Trucking Jobs with the Most Home Time

Drivers looking to maximize home time often gravitate towards local trucking roles. Local drivers usually get home daily and enjoy steady routines, supporting both mental health and family connections. Regional drivers are home most weekends or several times a week, striking a balance between earning potential and downtime, especially attractive for those with children or active households. Over-the-road (OTR) drivers remain the backbone of long-haul transport, but often go two or three weeks between home visits, making them less appealing to those prioritizing family time.

Many local drivers report going home every night, much like a typical 9–5 worker, though longer shifts or occasional nights away aren’t uncommon. Regional drivers remain close to home and frequently sleep at home during the week, offering predictable schedules without sacrificing earning power. OTR drivers may earn more but sacrifice regular home time unless they choose dedicated routes through companies with strong home-time promises.

Why Work-Life Balance Varies

Pay, home time, and job satisfaction vary by job type, region, and company policy. Top factors impacting balance include:

• Driving style (local, regional, OTR)
• Company offerings (dedicated vs. flexible schedules)
• Location and access to major freight hubs
• Experience (seasoned drivers often access better routes)

Local jobs enable drivers to build healthy routines, exercise habits, and active family involvement, while regional jobs often come with higher pay and a blend of travel and home life. OTR roles suit those seeking independence and larger paychecks but require calculated planning for family and rest periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which driving jobs offer the most home time?
Local delivery and city freight roles top the list for daily home time, followed by regional routes that get drivers home on weekends or more.

Do higher-paying trucking jobs sacrifice work-life balance?
Specialized OTR or team driving often delivers bigger paychecks but less frequent home visits. Regional jobs typically strike a compromise between earnings and downtime.

Are regional jobs a good middle ground?
Yes. Drivers on regional routes consistently report solid earning potential alongside weekends at home, creating an ideal balance for many families.

Does experience help improve work-life balance?
More experience can unlock access to dedicated lanes and roles with tailored home schedules and added PTO.

Will flexible schedules become even more common?
Driver demand for flexible shifts is increasing, and more companies are creating local/regional opportunities to attract and retain talent.

Ready for Your Best Work-Life Balance?

Finding the right fit starts with knowing your priorities. Whether it’s daily home time or the freedom of the open road, TruckDriversUSA connects drivers to jobs that suit every lifestyle. Search for local, regional, and dedicated routes today and take the next step toward a fulfilling driving career.

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Taking to the Skies

For many drivers, the road isn’t enough—some want to conquer the air as well. Mark Boon shared, “Helicopter pilot… I’ve been driving trucks for 38 years, and I’m 60 now. Eddie Moody also dreams of “Flying a plane,” while Anthony Oxford said, “Flying, especially a helicopter.” Looks like aviation has a special appeal for those who already spend their lives moving across great distances.

From Hauling Freight to Hauling Freight Trains

Not all drivers would trade in their wheels for wings—some would rather stay grounded on the rails. Carrie Mann said, “Railroad Engineer.” Transitioning from trucking to railroading could be a natural step for some, given the similarities in logistics and long-distance travel.

Mastering Practical Skills and Beyond

Truck drivers have a diverse range of interests when it comes to skills they’d love to master. Many are drawn to hands-on trades: Bob Boss wants to be skilled in “any trade”—Electrician, Plumbing, or carpentry; Eri O Lara hopes to become proficient in “Residential electrical work”; and Dustin Gall is interested in mastering “Welding.” These practical skills offer plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

On a different note, Jason Lawrence shared his interest in business, saying, “Taxes. When I was young, I wanted to grow up and be a CPA.” Financial expertise like this can be particularly valuable for truckers managing their own operations, helping them handle tax-related challenges and make informed financial decisions.

Unconventional and Unexpected Skills

Truck drivers have a sense of humor and a knack for the unexpected. Roger Hershberger joked about “Walking and chewing gum at the same time,” while Kevin Way simply responded with “Walking.” Joyce Stephens took a different approach, saying, “Swimming,” proving that even everyday skills can be aspirations.

