Breaking Barriers: Women in Trucking
Meet the trailblazers redefining trucking with resilience and grit.
Welcome back to That's Delivered! This week we dive into a compelling conversation from our Women in Trucking series with African American Women Trucking Association (AAWTA), featuring two remarkable women who have journeyed from military service to the open roads.
Sharmila William and Asia Patrick: Pioneers of the Road
Join host Truck and Ray as he welcomes Sharmila William and Asia Patrick, both veterans of the military and now trailblazers in the trucking industry. Sharmila, who started her driving career as a bus driver, shares her unique journey of transitioning from the military to trucking. She describes the challenges of learning to drive a stick shift and how the military prepared her for the rigors of trucking.
"I thought it would be the cutest thing to be a female truck driver," Sharmila recalls, sharing her initial inspiration.
Asia, currently eight months pregnant and hauling flatbed freight, discusses her transition from military logistics to civilian trucking. The military offered her a $10,000 bonus to become a truck driver, opening the door to a career she didn't initially plan on.
Challenges and Triumphs
Both women highlight the realities of working in a male-dominated industry, from handling heavy equipment to the loneliness of the road. Yet, they emphasize the importance of community and having a support system. Asia recounts how her dispatcher became her lifeline, especially when navigating the fears of bridges and bad weather.
"Prayer is a powerful thing," Asia says, stressing the importance of having someone to talk to during difficult drives.
The Road Ahead
The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of trucking, with more women entering the field and the unique challenges they face. From dealing with heavy loads to ensuring safety on the road, Sharmila and Asia's stories are a testament to resilience and determination.
Their stories inspire not only women but anyone considering a career in trucking. The industry is changing, and these women are leading the way.
For more personal insights and detailed stories, listen to the full episode of That's Delivered. It’s a conversation full of laughs, real talk, and valuable lessons from two women who are breaking barriers every day.