The announcement came during the Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky. The event highlights women who continue raising the bar across trucking through consistency, professionalism, and long-term impact.

A Career Built Over Decades

Brown’s career spans 46 years, covering everything from running as an independent owner-operator to managing operations for a specialized refrigerated fleet. She currently serves as operations manager at Blackjack Express LLC while still spending time behind the wheel hauling heavy, oversize, and refrigerated freight.

Her background includes launching Rollin’ B LLC and steadily building a reputation rooted in safety, reliability, and leadership. Over time, that consistency has turned into a legacy recognized across the industry.

She has also earned multiple honors throughout her career, including the National Association of Small Trucking Companies Woman Driver of the Year Award, the TA Petro Citizen Driver Award, and recognition as an inaugural inductee at the Mid-America Trucking Show Wall of Fame.

Leadership Beyond the Driver’s Seat

Brown has been involved with the Women In Trucking Association since 2007 as a charter member. She is now serving her second term on the board of directors and works as a liaison to the Women In Trucking Foundation board.

Her influence goes beyond titles. She has contributed as a safety collaborator with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and has spent years mentoring other drivers while staying active in her community.

Her story also includes personal resilience, having survived melanoma cancer three times while continuing to stay engaged in the industry.

Recognition From Industry Leaders

Her selection for Driver of the Year reflects how peers and leadership view her impact.

“We are proud to recognize Ingrid, whose tireless commitment to excellence, safety, and empowering women in this industry sets a standard that inspires us all,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, WIT president and CEO.

That same respect is echoed by others who have worked alongside her.

“Ingrid consistently operates with the highest standards of safety, reliability, and integrity, understanding that her actions reflect not only on her company, but on the trucking industry as a whole,” said Kristy Knichel, president of Knichel Logistics. “Through her actions, attitude, and dedication, she elevates the profession and inspires those around her.”

What the Award Represents

The Driver of the Year Award, presented with support from Walmart, focuses on individuals who consistently prioritize safety while helping shape how the public views trucking.

“Walmart is proud to sponsor the Driver of the Year award because it reflects our commitment to safety, excellence, and a culture of belonging across transportation,” said Ryan McDaniel, Walmart senior vice president, transportation. “Ingrid Brown embodies what this recognition stands for: a seasoned professional whose leadership, safety advocacy, and dedication to the industry have made a meaningful impact. Congrats to Ingrid for being named Driver of the Year.”

Finalists Recognized Alongside Brown

Brown was selected from a strong group of finalists, each bringing their own contributions to the profession:

Fabiola Campos-Buenavista, professional driver and driver development instructor, FedEx Freight
Gina Jones, company driver, Werner
KellyLynn McLaughlin, national transportation driver, dump and roll off, Clean Harbors Environmental Services

Why This Recognition Matters

Awards like this highlight what many already know. Long careers built on safety, consistency, and mentorship don’t just move freight. They shape the future of trucking.

Brown’s story reflects what’s possible when experience meets leadership and when drivers stay committed to doing the job right year after year.

The post Ingrid Brown Earns WIT 2026 Driver of the Year Recognition appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The organization is offering free cervical cancer screening kits to female over-the-road drivers nationwide, allowing them to complete the process privately and on their own schedule.

“Access to preventative care can be incredibly challenging for women who spend weeks at a time on the road,” said Lindsey Bryan, health & wellness manager at SCF. “By offering free, discreet, at-home cervical cancer screening kits, we’re removing barriers and meeting female drivers where they are. Early detection saves lives, and we want every woman in trucking to have access to that peace of mind.”

How the Screening Program Works

The cervical cancer kits expand SCF’s existing lineup of preventative screenings for professional drivers. The nonprofit already provides at-home and on-the-road prostate and colon or colorectal cancer screening kits.

Female OTR drivers can request a cervical cancer kit directly through SCF’s website by selecting the Cervical Cancer Screening option. Once submitted, the information goes straight to a St. Christopher Health and Wellness Case Manager. That case manager completes the registration and arranges shipment of the kit to the driver’s preferred location, whether that is a home address, carrier terminal, or P.O. Box.

