Yuma Haidara has spent more than a decade behind the wheel as an over-the-road (OTR) professional truck driver. Today, she serves as both a mentor and certified driver trainer for Walmart Transportation in Raymond, New Hampshire, helping shape the next generation of truck drivers with the same determination that fueled her own career.
As of May 2025, Walmart operates around 4,605 stores across the United States, including Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and discount stores, and more than 10,500 locations worldwide in 19 countries. At the heart of this massive network are drivers like Haidara, whose story is rooted in resilience, service, and an unwavering commitment to others.
Taking the First Step Into Trucking
Haidara’s trucking career began unexpectedly. While frequently passing a truck driving school on her daily routes, curiosity eventually got the better of her.
“I didn’t even know what I thought I could get out of it, but I just went in and started asking questions,” she recalls. “They told me that my GI bill would cover my training, so I came back on Monday and got started.”
From there, she committed fully, leaving her possessions in storage and moving forward with her new path.
“I put everything in storage and felt that I could retrieve it anytime,” she says. “Well, 12 years later, I am still trucking.”
A Veteran Thriving in a Male-Dominated Field
Before trucking, Haidara served as a Navy Seabee Combat Veteran with multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The physically demanding work prepared her for the challenges of trucking—another field often dominated by men.
“The military set me up to work in a man’s world,” she explains. “There were so few of us women who could do the job well. It was very heavy lifting. So, when I went to truck driving school, I was like, Oh, here we go again, back into a male-dominated arena.”
Championing Women in Trucking
Haidara has made it her mission to encourage more women to pursue careers in trucking. Her simple but powerful message:
“If I can do it, you can do it.”
She has inspired many to take the leap.
She urges those considering the industry to stop hesitating:
“Just do it! What are you waiting for?”
For Haidara, trucking brought not just financial stability, but peace of mind.
“My life became so peaceful. I became a better teammate. I realized that I needed to take care of myself at some point, and this job provided the opportunity to do so. I have accomplished many amazing things in my life. These opportunities are endless and available to anyone who wants to be a part of this wonderful trucking industry.”
Balancing Work, Advocacy, and Giving Back
When she’s not on the road, Haidara dedicates her time to non-profits, especially those focused on mental health, a cause that holds deep personal meaning for her.
“This is where my heart is, and Walmart not only supports my mission but also gives me the time I need to do the things that I like. Trucking helps me get to where I need to go to help others, gives me the freedom to help them, and gives me the time to do so.”
Training the Next Generation
Walmart’s Associate-to-Driver Program, a 12-week training initiative, allows employees from any department to earn their CDL and train directly with Walmart drivers. Haidara plays a key role, preparing new drivers not only for the road but for success in the company.
“It is so cool to see them at a less stressful time, and they are like, ‘OMG, you were there.’ It is so great to see people go from 0 to 100, and I have seen it so many times.”
Standing With Veterans
Haidara’s dedication to fellow veterans is unwavering. She actively participates in multiple veteran-focused non-profits and projects—using her platform to support those who served.
“I am a big advocate for Veterans, and whatever I can do for them, I will!”
Her story reflects more than a successful trucking career; it’s about service, perseverance, and inspiring others to see what’s possible when you refuse to let barriers stand in your way.
Image & Source: Women In Trucking
