“The Top Women to Watch in Trucking list honors women for their career accomplishments, their influence on company success, and their contributions to the broader industry,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT President and CEO. “These professionals exemplify the mission and values of Women In Trucking and are impressive leaders to watch in our industry.”

Katy Payne’s Impact on Truck Drivers USA

Katy has built her career from the ground up, gaining hands-on experience in trucking and the challenges drivers face every day. She began focusing on driver retention and then expanded into creating communities where drivers can learn, gain recognition, and thrive. Today, her work guides Truck Drivers USA’s community growth and development strategy.

As Operations Manager, Katy serves as the consistent voice for drivers at Truck Drivers USA. She works to improve the professional image of truck drivers while ensuring they are connected with companies that value and support their careers. Her approach combines operational discipline with empathy, making her a trusted leader in the company’s ongoing evolution.

Key Achievements Over the Past 12–18 Months

• Haul of Fame Launch – Katy developed the Haul of Fame section of the Truck Drivers USA website, giving drivers recognition and visibility to elevate their professional standing.
• Enhanced Driver-to-Company Matching – She led the development of a matching algorithm that connects drivers with companies aligned with their skills, goals, and values.
• Driver Career Coaching Program – Katy is actively developing a career coaching solution to help drivers maximize earning potential and career growth with driver-focused carriers.

Supporting Women in Trucking

Katy also coaches women within Truck Drivers USA, helping them expand their transportation knowledge and understand how economic factors impact drivers and carriers. By amplifying driver stories, she highlights professionalism and diversity in the industry and helps broaden public perception of trucking careers.

About the Women In Trucking Top Women to Watch Program

The Top Women to Watch in Trucking list, now in its ninth year, recognizes women across a variety of roles, including operations, corporate management, sales, HR, technology, and professional driving. Selection is based on character and measurable accomplishments over the past 12 to 18 months. This year’s list includes 75 women from a range of companies, emphasizing leadership, innovation, and industry impact.

Looking Ahead

Katy Payne’s recognition reflects her leadership in building communities for drivers, supporting professional development, and advancing the trucking industry. Her work at Truck Drivers USA continues to strengthen the connection between drivers and the companies that value them, setting a standard for operational excellence and advocacy in transportation.

Congratulations, Katy!

The post Katy Payne of Truck Drivers USA Recognized on the 2026 Women In Trucking Top Women to Watch List appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The event is designed to spark interest among girls and women in the wide variety of career paths available in trucking, logistics, and transportation. Open to the public, the program will include interactive learning, equipment displays, and opportunities to connect directly with professionals working in the field.

A Platform for Hands-On Learning

Attendees will be able to step inside trucks, buses, and heavy machinery while hearing from experts about how the supply chain keeps America moving.

“This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity in Wyoming to experience the transportation industry up close and connect with women who are thriving in the field,” said Ed Kimes, EWC CDL program director. “No other event in the region offers this level of hands-on learning and mentorship.”

Special guest U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, Wyoming’s representative in the U.S. House, will also be present to show support for women pursuing careers in transportation.

Spotlight on Industry Leaders

The featured speaker, Dakota Muniz, Fulfillment Manager at Refractories West Inc. in Pueblo, Colo., brings personal experience to the stage. As a third-generation leader in her family’s logistics and distribution business, she worked her way up from safety coordinator and sales associate to managing fulfillment and logistics, all while earning her associate degree in business management.

“I fell in love with the logistics industry early on,” Muniz said. “It’s fast-paced, rewarding, and offers endless opportunities for women who want to make an impact.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Girl Scouts attending the event can earn the official Women In Trucking patch, which introduces girls to the trucking industry through interactive activities. The patch emphasizes the essential role trucks play in everyday life while encouraging future career exploration.

Founded in 2007, WIT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women in trucking, celebrating their contributions, and breaking down barriers in the industry.

“Trucks Are For Girls” is free and open to all ages, offering a rare chance for young women to picture themselves in trucking and related fields.

