Attracting More Women to Trucking: Governments and Schools Must Step Up

Despite awareness campaigns and industry initiatives, women still represent only around 4% of heavy vehicle drivers in Quebec — a statistic that speaks volumes about the barriers that remain. While many carriers and associations are making progress, it’s time for governments and schools to take stronger, coordinated action to help women see trucking as a viable and rewarding career path.

Public Policy for Inclusion

Governments have the power to drive real change. Programs such as PEACVL and financial incentives for women in vocational training should be expanded and better funded. Wage subsidies, tax credits, or public recognition for inclusive employers could encourage more companies to open their doors to female drivers and diesel mechanics.

Beyond funding, Canada needs a national strategy to attract women into trucking — one that celebrates real stories of female drivers, dispatchers, trainers, and fleet owners. Representation matters: young women need to see role models who prove that this career is possible — and fulfilling.

Schools: A Missed Opportunity

Training centers and school boards can play a crucial role. Too often, young women are never introduced to trucking as a career option. Schools should invite experienced female truck drivers to speak to students, share their stories, and dispel outdated stereotypes about life on the road.

Work-study programs like ATE (Alternance travail-études) could also be tailored to provide early exposure and positive, well-structured internships for young women considering a trucking career.

Changing Minds, Together

Attracting women to trucking isn’t about quotas — it’s about solving a workforce shortage and creating a more diverse, resilient, and innovative industry.

Governments, schools, and carriers must work together to make trucking more visible, inclusive, and respected. The road to equality starts with opportunity — and the courage to shift gears.