The conversation about women in trucking isn’t new, but it’s more relevant than ever. According to TruckerNews, a recent survey reveals an interesting trend: smaller trucking companies employ more female drivers than their larger counterparts. While progress has been made, there’s still work to be done to ensure that women have equal representation in the industry.

The Numbers: Where Do Women Stand in Trucking?

For years, there’s been speculation that company size affects the number of female drivers on the road. Now, data confirms it.

• Micro companies (fewer than 500 employees) – 12.5% of drivers are women
• Mid-sized companies (500 to 4,999 employees) – 10.5% of drivers are women
• Large companies (5,000+ employees) – Just 7% of drivers are women

These numbers only account for CDL-holding drivers operating medium- to heavy-duty trucks, excluding last-mile delivery drivers.

Women are also stepping into leadership roles within trucking:

• 74.5% work in human resources
• 38.5% are dispatchers
• 38.5% take on safety roles
• Only 4% work as truck technicians

The data, collected by Women in Trucking (WIT) between 2023 and 2024, included 350 companies of various sizes, primarily for-hire motor carriers.

Why Aren’t More Women Behind the Wheel?

The trucking industry has traditionally been male-dominated, and despite growing opportunities, barriers still exist. Long hours, demanding schedules, and work environments that weren’t originally designed with women in mind have made it difficult for many to enter the field.

However, progress is happening. Companies are working to improve conditions, create more flexible schedules, and offer competitive pay - all of which make trucking a more appealing career path for women.

More Women in Trucking = A Stronger Industry

Encouraging more women to join trucking isn’t just about equality - it’s also a solution to the ongoing driver shortage. As the industry evolves, a diverse workforce will be critical to keeping supply chains moving.

The doors are open, and change is happening. The hope is that in the years ahead, more women will take the wheel - literally and figuratively - helping to shape the future of trucking.

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