This narrative is based on a conversation with Kiara Areli, a 22-year-old truck driver from the Chicago area. It has been condensed for brevity and clarity.
Introduction to Truck Driving
Having grown up in a family of truck drivers—my father has been behind the wheel for a decade, and other relatives also drive—I never initially saw myself as a truck driver. Many people perceive it as a man’s profession.
Education and Career Shift
Instead of pursuing truck driving, I opted for college due to societal expectations. However, after a year, I dropped out to avoid accumulating debt. I then took a job as a warehouse associate at Amazon, hoping to work my way up within the company.
A New Path in Truck Driving
While at Amazon, I enrolled in the Amazon Career Choice program, aimed at helping employees gain new skills for career advancement. When I discovered that truck driving was included, I felt motivated to pursue it, given my familiarity with the profession. I secured a scholarship and went to truck driving school.
Working as a New Driver
After completing a month of training and logging 160 hours of hands-on experience, I obtained my Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) at 20 years old. Following two years at Amazon, I transitioned into truck driving, earning nearly $60,000 annually without a college degree. While many companies prefer experienced drivers, I found my current job with a family-owned trucking company specializing in various transport services through chance while driving.
The Daily Life of a Truck Driver
I typically start my day at 3:30 a.m., with actual work beginning at 6 a.m. After a 15-minute walk to my parked truck, I conduct a pre-trip inspection before driving an hour to the dispatch center for my daily assignments, which often involve multiple stops within my state, averaging 300 miles a day. My routes frequently take me to areas like Lockport and Lombard, and I usually wrap up my day around 5 p.m.
Enjoying the Freedom of the Road
The most enriching aspect of truck driving is the variety each day brings, contrasting with the monotonous nature of warehouse work. I meet new people and visit locations I would have never explored otherwise. Additionally, I appreciate the independence the job offers, allowing me to make my own decisions while driving. However, the unpredictability of my hours can be challenging, as I sometimes work later than anticipated.
Personal Growth Through Truck Driving
Initially, self-doubt regarding my abilities as a young female driver was a significant hurdle, particularly in challenging urban environments. Yet, I’m thankful I pursued this career. It has enhanced my personal growth and financial stability, providing me with a clear sense of purpose. I encourage others, especially women, to consider truck driving—it’s okay to feel apprehensive, but taking that leap can be rewarding. Ultimately, I see a future for myself in the trucking industry, potentially as an owner-operator, while also fostering a community of women in this field.
