Washington, DC — The Women In Trucking Foundation awarded 31 scholarships on September 9, 2026, after receiving more than 100 applications from aspiring female drivers nationwide.
The move follows a growing push within the industry to diversify the road crew. Women still represent less than 10 percent of CDL‑A holders, a gap that the foundation seeks to narrow by removing financial and gender barriers. The scholarship program covers four distinct categories—leadership, driving, safety, and technician—each designed to address different entry points into trucking. Winners receive a one‑year membership to the Women In Trucking Association, which grants access to mentorship, networking, and educational resources that help candidates navigate the FMCSA regulations and the rigors of long‑haul duty days.
Among the recipients, Kathryn Ambers, Daisy Arriola, Kaylie Ball, Tracey Bishop, Keara Flaherty, Jennifer Hart, Windy Huaman Reategui, and Destiny‑Rey Kama‑Cornelio were named in the driving category, while Heike Dasilva earned the leadership award and Alina Ditch secured the technical/technician scholarship, partnering with Ryder for specialized training. All 31 scholars now hold a scholarship that covers tuition for CDL preparation, safety coursework, or technician certification, and they will be paired with seasoned mentors who have logged thousands of miles on OTR routes.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A holders and owner‑operators, the scholarship program opens a new pipeline of qualified female talent. The financial support eliminates the upfront cost of training schools, which can range from $7,000 to $10,000, a significant barrier for many prospective drivers. Fleet managers now have access to a vetted pool of candidates who have already completed safety and technician training, reducing onboarding time and compliance risk. Trucking companies hiring for OTR routes can tap into this talent source to meet diversity goals set by the FMCSA and to enhance their brand appeal among younger, socially conscious drivers.
Industry Reaction
The broader industry has welcomed the initiative as a step toward closing the gender gap. Carrier representatives have noted that a more diverse crew improves customer relations and drives better safety outcomes. The program aligns with the FMCSA’s recent emphasis on inclusive hiring practices, encouraging carriers to adopt mentorship models that have proven effective in retaining new drivers. Many trucking companies hiring now are already exploring similar scholarship and training partnerships to attract women and other underrepresented groups.
Key Points
- 31 scholarships awarded to women across four categories.
- Applicants exceeded 100, showcasing high demand for entry into trucking.
- Scholarship winners receive a one‑year membership to the Women In Trucking Association.
- Program supports financial barriers and offers mentorship, networking, and education.
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