Being A Female Truck Driver
Wednesday, October 20th, 2021
The transportation industry is no longer a man’s world, although when most people think of truckers, they still have a certain image in their heads. Driving a commercial truck takes skill, experience, training, and patience. It also requires long hours, organization, and good navigation. Women have all of these traits, so why does it seem like they are just recently getting into the field?
Reasons why women may not get into truck driving
There are quite a few reasons why women may shy away from a career in the transportation industry. These reasons can also stop men from becoming truckers too, though. Here are just a few of them.
- Many people simply have a lack of experience.
- Some jobs are too physically demanding.
- Women often choose to leave their careers to raise children or take care of a family member.
- Trade jobs, in general, are not celebrated, which means young people may not even consider them when entering the workforce or getting a higher education.
There is a significant lack of truck drivers
Within the past decade (not just because of COVID-19) there have many shortages of truck drivers. Female CDL drivers have always been in the industry, but they have not been noticed much. This has been true even during shortages. In 2021, the reasons for the shortage differ from previous years. For example, the pandemic has stopped many from seeking a job at all. Also, the trucking industry has an aging and retiring workforce, which doesn’t help keep it going.
Why truck driving is a great career for women
Women can enjoy a lot of benefits from truck driving jobs! The job doesn’t require a college degree, but there are certifications required by some employers. Also, there are local, state, and federal safety laws that many drivers must follow, depending on what they are hauling. That being said, here are some things that pro truckers get from their careers!
- It is a good way to make a living. Pay rates are higher than ever and many employers offer extra sign-on bonuses!
- Drivers can work alone or with another driver, depending on their preference.
- The industry has many options for different types of jobs and routes. This means you can find something that works well for your lifestyle!
- There is a lot to see out there. From national parks to roadside attractions, truck drivers often find a lot of fun on their routes!
- Employers offer many of the same benefits you’d find in other jobs like health insurance and paid training.
Tips for female truck drivers
Being a truck driver can be difficult, but being a female truck driver comes with some different challenges. Here are some tips that can help make your life on the road a little easier.
- If your job permits, travel with another driver that you trust.
- Check your route before hitting the road to get new maps and travel plans figured out ahead of time. (This is a tip for ALL truck drivers.)
- Avoid parking in suspicious areas, especially if you’re alone and it is night. Try staying near other trucks for safety.
- If something goes wrong while on the job (a tire blows or your equipment fails for example), notify your dispatcher immediately. Make sure they know exactly where you are and what has happened.
- Have an emergency kit on your truck at all times. It should include medical supplies, batteries (multiple types), a blanket, a flashlight, and extra feminine care items just to name a few things.
- Always make sure someone knows where you are.
- Keep emergency contacts in your phone and written down.
- Have a healthy diet! Just because you are on the road doesn’t mean you can’t stay healthy. Make sure you get enough sleep, too!
- Keep in touch with other female CDL drivers. They may have ideas and tips that can help you and give you a great feeling of community.
- Know where the best truck stops are. Your hygiene and comfort are just as important as completing your routes!
Truck driving with Kimrad Transport
If you’re looking for a trucking company in Amarillo, Texas where your skills and experience are rewarded, contact us here at Kimrad Transport! We truly value our employees and offer a variety of benefits including insurance, retirement plans, updated equipment, paid training, and more! We have multiple locations as well to help keep drivers closer to home and are currently offering a $5,000.00 sign-on bonus!
If you are interested in learning more About Us or Applying for a position, give us a call at 1 (866) 359-3882. You can also Contact Us by email to learn more.