Atlanta, Georgia — TravelCenters of America disclosed on March 8 that it is forming a Women’s Safety Advisory Group to improve security at its truck‑stop network, aligning the move with International Women’s Day.

The announcement follows a February directive from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to examine sexual assault and harassment in the commercial motor vehicle sector. FMCSA regulations have long focused on crash prevention, but the new study expands the safety conversation to include personal security for drivers on the road.

Women account for roughly 12% of professional drivers, according to the Women in Trucking Association, while they represent 43% of TA’s workforce. The advisory group will draw members from the driver community and industry experts to review conditions at TA, Petro and TA Express locations. Debbie Shelton, TA’s Vice President of Retail Operations Support, will travel with Violet Helferich of ACE Doran Hauling & Rigging Co. on a route that starts in Oklahoma City, heads to Brandon, South Dakota, and ends at a southern wind farm, gathering first‑hand insight into the challenges OTR truck drivers face.

What This Means for Drivers

CDL‑A drivers can expect more visible security measures at TA sites, such as better lighting, surveillance upgrades and staff training focused on gender‑inclusive safety. Owner‑operators who rely on independent truck‑stop networks will have a new channel to voice concerns, potentially influencing future FMCSA enforcement priorities. Fleet managers may see reduced incident reports and lower insurance premiums as safety data improves. The advisory group’s recommendations could also shape standard operating procedures for all trucking companies hiring drivers who frequent TA locations.

Industry Reaction

Advocacy groups for women in trucking have praised the initiative as a concrete step toward addressing a problem that has lingered in the industry. While some carriers remain cautious, many see the collaboration as a model for broader adoption across the sector. The move also signals to trucking companies hiring drivers that safety culture now extends beyond vehicle maintenance to include personal protection at rest stops.

Key Points

• FMCSA announced a study of sexual assault and harassment in February 2026.
• TravelCenters of America launched a Women’s Safety Advisory Group on March 8, 2026.
• Women comprise 12% of professional drivers and 43% of TA’s employees.
• Debbie Shelton will conduct an on‑road immersion trip to gather direct feedback from female CDL‑A drivers.

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