Founder, CEO, and Director of Recruitment of Rig On Wheels Broker & Recruitment Services, urges the trucking industry to focus on diversity not just among drivers, but also in leadership roles. While there has been progress in increasing diversity in the driver workforce, there is still work to be done in leadership positions. Reports show that women make up only 12.1% of professional driver roles, and minorities account for 40.4% of drivers. To address this issue, stakeholders in the industry need to take proactive steps to boost diversity among leadership ranks.
The first step towards increasing diversity in trucking leadership is admitting that there is a problem. Many companies tend to prioritize diversity within their driver workforce and overlook the importance of diversity in leadership positions. By acknowledging the lack of diversity in leadership roles, organizations can create a more inclusive and connected work environment. It is essential to prioritize various forms of diversity, including race, gender, sexual orientation, and religious views, among others, in leadership roles to promote a more diverse and inclusive industry.
Leaders in the trucking industry should commit to solving the lack of diversity in leadership positions by treating DEI efforts with the same level of importance as other business objectives. Setting clear goals for diversifying boards and leadership teams, measuring progress regularly, and taking proactive steps to address any shortcomings can lead to tangible results. By investing in educational and training pathways for internal and external candidates, companies can create a talent pipeline that nurtures and elevates diverse leaders within the organization.
Ingraining diversity into company culture is essential for the success of DEI efforts. Diversity initiatives should be aligned with the organization’s mission, values, and culture to prevent fragmentation within the company. Celebrating diversity through various forms, such as highlighting employees from different backgrounds and recognizing cultural events, is crucial. Company policies should also reflect diversity, such as implementing zero-tolerance policies for discrimination and offering flexible time off for employees to accommodate different cultural and religious practices.
To increase diversity in leadership roles in the trucking industry, leaders need to take intentional action to weave diversity into the fabric of their companies. By prioritizing diversity in leadership, setting clear goals, investing in educational pathways, and ingraining diversity into company culture, organizations can create a more inclusive and representative workforce. Ultimately, by making diversity a core aspect of their operations, trucking companies can promote a more equitable and welcoming industry for all individuals.
