Though traditionally male-oriented industry, recent years demonstrated an uptick in women in trucking. Interestingly, a few reasons behind this, particularly positive and effective shift.
Why Women Truckers Work
Statistically, female drivers tend to have safer driving records. This is helpful for their employers for a few different reasons. Not only does this eliminate risk on the road, but it also contributes to lower insurance deductibles. It sets precedent for other drivers for the company. It also ensures the safe delivery of potentially fragile or high-value cargo.
According to observations from their employers, women also tend to be more detail-oriented, taking in all aspects of a task and delivering in full. Women generally don’t take shortcuts. They are inclined to seek out more information when needed. They know the job gets done right.
As the field becomes more inclusive, it contributes to closing the gender gap in normally male-dominated fields. This helps to balance the workforce across the country. It opens up more opportunities for women to take the lead and demonstrate their aptitude for roles historically held by men.
There has been a driver shortage across the country for some time now. Supporting the influx of female drivers contributes to the efficiency and stability of the industry. It fills positions in important places. This takes the pressure off existing drivers. It helps companies function in a more streamlined and cost-effective way.
Women Bring Balance
Both male and female counterparts working for companies create social symmetry, boosts morale, adds a fresh perspective, opens the way to modernization, and problem-solving.
The Ripple Effect of Women in Trucking
As trucking and logistics companies build a more balanced workforce, the impact is noticeable. There are great changes happening that influence the industry and drive innovation. Interestingly, companies and manufacturers now design equipment interiors in a way that accommodates women. Female drivers tend to be smaller than the majority of their male equivalents, offering an area to increase the efficiency of interior layouts.
As women join the workforce in this industry, it results in an increase in OTR couples. This is a great benefit to employers. It provides security for the drivers. It offers the opportunity for employees to take shifts over long-haul trips, increasing safety and efficiency.
Gender diversity goes a long way in fortifying the reputation of a company. As women join the team, both employees and parallel businesses look to your company as a leader and role model. It also bears noting that “gender-diverse companies are 15% more likely to earn above-average revenue.” (1)
How to Support Women in Trucking
From a professional standpoint, much can be done to support the addition of female drivers. A key way that companies can create a more welcoming environment for women is to modify industry tools, equipment, and resources to better suit all drivers. This may also include offering increased flexibility in schedules. This perk proves attractive to both men and women. It may help heal the driver shortage nationwide.
A change in recruiting methods invites more women to the field. Female drivers are likely to be attracted to the pay, independent lifestyle, travel, and potential travel with a partner. Companies should emphasize all of this. Additionally, support for female drivers can increase. This means offering mentors and a support system after training.
Emphasis on OTR technology offers safety, communication, and training features often attractive to women. From distress buttons and live coaching to real-time driver assistance, these features help create a welcoming environment. They ease the transition of new drivers into their roles.