Some drivers dream of mastering highly technical or intellectual pursuits. Tony Hensley and Spencer Godlewski both chose “Quantum physics.” Guylain Ledoux said “AI,” while John W Van Syoc took it old-school with “Alchemy (turning lead into gold).”

Creative and Musical Ambitions

A handful of drivers expressed a passion for the arts. Dwayne Burton wants to master playing the bass guitar, and Marion D. Hill also dreams of playing music. Meanwhile, Craig Yoder has a more adrenaline-fueled dream: “Firefighter. Working on that now. If I want to master something, I just do it. For something unattainable, I choose trophy truck racecar driver.”

Life Beyond the Road

Some drivers simply want to enjoy their time off the road. Gary Giguere shared, “When I’m not behind the wheel of a big truck, I’m happy just riding my Harley.” Dan Gust brought up something that many truckers struggle with: managing a work-life balance. After all, mastering life beyond the cab can be just as challenging as handling an 18-wheeler.

A Never-Ending Pursuit of Knowledge

It’s clear that truck drivers are a diverse group with big ambitions. Whether it’s flying, mastering a trade, handling finances, or just enjoying a hobby, these drivers prove that learning never stops—even when you’re rolling down the highway. What about you? If you could master any skill, what would it be?

Join our community and share your thoughts with fellow drivers who are constantly pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve. Click here to join the Truck Drivers USA community today!

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Below, we’ll explore the key factors that differentiate local and OTR trucking careers, helping you evaluate which option best suits your preferences.

Time at Home

Local Trucking

Local trucking is an excellent option for drivers who value staying close to family or managing personal commitments. Local truckers usually operate on regional routes, which allows them to return home every evening or at least a few times a week. Whether it’s attending a family dinner or managing household responsibilities, local trucking tends to provide a more stable work-life balance.

OTR Trucking

OTR drivers often spend weeks on the road, taking long-haul routes across state lines or even coast-to-coast. While this lifestyle appeals to those who enjoy traveling and experiencing new places, it can be a tough adjustment for drivers who prioritize family time or a consistent schedule.

Work Schedule and Control

Local Trucking

Local drivers typically work set shifts, providing a predictable daily routine. Many local routes follow regular business hours, with weekends or holidays off, offering more opportunities for personal time.

OTR Trucking

Flexibility is both a perk and a challenge of OTR trucking. Drivers often have irregular schedules, including night shifts, weekends, and holiday work. While some drivers appreciate the flexibility to plan their own trip pacing, the lack of a fixed routine may be a downside for those seeking more structure.

Pay and Benefits

Local Trucking

Local truck drivers earn competitive wages, often through hourly pay or daily rates. However, their overall earnings might not reach the same level as OTR drivers due to the shorter routes and fewer hours. Local jobs frequently include robust benefits packages, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off, especially with smaller, family-owned businesses.

OTR Trucking

OTR drivers generally earn more due to the extended hours, longer distances, and time spent away from home. Many companies offer additional income opportunities, such as bonuses for mileage, safety performance, or long-haul deliveries. While the pay may look appealing, depending on the employer, OTR roles may come with less comprehensive benefits than local trucking jobs.

Job Stability and Career Progression

Local Trucking

Local roles usually provide steadier schedules and reliable routes. This stability often leads to longer-term job security, and many local companies also offer career growth opportunities, including promotions or specialized training programs. The increasing need for regional deliveries ensures continued demand for local truck drivers.

OTR Trucking

OTR positions often offer greater variety, allowing drivers to explore cross-country routes and transport diverse types of freight. However, job stability can sometimes be affected by market conditions, such as fuel prices and seasonal shipping demands. Drivers working for large national carriers may benefit from more growth opportunities than those employed by smaller firms.

Physical and Mental Demands

Local Trucking

Taking shorter trips and operating within limited areas means local trucking tends to be less physically and mentally taxing. Drivers enjoy shorter hours behind the wheel, which reduces fatigue and health risks associated with prolonged sitting. Additionally, local trucking often involves less isolation, with drivers returning home daily to their support networks.