Image Source: Eastern Wyoming College, Truckers News
Source: Truckers News

The post Eastern Wyoming College Hosts “Trucks Are For Girls” to Inspire Future Women in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Freight Recession and Market Volatility

One of the major themes on the agenda is freight market instability. Demand has been sluggish throughout 2025, and carriers have struggled to forecast volumes amid unpredictable swings.

“It’s possible that the stronger freight market seen in the first few months of this year has continued and is resulting in some tightening of the market,” said Avery Vise, vice president of Trucking for FTR Transportation Intelligence, during last year’s WIT Accelerate! Conference.

“To be clear, this is not something that has been reflected in the spot volume or rate data for dry van and refrigerated this year, so this would be an unexpected development,” Vise continued. “On the other hand, May was a strong month for general freight truckload payroll employment, so it’s conceivable that demand for route guide freight finally is outpacing the supply of drivers, leading to a tipping point that is showing up in the spot market. Again, this is possible but would be a new development.”

Eric Starks, chairman of the board at FTR, is scheduled to provide further analysis at the 2025 event.

Labor Shortages and Workforce Engagement

Driver recruitment and retention remain urgent challenges for the industry. Fleets are not only struggling to fill open positions but also working to improve employee engagement through better pay, scheduling flexibility, and professional growth opportunities.

The Women In Trucking Association continues to highlight workforce diversity as part of the solution. According to the 2024–25 WIT Index, women now make up 28% of C-suite executives, 34.5% of company leaders, and nearly 39% in both dispatch and safety roles.

Experts from Stay Metrics (Tenstreet), F|Staff, FreeWorld, People First Consulting, R.E. Garrison, and Holcim Group will lead discussions on recruitment strategies. In addition, several fleets recognized as “Top Companies for Women to Work” — including International, XPO, Schneider National, Daimler Truck North America, and WM — will share case studies on building supportive workplace cultures.

Cargo Theft and Fraud

Security is another high-profile concern. Verisk CargoNet reported that cargo theft incidents rose by 26% in 2024 compared to the previous year, with losses estimated at over $1 billion. Increasingly, criminals are using sophisticated methods, including identity theft, falsified documentation, and fraudulent carrier impersonation.

Representatives from CargoNet, Travelers Inland Marine, DHL Supply Chain, Jarrett, and Highway will present sessions at Accelerate! 2025 focused on strategies to mitigate theft and fraud risks.

Additional Topics

Other conference sessions will cover regulatory and legal issues, emerging technologies in trucking, and driver career satisfaction.

WIT Executive Director Mary Presley emphasized the event’s focus on business value:
“Our event is not solely about entertainment. We strive to provide a well-rounded schedule that includes valuable educational sessions, a B2B Marketplace, and ample networking opportunities—delivering strong return on investment and exceptional value to our sponsors, whose continued support has been instrumental in WIT’s growth over the years.”

Looking Ahead

With freight volatility, workforce pressures, and security threats reshaping the industry, the 2025 Accelerate! The conference aims to provide actionable insights for carriers and suppliers.

More details and registration information are available at WomenInTrucking.org.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Women In Trucking

The post Women In Trucking’s 2025 Accelerate Conference to Address Top Industry Challenges appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Building a Career in Logistics

Russell’s professional journey began shortly after college, when a friend encouraged her to join C.H. Robinson’s Chicago Central office. The move introduced her to an industry that quickly felt like home.

“I immediately loved the energy, problem-solving, and creativity it took to succeed in the logistics industry,” she said.

That early passion became the foundation of a career spanning multiple facets of logistics. Over the years, Russell has contributed to human resources, recruiting, training, operations, marketing, and even event planning.

“It has been extremely rewarding to use my background to support agents and build strong teams, especially within smaller, growing companies,” Russell said.

A Front-Row Seat to Growth

One of the defining chapters of her career came at Armstrong Transport Group. When Russell joined, the company was a modest operation of 15 employees generating $75 million in revenue. By the time she left, Armstrong had grown into a billion-dollar business. That transformation showed her firsthand what was possible with the right strategy and leadership.

Leading at Select Transport Partners

In June 2024, Select Transport Partners opened its doors. A few months later, Russell joined co-founders Chris Cobb and Tom Milosavljevich as a partner, bringing her expertise to the startup brokerage.

