REAL Women In Trucking, the community of and resource for female truckers, has had a landmark moment this week. Having been a growing force in the industry since 2010, the largely social-media-centric movement has become an official trade association and is now accepting members.
According to their website, REAL Women In Trucking was formed by founders Desiree Wood, Sue Wiese, and Sandi Talbot – all real truckers who were frustrated by the lack of a response by the industry to address issues that female drivers still struggle with today.
Among the list of issues is the problem of sexual harassment and violence many female drivers face during new driver training – a problem co-founder Desiree Wood faced when she was training to be a truck driver. “I learned that my experience – which was extremely traumatic – was, in fact, very common,” said Wood.
Their ongoing mission is to “empower the women of trucking and those entering the industry through outreach programs, continuing education, advocacy, mentoring, networking, and ongoing support to promote retention, encouragement, and unity between both new and seasoned female drivers.”
If you’re interested in joining or supporting them, or want to learn more, you can visit their website at http://www.realwomenintrucking.com/.
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Source: gobytrucknews, truckingnewsonline, thetrucker, realwomenintrucking
LindaPV says
Desiree Wood is cray cray….
Kathy H says
Wonder what the hoops you need to jump to be a trade association and is that close to a union.
allen smith says
Did some really ask if a Trade Association was like a Union? LOL
Congratulations to REAL Women in Trucking for a job well done, committed to the success and well being of female professional drivers. Great Mission Statement
Their ongoing mission is, ” to “empower the women of trucking and those entering the industry through outreach programs, continuing education, advocacy, mentoring, networking, and ongoing support to promote retention, encouragement, and unity between both new and seasoned female drivers.”
truckerdesiree says
Hello,
Just to answer the question. a 501 (c) 6 is a trade association that is formed for the betterment of an industry. It is not a union. The American Trucking Association is a 501 (c) 6 but they represent carriers. our was formed to represent drivers. We are a driver organization with the power to lobby if we so choose.
Chambers of Commerce and many other industry related associations carry the 501 (c) 6 designation, which is appropriate, not a 501 (c) 3 which is a charity. We are not a charity but membership is tax deductible under “Dues and Subscriptions” on a tax return.
Thank you Allen and Donna for all of your encouragement over the years and thank you Truckers Reports for helping us get the word out.
Sincerely,
Desiree Wood
John Naron says
I say it’s great. It’s sad that women do get treated badly out on the road.
Robin says
Thank u John Naron…and Desiree for what u do for women!