Impact of COVID-19 on Employment
The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States resulted in job losses for millions, especially among women who found themselves balancing caregiving for elderly parents, managing remote learning for their children, and other responsibilities at home.
Opportunities in Male-Dominated Industries
One year later, significant progress has been made in restoring jobs across various sectors typically associated with male workers, presenting enhanced career opportunities for women. Industries such as trucking, transportation, automotive, and aerospace, which have historically been male-dominated, are now encouraging female participation.
Shifts in Employment Dynamics
Conversely, sectors like hospitality, travel, and catering— traditionally seen as more accessible to women— have suffered substantially due to the pandemic. Therefore, women should explore career options in industries like trucking and transportation, which have evolved significantly in recent times.
Addressing the Driver Shortage
Currently, the trucking industry faces a considerable shortage of drivers, and the inclusion of women could help mitigate this gap. Companies are increasingly looking to hire women to fill these essential roles.
Growth of Gender-Diverse Opportunities
Gender-diverse roles are on the rise within trucking companies. The industry is shedding outdated stereotypes of being solely male-dominated and is now presenting state-of-the-art technology and career options in fields such as finance, legal, asset management, data, and more. Women are actively contributing to advancements in technology within the transportation sector.
Technological and Analytical Career Pathways
At Fleet Advantage, I play a key role in the development of the company’s Life Cycle Cost Management (LCCM) Software, which aids clients in determining the optimal timing for upgrading their aging truck fleets. I found the opportunity to build my career in data analytics within this industry, which was not something I initially anticipated.
Advocacy and Recognition of Women’s Skills
Increasingly, companies in the trucking and transportation sector appreciate the unique talents women bring. Organizations such as Women In Trucking are pivotal in advocating for women’s awareness of career opportunities in the industry. According to Ellen Voie from Women In Trucking, companies valuing gender diversity often see enhanced returns and make concerted efforts to attract, retain, and promote women in the workforce.
As the importance of America’s transportation system grows, the emergence of gender-diverse roles within these companies will facilitate greater growth by empowering a more balanced workforce.
Jackie Jacobs serves as Senior Fleet Transaction Analyst and Project Manager at Fleet Advantage, a prominent innovator in truck fleet analytics, finance, and lifecycle cost management.