Drivers complete the screening in private and return it using a pre-addressed, stamped envelope. Results are delivered within seven to ten days. If a test returns positive, the driver is offered a free Telehealth appointment for follow-up consultation.

SCF emphasized the importance of early action, stating, “Cervical cancer is highly preventable and treatable when detected early.”

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 14,000 new cases of invasive cervical cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States. When caught early, the five-year survival rate is approximately 91 percent. That rate drops significantly if the disease spreads, making regular screening a critical safeguard.

A Growing Population on the Road

Health access matters even more as the number of women in long-haul trucking continues to grow. The Women In Trucking Association has reported that women now represent approximately 9.5 percent of professional OTR drivers. With more than 2.2 million heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver jobs reported in 2024 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, that percentage translates to more than 200,000 female OTR drivers currently operating nationwide.

“Women in trucking play a vital role in keeping our supply chain moving,” said Jennifer Hedrick, president and CEO of Women In Trucking Association. “Programs like this demonstrate a true commitment to supporting women drivers beyond the cab. Providing free cervical cancer screenings helps ensure women have access to preventative care no matter where the road takes them.”

Beyond Emergency Relief

SCF remains the only nationwide nonprofit providing short-term financial assistance to Class A OTR drivers who have experienced an illness or injury within the last 365 days that forced them out of work. Alongside financial relief, the organization also offers multiple free health and wellness programs aimed at keeping drivers healthy and on the job.

Those programs include nicotine cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, at-home cancer screenings, and vaccine vouchers.

Female OTR drivers who want to request a cervical cancer screening kit or learn more about other available screenings can do so through the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund website.

For an industry that depends on long hours and long miles, initiatives like this bring preventative care closer to the people who keep freight moving every day.

Source: The Trucker

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WIT is encouraging eligible companies to complete a confidential survey that gathers workforce data on women employed in a range of roles, including leadership, operational, and professional driving positions. The information collected will be used to produce the 2026–27 WIT Index, which is published every two years.

What the WIT Index measures

The WIT Index serves as an industry barometer that measures and tracks the percentage of women working in key transportation roles. Those roles include corporate management, functional positions, and professional truck drivers holding commercial driver’s licenses.

WIT said the updated Index will continue to provide a consistent way for the industry to evaluate progress and identify long-term workforce trends related to women’s participation.

Who is invited to participate

The association is inviting a broad range of transportation organizations to submit data, including:

• For-hire trucking companies
• Private fleets
• Transportation intermediaries
• Railroads
• Ocean carriers
• Equipment manufacturers
• Technology companies

Companies are asked to report the percentage of women employed in various workforce categories. WIT emphasized that all data will be kept strictly confidential and reported only as aggregated totals.

An authorized company representative must complete survey submissions.

Survey timeline and participation benefits

The survey is currently live and will remain open through April 17, 2026. Companies can submit their data online at womenintrucking.org/index.

Organizations that participate will receive an executive summary of the 2026–27 WIT Index at no cost. WIT said the summary allows companies to benchmark their own hiring and talent management practices involving women against broader industry data.

Why the data matters

WIT President and CEO Jennifer Hedrick said the Index plays a critical role in providing reliable, data-driven insight into workforce participation trends.

“Monitoring women’s involvement in a male-populated industry like transportation is critical so that statistically valid data can be used to evaluate progress made in this area,” said Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT. “The association created the WIT Index in 2016 to monitor the industry’s progress in women’s involvement among key roles, including corporate leaders and supervisors, technicians, safety directors, human resources, dispatchers, and professional truck drivers.”

Highlights from the most recent WIT Index

The most recent 2024–25 WIT Index showed a notable presence of women in leadership and governance roles across the industry.