“The excitement of building something from the ground up and creating a place where agents and employees feel supported and valued is what keeps me pushing forward,” she said.

Her long-term vision is for Select to be known as the premier brokerage for independent agents, backed by strong recruiting, training, and support systems. She also hopes to shape the company into a workplace where people feel valued and connected to its mission.

Mentorship and Inspiration

Throughout her career, Russell credits her mentors for influencing how she approaches leadership. She recalls the guidance of Brian Mann, former CEO of Armstrong, as pivotal.

“He encouraged me to take on new projects and gave me the freedom to approach them in my own way. His collaboration, creativity, and leadership were invaluable to my development,” she said.

Advice for Women in the Industry

While trucking and logistics are evolving, Russell acknowledges the industry still has strides to make in gender representation. Her message to women entering the field is clear:

“While the industry has changed a lot over the last 25 years, you may still find yourself as the only woman in the room. Don’t be afraid to speak up; you bring a different perspective, and your voice should be heard.”

Looking Ahead

As Russell helps shape the future of Select Transport Partners, her goals remain focused on growth, support, and opportunity. WIT’s recognition of her as Member of the Month highlights her commitment not only to her company but also to fostering change across logistics.

Sources: Lauren Russell, Women In Trucking

The post Women In Trucking Names Lauren Russell Member of the Month for September 2025 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Her first day at trucking school did not start smoothly.
“One of the instructors looked at me and said, ‘Are you lost?’” she recalled with a laugh.
Instead of letting it discourage her, Terrena earned her CDL, joined the industry, and never looked back.

A Family Connection to the Road

Trucking runs in the family. Her older brother has been driving for more than three decades and was the one who first taught her to handle a vehicle and even change a tire. That early exposure instilled a love for driving that never waned. When she lost her job during COVID-19, she leaped into commercial driving.

Next March marks three years with NFI, and she credits her trainer, a driver with over 30 years of experience, for setting her up for success. His focus was on replacing bad habits with safer and more efficient ones. One of the biggest lessons was relying on traditional maps and trip planning instead of GPS alone.
“In places like New York, your GPS might lead you somewhere trucks cannot go,” she explained. “Planning ahead can save you a lot of headaches.”

Finding Belonging at NFI

At NFI, Terrena says the camaraderie among drivers is unmatched.
“There are only a handful of women here, but they were the first to show me how to handle flatbed straps,” she said. “We support each other, the guys too. If someone is stuck finding a location, we are just a call away.”

Life on the Road and at Home

Terrena started in over-the-road trucking, enjoying the solitude, music, and scenery. She has seen places she may never have visited otherwise, including South Portland, Maine, which is one of her favorite destinations for its summer weather and fresh seafood.

Today, she runs local routes to spend more time with her children and three grandchildren. Family activities like fall apple picking trips are now a regular part of her schedule. Still, she believes every driver should experience over-the-road trucking at least once for the lessons it teaches, from pre-trip inspections to parking strategies and backup plans.

Representing Women in Trucking

In a male-dominated industry, Terrena values being a visible example for other women.
“I have had people stop me and say, ‘You are driving that?’” she said. “It feels good to inspire someone else to go after this career.”

For her, the best part of trucking is not just the destinations or the independence. It is the support from fellow drivers who are always ready to lend a hand.

Image Source: NFI

The post From Layoff to Lifelong Career: How NFI Driver Terrena Built Her Place in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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

The post Spotlight on Kacy H.: Army Reservist and SheDrives NFI Trailblazer appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Lori’s Impact on the Trucking Industry

Lori’s career has spanned roles in recruiting, strategic planning, corporate development, branding, sales, and operations. She has worked with both for-hire and private fleets, including a Fortune 100 company, and led business development for the largest recruitment marketing agency in the industry. Today, she leads a top driver lead generation company that is female-owned and boasts an 80% female workforce.

Beyond business success, Lori is deeply committed to improving the image of drivers and the industry. Her passion for trucking extends beyond her company, making her a standout nominee for this prestigious recognition.

