Unconventional Careers for Women – Commercial Vehicle Driving

Unconventional Careers for Women – Commercial Vehicle Driving

My daughter’s home is located opposite the sea in Portsmouth, and my favourite pastime has been observing the sea transform into different shades at various times of the day, with numerous ships passing by. This experience has been entirely new for me, as I grew up in Hyderabad and spent most of my adult life in Bangalore, both of which are far from the coast. Watching sunrises and sunsets, a calm beach, or even the beach during a hurricane—which honestly made me a bit fearful—has been an extraordinary experience.

One day, as I was sipping tea, I noticed a massive trailer stop in front of the South Pier, carrying an enormous pirate ship. My curiosity got the better of me, and I stood watching intently to see what would happen next. To my amazement, a lady driver stepped out of the trailer and skilfully maneuvered the massive ship off the trailer and onto the pier, where it was set up.

The ease and confidence with which she took charge of the situation made me reflect: what enables women to take on such roles so successfully here? Is it their maturity and experience? Is it the education they’ve received? What factors contribute to this level of empowerment, and how can we replicate it in my country?

After this encounter, I became more observant and started talking to people to understand what makes women in the UK so successful in roles like driving commercial vehicles. I wondered if there were best practices we could learn from this beautiful country to foster similar opportunities and success back home.

What is Working here? 

Addressing Industry Shortages

The UK has faced a significant shortage of commercial drivers, especially in logistics and freight. This has opened up opportunities for women as companies aim to broaden their recruitment efforts.

Considering the rapid growth of the logistics industry in India, could we start by introducing women as commercial drivers within city limits so that experienced drivers can get on highways? This approach would allow the ladies to acclimatize to the role while operating in a familiar environment. For instance, they could begin as school bus drivers or ambulance drivers. It’s an idea worth exploring—what do you think?

Industry Support and Recruitment Initiatives

Diversity Campaigns: Organizations like the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and Logistics UK promote diversity and encourage women to join the sector.

Training Programs: Many companies offer training schemes tailored for women, ensuring they feel confident and supported in entering the industry.

As part of a diversity campaign, could we introduce women drivers for general shifts catering to corporate employees as an initial step? unless corporates step up and accept the ladies are drivers for their corporate taxis, it will be very difficult to find employment in general streams for them.

Government Support

Subsidies and Funding: Government programs often support training and certification for women in high-demand roles like commercial driving.

Awareness Campaigns: Public sector initiatives have highlighted the importance of gender inclusivity in the workforce.

While government subsidies in the UK have supported training and certification for women in high-demand roles, could we explore leveraging CSR diversity funding in India to train women for commercial driving ? Can we look at training for a comfortable period and deployment in intracity BMTC buses?

Higher Earning Potential

Commercial driving offers competitive pay, which can be a strong incentive for women seeking stable and well-paying jobs which has encouraged ladies to take up these jobs abroad.

Ensuring good pay which are attractive and jobs which are stable will ensure ladies take up lucrative opportunities in this field.

Cultural Shift Toward Gender Equality

Changing Perceptions: There is growing societal acceptance of women in traditionally male-dominated professions, including commercial driving in the UK

Role Models: The presence of successful women drivers inspires others to join the profession, breaking stereotypes.

Can we ensure the inclusion of women in substantial numbers to help them feel less isolated and foster a supportive community among colleagues in the same profession? For example, an international school or corporate could aim to have at least 25 out of every 100 drivers as women.

Work-Life Balance Flexibility

Flexible Shifts: Employers are increasingly offering part-time and flexible working hours, which can suit women balancing work and family life.

For women who can afford to purchase a car, could we introduce flexible taxi driving options that allow them to choose shifts based on their personal circumstances?

Advancements in Technology

Advancements in Technology: Automated and ergonomic vehicle designs make the job less physically demanding, attracting a wider demographic.

As part of inclusivity efforts, could commercial vehicle manufacturers design one or two models of buses/trucks tailored specifically for women drivers? This could encourage organizations to purchase and trial these vehicles, promoting greater participation of women in the field.

Community Support and Networks

Online and offline communities of women drivers provide mentorship, advice, and a sense of belonging, making it easier for newcomers to integrate into the profession.

Could we establish a community of women drivers to support one another, share advice, and help newcomers integrate seamlessly into the profession?

By addressing structural, societal, and logistical barriers, we can create an environment where female commercial vehicle drivers can thrive.