Removing Barriers to Women May Ease Persistent Truck Driver Shortage

Key barriers to women’s entry into commercial driving

A recent study by the American Transportation Research Institute identifies key barriers to women’s entry into commercial driving and identifies action steps carriers, training schools and drivers can take to make careers in trucking more attractive to women. It also suggests ways to mitigate those challenges, which may be an important step in easing the ongoing truck driver shortage.

Current Landscape of Women in Trucking
Women comprised about 10% of commercial drivers in 2023, a notable increase from 7.89% in 2018. The Women in Trucking index found higher representation--12.1% of OTR drivers with CDLs are women--reflecting a growing trend of female participation in this traditionally male-dominated field. Despite this progress, women remain underrepresented even as the trucking industry continues to face a significant driver shortage.

The Truck Driver Shortage
The trucking industry is grappling with a persistent shortage of drivers, which is exacerbated by an aging workforce and high turnover rates. This shortage poses a threat to supply chain efficiency and economic stability. Bringing more women into the profession is a vital strategy to address this gap. Women not only expand the talent pool but also contribute to safer driving records, as studies show they are less likely to be involved in accidents or receive traffic violations compared to men.

The ATRI “report provides an important roadmap for the industry to increase the number of women drivers,” Joyce Brenny, president and CEO of Brenny Transportation, told Women in Trucking. “We have found tremendous success and improved safety with our women drivers and believe others who utilize this research will also experience success.”

Challenges Faced by Women Truck Drivers
ATRI's research identifies several challenges that deter women from entering or remaining in the trucking industry. Notably, these challenges are all but identical to those identified by men drivers. The barriers identified by women include:

• Industry Image and Perception: The perception of trucking as a male-centric industry discourages many women from considering it as a viable career option.
• Training School Completion: Women often face unique obstacles in completing training programs, such as balancing family responsibilities and managing costs.
• •Truck Parking and Restroom Access: The shortage of safe parking and adequate restroom facilities is a significant concern for female drivers, impacting their comfort and safety on the road.
• •Gender Harassment and Discrimination: Women frequently encounter harassment and discrimination, which can deter them from pursuing or continuing careers in trucking.

Strategies for Increasing Female Participation
Carriers that implement targeted initiatives have a higher percentage of women drivers (8%) compared to those without such programs (5%). These initiatives could include mentorship programs, flexible work arrangements, and marketing campaigns that highlight successful female drivers.

Promoting Income Potential
The trucking industry offers competitive pay and benefits, with pay parity between men and women being more prevalent than in many other sectors. Highlighting these financial incentives can attract more women to the profession.

Enhancing Safety and Work Culture
Creating a safe and supportive work environment is crucial for retaining female drivers. This involves addressing personal safety concerns, improving motor carrier cultures, and providing support for acclimating to the over-the-road lifestyle.

Role of Women in Trucking Association
WIT has been instrumental in supporting ATRI's research efforts, encouraging female drivers to participate and ensuring their voices are heard. WIT's involvement underscores its commitment to removing barriers for women and promoting gender diversity in trucking. The association's initiatives, such as the WIT Index, help track progress and identify areas for improvement.

The Road Ahead
The involvement of women in trucking is crucial not only for enhancing safety but also for addressing workforce shortages. By addressing the unique challenges faced by women and implementing targeted strategies, the industry can create a more inclusive and diverse workforce. The ATRI study provides a comprehensive roadmap for increasing the number of women drivers. As more companies implement these strategies, we can expect to see a gradual increase in female participation, driving the future of the trucking industry towards greater inclusivity and efficiency.