Significant Accomplishments in the Past 12-18 Months

Over the past year and a half, Lori has achieved remarkable milestones that underscore her vision for the industry:

• Built an online community of over one million followers, with a reach of up to 50 million people in a single month.
• Partnered with the NFI SheDrives initiative to amplify content that supports and elevates women in trucking.
• Launched Driver.jobs, a platform and community designed to connect and support final-mile drivers.
• Created the Haul of Fame, a space dedicated to celebrating trucking’s unsung heroes, including Drivers of the Month and Carriers of the Year.
• Developed an innovative technology-driven platform that matches drivers with companies based on their individual needs and preferences.

These achievements reflect her forward-thinking approach and unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact on drivers and the companies that support them.

How Lori Exemplifies WIT’s Mission

Lori fully embodies the mission of Women In Trucking—encouraging the employment of women in the industry, promoting their accomplishments, and minimizing the obstacles they face. She has mentored drivers and industry professionals, fostering growth and paving the way for future leaders.

Her efforts to enhance the perception of drivers go beyond recognition; she actively works to ensure their voices are heard and their contributions celebrated. Lori’s influence extends beyond drivers to the broader industry, where she continues to break down barriers for women and push for a more inclusive and supportive environment. Her advocacy, leadership, and dedication to the industry make her a true champion for positive change.

Women In Trucking’s 2025 Top Women to Watch

Lori joins an impressive group of 74 women recognized for their significant career accomplishments. These professionals come from a diverse range of roles, including operations, corporate management, sales, marketing, strategic initiatives, human resources, engineering, and technology. The full list of honorees includes:

• Vanessa Angulo, Senior Director, Talent Acquisition, Sysco
• Pamela Baker, Chief Executive Officer, Core Four Productions
• Tamsin Bencivengo, Director, Employer Brand, Penske Transportation Solutions
• Nicole Boyd, Driver Safety Trainer, Air Products
• Lina Castaneda, Chief Customer Officer, Tai Software
• Marcela Castano, Principal Applied Researcher, Bridgestone Americas
• Joanna Cooper, General Manager, Mount Holly Truck Manufacturing Plant, Daimler Truck North America
• Theresa Davinroy, Marketing Director, Tri-National, Inc.
• Jessica Dotson, Director of Business Development, Multi Service Fuel Card
• Janice Doyon, Director of Logistics, Performance Food Group
• Abbie Dunaway, BI Services Manager, McLeod Software
• Amanda Ellis, Lead, Dealer Operations – Digital Solutions, Bridgestone Americas
• Ashley Ellison, Vice President, Dedicated Operations, U.S. Xpress
• Sarah Falcon, Site Supervisor, Air Products
• Kathie Falcone, National Sales Director of Fleet Services, PACCAR Parts
• Kimberly Fisk, President, Triumph Factoring
• Angie Freeman, Chief Human Resources Officer, C.H. Robinson
• Karen Fuller, Executive Director of Maintenance, R.E. Garrison Trucking
• Lori Furnell, President, Truck Drivers USA
• Kameel Gaines, Chief Executive Officer, Rig On Wheels
• Sara Graf, Vice President, Sustainability, Culture and Communications, Estes Express Lines
• Laura Granados, Controller, May Trucking Company
• Kat Guerrero, Corporate Procurement Manager, Rihm Family Companies
• Candy June Hackworth, Manufacturing Operations Manager, International Motors
• Heather Hines, Director of Product Management, Arrive Logistics
• Betsy Hone, Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition, Old Dominion Freight Line
• Tracy Hughes, Vice President, Compliance, Benefits and Spend Management, Estes Express Lines
• Carrie Johnstone, Vice President, Customer Experience and Innovation, Estes Express Lines
• Katie Justman, Director of Operations, Schneider
• Kristine Kennedy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Highway Heavy Hauling
• Anita Kim, Director, Government Affairs and Policy, Torc Robotics
• Jennifer King, Field Sales Manager, Penske Truck Leasing
• Judith Knudsen, Chief Executive Officer, eTruck Transportation, LLC
• Becky Kraemer, Director, Cargo Claims, Saia LTL Freight
• Jackie Lawrence, Senior Director – People Relations, J.B. Hunt Transport Services
• Trisha Leckow, Vice President of Product Technology, Echo Global Logistics
• Kelly Lee, Operating Center Manager, May Trucking Company
• Elizabeth Lopez, Chief Financial Officer, Dealer Operations, Sun State International Trucks LLC
• Jenny Lovering, General Transportation Manager, Walmart
• Brenda Mejia, Head of Operations, Gatik
• Erin Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer, YMX Logistics
• Laura Muir, Chief Human Resources Officer, Polaris Transport
• Annette Munger, Engagement Manager, R.E. Garrison Trucking
• Kandice Nadeau, Vice President, Dedicated Contract Carriage Solutions, Penske Logistics
• Zeliha Ozgul-Mamishi, Lead Project Manager, International Motors
• Kait Parker, Vice President, Operations, RXO
  … (List continues with all nominees) …

