The Trucking Industry and Women

In line with the International Women’s Day, we recognize the sacrifices that women have made to fight for their rights, to be seen as equals, and to deserve the same workplace benefits as men. It’s not easy working as a woman in any industry, let alone trucking. The challenges of working in a male-dominated environment are countless, but things are changing for the better, and we are seeing more and more female truck drivers with each passing day. Both male and female truck drivers have accustomed themselves to the norms of equality. However, factors such as hygiene and safety are more important for women nowadays. There has to be a system to make sure that females don’t feel out of place. Until that happens, here are a few things women truckers can do to make work easier.

Safety Precautions

Safety is a massive issue for female truckers, especially at truck stops. You never know who is lurking in the shadows waiting to take advantage of you, so you should be mindful of where you stop. Random truck stops are not a good idea. Therefore, you should only go to a renowned truck stop where security is not an issue. You may also check out reviews of truck stops along the way using the Trucker Path app.

Furthermore, as a woman, you can try to drive in a group, so you are never alone on or off the road. If that is not possible, then you should place a team driving sticker on your truck so that the onlooker knows you are not alone.

Balancing Work with Family

Truckers practically live on the road, meeting constant deadlines and delivering goods from one part of the country to another. Such a busy schedule leaves little time for family interaction. Often the home time is pretty short, allowing women only a small duration to catch-up with their family.

Therefore, as a woman, you should stand up for your rights and ask for sufficient time off. A long holiday is necessary to unwind and relax after a tough time at work.

Hygiene Issues

Men and women are built differently, which is why we have different physiological issues. Since most of the truck drivers are male, the fleet managers and truck stops are unconcerned or unaware of the problems faced by women. It is better to be prepared for the worst and take care of your hygiene needs yourself. Remember to keep a set of wet wipes and a big cup for you to use in times of emergency. Nowadays, more and more truck stops are equipped for the needs of female drivers, so things look like they are going in a positive direction but until that happens, precaution is necessary.

Final Thoughts

It is an honor to be a woman in the trucking industry. At least you are making history by being part of a revolution to bring change. At the most, you are following in the footsteps of the first U.S female truck driver -Lillie Elizabeth Drenna

Many other women have played their part in expanding their role in the male-dominated industry. Rusty Dow was one woman who drove the entire length of the Alaskan highway, which by the way is one of the most treacherous highways in the world.

Kudos to all the hardworking women truckers in following the footsteps of these great women and showing your strength to the world.

By Aldous Aldwin