It's A Whole Different World For Women In The Trucking Industry

by Pat
(Georgia)


Hi, my name is Pat and I changed professions to enter the world of transportation as a driver in 2006. I did this as a result of being laid off from my banking/real estate industry job and once I saw how long it was taking to find work, I decided to give truck driving a try.


I was the ONLY female in my driving school class and at that point..I realized I was in for an adventure! I got lucky and got a job only a few weeks after getting my license.

I began working for a food service distribution company in Newnan, GA. that delivers food to restaurants. I am grateful that they took a chance on such a newbie to the industry, but noticed right away that I would be only one of 3 ladies driving for the company.

Within a year or so....I was the ONLY lady driving for the company! It's really hard work...unloading a truck, driving, getting used to the hours and learning how to sleep in your truck! But I would say to any woman thinking of trying it...don't be afraid to give it a go.

I did it for two years, and even though for me I realized I was more of a "house mouse" than I thought...and I transferred to another position with the company. But..I wouldn't trade that time for anything!

Yes, I encountered rudeness, and general "foulness"..but you just have to have a strong backbone and keep it moving. I felt like I conquered something by getting out there, and it can be very lucrative.

I love to see other ladies out there representing! Don't let ignorant people keep you from considering this as a good choice for supporting yourself or your family.

I think more ladies should get out there!! Keep it rolling girls!

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Aug 14, 2010
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Welcome Pat
by: American Trucker

Your very welcome and i hope you have a very promising career.
Anytime wanna chat americantrkr@yahoo.com

Have a nice day.
American Trucker

Aug 14, 2010
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Great info!
by: Pat

Thanks American Trucker for such a great story and for shedding more light on the role women have played in the industry.

Aug 14, 2010
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Great job
by: American Trucker

Just a little info. the first Coach Driver in old west was named Charley.Real name was Charlotte.
Charley Parkhurst was an American Stagecoach driver in the 1860’s , known as “One Eyed Charley” he was known to be a fierce driver, hard drinker and not shy to use his gun. The legendary stagecoach driver is believed to have been born in 1812 in New Hampshire.

Charley was a natural as a stagecoach driver, orphaned at a young age he learned his way around horses early in life while working as a stable hand. He had the ability to handle a weapon with confidence while running a 6 horse team through a gauntlet of terrain. His job required the courage to face potential thieves who might hijack his precious cargo.
A kick from a horse had left a damaging scar and lost eye, which is how the hard cussing Parkhurst came to be known as, “One-Eyed Charley”. In 1879, Charley died from cancer of the tongue. Only at the time of his passing when Charlie’s body was being prepared for the undertaker was it revealed that “he” was actually a Woman .

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