In 2017, Esther Parsons made a life-altering decision. After dedicating 15 years to her role as an administrative assistant in the lawn care sector, she chose to pursue a new career path as a professional truck driver by earning her CDL-A. Her primary motivation was to support her two college-bound children. However, this transition wasn’t spontaneous; it was marked by thoughtful planning and guidance. Esther’s successful shift into truck driving was significantly bolstered by the support and encouragement of a close mentor and friend. For about six months, he provided her with the confidence and insights needed to consider truck driving. His advice and motivation led her to truck driving school, where she excelled, even surpassing his scores, which further cemented her belief in her capabilities.
Esther’s mentor’s knowledge of the trucking industry was invaluable, offering her both practical advice and moral support. He was always available to answer her questions and decode industry jargon. When she asked him, “What is drop and hook? Do I want that?” his response was immediate, “Oh yeah, you want that.”
Upon finishing truck driving school, Esther’s curiosity about Women In Trucking (WIT) grew. Her mentor enlightened her about the organization, piquing her interest further. Coincidentally, WIT Founder Ellen Voie was searching for a female driver in Esther’s area willing to be interviewed by a reporter. This opportunity, which fell on Esther’s birthday, marked the beginning of her remarkable career trajectory.
Yellow Corp., a now-defunct transportation company, sponsored Esther to attend her first Accelerate! Conference & Expo. There, she met members of the Image Team, admired their roles, and aspired to join them. Esther threw herself into volunteering and found the experience incredibly rewarding. She admired the authenticity and camaraderie among the women. “Everyone was so down to earth,” she says. “They all had their little niches as professional drivers, but when they all came together, it was a sisterhood.” Her time at Yellow Corp. saw her serve on the Women’s Inclusion Network Employee Resource Group and work as a driver trainer. Before joining UPS in May 2023, she spent five years as a linehaul driver for Yellow Freight.
Currently, Esther is employed as a Feeder Driver for UPS at the Eastern Zone Regional Hub located in Middletown, PA. When asked about her favorite part of the job, she enthusiastically responds, “The view!”
For women contemplating a career in trucking, Esther offers some sage advice, “First, you need to do your homework. Be sure to do all your research on what path you specifically want to pursue. Then find a mentor to help pursue what you seek in your career and in the industry.”
Esther’s first mentee has become a close friend, and their bond extends beyond professional mentoring. Esther takes great pride in her mentee’s achievements and the financial independence she has gained. Watching her friend flourish in her career and continuously take on new challenges has been incredibly fulfilling.
An active advocate for women in the trucking industry, Esther participates in WIT’s Mentor Match program. She is eager to help others find their way and understands the importance of deciphering complex information for newcomers. Her goal is to guide others toward achieving their aspirations during their initial years in the industry. Additionally, Esther is involved with Trucker Buddy International, a pen-pal program that connects professional drivers with classrooms. She enjoys giving interviews, going on ride-alongs, and appearing on podcasts. One of her most memorable moments was an interview with Fox & Friends’ Steve Doocy in Times Square during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.
In 2023, Esther’s contributions were recognized when she was named one of Women In Trucking’s “Top Women to Watch in Transportation.” She was also a panelist speaker at a recent WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo.
Outside of work, Esther enjoys sleeping, cooking, and gardening. She also loves networking and cherishes every opportunity to share her story. Whether as a truck driver, single parent, or domestic abuse survivor, she aims to make a positive impact. “If I can help at least one person today,” she says, “it’s a good day.”
Esther Parsons’ story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the boundless opportunities within the trucking industry for those willing to seize them.
Source: Women in Trucking
Photo: Women in Trucking
