Driven Women

Men Hate You

Gary B. from Rochester, MN approached me at this year’s Mid-America Trucking Show and asked, “GG, do you know how many men hate you?”

Gary explained that the CB is consumed by men trashing women drivers. “Women can drive straight, and that’s about it.” After a 30-minute discussion, I concluded that it wasn’t my place to change Gary’s mind. Instead, I prayed for a vaccine against ignorance. I informally polled about 75 drivers at the show, and the following was revealed:

• 63% of the respondents said they have no problem with women drivers and don’t appreciate the way other drivers (men) talk about them (women).

• 26% said women lack overall experience. They should gain solo experience before teaming.

• 9% said they’d prefer not to see women driving big trucks. They did believe women would make good secretaries.

• 2% said that women should not be permitted to get a CDL of any kind. (These guys hate me)

To those falling within that last, combined 11% range, hold on to your Jake Brake. According to the Class A Truckstop Web site, of the 3.8 million drivers on the road, 5.7% are women. About 12% of owner-operators and nearly 10% of company drivers are ladies. That’s about 217,000 women drivers—and growing!

Trucking isn’t for everyone, man or woman. Simply respect the fact we all have to pass the same tests, deal with the same problems and earn a living. Speaking to those who fall within that last 11% range, “Get over it.”

Cheers,

GG

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