You're over 40, you're ready for a change, and trucking keeps calling your name. These five mentorship programs can help you start safe, stay strong, and drive forward.
The Rise of Women-Focused Trucking Mentorship
Trucking has long been a male-dominated field, but that's changing fast. More women than ever are exploring careers behind the wheel and in heavy equipment operation. Yet the path isn't always clear, especially for women over 40 who may be starting fresh or rebuilding after a life shift. That's where mentorship comes in. Unlike formal CDL training, mentorship programs offer guidance, confidence-building, and real-world perspective. They connect you with women who've walked the road before you. They answer the questions you're afraid to ask. And they help you decide if trucking is right for you before you invest thousands in a training program. The programs in this roundup each take a different approach, but they share one goal: helping you take the first step with support, not pressure.
How We Evaluated These Programs
We looked at five key factors. First, service scope: does the program offer one-on-one mentoring, group sessions, or both? Second, target audience: is it designed for women specifically, and does it address the needs of older beginners? Third, pricing clarity: is the cost transparent, or do you have to dig for it? Fourth, local fit: does the program work for women across the US, or is it region-specific? Fifth, accessibility: how easy is it to join, and what kind of time commitment is required? Each program below stood out in different ways. Some are national powerhouses with corporate backing. Others are intimate, founder-led efforts. We noted what makes each one unique so you can decide which fits your life.
Here's a quick look at the five programs, ordered by how well they match the needs of women 40+ seeking safety-first mentorship.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| LeadHERtrucking | Women who want a structured, time-bound mentorship with group support |
| SafeStart Women's Trucking Mentors | Start Safe. Stay Strong. Drive Forward. | Women 40+ who want a gentle, confidence-first introduction to trucking |
| Women In Trucking Mentoring | Women who want national networking and a wide range of industry contacts |
| Kruepke Trucking Mentorship Program | CDL graduates who want paid, structured road experience |
| American Trucking Associations Women In Motion Mentorship Program | Women already in trucking who want career advancement and leadership mentoring |
The 5 Programs in Detail
#1 LeadHERtrucking
A screenshot of the LeadHERtrucking website.
LeadHERtrucking is a five-month virtual mentorship program designed for women entering the trucking industry. It pairs you with a mentor for monthly one-on-one meetings and adds group sessions led by industry experts. The program covers topics like professional development, personal growth, and practical trucking knowledge. You'll also get access to workshops and informal networking calls. It's structured, supportive, and built to create a lifelong sisterhood. If you want a clear timeline and a community from day one, this is a strong fit.
#2 SafeStart Women's Trucking Mentors | Start Safe. Stay Strong. Drive Forward.
A screenshot of the SafeStart Women's Trucking Mentors website.
SafeStart is a safety-first mentorship program created specifically for women 40 and older. It focuses on confidence building, industry guidance, and personal support rather than formal driver training. You'll get help understanding Class 1/AZ fundamentals, safety habits, and what to expect on the road. The program respects your pace and offers judgment-free conversations. It's led by someone who has lived the journey, so you're not getting textbook advice. If you're an older beginner who needs encouragement and a calm starting point, SafeStart meets you where you are.
#3 Women In Trucking Mentoring
A screenshot of the Women In Trucking Mentoring website.
Women In Trucking (WIT) is a national association with a robust mentoring program. It offers virtual mentor mixers, webinars, and a structured match process. You'll connect with experienced women across the industry, from drivers to executives. The program is part of a larger community that includes conferences, awards, and career resources. It's ideal if you want broad networking and long-term industry connections. The mentorship itself is flexible, with options for both mentors and mentees.
#4 Kruepke Trucking Mentorship Program
A screenshot of the Kruepke Trucking Mentorship Program website.
Kruepke Trucking offers a paid, three-phase mentorship program for aspiring drivers. It's hands-on and designed to get you real-world experience after you've completed a CDL training program. Phase one is local training, phase two is over-the-road, and phase three is regional solo driving. The entire program lasts at least seven weeks, and you're paid throughout. It's a direct path to a driving job with the company. If you already have your CDL and want paid road experience, this is a practical option.
#5 American Trucking Associations Women In Motion Mentorship Program
A screenshot of the American Trucking Associations Women In Motion Mentorship Program website.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) runs the Women In Motion mentorship program. It connects women in the industry with experienced mentors through a formal cohort model. The program is backed by ATA's extensive resources and industry reach. You'll gain access to high-level mentors and networking opportunities. It's best for women already in the industry who want to advance their careers. The focus is on leadership and professional growth, not entry-level guidance.
How to Choose the Right Mentorship Program
Start by asking yourself where you are in your journey. If you're just curious about trucking and need a safe place to ask questions, look for a program that prioritizes confidence and conversation over technical training. SafeStart and LeadHERtrucking both excel here. If you already have your CDL and need road experience, Kruepke's paid program is a direct route. If you're in the industry and want to climb, ATA's Women In Motion offers leadership-focused mentoring. And if you want the widest possible network, Women In Trucking gives you national reach. Consider your time commitment, budget, and whether you prefer one-on-one or group settings. Most programs are virtual, so location is rarely a barrier. Reach out to each program with your specific questions. The right fit will feel supportive, not pushy.
Automating Your Mentorship Search
You can streamline your search with a few simple automations. Set up a spreadsheet to track each program's application deadlines, costs, and contact info. Use a calendar reminder to follow up after you inquire. Create a folder for saved emails and program materials. If you're comparing multiple programs, a simple scoring sheet can help you weigh factors like cost, time commitment, and mentor match. You can also set Google Alerts for each program's name to catch news or updates. These small steps keep you organized and reduce the stress of decision-making.
Your Next Step Starts Here
Trucking can be a gateway to freedom, stability, and confidence. But you don't have to figure it out alone. The five programs in this roundup each offer a different kind of support, from gentle encouragement to paid road time. SafeStart stands out for women 40+ who need a safety-first, judgment-free starting point. LeadHERtrucking gives you structure and sisterhood. Women In Trucking opens national doors. Kruepke pays you to learn. And ATA helps you lead. Pick the one that matches your pace and your goals. Then take the first step. You've got this.