to follow in their footsteps.
One example of a trailblazing woman in the trucking industry is Ellen Voie, founder and CEO of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT). Voie founded WIT in 2007 with the goal of promoting the employment of women in the trucking industry, as well as addressing the unique challenges that women face in this field.
Under Voie’s leadership, WIT has grown to become a powerful voice for women in trucking. The organization offers a variety of resources and support services to women in the industry, as well as advocating for policies and practices that promote gender diversity and inclusion.
Another example of a woman making a difference in trucking is Ingrid Brown, a truck driver and owner-operator who has been driving for over 40 years. Brown has become a well-known advocate for women in trucking, and has been featured in numerous publications and media outlets for her work.
Brown has also been recognized for her exceptional driving skills and professionalism, having been named the 2019 Citizen Driver by the TA-Petro travel center chain. The award is given to drivers who exhibit excellence in driving, community service, and leadership.
Brown’s story is just one example of the many women who are making a difference in the trucking industry. Whether it is through advocacy, leadership, or simply doing their job with skill and dedication, women in trucking are proving that they belong in this field.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we should take a moment to honor the women in trucking who are breaking down barriers and making a difference. We should also recognize the work that still needs to be done to promote gender equality and inclusion in the industry.
We can all do our part to support women in trucking and in other male-dominated fields. We can advocate for policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion, and we can challenge gender stereotypes and biases when we encounter them.
Ultimately, we should strive to create a world where every woman has the opportunity to pursue her dreams and reach her full potential, regardless of the field she chooses to pursue. Happy International Women’s Day!