OTR Trucking

The demands of OTR trucking are typically higher, as drivers spend extended periods on the road. Long hours, insufficient physical activity, and the isolation of driving alone can pose challenges to physical and mental health. However, proactive habits like regular exercise and staying connected with friends and family can help mitigate these challenges.

Lifestyle Differences

Local Trucking

Local trucking is an obvious choice for individuals who prioritize work-life balance. Consistent home time allows local drivers to maintain personal relationships, enjoy hobbies, and participate in daily family activities. This flexibility creates a more stable lifestyle for those with significant personal obligations.

OTR Trucking

For adventurous spirits who enjoy exploring new places, OTR trucking offers a unique lifestyle filled with cross-country travels. However, time away from home can strain relationships and make it difficult to meet family commitments. Adjusting to life on the road requires high independence and the ability to adapt to changing environments.

Choosing the Right Fit

Ultimately, the decision between local and OTR trucking comes down to what you value most in your career.

• If you prioritize being home regularly, having a predictable work schedule, and enjoying a steady lifestyle, local trucking is likely the better fit.

• OTR trucking offers exciting opportunities for those seeking higher pay, the thrill of hitting the open road, and the freedom to travel.

Both options come with rewards and challenges, so evaluating your personal needs and long-term career goals is key. With the growing demand for skilled drivers in both sectors, there’s never been a better time to choose the role that aligns with your unique priorities.

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At the Truckload Carriers Association’s annual meeting in Phoenix, a panel of young industry leaders tackled this issue head-on, offering insights on what makes Gen Z tick and how companies can better appeal to this new wave of workers. Commercial Carrier Journal covered the discussion, highlighting key takeaways that can help trucking adapt to the future.

Breaking Industry Stereotypes

Samantha Bodnar, president of D.M. Bowman Inc. and executive officer at The Bowman Group, admitted that despite her family’s deep roots in trucking, she initially wasn’t drawn to the industry. But after giving it a shot, she found it more exciting than expected. “Anything else after this would be boring,” she said, reflecting on how trucking’s dynamic nature changed her perspective.

Jason Douglass, Vice President of Operations & Recruiting at James H. Clark and Son, believes the industry struggles to communicate its value to younger generations. “Drivers can make $100,000 a year,” he pointed out. As a former driver himself, he understands how life-changing that earning potential can be. Yet, many young people don’t see trucking as a viable path, largely due to outdated perceptions.

However, Gen Z isn’t solely motivated by money. Ryan Whelan, Fleet Sales Representative at Volvo Trucks Canada, emphasized, “The new generation doesn’t see their job as just a paycheck.”

What Matters More Than a Big Salary

For Gen Z, work-life balance and a positive workplace culture often outrank high earnings. Douglass put it plainly: “We’re looking for a culture of respect and a home-life balance. Employees want to be heard, and they want to be validated.” He added, “We saw our parents get laid off from jobs, so we don’t feel that loyalty back. We want to work our asses off, get respected for the work we do, and we want time at home.”

This shift in priorities means that trucking companies relying on old-school management styles will struggle to retain young talent. Instead, businesses need to foster an environment where workers feel valued, respected, and supported.

Expanding Awareness Beyond the Driver’s Seat

One major barrier preventing more Gen Z workers from considering trucking is the misconception that the industry only offers driving jobs. Whelan pointed out that many university graduates overlook trucking because they don’t realize how many different career paths exist within it.

To change that perception, trucking companies must actively promote the industry’s diverse opportunities. Engaging with schools, leveraging social media, and sharing real-life success stories can all help reposition trucking as a dynamic and rewarding career field.

Culture-Focused Hiring Pays Off

In recent years, the leadership team’s average age has dropped by more than a decade at D.M. Bowman Inc. Bodnar explained that this wasn’t a calculated strategy but rather a natural result of hiring employees who fit the company’s culture.

“If we hire someone that has the culture we want, they just enjoy work more,” she said. Though this approach may take longer, it leads to a stronger, more engaged workforce. “You want to enjoy going to work every day.”

