History of women in trucking

The month of March is known as- Women’s History Month. This month we celebrate all the strong, resilient women who have paved the way for women in trucking today. We will be sharing the history of women in trucking and how it has evolved into what we know it as today. 

The start of women in trucking 

At the start and duration of  World War II, women had to fill the jobs of men who were at war, which included truck driving. Women have been some of the pioneers in our industry and behind the wheel of trucks for a whole century! One woman, Luella Bates, began driving during the war and enjoyed driving so much, so she continued to drive after the war. This is just one story of how women in trucking started their careers during this time. 

The first licensed female truck driver was Lillie Elizabeth Drennan in 1929. She was also the first trucking company owner! During her marriage, she became familiar with the business of trucking to take advantage of an oil boom in 1928. Over time she became the sole owner of the Drennan Truck Line, not only was she the first woman to own her own trucking company, but she was the first Texas woman to receive her commercial truck-driver’s license.  

Adriesue “Bitsy” Gomez was another part of the history of women in trucking. She was a large contributor to the 1970s Coalition of Women Truck Drivers. Gomez broke barriers and was an advocate for women in trucking. 

Why should women start a career in trucking? 

One reason is because as a truck driver, you have the independence and joy of the untraveled road. The work schedule can be flexible and the compensation allows you to have a great living.  The average salary is $73,000 a year. Women in trucking make up to 20 to 30 percent more than they would in other fields and industries. 

This industry is for everyone, and it’s important for females who are job searching to explore their options! The United States is in need of more truck drivers, and women are the perfect group to help grow the industry. Because of the need for qualified drivers, women have the opportunities to advance in their careers quicker and be part of the 20 to 30 percent of women changing this industry. 

Women in trucking have groups and networks that work together to have unity in the male-dominated industry. Some examples of women organizations are Women in Trucking Association, Real Women in Trucking and S.H.E Trucking. 

Celebrate the history of women in trucking by thanking the truck drivers you know and sharing how women in trucking have evolved over the years. 

TransWood is an equal opportunity employer and we encourage both men and women to join our team. Apply today and learn how you can pursue a career that you always dreamed of while having the chance to be close to home!