The commercial vehicle industry is already aware of its gender diversity problem, and that if more than 2% of the technician workforce was female, then some of the technician shortage could be addressed. As such, it’s important to recognize companies that are addressing this issue, such as Paccar Parts, which was recently recognized as a 2022 Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation by the Women in Trucking Association (WIT).
At the 2022 ASE Instructor Training Conference, female panelists discussed how some of the challenges they faced in the workplace included being considered incapable of working in the industry, being stereotyped into certain roles, and a lack of support and opportunity.
WIT uses the Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation award to celebrate companies that actively meet these challenges. Companies considered for the award had to meet criteria including maintaining a corporate culture that encouraged gender diversity, provided competitive compensation and benefits across all employees, flexible work requirements and hours, and professional development and advancement for women.
This is the fourth consecutive year that Paccar Parts has received this award.
“Paccar Parts’ inclusive culture celebrates diversity and supports the advancement of women,” said Laura Bloch, Paccar Parts general manager and Paccar vice president. “We commend WIT’s efforts to elevate the voice and success of women in the trucking industry. As such, we are honored to be selected by the association as a Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation.”
In order to achieve the award’s requirements, Paccar Parts has invested in maintaining several programs to encourage equity and diversity. According to the company, this has meant hosting a Diversity Council to promote respect, openness, and individual value among employees; launching a mentorship program in 2019; and holding a Paccar Women’s Association to provide resources, education, networking, and mentoring to employees.
