Meet Kacy H., a woman who exemplifies what it means to push boundaries and break the mold of traditional careers. As an Army Reserve truck driver and an active member of the SheDrives NFI program, Kacy juggles two demanding roles, proving every day that dedication and hard work carve out new roads for female truck drivers.
Wearing Two Hats: Army Reserve and NFI Trucker
Kacy’s journey into transportation began soon after high school when she made the bold decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2019. The discipline she learned during Basic Combat Training shaped her approach to every challenge, whether she’s in uniform or behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler.
“I joined right out of high school,” Kacy remembers. Her schedule is a balancing act between drill weekends and long drives, but Kacy says she’s adapted well: “Sometimes it’s hard to balance, but I feel like I’m so used to it because I joined (the Army) at such an early age. It’s just part of me now.”
Her dual life as an Army Reservist and a professional truck driver with NFI shows how the skills from military service translate seamlessly to civilian life, especially within the logistics industry.
Discovering Life on the Road
It was a friend in the trucking industry who first introduced Kacy to the idea of driving big rigs. “He would bring me to work with him, and I was always fascinated with how it works,” she says. Watching the ins and outs of trucking sparked her interest in pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
The transition wasn’t without nerves. “I was a little bit scared at first, because I’m a small female,” Kacy shares. “But I went through basic training and made it through — and I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I was like, ‘Well, I’m going to try.’ And now, here I am!”
That determination powered her through CDL training. She started as a yard jockey, spent time with another trucking company, and then, thanks to a recommendation from a friend, officially joined NFI—as well as the SheDrives NFI community, a dedicated space for women in trucking.
Empowerment Through SheDrives NFI
Now, with over two years as a full-time professional truck driver, Kacy has found a supportive workplace culture through SheDrives. “In my previous trucking job, there were only three women, including me,” she points out. NFI’s commitment to female drivers has made a big difference, creating more opportunities for women in trucking and mentorship within the industry.
“They’re friendly. I can talk to anybody in the office,” she says, highlighting the approachable and supportive team environment at NFI.
Kacy beams with pride when she talks about life on the road: “It feels great to be a truck driver,” she says. “I show up to the stores (in my rig) and a lot of people look at me like, ‘Are YOU a truck driver? Oh my gosh, you’re doing this!” Her presence in the field serves as a visual reminder that women belong in every part of the logistics industry.
Overcoming Roadblocks
Like many professional drivers, Kacy deals with challenges that go beyond the basics of driving. Navigating heavy vehicles requires a unique skill set and a great deal of patience, not just for the truck but also for other motorists. “They don’t understand (a truck’s) stopping distance and how (much space we need) to make turns,” she explains, pointing to frequent misunderstandings from drivers of smaller vehicles.
Kacy’s experiences behind the wheel underscore the importance of good training and a level-headed approach—qualities she now brings to new female truck drivers through mentorship and example.
Guidance for Women Entering Trucking
What advice does Kacy have for other women interested in joining the world of trucking? Her answer is clear: be patient and open-minded. “Listen to all the advice other truck drivers have to give. Don’t rush. Don’t let fear take over,” she says. She also cautions new drivers not to compare themselves to others. “Also, don’t compare yourself to other truck drivers; do what works for you.”
Kacy’s journey is proof that with the right attitude, determination, and community, women can excel in careers traditionally dominated by men.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Kacy H. sets a shining example for both her fellow Reservists and for the next generation of women eager to become truck drivers. She’s made it clear that support networks like SheDrives NFI, strong mentors, and a belief in your goals are crucial for success in the world of logistics.
Want to know more about the SheDrives NFI program and how it supports female truck drivers? Visit NFI online or connect with them on social platforms to join the conversation.
Image Source: NFI
Source: The Trucker
