Akilatu Ayinla, Leadership

I was reluctant to pursue a career in the trucking industry, unsure if I would fit into a male-dominated workplace. However, I chose to confront my fears motivated by my excitement to break through these barriers. When I arrived for orientation, I was surprised to find that the branch I joined was led by a female branch manager and service supervisor, which gave me confidence to thrive in this role. My three years at Penske have had a profound impact on my life. As a young adult, I have grown tremendously, learning from colleagues who have inspired me and shared invaluable insights about the trucking industry. This career has taught me to communicate with confidence and to embrace vulnerability by acknowledging mistakes and asking for help.

Alixis Lopez, Driving

I chose the trucking industry because I want a career that truly makes a difference in the world. I like to help people and if having my help makes a difference then this is something I am proud to do. This will give me the opportunity to have a promising career to provide for myself and my children. I want to show my kids that nothing is impossible and if you keep working towards your goals one day you will reach them and it will be the greatest feeling in the world.

Candice Shaw, Driving

In 2014, I was living in New York City and had the honor of learning about a blue collar pre-apprenticeship program called N.E.W. (Nontraditional Employment for Women) that provides 6-7 week bootcamp training for women that introduced us to the blue collar industry through intensive training on carpentry, trades math, and physical training applicable to these roles. N.E.W. graduates are paired with the career of their choice within these fields. Since graduating from this program, I have genuinely felt roles within this industry feel most purposeful and intrinsically rewarding for me. I have installed solar panels as a volunteer and have worked as an apprentice electrician at various NYC landmarks, including the Empire State Building.

Christina Johnson, Driving

My father was a career trucker. I lost him at the age of 19. Some of my fondest memories are of him taking me on the road in his truck. We'd drive up mountainous terrain in Ohio, and all over the 50 states. Post covid I've been searching for a career change, and trucking has been heavy on my heart lately. I experienced first-hand my father's time commitment and dedication to his family through his work. I look forward to being able to provide that to my own family with a career in trucking.

Christina Vaillancourt, Driving

As a female I have chosen the trucking industry because my father did it for 25 years and grandfather did it for 15 years. I would like to continue in the same footsteps and show people that woman are just as capable of doing the same jobs that a man can do, if not better.

I feel it will impact life in the aspect that I will be financially better and be able to make a name for myself and allow my children to be proud of me.

Deja Keane, driving

I have chosen a career in the trucking industry for a couple of reasons. First being, a lot of my family has been involved in this industry. So, not only is it personal for me, but every one of them says it's a fulfilling career with great benefits and an excellent way to invest in the future. Secondly, the fact that I would get to travel, be on the open road, and be in control of my own schedule is really appealing to me. Thirdly, as someone who loves being apart of, and helping my community, it'd be very satisfying knowing that in this career path I can help my city, state, or even country continue running by transporting needed supplies. Also, I appreciate all the opportunities/flexibility to grow and advance.

Elaina Mitchell, driving

I’ve chosen a career in the trucking industry because it offers stability, independence, and the opportunity to provide a better future for my child. As a single mom, I need a career that allows me to earn a solid income, grow over time, and build a life where I don’t have to constantly worry about how to make ends meet. Trucking is a career where hard work truly pays off, and that’s exactly what I’m ready to give.

Isabel Hernandez, technician

I have chosen a career in trucking due to a sparked interest in mechanics, machines, and trucking. My father is a CDL driver that influenced me to get my Class A CDL in 2023. Since then I searched for opportunities to learn diesel mechanics and found such at CPCC in the CAT Technician Program. I intend to apply the skills learned to help maintain and repair his truck as well as my own one day.

Jae Summers, driving

I have always thought about going into the trucking industry because it can be a very lucrative career with a strong sense of stability and consistent employment. The fact that it pays you to see places you've never been is also a bonus.

Growing up, my dad was a truck driver. I've seen him work both long- and short-haul, and he even hauled the last Harry Potter book when it came out. Thanks to him, I've grown up with a strong respect for truckers and the hardships they face in their career. While every career has is cons, I'd like to explore all the good that can come from it, including opportunities to travel across country borders.

