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The road freight industry is a vital part of New Zealand’s economy and more drivers are needed to keep the wheels turning. We caught up with Meryn Morrison, Chairwoman of Women in Road Transport, for insight into what’s important to female truckers.
Women in Road Transport support and encourage women in the transport industry through celebrating and promoting their accomplishments, as well as addressing the obstacles and issues faced.
“The only thing not delivered by truck is a baby,” jokes Meryn. She gave us her thoughts on GPS vehicle tracking, encouraging new drivers, and changing perceptions of the trucker’s life.
What do female drivers think about vehicle tracking technologies?
“We’re very keen on it actually,” says Meryn. “Health and safety on the job is important to women in our industry — especially because of that working alone aspect.” She points out that if drivers run into any problems at night, like vehicle issues or a flat tyre, it’s good to know that the dispatchers can identify exactly where they are on the map. The drivers can also use the satellite connected messaging system to contact people if they’re feeling unsafe.
Meryn says she likes the fatigue monitoring aspects too – especially the ease in recording and logging hours worked. One more thing she notes: “All drivers have the issue of where to park. It’s a worry when you’ve got a 23-metre-long truck on a new route or in a location where things have changed. You can call up the dispatcher and they can talk you through it using the GPS mapping.” She reckons it’s especially important to ladies as they “want to do a good job and do it correctly.”
Do technology advances in the industry make it more appealing to women?
“Yes, technology is definitely part of the solution”, says Meryn. “Modern seats, engine diagnostics, air operated covers, and forklifts for loading trucks – it just makes it so much easier. We’re seeing trucks that drive like cars,” which makes it easier for new drivers to pick up the skill and reap the benefits of the job.
Women are realising that they don’t need to do things like heavy lifting and they do have the skills to be a driver in today’s world. Meryn loves when she sees female truckies “being themselves” and not trying to put on anything to fit into the perceived mould.
What’s important for the future for the industry and for women?
We need to change the perception says Meryn, “Where else can you get paid to see the country? A lot of Kiwi’s these days don’t really get out of their region and trucking is an awesome opportunity – you are getting paid to see New Zealand’s scenery.”
“The perception is not our reality,” states Meryn. “It’s a skilled profession, we care about nutrition, diet and safety.”
She believes that more support is needed to make sure young New Zealanders get their Class 1 licence. “Not having a licence is hampering your career and hampering your advancement.” Financial support such as scholarships are needed to help drivers attain licences in the higher classes. She points out: “It can cost over $3,000 by the time you get to class 4 and 5.”
She’d also like to see better truck stops around the country that are long enough for the larger trucks and have facilities that can be used at night. “Sometimes they just have a tank and a light, but I think they need cameras for safety and bathrooms that aren’t locked at night.”
Looking to make your business more attractive to all drivers? Get in touch now to learn more about how GPS tracking technology can help.