Small Carriers Lead Industry With 12.5% Women CDL Holders

Women hold a larger share of CDL driving roles at the industry's smallest fleets than at bigger operations, according to the latest Women In Trucking Association index. Trucking Dive reported September 4 that micro and small companies said women represented 12.5% of their CDL holders, the highest rate among the fleet-size groups presented.

The comparison shows 10.5% representation at medium and large businesses and 7% at companies with more than 5,000 employees. Nearly 210 companies submitted gender-diversity data, with for-hire carriers and private fleets accounting for more than half of respondents. Because the index reflects participating companies rather than every U.S. motor carrier, the percentages should be read as a workforce benchmark, not a national census.

Women also held substantial shares of several non-driving roles: 76.5% in human resources and talent management, 45.5% in dispatch and 44% in safety. The index reported 31% representation in C-suite and executive positions, 37.5% in supervisory jobs and 29% on boards. The sharpest gap appeared in the shop, where women accounted for just 2.5% of diesel technicians and mechanics.

For CDL schools and carriers, the small-fleet result highlights practical recruiting lessons. Prospective drivers may respond to visible career paths, respectful dispatch, dependable equipment, safe facilities and schedules that are explained clearly before hire. Schools can make training more accessible through well-fitting safety gear, instructor accountability and transparent testing expectations. Fleets should track applicant flow, hiring, retention and promotion separately; representation at intake means little if drivers do not receive the support needed to build long careers.