According to WIT’s findings:

• About 28% of C-suite and executive positions were held by women
• 34.5% of supervisory leadership roles were held by women
• 29.5% of board of director positions were held by women

For the first time, the 2024–25 Index also reported the percentage of professional truck drivers with CDLs who are women, segmented by company size.

Women CDL driver representation by company size

The data showed variations based on workforce size:

• Micro and small companies with fewer than 500 employees reported that 12.5% of their CDL-holding professional drivers were women
• Medium and large enterprises with 500 to 4,999 employees reported that approximately 10.5% of their CDL driver workforce was women
• Major enterprises with more than 5,000 employees reported that approximately 7% of their CDL driver population was women

WIT said collecting updated data in the current survey cycle will help the industry better understand how these figures are shifting over time and where additional focus may be needed.

The association encourages eligible companies to participate to ensure the next WIT Index reflects a comprehensive and accurate snapshot of today’s transportation workforce.

Source: Truckers News

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WIT announced the call for nominees as the award enters its second decade. The Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award recognizes women working in logistics roles across North America, including freight brokerage, third-party logistics, supply chain strategy, and operations.

Industry leadership recognition

Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, president and CEO of WIT, said the award reflects the role women play in the logistics sector.

“The Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award exemplifies the power of women’s leadership in a field critical to our economy,” Hedrick said. “We invite industry leaders, peers, and organizations to nominate women whose vision, determination and influence are shaping the next generation of logistics excellence.”

According to WIT, the award highlights leadership, innovation, and impact within the logistics profession.

“The award is an inspiring recognition that celebrates exceptional leadership, innovation and impact by women in the logistics profession across North America,” WIT said.

Focus beyond job titles

WIT said the award focuses not only on professional achievement, but also on broader contributions to the industry.

“The logistics industry is evolving, and the contributions of women leaders are central to that transformation,” WIT said. “The DWLA recognizes not only career accomplishments but also mentorship, advocacy, and community engagement. These attributes inspire others and foster a more inclusive, resilient industry. By elevating these role models, WIT encourages future generations of women to pursue dynamic careers in logistics and trucking.”

How to submit a nomination

Nominations are open now and must be submitted by February 27. There is no nomination fee. Individuals or organizations familiar with a nominee’s work may submit a nomination online.

Award presentation details

The 2026 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award recipient will be honored at the TIA 2026 Capital Ideas Conference, scheduled for April 15 through April 18 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Martha Payne was named the 2025 Distinguished Woman in Logistics Award winner.

Source: The Trucker

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Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, President and CEO of WIT, emphasized the significance of this honor: “This award is more than just a recognition – it’s a celebration of the bold, forward-thinking women who are shaping the future of transportation. We are thrilled to once again spotlight their accomplishments and elevate the voices of women who are making a difference across our industry.”

Celebrating 15 years, this award highlights women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and influence within trucking, transportation, logistics, or supply chain sectors. Nominees must have a proven track record of visionary leadership, mentorship, and serve as inspiring role models for others, especially women.

Jill Quinn, President of Centerline Drivers, shared, “By amplifying the incredible stories of women in trucking, we aim to inspire more women to explore rewarding careers in an industry that keeps America moving. We are honored to support the 2025 Influential Women in Trucking Award as part of Centerline’s ongoing commitment to fueling progress and advancing opportunities for women in trucking.”

Nominations are being accepted now through September 18. Those interested can submit their nominations here.

The winner will be revealed at the 2025 Accelerate! Conference & Expo, scheduled for November 9–12 in Dallas, Texas. Finalists will also join a panel discussion on November 11, sharing their leadership journeys, philosophies, and advice for the next generation of industry talent.

Past winners include some of the most notable figures in trucking leadership:

• 2024: Tracy Rushing, Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting, RE Garrison Trucking, Inc.
• 2023: Shelley Simpson, President, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
• 2022: Trina Norman, Southern California Feeder Operations Manager, UPS.
• 2021: Lily Ley, VP & CIO, PACCAR.
• 2020: Kristy Knichel, President, Knichel Logistics, and Jodie Teuton, Co-Founder, Kenworth of Louisiana.

