Driving Forward: Diversity, Inclusion, and the Future of Trucking
The trucking industry is the lifeblood of the American economy—moving nearly three-quarters of all freight across the nation. But as the economy evolves, so does the workforce behind the wheel. Diversity and inclusion are becoming central to the conversation about the future of trucking.
While more women, minorities, and younger workers are joining the industry, there remain significant roadblocks. In this post, we explore the current challenges, highlight inspiring success stories, and share powerful strategies that can help pave the way toward a more inclusive and resilient trucking sector.
The Roadblocks: Challenges to Diversity in Trucking
Despite over 3.5 million truck drivers in the U.S., only about 38% are minorities and just 8% are women. The statistics reveal systemic issues that disproportionately affect underrepresented groups:
Women in Trucking
Women hold only 24% of all transportation and warehousing jobs.
Only 6.6% of truck drivers are women.
A staggering 92% of female truckers report experiencing sexual harassment.
Pay disparities persist—women earn about 72 cents for every dollar a man earns.
Vehicle design, lack of restrooms, and family-care responsibilities present additional hurdles.
Young People
The CDL age requirement of 21 for interstate driving delays entry into the field.
The perception of the industry as old-fashioned and low-tech is a deterrent.
High training costs and limited upward mobility make recruitment difficult.
LGBTQ+ Drivers
Many LGBTQ+ truckers report fears of discrimination and lack of safe, inclusive spaces, especially at truck stops.
Minority Drivers
Hispanic drivers make up 23%, Black drivers 18%, and Asian drivers 4%.
Discrimination, including racial slurs over CB radios and systemic exclusion, remains an issue.
Organizations like Black Truckers United highlight barriers such as biased hiring and financing practices.
Industry-Wide Challenges
Safety concerns: inadequate rest stops, poor lighting, and lack of privacy.
Mental health resources are scarce.
The profession still suffers from negative public perception.
Paving the Way: Stories of Progress and Industry Initiatives
Despite these hurdles, many individuals and organizations are working to break down barriers and create a more inclusive industry.
Trailblazers Making a Difference
Alix Burton (Good Energy Worldwide) scaled a minority-owned fleet by adopting a big-company mindset.
Sharae Moore founded S.H.E. Trucking, offering mentorship and resources for women.
Nic and Carla Richelle, a married couple, vlog about life on the road and inspire others.
Johnell and Constance Moseley navigate life and love as a trucking team.
Andra Rush, a member of the Mohawk Nation, built a $400 million business while hiring and supporting Indigenous communities.
Adriesue “Bitsy” Gomez was a pioneering activist in the 1970s who fought for equal treatment for women truckers.
Organizations & Government Taking Action
Women of Trucking Advisory Board (WOTAB) provides recommendations to support and retain women in the industry.
U.S. Department of Transportation’s DBE Program helps minority-owned businesses gain contracts and technical support.
CRST celebrates the Hispanic/Latino community and promotes role models like Nuria Fernandez and Frederico Pena.
OTR Capital has seen a 75% increase in minority hires thanks to diversity initiatives.
UPS and FedEx are investing millions into inclusive employment and education programs.
Atlas World Group and Polaris Transportation have DEIB strategies that focus on long-term career growth and belonging.
The Path Forward: Recommendations for Real Change
Experts and advocacy groups like WOTAB have outlined a robust roadmap for creating a more diverse, inclusive trucking industry.
Top Recommendations:
Elevate Women’s Voices: Increase representation in leadership and advisory roles.
Combat Harassment: Remove offenders, establish neutral reporting systems, and mandate safe accommodations.
Recruit Strategically: Engage tribal nations and minority communities, and invest in CDL schools for disadvantaged groups.
Fund the Future: Provide grants for training, childcare, and local opportunities.
Modernize Training: Enforce standards for trainers, update curriculum for tech-based roles, and ensure living wages during onboarding.
Advance Careers: Promote paths beyond driving, like dispatch and fleet management.
Support Families: Implement flexible schedules, sick leave, and benefits tailored to caregivers.
Embrace Technology: Use high-tech systems to appeal to younger generations, while protecting privacy.
Build a Central Resource Hub: A national web portal could connect women in trucking with mental health tools, vetted employers, and support networks.
Change Perceptions: Launch a federal campaign to show trucking as a respected, profitable career for all.
The Horizon: A Stronger, More Inclusive Trucking Industry
The U.S. will need to recruit 1.1 million new truck drivers by 2026. That challenge can also be an opportunity—to build a diverse workforce that truly reflects the country it serves.
As companies embrace inclusivity, they’re not only doing the right thing—they're driving innovation and strengthening their bottom line. From addressing security concerns that benefit all drivers to using technology to support work-life balance, the road ahead is filled with potential.
As younger, more diverse drivers enter the workforce and companies evolve, the trucking industry can shift from being a symbol of the past to a leader in shaping the future.
Conclusion
Diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords in trucking—they’re vital for its long-term sustainability and success. From removing structural barriers to celebrating those already paving the way, the industry is slowly but surely moving forward.
Let’s keep driving—toward equity, opportunity, and a better tomorrow for every person behind the wheel.