The full list of honorees will be featured in WIT’s Redefining the Road magazine and online at Women In Trucking. Congratulations to Lori and all the exceptional women making a difference in transportation!

The post TDUSA President Lori Furnell Named One of Women In Trucking’s Top Women to Watch in 2025 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Source: Women In Trucking

The Impact of WITney® at Industry Events

Did you know that in 2024, the WITney® Educational Trailer traveled to 40 events? Nearly 7,500 visitors—primarily women and girls—stopped by to explore the many career opportunities available in trucking. From job fairs and community events to corporate gatherings and major industry conferences, WITney® has become an essential part of WIT’s mission.

Beyond WITney®, WIT’s President & CEO, Jennifer Hedrick, plays an active role in industry events, speaking and networking to further the organization’s mission. The goal is clear: educate, motivate, and inspire more women to enter trucking while also supporting those already in the industry by addressing challenges like work-life balance and gender bias.

Where You’ll Find WIT

Before committing to an event, WIT carefully evaluates its alignment with the organization’s mission and its potential reach. Once confirmed, the WIT team collaborates closely with event hosts to maximize impact.

One of the biggest annual events WIT attends is the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), held each March at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ken. As the largest trucking event in North America, MATS attracts more than 50,000 attendees and 870 exhibitors. WIT makes a strong presence at this event with both a booth and WITney®, strategically placed at a high-traffic location to engage women, girls, and allies interested in trucking careers.

WITney® isn’t just a mobile exhibit—it’s an interactive experience featuring:

• Educational kiosks covering Trucking 101, industry myths, FAQs, and a career quiz
• A wall mural showcasing WIT’s milestones since its inception in 2007
• Headset kiosks where visitors can hear inspiring HERstories from female truckers
• A female trucker uniform display featuring essential workwear and safety gear
• A state-of-the-art driver simulator that lets attendees experience truck driving in various weather and road conditions

Each year at MATS, WIT also hosts the highly anticipated Salute to Women Behind the Wheel, a celebration that honors and recognizes female truck drivers for their dedication and success in the industry.

WIT at the Food Shippers Conference

Another major event WIT attended this year was the 2025 Annual Food Shippers Conference, hosted by Food Shippers of America from March 2 to 4 at the J.W. Marriott Desert Springs in Palm Desert, Cali. Over 1,300 supply chain, transportation, and logistics professionals were in attendance.

Representing WIT at the conference were Jennifer Hedrick, Carleen Herndon (Member Services & Sales), Cassidy Mullins (Conference & Management), and Brian Everett (Content & Strategy). Their goal was to promote WIT’s mission and encourage greater female participation in the industry. WITney® was also present outside the conference center, helping to generate awareness about trucking career opportunities for women.

Special thanks to Walmart professional drivers Krista Cardoso and Vivian Gonzalez, who transported WITney® to the event and staffed the trailer.

Navigating WITney® into the venue’s parking lot was no small feat due to tight spaces and obstacles. “It was incredibly impressive,” said Hedrick, describing how the driver maneuvered WITney® through a difficult right turn surrounded by large rocks. “She navigated a really tight right turn coming out of the main entrance to the hotel that was lined with large rocks on all sides, really limiting her space to maneuver.”

