On Friday, TravelCenters of America (TA) announced an initiative to make the company’s truck stops safer for all guests, with a focus on women drivers and truck stop workers.
TA announced plans to focus on “elevating site safety standards” as a way of recognizing female truck drivers and TA employees on International Women’s Day.
TA says that 43% of its workforce and 12% of all U.S. truck drivers are women.
As part of the initiative, TA has formed a Women’s Safety Advisory Group made up of women truckers and trucking industry professionals to advise the company on ways to create safer travel centers for all TA guests, regardless of gender.
TA also announced that Retail Operations Support Vice President. Debbie Shelton will take part in a week-long ride-along with ACE Doran Hauling & Rigging Co. OTR driver Violet Helferich to gain insights on the challenges faced by female professional drivers. Shelton and Helferich will travel from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Brandon, South Dakota to load freight, and then onwards to a wind farm in the southern U.S.
“Our sites serve as a home away from home for the millions of professional drivers in our nation and we are committed to ensuring they feel as safe and secure while visiting us as they do in their own home,” said Debi Boffa, CEO of TA. “Safety is our top priority, and we look forward to learning how we can foster an even safer environment for all travelers and our team members, regardless of gender.”