We all know that long-haul trucking is an intense profession. You are on the road for multiple days, away from family and in unknown areas. For women truckers, unfortunately, it is even more challenging in the trucking industry. But despite these challenges, they are carving their place in the industry and bringing with them fresh ideas and skills. This blog takes a closer look at the hurdles women truckers encounter and how they overcome them.
Here are 10 big challenges women face in the trucking industry:
1. Workplace Bias and Stereotypes
Many women truckers face skepticism from coworkers, shippers, and even dispatchers who doubt their ability to handle the job.They often need to work harder than their male counterparts to prove their skills. Stereotypes, like assuming women can’t handle large trucks or long-haul driving create barriers for being awarded certain routes and promotions.
2. Safety Concerns on the Job
Whether it’s parking overnight in unfamiliar areas, walking alone at truck stops, or delivering in remote locations, many women feel vulnerable. Unfortunately, harassment and theft are real risks. To improve safety, they carry self-defense tools and collaborate with other drivers.
3. Lack of Proper Facilities
Truck stops and rest areas often fail to provide adequate facilities for women. While there are clean and private showers, restrooms, none are reserved specifically for women. This issue reflects the industry’s failure to adapt to its growing female workforce.
4. Work-Life Balance Challenges
In most families, women are often the primary caregivers and feel additional pressure to juggle work and home responsibilities. They feel judged for prioritizing their careers over traditional roles, even though they are earning money to provide for their families.
5. Limited Representation in Leadership Roles
Most leadership positions in the trucking industry in Canada and the US are held by men. They struggle to hire women as decision-makers or mentors, which creates a lack of role models and advocates who understand their challenges.
Organizations like Women In Trucking are working to close this gap by mentoring women, highlighting success stories, and encouraging companies to promote gender diversity in leadership.
6. Equipment Not Designed for Women
Many trucks and trucking equipment are designed with male drivers in mind. From seat adjustments to steering wheels, women often find it harder to work comfortably. Poorly designed equipment can lead to physical strain or injuries over time.
7. Disparities in Pay and Benefits
Pay gaps still exist in the trucking industry. Some women report earning less than their male counterparts for the same routes or loads. Additionally, benefits like maternity leave or healthcare tailored to women’s needs are often lacking.
Closing this gap requires both systemic changes and individual efforts. Many women have taken the lead in negotiating better contracts and raising awareness about the importance of equal pay and benefits.
8. Mental and Emotional Strain
Driving for long hours, dealing with isolation, and managing workplace discrimination all together can take a toll on mental health. Support networks, like Women In Trucking and Facebook groups for women truckers, have become lifelines for many and makes them feel seen. If you are a female trucker, consider sharing your stories in this FB group – Lady Truckers.
9. Lack of Mentorship and Training
New women drivers entering the field often struggle to find mentors who can guide them. While male mentors exist, many women prefer learning from those who’ve faced the same gender-specific challenges. Otherwise, they have to feel uncomfortable being in close proximity with a male driver driving long hours, and sometimes in the middle of nowhere.
10. Harassment on the Road
From inappropriate comments to more serious threats, women often face unwanted attention at truck stops, loading docks, or even from fellow drivers. While they have been actively speaking out, reporting incidents, and advocating for stricter policies, companies and governments must implement zero-tolerance policies to combat this from happening.
At Caledon Truck Driving School we proudly support women truck drivers. If you’re planning to start a career in trucking in Brampton or Mississauga, please reach out to us today.
