The latest season of “IRT: Deadliest Roads” from the “Ice Road Truckers” reality-TV series on the History Channel premiered its second episode last night, following a strong debut the week before that attracted 3.4 million viewers. This season features North American drivers, including familiar faces and newcomers, as they navigate the treacherous terrain and bustling cities of the Himalayas. (Read a summary of IRT’s second episode here.) If you watched it, you might recognize Lisa Kelly, potentially the most prominent figure in U.S. trucking right now. Before the episode aired, I had the opportunity to speak with Kelly about her rising fame, supported by her home carrier, and her hardworking persona that has earned her the title of “Sexiest Trucker Alive” from Esquire magazine.
At 29, Kelly remains with Carlile Transportation, her only employer throughout her seven-year trucking career, primarily on Alaska’s Dalton Highway (the “Haul Road”). “They trained me,” she reflects. Lately, her travels have been mostly by air due to promotional activities for the new series, but she mentions that her beloved 2004 Kenworth W9 is waiting for her in Alaska. “I’m in love with it,” she adds.
Transitioning back to her regular driving schedule may take some time, but she expresses that it’s no problem in the grand scheme of things. When asked if she enjoys the excitement, she enthusiastically responds, “I am having fun.”
If you missed it, catch the first episode of this season online, which originally aired on the History Channel more than a week ago. Below are selected excerpts from my interview with Kelly.
Ambassador for U.S. Truck Drivers
Do you consider your role as an ambassador for U.S. truck drivers to the public?
“Whether I choose to or not, that’s the place I’ve been put…. I’m doing my best to represent who truckers are and inject my personality into it,” she stated.
Life Before and After IRT
How has your day-to-day life changed since IRT?
“It’s the same with a twist. The past three months have transformed my life from just being me to being that person on TV. But I still feel like I’m me,” she explained.
Return to Work with Carlile
Are you back working with Carlile yet?
“I’ve had my truck for two years. It’s a 2004 Kenworth W900L with a push bumper now. I haven’t done much driving lately, mostly running around for promotions. Carlile has been amazing, understanding that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and supporting me throughout,” she shared.
Driving Challenges in Asia
How do the Haul Road and the roads in Southeast Asia compare?
“They’re different in every way. The only similarity is that they both have roads. One faces avalanches while the other experiences landslides,” Kelly noted, highlighting the unique challenges of driving in each region.
Female Presence in Trucking
In the first episode of the current season, you encountered the dynamics of being a woman in a male-dominated field. How did you address this?
“Everyone we met said they’d never seen a female truck driver before, which was frustrating. I dealt with it by showing my license to police who doubted I was qualified to drive,” she recounted.
