We’ve discussed problems with the need for more women in trucking on this blog, particularly regarding the driver shortage. A serious issue with the representation of women in trucking has led to a smaller hiring pool in the trucking industry. This imbalance is a significant contributor to the truck driver shortage. Has the situation improved in 2023? Let’s explore recent statistics to see how the numbers look for women truck drivers this year.
2023 Statistics for Female Truckers
These statistics come from a study performed by the Women in Trucking (WIT) association. Other findings are from a survey by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) in 2018. Let’s take a quick snapshot of the results.
- Women make up over 10% of truck drivers in 2023. That’s an increase of over 30% from 7.89% in 2018.
- The rate of women executives in trucking has climbed almost 24% year-over-year. This year, a survey showed that women comprise one-third of executive teams for for-hire carriers.
- Outside the executive workforce, women make up 43.5% overall. These employees include druiters, dispatchers, driver managers, salespeople, and administrative workers.
- Women are least frequently seen in freight tech companies. At these companies, women make up just 19% of executive teams.
- The only position in the fleet industry that ranked lower than drivers for women representation was diesel technician.
The studies also found some shocking information about safety regarding women truckers. They found that women truckers are safer.
- Men are 88% more likely to have a negligent or reckless driving conviction.
- Men are 78% more likely to have a seatbelt violation.
- Men are 73% more likely to be convicted of running a stoplight
- Men are 70% more likely to be convicted of speeding 1-15 miles over the speed limit.
How to Recruit More Women Drivers
As you can see from this data, we are seeing more women drivers. However, there is still a significant disparity between the number of women and men in the fleet industry. How can we continue to correct this?
- Create a culture that appeals to women as well as men. Because men have dominated the trucking industry for so long, many fleet business cultures are very male-oriented. Ensure that you have a gender-neutral culture where women can be comfortable.
- Consider women’s needs when deciding on benefits. Women have different needs than men regarding medical insurance and other benefits. Consider the following for your benefits package.
- Equal pay
- Childcare benefits
- Flexible work schedules
- Maternity leave
- Sick leave
- Generate recruiting materials that speak to women. Even something as simple as including a picture of a woman driver makes a difference in showing that you have a gender-neutral culture. Highlight your current female employees in your recruiting materials. Make it possible for women prospective employees to picture themselves at your company.
Conquer the Driver Shortage with Azuga’s Help
If you want to hire drivers in these times, you need the right technology to entice people to join your team. That’s where Azuga comes in. Read up on how our technology can support you on your quest to hire more drivers, or speak with one of our experts and see how we can help you accomplish your goals.
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