Trailblazing Women in History
In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova, a former textile worker and Russian cosmonaut, became the first woman to venture into space. By 1979, Margret Thatcher, famously known as “The Iron Lady,” made history as Great Britain’s first female Prime Minister. Additionally, in 1928, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic.
Alyssa Briggs: A Historic Achievement
In 2024, a new name will join this prestigious list of pioneers — Alyssa Briggs. This 24-year-old trailer mechanic from Ohio has made history as the first woman to earn a champion’s spot in the XPO National MasterTech competition.
Pride and Recognition
“I’m incredibly proud of myself and hope to bring recognition to other women in the field, showcasing that we are fully capable of achieving these milestones,” Briggs expressed.
A Journey of Growth
Briggs’ impressive journey to the winner’s podium was filled with determination. Despite initial hesitations about entering a male-dominated profession, she graduated from trade school and quickly stood out as one of XPO’s top technicians. Influenced by her husband Justin, a truck mechanic at XPO, she pursued her passion wholeheartedly.
Finding Her Path
She decided against attending a traditional high school, opting instead for a vocational school. “I chose CNC machining as my first option due to my stepdad’s background. However, I ended up in the diesel mechanics program,” Briggs noted with a laugh, discovering her unexpected love for the work.
MasterTech Competition
The 2024 MasterTech competition—often dubbed the “Super Bowl for technicians”—assesses the skills of XPO’s elite technicians. Out of 750 mechanics, only 20 reached the finals in Orlando, Florida, with only three being crowned MasterTechs. Aspiring to shine a light on her accomplishments, Briggs felt both excitement and trepidation as the competition approached.
Fostering Change and Encouragement
Briggs hopes her success will motivate more women to join the diesel mechanic industry and pursue competitions to showcase their talents. “It was daunting to enter this field, yet the support from my family helped me realize that I could succeed,” she stated. “It’s rewarding to be respected and treated equally in a profession I love.”
Company Support
Briggs’ achievements have not gone unnoticed. Lars Skagerlind, senior analyst at XPO, stated, “Alyssa is an exceptional mechanic, and we are all thrilled to see her recognized on this platform. This is a proud moment for our entire company.” Furthermore, Briggs has been named the Women In Trucking Association’s member of the month for January 2025.