Douglass echoed this sentiment, urging companies to be intentional about hiring. “If somebody is not a right fit for your company, move on to the next applicant.” He believes the so-called “driver shortage” stems from mismatches between drivers and employers. “The driver shortage is because the wrong drivers are with the wrong company.”

Bridging the Generational Gap Through Mentorship

Older truckers take decades of knowledge and experience with them as they retire. Douglass believes mentorship is the key to keeping that wisdom in the industry. “Every carrier has at least one driver who is just chomping at the bit to be a mentor,” he said.

Structured mentorship programs don’t just help preserve industry knowledge; they also create a sense of support for younger employees, making their transition into trucking smoother.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

Image Source: (Commercial Carrier Journal) Brad Klepper, President, Driver’s Legal Plan; Samantha Bodnar, President, D.M. Bowman Inc. and Executive Officer, The Bowman Group; Jason Douglass, Vice President, Operations & Recruiting, James H. Clark and Son; and Ryan Whelan, Fleet Sales Representative, Volvo Trucks Canada

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“This year, the Best Fleets continued to invest in new and creative programs to enhance the workplace experience for drivers,” said Jane Jazrawy, CEO. “Despite what’s been a tough economy the past couple of years for fleets, the Best Fleets Top 20 and Hall of Fame members have continued to show that the well-being of their drivers remains a top priority.”

Recognizing Excellence in Trucking

The Best Fleets to Drive For program celebrates companies that prioritize exceptional workplace environments for their drivers and independent contractors. To qualify for the program, for-hire carriers operating at least 10 tractor-trailers must be nominated by a current driver or owner-operator.

Companies are then evaluated on various criteria, such as driver pay, benefits, human resources strategies, operational practices, professional development opportunities, and work-life balance initiatives. To ensure a comprehensive assessment, surveys are also conducted with drivers and independent contractors to gauge their satisfaction with the fleet’s work environment.

The companies with the highest scores are named to the prestigious Best Fleets to Drive For list. Those that have earned the recognition for 10 consecutive years—or for seven consecutive years with an overall winner distinction—are inducted into the Hall of Fame.

2025 Top 20 Best Fleets to Drive For

• America’s Service Line – Green Bay, Wis.

• American Central Transport – Kansas City, Mo.

• Brenny Specialized Inc. – St. Joseph, Minn.

• C.A.T. Inc. – Coteau-du-Lac, QC

• Challenger Motor Freight Inc. – Cambridge, ON

• Chief Carriers Inc. – Grand Island, NE

• Continental Express Inc. – Sidney, Ohio

• Crawford Trucking – Des Moines, Iowa

• Decker Truck Line Inc. – Fort Dodge, Iowa

• Fortigo Freight Services Inc. – Etobicoke, ON

• Fremont Contract Carriers, Inc. – Fremont, NE

• Ippolito Transportation – Burlington, ON

• K & J Trucking Inc. – Sioux Falls, SD

• Kriska Holdings Limited – Prescott, ON

• Leonard’s Express Inc. – Farmington, N.Y.

• PGT Trucking Inc. – Aliquippa, Pa.

• Thomas E. Keller Trucking Inc. – Defiance, Ohio

• TLD Logistics Services Inc. – Knoxville, Tenn.

• TransLand – Strafford, Mo.

• Wellington Motor Freight – Aberfoyle, ON

2025 Hall of Fame Inductees

• Bison Transport Inc. – Winnipeg, MB

• Boyle Transportation (an Andlauer Healthcare Group Company) – Billerica, Mass.

• Central Oregon Truck Company (a TFI International Company) – Redmond, Ore.

• FTC Transportation Inc. – Oklahoma City, Okla.

• Garner Trucking, Inc. – Findlay, Ohio

• Grand Island Express – Grand Island, NE

• Halvor Lines, Inc. – Superior, Wis.

• Nussbaum Transportation Services Inc. – Hudson, Ill.

• Prime Inc. – Springfield, Mo.

• Transpro Freight Systems Limited – Milton, ON

Honorable Mentions (Fleets to Watch)

CarriersEdge has also recognized five additional carriers as Fleets to Watch for their noteworthy efforts this year:

• Quality Carriers Inc. – Tampa, Fla.

