WORKING IN TRUCKING THROUGH A WOMAN'S LENS: JOSEPHINE COPELAND INTERVIEW By Sheryl Jordan

Josephine (Jo) Copeland, aka Lady J, graciously participated in the interview questionnaire as part of my research for my series about a female truck driver who finds herself entwined in crime-solving while delivering her loads across the country.

Jo has been an over-the-road truck driver for over seventeen years. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, and much more. I connected with Jo through her daughter, Bri Copeland, a close friend and co-worker of mine.

Here are some of Jo’s experiences of being a woman in the trucking industry:

Background and Motivation

What inspired you to become a truck driver?

·      I’ve always valued independence and the ability to work without constant overhead supervision. I like the idea of being my own boss and having control over my daily schedule. Trucking offers a sense of freedom – you’re responsible for your own work. Independence and the opportunity to travel and see new places are what motivated me to pursue this career.

How did you get into the trucking industry?

·      I became interested in trucking through a close friend who had been in the industry for over ten years at the time. He shared his experiences with me, describing the benefits of the job, the financial stability it provided, and the flexibility it allowed.

Experiences and Challenges

Describe a typical day on the road.

·        A typical day often starts with going to a port to pick up a load. That part of the job can be very frustrating because unloading or loading just one container can take hours. Sometimes the wait feels like the biggest headache of the job, to the point where I even questioned if trucking was for me. However, once I get back on the road, the drive itself is often very relaxing – that is until I hit heavy traffic or have to deal with DOT inspections, which could happen unexpectedly.

·      Depending on where I’m traveling, the experience could change. For example, when driving through Ohio and other mountainous areas, I had to be extra careful with shifting gears and managing the brakes. Losing brakes on a downhill slope is a very real danger, and I am always mindful to avoid ending up on a runaway ramp – which meant not only had I avoided a serious accident but also saved myself from the expensive towing costs that come with it.

·        One of the physical challenges I face is handling the equipment, such as opening and closing heavy container doors or working with the landing legs on the chassis. These tasks require strength and can sometimes be frustrating. Maneuvering in rural or tight areas is another challenge. I once had to back my truck up two or three miles because the road was unexpectedly closed. This tested both my patience and skills.

·       Another challenge is the harassment I face from some male truck drivers. It can feel intimidating when you’re just trying to do your job, but you’re constantly being approached or treated differently simply because you’re a woman. Even communicating over the CB (Citizen’s Band) radio could be a challenge – you need to use the right trucker “lingo” or other drivers won’t take you seriously.

·        On top of that, being in a male-dominated industry means I had to juggle many roles. After long days on the road, I still had to come home and switch into the roles of wife, mother, and caretaker. It often felt like I was wearing every hat at once, which could be exhausting.

Have you encountered any unique obstacles that your male counterparts might not have experienced?

·       Yes, as a female truck driver, I’ve faced several challenges that my male counterparts typically don’t have to think about. Some of the physical tasks—like opening and closing heavy container doors or cranking the landing legs on the chassis—require a lot of upper-body strength and can be more difficult for women, especially when the equipment is older or not well maintained.

·       Harassment has also been a significant issue. As a relatively attractive female in a male-dominated industry, I often felt intimidated by unwanted attention. There were times when male drivers were constantly in my face, trying to talk or get my attention when I just wanted to focus on my work. It created situations where I felt uncomfortable.

·    Another obstacle is the lack of proper accommodations for women. There are not nearly enough women-friendly restrooms along the road, which makes my monthly cycle especially difficult. This often forced me to either avoid using public bathrooms or resort to using the restroom in unsafe or unsanitary areas. The lack of privacy and hygiene options is something many men don’t have to consider.

·      Finally, safety is always a concern. Truck drivers cannot carry a weapon for self-defense, which sometimes left me feeling vulnerable, especially when parked in isolated areas or rest stops at night. These unique challenges required me to develop resilience, resourcefulness, and extra caution in situations where safety and comfort weren’t guaranteed.

How do you handle long periods away from home and family?

