Trucking HR Canada has unveiled three new resources as part of its Women with Drive initiative – a national initiative focused on supporting and increasing women’s participation in the trucking workforce.
My Toolbox for Mentoring Women will help trucking employers, association groups, female drivers and others learn effective and practical approaches to mentorship, says Trucking HR Canada. The accompanying Inventory of Resources includes information on organizations, programs and networks dedicated to supporting women.
Mindful of the needs of the industry, the mentorship toolbox offers three different models that can accommodate various occupations from drivers to office workers. These include Online Peer Networks, One-on-One Mentoring Partnerships and Local Women’s Events.
“Mentorship is a proven retention tool and we know that women in the industry are looking for more mentorship opportunities,” says Angela Splinter, chief executive officer, Trucking HR Canada. “In fact, when we surveyed women in the industry, offering more mentorship opportunities was cited as one of the top three things employers can do as a means of supporting women.”
Accompanying the mentorship toolbox is an Inventory of Resources. The inventory includes links to various programs focused on training, leadership development, more mentorship information, on-line forums and lots more.
In addition to these resources, a women in trucking video was produced to reach beyond the industry – showcasing a vibrant industry that welcomes women in its workforce.
The video responds to a need to better promote the various career opportunities that exist in the industry, in addition to driving. “We highlight all the positive aspects of working in trucking – supporting our goal in ensuring the industry attracts, recruits and retains the skilled workforce it needs – and that includes men and women,” says Splinter.
While women comprise 48% of the Canadian labour force, they represent just 3% of drivers, mechanics, transport trailer technicians, and cargo workers; 11% of managerial staff; 13% of parts technicians; and, 18% of dispatchers.
All materials are available as free downloads at www.TruckingHR.com