In 2017, Esther Parsons made a life-altering decision. After dedicating 15 years to her role as an administrative assistant in the lawn care sector, she chose to pursue a new career path as a professional truck driver by earning her CDL-A. Her primary motivation was to support her two college-bound children. However, this transition wasn’t spontaneous; it was marked by thoughtful planning and guidance. Esther’s successful shift into truck driving was significantly bolstered by the support and encouragement of a close mentor and friend. For about six months, he provided her with the confidence and insights needed to consider truck driving. His advice and motivation led her to truck driving school, where she excelled, even surpassing his scores, which further cemented her belief in her capabilities.

Esther’s mentor’s knowledge of the trucking industry was invaluable, offering her both practical advice and moral support. He was always available to answer her questions and decode industry jargon. When she asked him, “What is drop and hook? Do I want that?” his response was immediate, “Oh yeah, you want that.”

Upon finishing truck driving school, Esther’s curiosity about Women In Trucking (WIT) grew. Her mentor enlightened her about the organization, piquing her interest further. Coincidentally, WIT Founder Ellen Voie was searching for a female driver in Esther’s area willing to be interviewed by a reporter. This opportunity, which fell on Esther’s birthday, marked the beginning of her remarkable career trajectory.

Yellow Corp., a now-defunct transportation company, sponsored Esther to attend her first Accelerate! Conference & Expo. There, she met members of the Image Team, admired their roles, and aspired to join them. Esther threw herself into volunteering and found the experience incredibly rewarding. She admired the authenticity and camaraderie among the women. “Everyone was so down to earth,” she says. “They all had their little niches as professional drivers, but when they all came together, it was a sisterhood.” Her time at Yellow Corp. saw her serve on the Women’s Inclusion Network Employee Resource Group and work as a driver trainer. Before joining UPS in May 2023, she spent five years as a linehaul driver for Yellow Freight.

Currently, Esther is employed as a Feeder Driver for UPS at the Eastern Zone Regional Hub located in Middletown, PA. When asked about her favorite part of the job, she enthusiastically responds, “The view!”

For women contemplating a career in trucking, Esther offers some sage advice, “First, you need to do your homework. Be sure to do all your research on what path you specifically want to pursue. Then find a mentor to help pursue what you seek in your career and in the industry.”

Esther’s first mentee has become a close friend, and their bond extends beyond professional mentoring. Esther takes great pride in her mentee’s achievements and the financial independence she has gained. Watching her friend flourish in her career and continuously take on new challenges has been incredibly fulfilling.

An active advocate for women in the trucking industry, Esther participates in WIT’s Mentor Match program. She is eager to help others find their way and understands the importance of deciphering complex information for newcomers. Her goal is to guide others toward achieving their aspirations during their initial years in the industry. Additionally, Esther is involved with Trucker Buddy International, a pen-pal program that connects professional drivers with classrooms. She enjoys giving interviews, going on ride-alongs, and appearing on podcasts. One of her most memorable moments was an interview with Fox & Friends’ Steve Doocy in Times Square during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.

In 2023, Esther’s contributions were recognized when she was named one of Women In Trucking’s “Top Women to Watch in Transportation.” She was also a panelist speaker at a recent WIT Accelerate! Conference & Expo.

Outside of work, Esther enjoys sleeping, cooking, and gardening. She also loves networking and cherishes every opportunity to share her story. Whether as a truck driver, single parent, or domestic abuse survivor, she aims to make a positive impact. “If I can help at least one person today,” she says, “it’s a good day.”

Esther Parsons’ story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the boundless opportunities within the trucking industry for those willing to seize them.

Source: Women in Trucking

Photo: Women in Trucking

In times of crisis, true heroes often emerge from unexpected places.

This year, our nation has faced numerous disasters, from widespread wildfires to catastrophic bridge collapses. These events have upended communities and left many families in distress.

These unsung heroes may not wear capes, but you’ll find them supporting disadvantaged communities, purchasing food and essentials for affected families, donating their time and money to aid organizations, or driving commercial trucks to deliver vital supplies.

Truck drivers and transportation workers have always been essential, but this year, many have gone the extra mile to ensure that critical supplies are delivered on time and that those in need receive the necessary assistance.

Transport Topics is celebrating those who have skillfully navigated these challenges to assist communities impacted by disasters, both near and far.

Nominations are now open and will close on August 9, 2024.

To make sure your nominee’s story is thoroughly reviewed by the judges, include detailed accounts of their contributions this year, mention specific disasters or community relief efforts, and provide photos or references if possible. Don’t forget to include contact information so we can follow up for further details.

Nominate your hero here and help us honor those who’ve made a difference!

Source: Transport Topics

Roy Chandler of Rockport, Texas, has been awarded the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) prestigious Highway Angel award. Chandler, a driver for Diamond Transportation System, Inc., based in Racine, Wisconsin,

Source: Truckload Carriers Association

earned this recognition for his courageous act in helping a woman who had rear-ended a semi-truck.

Chandler, a seasoned truck driver with 37 years of experience and a second-generation trucker, demonstrated exceptional bravery on April 20, 2024. The incident took place in the late afternoon amidst heavy rain on Interstate 30 in Morris County, Texas. Despite the poor visibility caused by the downpour, Chandler noticed a young woman speeding past him in the left lane. Shortly after, she attempted to merge back into the right lane, but the rain-splattered windshields obstructed her view, leading her to crash into the back of a semi-truck and flip multiple times into the median.

“She hit the back tire, and the momentum of her tire going forward, and his tire just launched her into midair,” Chandler recounted. “She went up about 20 feet into mid-air.”

Without hesitation, Chandler pulled over and rushed to assist. He found the woman, though responsive and only slightly injured, trapped in her vehicle. He also checked on the semi-truck driver, who was experiencing dizziness. Chandler called 911 to report the accident and stayed with both individuals until emergency services arrived. He provided crucial support at the scene, including handing over his dashcam footage of the accident to a state trooper.

Reflecting on his actions, Chandler said, “It’s always what we’re supposed to do. As a Christian and as a truck driver, I’m supposed to help wherever I can. To me, it was just another day at work.”

Since the inception of the Highway Angel program in 1997, supported by generous sponsors, nearly 1,500 professional truck drivers have been honored for their outstanding acts of kindness, courtesy, and courage.

For more information about the TCA Highway Angels, visit Highway Angel Program.

Source: The Trucker