It’s no secret that trucking has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. But, times are changing; women truckers are trailblazers emerging as top talent in the trucking industry. Women today make up nearly 10% of the truck driver population. Let’s take a closer look at women in trucking:
Women truckers are helping ease the ongoing shortage
We all know about the ongoing trucker shortage that’s been shaking up the industry. The shortage of truck drivers has been a problem for many years, and the American Trucking Association projects it will only get worse by 2030. Women are beginning to step up to fill this void. In fact, many women are discovering that trucking is a great career option that offers a flexible schedule, good pay, and the opportunity to travel.
They’re breaking down traditional trucking lifestyle stereotypes
Women in trucking are also breaking down stereotypes and helping to change the perception of the trucking industry. Many people still associate truck driving with a “rough and tough,” “hypermasculine” lifestyle, but women are proving that trucking is a great career for anyone, regardless of their gender.
Cruising past the gender pay gap
The gender pay gap is a big issue across many industries, no doubt. But in the trucking industry that gap appears to be much less visible. According to Ellen Voie, the founder of Women in Trucking Association, “A carrier sets the pay based on mileage, hours, or percentage of the load. It is not related to age, ethnicity, or gender.”
According to insurance agency JW Surety Bonds, nearly 60% of women make more than $50,000 a year, with 3 percent exceeding $100,000.
We support women truckers at CRST
At CRST, we’re actively and continuously working toward a more inclusive, equal work environment for women in trucking. Check out our women in trucking page for various resources, mentorship opportunities, safety tips and hotlines specifically for the women working in the trucking industry at CRST.
And while you’re at it, check out all of the career opportunities CRST has for women drivers. Maybe it’s time for you to climb aboard!
