Freedom to Shape Your Lifestyle

One of the biggest perks in trucking is the level of freedom it offers. Drivers often have the flexibility to choose routes that fit their schedules and personal needs. Want to be home every evening? There are regional routes tailored precisely for that. Prefer longer hauls that allow for exploring new places? That’s an option, too. Trucking isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about crafting a career that lets you balance your work and life on your own terms.

Stability in an Uncertain Job Market

Another major advantage of the trucking industry is its job security. With the demand for skilled drivers continually rising, trucking provides a level of stability that’s becoming increasingly rare in many other professions. No matter where you are in your career, this field offers numerous opportunities to advance, diversify, or specialize. It’s a career path where growth isn’t just an option—it’s the norm.

The Unique Camaraderie of the Open Road

Perhaps the most unique aspect of trucking is the community it fosters. Drivers share a bond that’s built on shared experiences, challenges, and mutual respect. Whether it’s swapping stories at a rest stop or engaging in online forums, the friendships in this industry are uniquely supportive. It’s more than just a job; it’s being part of an extended family that truly understands what life on the road is all about.

Joann Y.’s Inspiring Transition

Take Joann Y.’s story, for example. A former flight attendant, Joann made the life-changing decision to join the trucking world after the pandemic reshaped her career. Speaking on an episode of She Drives with Radio Nemo, Joann revealed how trucking with NFI Industries gave her the professional and personal balance she had been searching for.

She shared how trucking provided her with newfound freedom, unmatched job stability, and an empowering sense of purpose. “It was one of the best things I ever did,” Joann explained. Her remarkable story highlights why more people should take a deeper look into trucking as a viable, rewarding career.

Discover What the Road Offers

If you’ve been considering a career that offers more than just a paycheck, Joann’s experience might inspire you. Trucking is about opportunity, growth, and creating a life that works for you. Curious to hear Joann’s full story? Check out her episode on She Drives with Radio Nemo. click here to listen

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Joann’s story began with an unexpected shift: after over 30 years as a flight attendant, the impact of COVID-19 brought her career to a halt. Instead of slowing down, Joann chose to pivot and take on a fresh challenge by earning her Class A CDL. Reflecting on this decision, she’s found a new passion on the road that’s both fulfilling and adventurous.

Working with NFI Industries has offered Joann the balance she hoped for, allowing her to be home more often after years of non-stop travel. “95% of our drivers go home every night,” Joann notes, highlighting how she values her time with family and her pets after her time on the road. She also appreciates the flexibility and support that NFI provides, making her feel truly at home in the trucking community.

For anyone considering a career switch, Joann’s advice is simple: “Go for it. It’s exciting.” She believes life skills like time management and setting goals transfer well to trucking, and that the industry has a place for anyone eager to make a fresh start. Joann’s journey shines a light on how adaptable, determined individuals can thrive in trucking, inspiring other women to explore the open road.

To hear Joann’s story in her own words, check out the full interview on She Drives with Radio Nemo here.

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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

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