Jamie Al-Nemri, technician

I chose a career in the trucking industry because it allows me to work with vehicles that are essential to society while promoting sustainability. I am passionate about maintaining reliable, well-made equipment rather than relying on temporary, disposable options. By focusing on diagnostics, repair, and upkeep, I help extend the life of trucks, reduce waste, and support transportation systems that move goods and people efficiently. This career has taught me discipline, technical skill, and responsibility, and I hope to inspire others to approach vehicle care with the same dedication so future generations can preserve resources.

Kailee Mull, technician

I have chosen a career in the trucking industry because of my passion for mechanics and puzzles. The impact this has had on my life has been great especially with companies/groups like the WIT Foundation.

Kelly Miller, driving

I am 46 years old and my youngest child is in her third year of college. I started driving school buses back in 2015 with Kickertt School bus company to financial support my family but as I trained and passed the driving exams I realized it was easy to me and I caught on easy and was comfortable driving an 53 foot bus. I also befriended a few truck drivers when I worked as an office assistant at Union Pacific Railroad yard and would hear how much money they made and how to become your own boss and start your own company. As time went by being a single mom of two boys and one girl I put my dreams on the back burner and continue to take jobs that provided enough money at the time, now I am free to pursue another career and retire.

Hanna main, Driving

I chose a job in trucking because in this industry you have a blend of independence, job security, and the opportunity for adventure. Since I was young I have always been very interested in tractor trailers. Almost my whole family has a CDL and they have all enjoyed it. Driving a semi will have the impact of adventure and being able to explore new ideas and new adventures. The financial stability that comes with this career also peaks my interest in it a lot as well. I think this will impact my life by having a sense of the trucking community, enhancing my resilience, and offering me the chance to explore new places while playing a vital role in our economy.

heather kline, leadership

The path to the trucking industry found me. I began as a temp in 2014, and not really sure it was something I wanted to do. I had never sat in a cubicle all day. Previous roles allowed me to be front facing customer service person and I really enjoyed helping people. But I quickly learned Penske's culture and I have never looked back. My role has changed over the years with Penske. I now help our new hires become onboarded and help our diesel technicians with all training to stay current in the ever-evolving scope of tractors and trucks. This has had the biggest impact on my life because without training, employees will look elsewhere. Everyone deserves to grow and continue to educate themselves for a more successful future.

Janasia avery, leadership

The trucking industry has been a part of my life since birth as my dad was a long haul driver for various freight companies. I can remember the times my dad would take my brother and I for rides when he returned home and we would be thrilled by the cool experience of laying in the cab while he drove. I was finally given an opportunity to work in the trucking industry but had no idea on what to expect. Leaning on my dad for pointers on what I could possibly face as a woman in trucking, I took the position head on. Within two years, I mastered various roles from being an expedited specialist to securing a role as a management trainee. With so much to still learn, I challenge myself daily to take all the necessary steps to fulfill my goals.

jeniffer davis, Driving

I was first introduced to trucking when I took a job several years ago as a flatbed dispatcher.

My driver's on my fleet were so wonderful and taught me just as much as I helped them and worked for them. I was always jealous that they got to get behind the wheel of that big, beautiful truck and just drive. I don't know how to explain it, but I love to drive. The sound of the engine purring to life and hitting the open road, allowing me to, in a way, be my own boss, even though I'll start out as a company driver. Seeing the beauty of the country, from a completely different perspective, having respect of my fellow truckers, and especially helping to make a positive impression for women in a male dominated industry while I build a career.

jenn walsh, leadership

I chose a career in the trucking industry because it opened the door to many more opportunities than prior industries and companies have offered me in the past. Just in the last year alone, I've been afforded the chance to continue my education in pursuit of a degree which is something no other company I have worked for has given me the luxury of doing. The education I am receiving has already had an immense impact on my life in terms of communications refinement, time management (because going to school full time on top of a career is not and easy adventure), and professional development. Refining these skills for the next three years will undoubtedly bolster my efforts for career advancement and learn new aspects of the business.