·       Fortunately, my trucking schedule doesn’t usually require me to be away from home for long periods of time. Most days, I am able to return home the same day or by the next day. On the occasions when I did spend the night on the road, I managed by staying focused on the job and keeping in contact with my loved ones whenever possible.

·     Because I am not gone for weeks at a time like some long-haul drivers, I don’t struggle as much with extended separations. Still, even those overnight trips required balancing the demands of the job with my responsibilities at home. I make it a priority to cherish the time I have with family when I am home, which helps me handle the occasional nights away more easily.

Safety and Security

What measures do you take to ensure your safety while on the road?

·       Safety is always my top priority when I’m on the road. Since truck drivers aren’t allowed to carry firearms, I have to find other ways to protect myself. I keep a baseball bat in the truck, and I also carry a heavy-duty metal tool normally used to open and close container doors—that could double as protection if necessary. Beyond that, I always stay alert and aware of my surroundings, especially in rest areas or remote locations. I keep my doors locked at all times and even use my seatbelt looped through the handles as an extra layer of security to prevent anyone from opening the door unexpectedly.

Have you ever found yourself in a dangerous situation, and how did you handle it?

·   Fortunately, I haven’t faced a truly dangerous situation while on the road. I believe that being cautious, proactive, and aware of my surroundings has helped me avoid many risks.

Work-Life Balance

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance as a truck driver?

·      I maintain balance by listening to my body and mind and not overworking myself. One of the things I value about trucking is having some control over how many hours I choose to put in. If I need to work more to meet goals, I will, but if I feel the need to slow down and take a break, I make sure to prioritize rest. Knowing when to push forward and when to pause has helped me prevent burnout and maintain a healthier routine both on and off the road.

What hobbies or activities do you enjoy when you're not on the road?

·      Outside of work, I truly value spending time with family and friends. I’m a big foodie, so I love discovering new restaurants and enjoying good meals. I also enjoy attending church, which keeps me grounded, and I like to unwind by riding my motorcycle or slingshot. Shopping—what I like to call “retail therapy”—is another favorite way for me to relax and treat myself after long days. These activities help me recharge, connect with loved ones, and keep a positive balance in my life.

Do you have any tips for managing stress and fatigue?

·      Managing stress and fatigue in trucking is all about being intentional with self-care. For me, that means taking mental health days when needed, making sure I get enough rest, and leaning on the things that bring me peace and joy. Attending church gives me strength and perspective, while small things like retail therapy or simply relaxing help me reset. The key is to know your limits, step away when necessary, and not be afraid to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being.

Industry Insights

How has the trucking industry changed since you started your career?

·        When I started in 2009, a lot of things were more stressful and time-consuming, especially at the ports. Over the years, I’ve seen positive changes. For example, ports now use appointment systems, which have reduced wait times and made the process more organized. Equipment has also improved—container doors are generally easier to open and close, and newer chassis have landing legs that are smoother to wind up and down. Overall, the industry has modernized in ways that have made day-to-day operations less physically demanding and more efficient.

What industry improvements would you like to see to support female truck drivers?

• ·     One of the biggest improvements I would like to see is better accommodations for women, starting with more access to female restrooms. While there are plenty of “porta-johns” available for men, female drivers often don’t have the same level of convenience. I’d also like to see more female-specific PPE (personal protective equipment)—gear that fits properly and is designed with women in mind. Even small things, like offering equipment in colors such as pink, can make a difference in making women feel seen and supported in what is still a male-dominated industry.

Do you think there are enough opportunities for women in trucking?

·     Yes, I do. The opportunities are definitely there for women who want to enter the industry. Trucking is a career that rewards hard work, skill, and determination regardless of gender. While the industry still has room to grow in terms of inclusivity and support, I believe the door is open, and more women are stepping through it every year.

Advice for Aspiring Female Truck Drivers

What advice would you give to women considering a career in trucking?