For a full list of recipients, click here.

WIT encourages peers, companies, and stakeholders to nominate women who have made a lasting impact on the trucking industry. This is a powerful opportunity to recognize leadership and inspire more women to join this vital field.

Source: The Trucker
Source: Women In Trucking

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“There are some impressive female trailblazers who have made significant contributions to the trucking industry,” shares Jennifer Hedrick, CAE, President and CEO of the Women in Trucking Association (WIT).

Source: Women in Trucking

The trucking industry holds a rich history of extraordinary women who defied expectations and left lasting legacies. Here are just a few of the inspiring pioneers who revolutionized the field.

Bertha Benz (1849–1944)

Although not directly tied to trucking, Bertha Benz’s influence on motorized transportation is indisputable. She played a crucial role in the evolution of motor vehicles, financially backing her husband Karl Benz’s automotive invention. Bertha’s bold decision to take an unprecedented test drive in 1888 highlighted the potential of motorized vehicles to reshape travel and logistics, ultimately laying the groundwork for the modern trucking industry.

Marie Luhring (1899–1970)

Marie Luhring shattered gender norms as one of America’s first female truck designers. Overcoming the odds, she became the first female associate of the American Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) in 1920. Her groundbreaking work at the International Motor Company opened doors for women in the field of automotive and truck engineering, inspiring numerous generations of female designers to follow her lead.

Lillie Elizabeth Drennan (1897–1974)

Lillie Drennan holds the distinction of being the first licensed female truck driver in the United States. Co-founding Drennan Truck Line in 1929, she managed her Texas-based trucking company for over 24 years despite facing significant prejudice. Drennan’s unwavering determination and business acumen showed that talent and skill—not outdated notions of gender—define success in trucking.

Luella Bates (1897–1985)

When World War I left gaps in the workforce, Luella Bates rose to the challenge. Initially serving as a truck mechanic, Bates soon became the first woman officially hired as a truck driver by the Four Wheel Drive Auto Co. in Wisconsin. She excelled as both a test and commercial driver, proving that women could master demanding roles within the industry. Post-war, Bates championed women in trucking, urging them to enter and thrive in the field.

Women Driving Progress Today

Modern leaders are taking the torch from past pioneers, spearheading innovation and pushing for inclusivity within the trucking industry. The Women in Trucking Association recognizes these forward-thinking professionals through honors like the Influential Women in Trucking and Distinguished Woman in Logistics awards.

Tracy Rushing – RE Garrison Trucking

Tracy Rushing stands out as a key voice in trucking safety and workforce equality. Serving as Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting at RE Garrison Trucking, Rushing has integrated advanced safety measures and driven initiatives to increase women’s participation in the field. Her efforts have been widely recognized, including her 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking award from WIT. A member of organizations like the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) and the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), Rushing exemplifies the balance of innovation and inclusivity needed for the industry’s future.

Shelley Simpson – J.B. Hunt Transport

Shelley Simpson’s career at J.B. Hunt Transport reflects consistent leadership excellence. Starting as a customer service representative in 1994, Simpson rose through the ranks to become President and CEO. She’s played a pivotal role in transforming the company’s business operations and technology innovations, including the development of J.B. Hunt 360°, a proprietary platform aimed at increasing freight efficiency. Her career path demonstrates how understanding every level of a business can lead to impactful, forward-thinking leadership.

Honoring Women’s Contributions to Trucking

Women have had—and continue to have—a profound impact on the trucking industry. From historic pioneers like Luella Bates and Lillie Drennan to modern change-makers like Tracy Rushing and Shelley Simpson, these women are challenging stereotypes, driving innovation, and reshaping the industry landscape for future generations.

Their stories remind us that success depends on talent and perseverance, not gender. To explore more about influential women shaping the trucking industry, visit resources provided by the Women in Trucking Association.

