Despite these strides, women remain underrepresented in the trucking industry, comprising only 9.5% of U.S. truck drivers, according to the 2024-2025 Women in Trucking Index by the Women in Trucking Association (WIT).

Source: NFI Industries

Supporting Women in Trucking

To bridge this gap, organizations and trucking companies have introduced resources tailored specifically for women truckers. Among them is SheDrives NFI, an initiative created by NFI Industries. Founded in 2018 as a recruitment campaign, SheDrives quickly grew into a vibrant community showcasing that trucking can be a rewarding career for everyone, regardless of gender.

Marie J., Regional Transport Manager at NFI, recalls its beginnings in South Jersey.

“The women drivers wanted a community where they could talk to one another, offer advice, and just, in general, have a community among themselves,” Marie shared. “It began with a video aimed at encouraging women to drive trucks.”

That video sparked something larger. After attending a WIT event, Marie and a group of female drivers envisioned a stronger, nationwide support network.

“On the way back, they were so excited about having a community of women drivers,” she said. “We started talking about what women wanted to see and share.”

Today, SheDrives NFI has expanded significantly, offering a variety of resources to empower women in trucking.

Prioritizing Safety

One key focus of SheDrives NFI is addressing safety concerns unique to women drivers. Having a platform to exchange vital information has become indispensable.

“Women wanted to be able to tell each other, ‘Hey, that truck stop in that location is a very bad place to go. Don’t go there,’ or ‘This customer will not allow you to use the bathroom, so be careful if you have to go there.’ Basically, talking about things from a woman’s point of view,” she explained. “It’s a fantastic program.”

SheDrives supports women through initiatives such as workshops, a private Facebook group, and an engaging video series on NFI’s YouTube channel. The platform fosters discussions about topics like self-defense, managing family life while on the road, and even navigating personal challenges like breast cancer or domestic violence.

Beyond challenges, the SheDrives community also celebrates life on the road.

“Beyond those topics, women also like to share the fun side of being in the community,” Marie said. “They will share pictures of their new haircut, or their nails they just got done. Largely, it’s just supporting each other.”

Building an Inclusive Culture

Kirsy O., Regional Recruitment Manager at NFI and one of SheDrives’ founding members, highlights the origins of the initiative. After returning from the WIT event, Marie collaborated with Kirsy to create an inclusive space for women drivers at NFI.

“From that initial conversation we decided to form a cross-functional network to communicate, support each other and share ideas. From there, we dove headfirst into brainstorming sessions with female drivers across the Northeast, eager to understand their challenges, concerns, and aspirations,” Kirsy said. “What emerged wasn’t just an initiative — it was an opportunity to establish a community.”

Throughout 2018, SheDrives launched its first video ad, highlighting the stories of female drivers every month. Engagement levels soared, and by the end of the year, women accounted for 4% of NFI’s drivers. By 2024, that number had more than doubled.

Beyond the Numbers

While those numbers are significant, SheDrives’ impact reaches far beyond statistics. The initiative has helped create a diverse workplace culture while challenging traditional gender roles in trucking.

Kirsy emphasizes that trucking is more than just a job; it’s a vital part of keeping the country moving.

“Without transportation and logistics, the world as we know it wouldn’t function,” she said.

Join the Movement

SheDrives NFI is paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered trucking industry. To learn more about the program, click here. Be sure to connect with NFI on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for updates and insights!

Source: The Trucker

The post SheDrives NFI: Empowering Women to Thrive in the Trucking Industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

For many, these barriers deter them from pursuing their dreams. That’s where Amazon Freight Partner (AFP) steps in. Designed to lower the hurdles of getting started, the AFP program empowers driven leaders and commercial drivers to launch thriving trucking businesses.

Dorcas Williams, Principal Marketing Manager for the AFP initiative, recently shared insights on FreightWaves’ “Drive Time” with host Grace Sharkey. She highlighted the program’s unique advantages, including accessible entry points and exclusive benefits that set participants up for long-term success.

“No Trucks or Experience Needed”

“The program includes leaders from all kinds of backgrounds. No trucks or trucking experience is needed,” said Williams.

The AFP program provides a blueprint for success, allowing participants to build their own businesses focused on moving freight for Amazon. With minimal startup costs, consistent weekly work, and opportunities for long-term growth, AFP stands out as an attractive option for eager entrepreneurs.

What Amazon Freight Partner Offers

Amazon supports its Freight Partners by providing access to invaluable resources and benefits, including:

• Top-tier trucks with lower emissions and no initial down payment required.

• Comprehensive support services such as employee healthcare, childcare, and HR assistance.

• Coverage for key expenses, including fuel, tolls, maintenance, and truck insurance.

Additionally, the program welcomes individuals with or without prior trucking experience. New partners participate in a detailed 12-week training program, equipping them with essential business skills and knowledge. To further ensure success, AFP provides dedicated business coaches along with ongoing training.

“If you’re a hands-on leader, this is an opportunity for you to bring your leadership skills to the growing trucking industry and build a thriving business—fueled by the expertise and technology that Amazon provides,” as stated on the AFP website.

A Better Deal for Drivers

AFP isn’t just about creating opportunities for business owners—it’s also focused on improving conditions for commercial license drivers. Unlike many trucking gigs that rely on independent contractors, AFP insists on hiring drivers as W-2 employees. This ensures stability and offers benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and predictable work schedules.

These measures contribute to a more inclusive, dependable, and rewarding environment for drivers—one where they feel valued for their contributions.

Transforming the Trucking Industry

By empowering entrepreneurs and creating a more secure work environment for drivers, the Amazon Freight Partner program is working to redefine trucking industry standards. The program provides tools that not only help participants succeed but enable them to share that success with their employees.

Are you ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? The AFP program is looking for hardworking, motivated individuals to join and lead the charge in transforming the transportation industry.

Click here to learn more about how to become an Amazon Freight Partner.

Click here to view open driver opportunities with an Amazon Freight Partner.

Source: Yahoo! Finance, Freightwaves

Image: Jim Allen/Freighwaves

The post Amazon Freight Partner Opens Doors to a More Inclusive Trucking Industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.