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

The post The Inspiring Journey of Yuma Haidara: “If I Can Do It, You Can Do It!” appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Real-World Skills Meet Real-World Machines

Participants climbed into the cabs of Western Star 47X and 49X models to face a series of demanding events that pushed their precision and problem-solving to the limit. The lineup included:

• Backing trucks up the steep incline known as “Mount Madras”
• Executing precise gravel spreads at a rock quarry
• Going head-to-head in an American Truck Simulator competition

Each challenge was designed not only to assess driver skill but also to highlight the Detroit Assurance safety technology in a safe, controlled environment.

From Gamer to Trucker

Casey LaDelle, returning as a team captain, reflected on what sets the Star Nation Experience apart.

“You realize the people behind the scenes ARE the Western Star brand, and the trucks are the product of the passion for what they do.”

The event’s inclusion of gaming community members underscored how skills can transfer from simulation to real-world trucking.

Passing the Torch to the Next Generation

Last year’s champion, Tatiana DeYoung, stepped into a mentorship role for 2025, finding just as much reward in coaching as she did in competing.

“I like how I’m able to be a part of their experience and let them know what I know, and then they just take it and apply it however they would like.”

Her guidance showcased the event’s blend of competition and collaboration, giving new participants the chance to learn from proven veterans.

Honoring the Backbone of Vocational Trucking

Event lead Alex Bender Martin explained that Star Nation is more than just a competition — it’s a celebration of the people who keep vocational trucking strong.

“We really look at all the winners that are here as the backbone of the vocational industry, and we want to celebrate them. We want to bring back that camaraderie and that pride in this business.”

The three-day experience wasn’t just about winning. From behind-the-scenes tours of Daimler’s facilities to outdoor activities and fireside conversations with executives, Star Nation created a space where technology, skill, and personal connection came together.

While one team ultimately claimed the top spot, the true success of the 2025 Star Nation Experience was in the relationships built, connecting operators, cutting-edge technology, and the Western Star brand in a way that reflects the passion and pride driving the industry forward.

Image Source: Lauren Fletcher, Trucking Info
Source: Trucking Info

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