• S&H Express Inc. – York, Pa.

• Steve’s Livestock Transport – Blumenort, MB

• USXL – Foristell, Mo.

• Williams Dedicated, LLC – Michigan City, Ind.

Awards Event and Future Insights

From the Top 20, CarriersEdge will announce two standout fleets—one in the large fleet category and one in the small fleet category—at the Best Fleets Education & Awards Conference, scheduled for March 3-4 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C.

During the conference, the Stratosphere Award will also be presented to the highest-scoring fleet in the Hall of Fame category. Attendees will gain access to in-depth data and insights, including statistics, trends, and innovative initiatives from this year’s top-performing fleets.

The conference, sponsored by EpicVue, TruckRight, and Netradyne, promises to be a valuable resource for trucking companies looking to enhance their operations and improve workplace experiences for drivers.

Source: The Trucker

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NFI’s SheDrives program empowers women in the trucking industry while fostering a community where drivers feel valued and supported.

For Ebony, a CDL spotter working with NFI, this initiative has provided more than just career growth—it’s given her a sense of belonging and a better balance between her job and home life.

“I’m excited to be a part of the SheDrives initiative because I’ve never been part of a company that actually includes its drivers,” Ebony said. “As a female driver, I came from over-the-road (OTR) driving before I joined NFI. Now, I’m local to home, which means I get to be at home with my kids every night—which is awesome.”

From Healthcare to Trucking

Ebony’s career path has been far from conventional. She began as a nurse, working in the field for a decade. Afterward, she transitioned to roles in a food production plant and later as a heavy machine mechanic—both environments traditionally dominated by men.

Her ambition to break the mold led her to set her sights on earning a CDL and exploring opportunities in trucking. Initially, Ebony’s male colleagues doubted her ability to thrive as a truck driver. Instead of discouraging her, their skepticism fueled her determination.

Ebony earned her CDL and started her OTR career, proving her capabilities and silencing the critics. When she discovered an opportunity with NFI as a CDL spotter, she saw the chance to achieve a meaningful work-life balance and jumped at it.

Better Work-Life Balance and a Supportive Culture

At NFI, Ebony discovered a flexible schedule that not only aligns with her professional goals but also allows her to spend more time with her family. The company’s commitment to supporting employees in balancing their work and personal lives stood out to Ebony.

Her supervisor, Brice B., has seen firsthand how dedicated Ebony is to her role. “Ebony was a great hire for 858 as a spotter in Topeka at the bakery,” Brice shared. “She has a high level of ownership of her job and takes great pride in it. She does whatever is asked and even offers possible solutions to issues when they arise. She’s one of the hardest workers we have.”

Brice emphasized NFI’s employee-first mindset as a driving force behind its culture. “Here at 858, we strive to make employees the main focus and always try to put family first,” he said. “

For Ebony, this support system has been invaluable. “It has been exciting to be included as a driver, to be taken care of as a driver, and to be treated like family by my bosses and my co-workers,” she said. “We are a little family.”

A Community That Elevates Women

The SheDrives program does more than reinforce NFI’s inclusive culture—it also creates a platform for women in trucking to connect, share experiences, and uplift each other.

“I like seeing people like myself at NFI,” Ebony said. At a recent SheDrives meeting, it was nice to be able to share similar stories and experiences with other female drivers.

Ebony’s experience has served as a testament to NFI’s dedication to its people, from fostering community to upholding family values. “Some companies say they value family, but it’s not that way once you’re hired,” she said. “This is the first company in over 25 years of working that makes me feel that way.”

Empowering Women to Thrive in Trucking

Ebony hopes more women will take the leap into the trucking industry and is confident that programs like SheDrives will pave the way. Her advice for women aspiring to join the field is simple yet powerful:

“Don’t listen to naysayers,” she said. “Have confidence in yourself. Not only are females capable, but they can be exceptional!”

For Ebony, the support from NFI and SheDrives has been instrumental in her success.

“I’m glad I made this transition to NFI,” she said. “If I decide to go back over the road, I can do that with NFI. That’s the most exciting thing—I don’t have to go to another company. I can just let my bosses know and see if they have any routes available.”