Source: Women in Trucking

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1. Build Confidence and Assertiveness Confidence is crucial in the trucking industry. Approach your role with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek assistance when needed.
2. Utilize Available Resources Leverage the resources and support networks available to women in trucking. Organizations like the Women In Trucking Association (WIT) are dedicated to promoting the employment of women in the industry, celebrating their successes, and minimizing obstacles. Engaging with such organizations can provide valuable networking, mentorship, and educational opportunities.
3. Prioritize Safety Safety is paramount for all truck drivers, with additional considerations for women. Always keep your doors locked, and consider using devices like seatbelts through door handles or ratchet straps to secure doors while sleeping. Avoid displaying items that identify you as female to deter potential predators. Leaving sleeper curtains open when entering the truck allows you to check for intruders.
4. Develop Strong Relationships Building strong relationships with your company, customers, and fellow drivers can enhance your experience and success in the industry. Positive interactions can lead to better support, opportunities, and a more enjoyable work environment.
5. Seek Mentorship and Community Connecting with other women in the industry can provide support, advice, and camaraderie. Engage with communities and forums where female truckers share experiences and tips. Mentorship from experienced drivers can offer guidance and encouragement as you navigate your career.
6. Maintain Work-Life Balance Strive for a work-life balance that suits your personal needs. Some companies offer flexible work arrangements to help drivers achieve this balance. It’s important to find a schedule that allows you to maintain your well-being both on and off the road.
7. Continuous Learning and Adaptability The trucking industry is continually evolving. Stay informed about new regulations, technologies, and best practices. Continuous learning and adaptability will enhance your skills and keep you competitive in the field.

By embracing these strategies, women entering the trucking industry can build successful and rewarding careers. Joining WIT is a great step toward finding a community of like-minded professionals who are eager to help you thrive.

The post How Women Can Thrive in Trucking: Tips for Breaking Into the Industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

For seven years, Leon hesitated to pursue a trucking career, opting instead to work at a Toys R Us warehouse. Each year, the company offered select employees the chance to train for their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), and each time, Leon held back. However, in her seventh year, she boldly declared to her husband, “I’m just gonna do it,” and embarked on her trucking journey without looking back.

Now a seasoned driver at 4Gen Logistics, Leon navigates California’s ports, traveling approximately 100,000 miles annually. Her initial foray into trucking was daunting; her first drive for Toys R Us took 10 hours without a cell phone or GPS, and she frequently received incorrect directions from clerks. Despite this challenging start, Leon found freedom and a reprieve from the repetitive warehouse routine. “I can go to the same port every single day for a month and it’s something different,” she shared.

Leon was nominated for the Road Warrior award by her daughter, Jessica Beasley, who highlighted Leon’s unwavering dedication to her roles as a driver, mother, and grandmother. “She can work so hard at her job and she is so dedicated, but she is also dedicated as a mother and a grandmother,” Beasley said tearfully. “She balances it all and is the matriarch of our family. I can’t think of anyone more deserving.”

Reflecting on her career, Leon noted that she was one of only four women drivers at Toys R Us when she started, often encountering skepticism from male colleagues. Yet, she now sees more women taking on driving roles and other positions at ports, some of whom seek her advice about entering the profession. Despite standing just 5-foot-3, her toughness and ambition have always shone through. “She’s so ambitious,” Beasley praised. “She just kept doing what she loved doing. She rose above and continued to do what she loves.”

Leon encourages more women to consider trucking, a career she wholeheartedly endorses. “If I could do it, they can do it,” she affirmed, echoing the sentiments of the Women In Trucking Association, which reports that women comprise about 12% of CDL holders. Her passion for trucking has even influenced her son, who now drives for Amazon and often seeks her counsel.

In addition to the grand prize, Leon received another $1,000 from the Pilot contest. She plans to use the funds for home improvements and possibly a vacation with her husband. Until then, she remains committed to the road, embodying the spirit and resilience of a true Road Warrior.