“This roundabout at the front was filled with cars coming in and out, and she waited a long while for a clearing to begin turning,” Hedrick continued. “Then more cars, so she was doing all of this in front of a backup of cars and handled it so well.”

Want to Book WIT for an Event?

WIT is a trusted authority on women’s opportunities in trucking, offering insights, data, and best practices on industry trends. Their team regularly speaks at public and corporate events, trade shows, and even ride-alongs.

If you’re interested in having WIT at your next event, complete a Booking Request Form to explore potential opportunities!

Source: Women In Trucking

The post How Women In Trucking is Driving Change at Industry Events appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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.

Source: Women In Trucking

The 2025 Driver of the Year Finalists

• Ericka Norfleet, Owner-Operator, R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc.

• Gina Jones, Company Driver, Werner

• Kathy Blaies, Professional Carhauler, United Road

• Sandy Winters, Company Driver, Leonard’s Express

The winner of this prestigious honor will be announced during WIT’s “Salute to Women Behind the Wheel” ceremony, which takes place on Friday, March 28, at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky.

Ericka Norfleet (R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc.)

Source: WIT (Erica Norfleet)

Ericka Norfleet is a proud owner operator associated with R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc., who has carved out an impressive career since earning her CDL in 2015. With more than one million safe miles logged on the road, she exemplifies professionalism, safety, and teamwork.

For Norfleet, trucking is more than just a job; it’s a family lifestyle. Together with her husband, she has spent nearly nine years as part of a driving team while raising their seven children. Her dedication to safety, coupled with her deep connection to the trucking community, makes her a standout in the industry.

Gina Jones (Werner)

Source: WIT (Gina Jones)

Gina Jones, a company driver for Werner, has seamlessly transitioned from a career in retail management to becoming a force in the trucking world. She earned her CDL at the age of 50 and has since accumulated an impressive 2.5 million accident-free miles.

Her accolades include the 2024 TA Citizen Driver Award, the Werner Safe Driver Award, and the President’s Safe Driver Club Award presented by the Nebraska Trucking Association. Jones’ leadership shines through her advocacy work as a former ATA America’s Road Team Captain and Werner Road Team member. Driving a specialty-wrapped truck that honors military service members, Jones is a part of Werner’s Operation Freedom Fleet. Off duty, she mentors aspiring drivers, supports charitable causes, and takes joy in riding her Harley Davidson or spending time with her grandchildren.

Kathy Blaies (United Road)

Source: WIT (Kathy Blaise)

With over two decades in the driver’s seat, Kathy Blaies has redefined the standards of car-hauling excellence. Blaies has maintained a damage-free career while driving more than one million miles, earning the Gold Elite Driver Award four times and the Damage Free Elite Award twice.

Known affectionately by her peers as “Carhaul Kathy,” she is admired for her meticulous attention to safety, professionalism, and mentorship within the industry. Her dedication to efficiency and quality not only leads by example but also inspires the next generation of professional car haulers.

Sandy Winters (Leonard’s Express)

Source: WIT (Sandy Winters)

Sandy Winters has dedicated over three decades to driving excellence as a company driver for Leonard’s Express. After serving four years in the U.S. Army, she entered the trucking industry in 1993 with the encouragement of a friend who noticed her innate skill with large vehicles.

Throughout her career, Winters has operated a variety of vehicles, from ink tankers to flatbeds, and navigated routes across the U.S. and Canada. Her work ethic, passion for mentoring the next generation, and commitment to the industry have earned her widespread respect. According to Winters, trucking isn’t just what she does; it’s what she loves, and she strives for excellence every single day.

Join the Celebration

Don’t miss the reveal of the 2025 Driver of the Year award winner during WIT’s “Salute to Women Behind the Wheel” event at the Mid-America Trucking Show. This recognition marks yet another milestone for women paving the way in the transportation sector.

Congratulations to these remarkable women who continue to inspire and redefine excellence in trucking.

Source: Truckers News

The post Meet the Finalists for Women in Trucking’s 2025 Driver of the Year Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.