·     My biggest piece of advice is to go in prepared, both mentally and physically. Trucking is still very much a male-dominated industry, and you will often find yourself having to prove that you can do the job just as well as your male counterparts. Don’t expect men to step in and help with the tough physical tasks—many times they won’t, and that’s okay. Learn how to handle the equipment, build your confidence, and trust your own abilities. At the same time, embrace the independence this career offers. Trucking gives you a sense of freedom and self-reliance that few other jobs can. You’ll get to travel, set your own pace, and build a career on your own terms. It may be challenging at times, but if you stay strong and determined, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have.

What skills or qualities are essential for success in this field?

·   To succeed in trucking, you need a combination of technical skills and personal strength. First and foremost, you need strong driving skills; that’s the foundation of the job. Beyond that, qualities like thick skin, resilience, and confidence are essential. You’ll encounter tough situations, whether it’s dealing with long hours, difficult weather conditions, or people who underestimate you because you’re a woman. Having the mental toughness to handle those challenges is key.

·    Patience and problem-solving are also important. From navigating traffic and tight delivery schedules to figuring out mechanical issues on the road, you’ll need to stay calm under pressure. And finally, good communication skills matter—whether you’re working with dispatch, dealing with customers, or even using the CB radio, being able to assert yourself clearly and professionally makes a big difference.

Personal Stories

Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time on the road?

·    One of my favorite memories was when my husband used to ride with me during his transition out of the military before he found new employment. Having him there made the long hours and unfamiliar routes so much easier to handle. He would make me sandwiches, open and close the container doors, and just keep me company during those quiet stretches of the road. It turned what could have been stressful or lonely trips into something more comforting and even enjoyable.

·     Another memorable part of my journey was driving with my brother. We worked for the same company for about nine years, and our routes often overlapped.  Being on the road with him gave me a sense of security, because he would help me with some of the more physically demanding tasks, like opening or closing heavy doors. It wasn’t just about the help, though—it was about the bond. Knowing a family member was out there with me made the job a lot more enjoyable. 

Have you formed any lasting friendships or connections in the industry?

·       Yes, I’ve built friendships that have lasted over ten years. Some of the people I met early in my career are still a part of my life today. Trucking may seem like a solitary job, but there’s a real sense of community out there, especially when you cross paths with the same drivers over and over again. In fact, I even brought my brother into the industry, which gave me one of the closest professional and personal connections I could have asked for.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

·      What I love most about trucking is the independence. I get to control my hours and workload. If I want to push harder one week, I can, but if I need to take a step back, I have that flexibility. Of course, the financial benefits are important too-it’s a career that rewards effort.

Curiosity

Do male truckers try to be over-accommodating towards you, like pumping fuel or trying to help you when they wouldn’t help other male truckers in similar situations?

·      Sometimes, yes. Male truckers would offer help if I asked, but I rarely asked. I wanted to prove to myself—and to others—that I could handle the job on my own. While the gestures were usually well-meaning, I made it a point not to rely on that kind of special treatment. It was important for me to earn respect in the industry by showing that I could do the same work as anyone else.

Do “lot lizards” still exist?

·       Yes, they are still very much around. You’ll find them at almost every truck stop. 

What do you do during your “downtime” on the road?

·       During my downtime, I like to unwind in simple ways. I usually listen to music to keep my energy up, or I’ll call my husband to check in and feel connected while I’m away. Sometimes I’ll read a book, which helps pass the time and keeps me relaxed. Those small moments of downtime are important for recharging after a long day behind the wheel.

Are there any myths about being female in the industry?

·        One of the biggest myths is that women can’t handle the physical or mental demands of trucking. While there are definitely challenges, women are just as capable of doing this job successfully as men. Another misconception is that female drivers are automatically less experienced or need extra help, which isn’t true. Many of us are just as skilled, if not more so, because we’ve had to work even harder to prove ourselves in a male-dominated field.

I enjoyed the interview with Lady J! It enlightened me in so many areas of women truck drivers' lives and is extremely helpful in writing my series. Many thanks and appreciation to Jo and Bri!

To all the women truck drivers, truck on! You are greatly appreciated!