Trucking Association celebrates women

Author: Ben O'Connell
Trucking Association celebrates women

A new NTA initiative aims to amplify and celebrate the expertise of women across the sector. As part of the Transport Women campaign, the social media spotlight showcases the inspiring stories of women across the industry.

“What stands out about the women in our industry is their professionalism and resilience,” NZ Trucking Association Carol McGeady COO says.

“They care deeply about the job they do, the people they work with, and the industry. This campaign is about connecting them, profiling them, and making sure their contribution is seen and celebrated.

“Every day we meet incredible women who keep this industry moving: drivers, dispatchers, mechanics, safety professionals, administrators, business owners, and more. Their stories deserve to be told, not just within transport, but across New Zealand.

“By sharing these profiles, we hope to inspire more women to join the industry and to give current women in transport a stronger sense of community and pride.”

As of the 2018 New Zealand Census, approximately 105,150 women were employed in the transport, postal, and warehousing sector, accounting for about 4.3% of the total female workforce. In the road transport segment specifically, women represent around 3% of the workforce.

According to the 2025 Road Transport Workforce Report, the number of female truck drivers in New Zealand increased by 240% between 2013 and 2023, with women making up 6% of the truck driving workforce in 2023. While these figures indicate a minority presence, initiatives like this one actively work to increase women’s participation and visibility in the transport industry.

Showcasing the journey

As part of its campaign, the Association is calling on women across the sector, whether behind the wheel, in the workshop, or supporting operations, to share their stories.

From photos and truck shots to job details and personal journeys, these contributions will be showcased across NTA’s social channels, putting real faces and voices to the profession. It’s a chance to shine a light on women driving the industry forward, one story at a time.

NTA says Transport Women provides a platform for women to connect in an industry where they are often the minority. They say the initiative is focused on building visibility and networks, not by creating special treatment, but by offering space for women to share experiences and inspire others.

Even as more women join the transport sector, challenges remain. Being one of the few women on a team can feel isolating, while outdated stereotypes and occasional workplace bias add pressure. Physically demanding roles, equipment designed for men, and long, irregular hours make balancing work and life a constant juggling act.

Career progression can be another uphill road. With fewer women in senior roles, limited access to networks, and persistent misconceptions about women’s abilities behind the wheel or in workshops, opportunities for advancement are harder to come by. Initiatives like NTA’s Transport Women campaign are tackling these hurdles head-on.

The NZ Trucking Association is one of the country’s leading industry organisations, representing members across New Zealand. The Association advocates for safer, stronger, and more sustainable transport.