According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 57% of women participate in the labor force. However, The Women in Trucking Association (WIT) found that they make up less than 8% of professional truck drivers. These numbers are changing, though. The number of women in the industry grew by one percent last year. Many companies also experienced a 28.7% increase in female drivers. More women are seeing the benefits of this fulfilling career—and you should too.  

Why Women Should Become Truck Drivers

Equal Pay

There is a culture of wage inequality in the United States. On average, women earn 77.9 cents for every dollar that men earn, according to PayScale. That’s a 22% difference between each gender’s median salary. This pay gap has narrowed in recent years, but there’s still room for improvement.  

Several industries are working to eliminate wage inequality, and transportation is one of them. Carriers pay truck drivers based on mileage or hours on the road—not gender. That means women have to opportunity to earn just as much as their male peers. Plus, both male and female truck drivers enjoy a high lifetime earning potential in this career—the average salary for entry-level drivers is $41,110 a year as per AllTrucking.com. After three years, this wage increases to $88,710.     

Flexible Schedules

A traditional 9-to-5 job isn’t for everyone. Fortunately, many carriers offer flexible schedules, so truck drivers can work during the days they’re free. This trait is especially valuable to mothers, part-time students, or women who simply want a good work-life balance.

Truck drivers also receive a substantial benefits package including medical, dental, and life insurance, 401(k), and vacation time. Some companies even offer paid leave, which is a boon to new parents as well as the groups mentioned above.

Travel Opportunities

A 2014 Booking.com survey found that 65% of American women travel solo. If you are one of these women, truck driving may be the job for you. This unique career path takes you to all corners of the country. You constantly get to see new landmarks, experience different locales, and embrace the open road—no two days are the same. Plus, you get paid while doing it.

If you’re ready to embark on a new professional opportunity, contact Hamrick School. We have helped thousands of women earn their CDL over the last 30 years and become accomplished truck drivers. Call us at (330) 239-2229, or fill out our request for information form for more on the admissions process.  

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