Source: Freightwaves

Image: Pilot Flying J

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On October 30, the Women in Trucking Association revealed its 2024 list of “Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation.” Based in Plover, Wisconsin, this organization annually acknowledges companies that prioritize inclusivity and diversity in the workplace.

“Companies named to this prestigious list must demonstrate corporate attributes that are essential to any successful enterprise committed to gender diversity as part of their corporate strategy,” stated Brian Everett, publisher of Redefining the Road magazine.

Everett highlighted key attributes necessary for selection:

• A corporate culture that promotes gender diversity

• Flexible work hours and requirements

• Attractive compensation packages

• Quality benefits, such as paid maternity leave

• Opportunities for training, ongoing education, and professional growth

• Career advancement potential

• Access to well-maintained and secure equipment and facilities for drivers

Norita Taylor, director of public relations at OOIDA, emphasized the organization’s groundbreaking efforts in tackling challenges within the trucking industry.

“OOIDA has fought for the rights of all truckers for more than 50 years and looks forward to seeing more and more women join the industry as drivers and small-business owners,” Taylor shared with Land Line. “At the heart of our mission is to improve conditions for all small-business truckers, which makes it that much better for women to enter and remain in an industry traditionally dominated by men.”

Taylor further noted OOIDA’s unwavering dedication to fairness across the board, which is mirrored by its diverse workforce.

“OOIDA also exemplifies this dedication in its approach to building and maintaining a workplace that respects and acknowledges the unique contributions of its female staff,” Taylor remarked. “By integrating women fully into its ranks, OOIDA leads by example, showing that a more inclusive industry is possible and preferable.”

This year’s compilation by Women in Trucking features a “diverse range of company types” within the trucking realm, including “motor carriers, third-party logistics companies, and original equipment manufacturers.” The acknowledged companies will be celebrated later this month during the 2024 Accelerate! Conference & Expo in Dallas.

Source: Land Line

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“The award was developed in 2010 to recognize female leaders and to attract and advance women in the trucking industry,” explains WIT in their press release. “The award highlights the achievements of female role models and trailblazers in the trucking industry.”

Finalists for the 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking Award:

Lisa Gonnerman, vice president of enterprise services, TA Dedicated

Lisa Gonnerman is a seasoned professional in the trucking industry with over 32 years of experience. Her leadership in safety practices has shaped national policies, and she is dedicated to mentoring future leaders, particularly women in trucking. She has held prominent roles, including National Chair of the American Trucking Association (ATA) Safety Management Council from 2019 to 2021, and was named ATA National Safety Director of the Year in 2016. Her influence extends to organizations like the Minnesota Safety Council, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, and the FMCSA’s CSA subcommittee.

Sheri Aaberg, chief operating officer, Transport Enterprise Leasing

Sheri Aaberg is renowned for creating empowering workplaces within the trucking industry over the last 24 years. Since joining TEL in 2014, she has driven the company’s growth from 1,200 to over 9,300 leased vehicles, and expanded operations from Chattanooga to Indianapolis. Her leadership roles include serving on the board of the Used Truck Association and active participation in various industry forums. Her efforts have significantly contributed to TEL’s excellence in performance and team development.

Tracy Rushing, executive director of safety, RE Garrison Trucking Inc.

Tracy Rushing began her career 30 years ago in Forest, Mississippi. Her extensive knowledge in safety management and driver relations has been pivotal since joining RE Garrison in 2022. Rushing is an influential member of several industry associations, including Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM), Truckload Carriers Associations (TCA), and Safety & Maintenance Management Council of the Alabama Trucking Association (SMMC). Her achievements include being the Alabama Safety Director of the Year Runner-Up in 2023. Known for her commitment to mentoring women in the trucking sector, she continues to champion their roles in this essential industry.

The 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking finalists will share their insights during a panel discussion at the WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo in Dallas, Texas, from November 10 – 13, 2024, where the winner will deliver a HERstory speech.

Source: The Trucker/ Women in Trucking 

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