Minneapolis, Minnesota — The National Truck Driving Championship in Minneapolis will feature a record 15 female competitors, a jump from the previous high of 11 in 2014 and 2022.

FedEx Freight driver Joyce Bain secured first place in the 5‑axle class at the Maryland Truck Driving Championship in June, earning a spot at the national event and the National Step Van Driving Championships in Minneapolis. Bain’s victory illustrates how state‑level champions across nine vehicle classes advance to the national stage, each required to maintain a year‑long accident‑free record to qualify. More than 400 drivers will test their skills at the Minneapolis Convention Center from August 20‑23, competing in categories that include straight truck, 3‑axle, 4‑axle, 5‑axle, sleeper berth, tanker, twins, flatbed, and step van. Evaluations focus on industry knowledge, pre‑trip inspections, and precision maneuvering through challenging courses.

Angela Griffin, a trucking lifestyle influencer who trained with Bain in Maryland and competed alongside her husband Scott, emphasized the championship’s impact on the broader industry. "It has a giant impact on the entire global industry because it gives you a wider perspective of what’s going around," Griffin said. She added, "It just puts you in a mindset to want to encourage others who are not drivers to learn about the industry and be safe around trucks."

What This Means for Drivers

Owner‑operators and fleet managers will notice an increased emphasis on safety and accident‑free driving, as the qualification criteria hinge on a clean record for a full year. CDL‑A holders who compete will have the opportunity to showcase their pre‑trip inspection skills and precision handling, skills that directly translate to lower insurance premiums and higher customer trust. OTR truck drivers attending the event can network with peers from across the country, gaining insights into FMCSA regulations and best practices that improve route efficiency and compliance.

Industry Reaction

Trucking companies hiring in the Midwest have expressed enthusiasm for the growing diversity at the championship. “Seeing more women on the track encourages us to broaden our recruitment and training programs,” said a spokesperson for a regional carrier. Industry advocates note that the record number of female competitors signals a shift toward a more inclusive culture that benefits all truck driver jobs seekers, from entry‑level CDL‑A drivers to seasoned owner‑operators.

Key Points

• 15 female competitors set a new record at the 2025 National Truck Driving Championship.
• State champions must maintain a year‑long accident‑free record to qualify for the national event.
• Over 400 drivers will compete in eight vehicle categories plus the National Step Van Driving Championships.
• Event dates: August 20‑23 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

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