The trucking industry has traditionally been male-dominated, but in recent years, more and more women are making their way into this field. Women in trucking have been breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and proving that they have what it takes to succeed in this challenging and rewarding career.
One of the biggest reasons why more women are entering the trucking industry is the high demand for drivers. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has estimated that there is a shortage of nearly 60,000 drivers in the United States alone. This shortage is expected to grow even more in the coming years as older drivers retire and the industry continues to grow.
While the high demand for drivers is certainly a factor in attracting more women to the trucking industry, it is not the only reason. Many women are drawn to trucking because it offers them a unique opportunity to travel and see the country while earning a good living. In addition, trucking provides flexibility in terms of work schedules, which can be appealing for women who are looking to balance work and family responsibilities.
Fleet management solutions company Omnitracs found that female truck drivers get into fewer preventable accidents than men and generally drive more cautiously. They also are less likely to quit driving, which is particularly critical as turnover rates among truck drivers reach 95%.
https://www.businessinsider.com/women-truck-drivers-better-safer-trucker-shortage-2018-12
Despite the benefits of a career in trucking, women still face some unique challenges in this industry. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of facilities designed for women. Most rest stops and truck stops are designed with men in mind, which can make it difficult for women to find a safe and comfortable place to park and rest. However, some companies are recognizing this issue and are taking steps to create more women-friendly facilities, including restrooms and parking areas.
Another challenge that women in trucking face is discrimination and harassment. Unfortunately, the trucking industry is not immune to these issues, and some women have reported experiencing sexism and harassment on the job. However, many companies are taking steps to address these issues and create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for women.
Despite these challenges, women are making significant strides in the trucking industry. According to the Women in Trucking Association, the percentage of women in the industry has increased from 4.6% in 2010 to 10.2% in 2021. This represents a significant shift in the industry and suggests that women are beginning to feel more welcome and valued in this field.
There are also several organizations that are working to support and advocate for women in trucking. The Women in Trucking Association, for example, is dedicated to promoting the employment of women in the trucking industry, addressing the challenges they face, and encouraging companies to create more inclusive workplaces. Other organizations, such as Real Women in Trucking, provide networking opportunities and support for women who are already working in the industry.
In conclusion, women are making significant progress in the trucking industry. Despite the challenges they face, more and more women are entering this field and proving that they have what it takes to succeed as truck drivers. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that we will see even more women breaking down barriers and making their mark in this traditionally male-dominated field.