jessica hinger, driving

I chose to continue my career in Trucking because I have had previous experience in the industry. I have worked for companies such as Fedex as a Courier. I wanted to advance and decided to pursue CDL training to obtain class A drivers license. My goal is to open new opportunities for myself and higher pay so I can financially support myself and be independent. I have never been able to afford an apartment on my own or the help of family. I am growing as a woman and finding myself in the process of my career advancement. I have also considered obtaining other opportunities through additional endorsements I can add to my license. This is the beginning for me but I am looking forward to the future and opportunities.

jessica mckeown, leadership

I chose a career in the trucking industry because it offered me a unique path for personal and professional growth. As I got closer to turning 30, I began to look for a career that would challenge me and provide opportunities to take on new responsibilities. The transportation industry stood out because of the wide range of roles it offers someone who is willing to work hard and learn from those around them. The opportunities for advancement are one of the main reasons I’ve stayed committed to this field, and I’m excited about the potential to contribute to the industry in a bigger way. The more I grow, the more I see how this career is not just a job, but a journey toward leadership and influence in a field that keeps the world moving.

monikka knolton, leadership

Choosing a career in the trucking industry is a natural extension of my academic foundation in Supply Chain Management and Business Administration. My studies have provided me with a thorough understanding of how global supply chains function, emphasizing the pivotal role that trucking plays in connecting suppliers, manufacturers, and consumers. Although I have not yet worked in the trucking field, I am eager to bridge my educational background with this vital industry, gaining firsthand experience in the operations that keep goods moving and economies thriving.

Preparing to enter this field has already had a significant impact on my life. It has shaped my perspective on problem-solving, strategic thinking, and resilience skills I developed during my degree program. My education has instilled in me a passion for logistics and the drive to tackle real-world challenges, from optimizing transportation routes to addressing supply chain disruptions. As I embark on this journey, I aim to contribute innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and promote sustainability within the trucking sector.

While I may be at the beginning of this career path, I am excited about the opportunities to grow professionally and personally. Trucking is an industry that aligns perfectly with my skills and aspirations, offering a chance to make a tangible impact on the lives of individuals and communities. I also see this as an opportunity to advocate for greater diversity within the field, supporting and encouraging women who aspire to join this dynamic profession.

The decision to pursue a career in trucking is more than just a professional choice for me it’s a commitment to becoming part of an industry that drives progress and innovation. I am eager to bring my academic expertise, enthusiasm, and determination to the field, contributing to its success while building a fulfilling and meaningful career.

nicole curl, safety

I chose a career in the trucking industry because it’s the backbone of our economy. Everything we use depends on trucks, and I take pride in being part of something so essential. The industry offers stability, growth, and the chance to learn constantly. It also values hard work, which aligns with my goals. This career has helped me grow both professionally and personally, sharpening my organization and communication skills while giving me a strong sense of purpose. Being part of a team that keeps things moving has made a lasting, positive impact on my life.

selena saenz, leadership

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my “why” and appreciate the Women In Trucking Foundation for giving back to the industry. One of the many reasons I chose this career is for the strong business relationships and motivation shared between everyday workers. The transportation industry continues to inspire with me with the supply chain dependency and trust of each sector doing its part. My “why” at face value is the feeling of accomplishment when I meet my goals of becoming logistician and eventually developing my own brokerage. Growing into those roles will impact my life by providing me with opportunities for continuous learning and personal development. I plan on taking my knowledge and building better business in the industry.

stephanie poloney, driving

I obtained a BA degree in 2014 with the hopes to enter journalism or other marketing/communications roles. However, for the last 11 years, Ive been tied to a computer 8-5 in various financial roles has taken a toll on my overall health and well-being. When I was laid off January 2025 - I immediately set my mind to truck driving. An ex introduced me to the job and the life, as I rode from east coast to west coast with him for a month. I immediately loved it, and wanted to continue to ride along. But, life happens, and now, it is a venture I am going to do alone. The life of a trucker will provide financial freedom for me and the opportunity to do something for myself, instead of for others. Independence, freedom and adventure now awaits!

tiffany ferrara, technician

I chose to start my career advancement in diesel because I wanted a challenge for myself. I grew up working on regular automotive cars. It has impacted my life because I've set a new goal for myself, to learn all about diesel and wanting to know everything and anything I can.