Though she’s still relatively new to the company, Ebony is optimistic about what’s ahead. “From what I’ve seen so far—and what they have to offer—I’m excited and I’m glad to be here,” she concluded.

NFI’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for drivers like Ebony demonstrates why they’re a standout in the trucking and transportation industry.

Source: The Trucker

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That sentiment, shared during the latest She Drives episode on Radio Nemo, perfectly captures the inspiring conversation with Ashley R. and Megan Z. of NFI. These two incredible women shared their unique perspectives on life on and off the road, highlighting the balance, challenges, and triumphs that come with their roles in the transportation industry.

Balancing Life on the Road

For Megan, a regional driver and mother of two boys, ages 13 and 11, work-life balance is a daily dance. Megan candidly shared how technology has become her lifeline, enabling her to parent from afar while fulfilling her responsibilities on the road.

With tools like video calls and security camera apps, Megan stays connected to her boys, reminding them to take their medicine or get on the school bus. While the guilt of being away is ever-present, she emphasized the importance of creating a system that works for her family, blending independence for her kids with her availability for important moments.

A Passion for Growth

Ashley R., a regional manager at NFI, shared her own journey within the company. Her story reflects the value of perseverance and the opportunities that come from taking risks. After stepping away from NFI for a promotion at another company, Ashley found herself drawn back to the supportive and family-like culture she initially loved.

“NFI made me feel like I was part of the family,” Ashley said. Now, as a regional manager, she splits her time between traveling for work and being remote, a setup that allows her to balance career growth with parenting her three children.

The Power of Technology

Both Ashley and Megan touched on the profound changes technology has brought to the trucking world. For Megan, tools like video calls bridge the gap between the cab of her truck and her family at home. Ashley reflected on how technology not only supports work-life balance but also plays a crucial role in recruiting and empowering a more diverse workforce in the industry.

An Honest Look at Challenges

Neither Ashley nor Megan sugarcoated the realities of their roles. From navigating the teenage years as a parent to finding fulfillment in a demanding career, they openly discussed the hurdles they’ve faced. But through it all, their passion for what they do and their commitment to their families shine through.

Their stories are a reminder that every mile driven and every decision made is part of a larger journey—one filled with growth, connection, and the pursuit of balance.

Hear Their Full Story

Don’t miss the chance to dive deeper into this heartfelt and insightful conversation. Tune in to this episode of She Drives on Radio Nemo to hear Ashley and Megan share their experiences in their own words.

Listen now and get inspired by their incredible journeys.

The post Megan Z. and Ashley R. Discuss Challenges and Triumphs in Trucking on She Drives appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“Our strength as a company comes from the diversity within our team,” said Paula Frey, Chief Human Resources Officer at Echo. “We’re lucky to work alongside some of the most skilled, dedicated women in the logistics industry, and this recognition is a reflection of their hard work and contributions.”

Why Echo Stands Out Among Employers in Transportation

Echo’s recognition stems from its consistent efforts to foster a workplace rooted in gender diversity, equitable opportunities, and strong work-life balance. With competitive compensation, exceptional benefits, and a focus on professional development, Echo has cultivated an environment where women can not only succeed but thrive.

“Our people and our culture are what make Echo such a great place to work,” said Doug Waggoner, CEO of Echo Global Logistics. “We have a team that’s committed to pushing each other forward, advancing in their careers, and driving our shared success.”

Championing Inclusivity Through Action

Echo secured its place on the prestigious 2024 list through its proactive and impactful initiatives aimed at inclusivity. A standout feature of its approach is the company’s Business Resource Groups (BRGs)—employee-led programs designed to nurture support and empowerment within the workplace. Notably, the Women at Echo group focuses on driving gender equity, creating leadership opportunities, and cultivating professional growth for women across the organization.

A Commitment to Diversity and Growth

At the heart of Echo’s success lies its culture of inclusivity and a steadfast focus on employee development. By investing in its workforce and prioritizing diversity as a business imperative, Echo continues to strengthen its position as a top employer in the transportation industry.

