Classic Thinking vs Trucking Women

Classic Thinking & Trucking Women

We like to think that as a society we have come a long way.  As much as we protest about racism and the lack of gender equality, you must admit that we’ve advanced since the 50’s and 60’s.  Back then, it was assumed that women were expected to stay home and be a “housewife” and the “man of the house” went to work.  On the face of it, there is nothing wrong with that arrangement, as long as both parties are happy. Unfortunately, that family model grew to be imposed on women. You know, “stay home…barefoot and pregnant.”  

While our overall attitudes towards women in the workplace and in politics has changed for the better, it clearly has not come far enough…especially in a few industries. One of these being the transportation industry…and specifically, the trucking industry.  Some of the attitudes towards women from a few trucking fleet owners falls into that 1950’s good ole buy redneck image of women. We may love our classic trucks, but the classic thinking needs to go. Women have proven themselves over and over, as mechanics, architects, engineers, firefighters, scientists, fighter jet pilots, astronauts, doctors, steel workers and professional transport operators…uh, that’s “truck driver” for the guy who is still lost in the fifties. The TNT special guest this week is here to remind us for the successes of women in trucking and unfortunately share stories of some of the roadblocks to women still being erected by some fleet owners…the very same owners whining about a driver shortage. My guest is Shelley Walker, Founder and CEO of the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada.  This podcast is possible thanks to Howes Products, makers of Diesel Defender, a diesel Fuel Lubricator & Injector cleaner with advanced IDX4 Detergent. Listen!