Women Bring Safety and Strength to Propane Trucking, But Challenges Remain
The propane industry has a lot to offer drivers: steady work, flexible schedules, and valuable skills. But even with these perks, not many women are working as propane delivery drivers.
In 2024, a survey by the Women in Trucking Association showed that only about 9.5% of CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) holders are women. In long-haul trucking, the number is even lower—only 8% of drivers are women, according to the American Trucking Associations.
So why aren’t more women driving trucks?
There are a few reasons. Some women feel that trucking is physically demanding, and others are concerned about safety or the lack of work-life balance. According to a 2024 report from the National Transportation Institute, women in trucking say they need better training, more support at work, and greater flexibility in their schedules.
If the industry works to remove these barriers, it could help ease the nationwide truck driver shortage. LP Gas spoke with several female propane drivers about what they love about the job, the challenges they’ve faced, and what could help more women get involved.
Why Companies Should Hire More Women
Hiring more women doesn’t just help fill open jobs—it brings real benefits. Women in trucking are often reliable, safety-focused, and determined to succeed in a male-dominated field.
KellyLynn McLaughlin, a long-haul driver for Clean Harbors, says women tend to avoid risky behavior, which makes them safer drivers. In fact, a study by Auburn University found that male truck drivers were 13% more likely to commit major safety violations than women.
Some women are already proving themselves in the propane industry. At Energy Partners Propane in Montana, HR director Anna Taylor hired two women—Renee Kelly and Katie Scott—who stood out for their drive and dedication. Both switched careers to become drivers, earned their hazmat certifications quickly, and impressed their team with their work ethic.
Still, Taylor says they don’t get many female applicants. Some women might not have the time to get their licenses, or they might feel the job isn’t a good match for them.
Facing Industry Challenges
For some women, the biggest challenge is safety—especially during over-the-road (OTR) training, which can require sharing small spaces like a truck sleeper cab with a male trainer. Not all companies offer separate sleeping arrangements, and the onboarding process can take weeks or even months.
Many women also feel they must work harder than men just to be seen as equal.
“Women have to give 200% just to be seen as equal to a man’s 100%,” Kelly says.
Rebekah Eaker, a bulk delivery driver for AmeriGas in Missouri, says she focuses on beating her own records. “I never want to be the weak link,” she says, proudly sharing that she delivered the most gas in her area last year.
Some people still assume women can’t do physical labor, but that’s not true. Kelly says she’s had to prove she can handle heavy equipment and winter conditions just like anyone else. Scott recalls shoveling 3.5 feet of snow to reach tanks last winter—hard work, but manageable.
“It’s a lot to learn, especially around safety,” Kelly adds. “But it keeps the job interesting.”
What Makes It Worth It
Every woman interviewed says the job brings a sense of purpose. They like helping their customers, being part of a team, and doing something different every day.
“I love seeing my customers,” Kelly says. “Some even shovel paths in the snow for me.”
Eaker enjoys filling in when her team is short-staffed, especially when she gets to drive the big tandem-axle truck.
Unlike some truck driving jobs, many propane drivers get to go home at night—and have weekends off, too. That kind of stability is a big plus.
How to Bring More Women Into the Field
Here are three ways companies can recruit and keep more women in trucking:
Spread the Word
Some women don’t even realize they can get into trucking. Kelly says that just raising awareness is the first step. Taylor uses social media and job fairs to get the message out. And platforms like GeneratioNext Propane Pros help match companies with qualified candidates.
Offer Flexibility and Accommodations
McLaughlin says offering flexible schedules, safe bathrooms, and gear that actually fits women—like gloves and fire-resistant pants—can make a big difference.
Invest in Training and Development
Energy Partners is planning an apprenticeship program that will work with high schools to show young women that a future in propane delivery is possible.“I want young women to know that this is an option for them,” Taylor says. “There is a path forward.”
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