Echo Global Logistics proves that inclusivity is more than just a buzzword—it’s a principle that drives innovation, collaboration, and success at every level of the company. This recognition further solidifies Echo’s dedication to creating a workplace that champions women, celebrates diversity, and promotes growth for all its employees.

Source: The Trucker

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In an insightful conversation on She Drives with Radio Nemo, Angela and Kirsy from NFI shared the passion and purpose behind their groundbreaking initiative, “She Drives.” Focused on fostering opportunities for women in trucking, the campaign is redefining perceptions and empowering women to thrive in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

What is She Drives?

Launched in 2018, She Drives is NFI’s bold campaign to increase visibility for women in trucking. As Kirsy, NFI’s Driver Recruitment Manager, explained, the program’s mission is multi-faceted:

• Celebrating women drivers and their achievements.
• Providing a platform to share their unique stories.
• Redefining industry connections by addressing the needs and aspirations of women drivers.
• Promoting a female-friendly work environment that fosters growth and long-term success.

Challenging Stereotypes in Trucking

Angela highlighted how her initial exposure to trucking shattered preconceived notions. “People stereotype truck drivers as always being out on the road with no time for family or kids. That’s just not the case here,” she emphasized. NFI’s commitment to flexibility allows drivers to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.

Kirsy shared the campaign’s broader vision: “We’re not just focusing on women—our goal is to address the driver shortage by attracting people from all walks of life while fostering diversity.”

Progress and Goals

The She Drives campaign has already made significant strides. In 2022, women represented just over 4% of drivers at NFI. By the end of 2023, that number had more than doubled to 9%, with an ambitious target of reaching 12% in 2024.

This growth stems from NFI’s dedication to listening and adapting. “We meet with women drivers to understand their experiences—what they love, what they don’t—and use that feedback to make meaningful changes,” Kirsy explained.

Building Visibility and Community

Angela emphasized the importance of showcasing women’s stories. “We’re traveling to terminals, gathering testimonials, and sharing these stories on social media and our website. Visibility is key—every woman should see herself in this industry.”

One particularly inspiring moment occurred at the Transition Trucking event in Washington, D.C., where a female driver, whose mother had also been a trucker, won a new Kenworth truck. Witnessing her daughter’s excitement to follow in her footsteps was a powerful reminder of the generational impact She Drives hopes to create.

Upcoming Initiatives

NFI is planning events to celebrate and promote the trucking industry, including family-focused gatherings and Mother’s Day celebrations. These initiatives aim to highlight the diverse opportunities available in trucking and inspire the next generation of drivers.

A Vision for the Future

Angela and Kirsy’s unwavering dedication to She Drives reflects NFI’s commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive industry. “We’re 200% committed to making this happen,” Angela affirmed. “This isn’t just about asking for space—it’s about showing the industry that it needs us.”

To hear more from Angela and Kirsy, catch their full episode of She Drives here.

The post Empowering Women in Trucking: Angela and Kirsy Share Insights on NFI’s She Drives Initiative appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Joann’s story began with an unexpected shift: after over 30 years as a flight attendant, the impact of COVID-19 brought her career to a halt. Instead of slowing down, Joann chose to pivot and take on a fresh challenge by earning her Class A CDL. Reflecting on this decision, she’s found a new passion on the road that’s both fulfilling and adventurous.

Working with NFI Industries has offered Joann the balance she hoped for, allowing her to be home more often after years of non-stop travel. “95% of our drivers go home every night,” Joann notes, highlighting how she values her time with family and her pets after her time on the road. She also appreciates the flexibility and support that NFI provides, making her feel truly at home in the trucking community.

For anyone considering a career switch, Joann’s advice is simple: “Go for it. It’s exciting.” She believes life skills like time management and setting goals transfer well to trucking, and that the industry has a place for anyone eager to make a fresh start. Joann’s journey shines a light on how adaptable, determined individuals can thrive in trucking, inspiring other women to explore the open road.

To hear Joann’s story in her own words, check out the full interview on She Drives with Radio Nemo here.

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