Beyond the Wheel: Serving, Growing, and Knowing When to Take the Exit

What started out as a simple Facebook admin role in 2010 turned into a 15-year journey of growth, service, and experiences I never could’ve imagined.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving three terms on the Women In Trucking board of directors and working on several subcommittees alongside other dedicated board members. Seeing WIT grow from the inside — watching the vision unfold firsthand — is something I never dreamed I’d get to experience when I first joined as a volunteer.

Along the way, I attended strategic planning sessions, spoke on panels, and represented drivers in national conversations. I was interviewed on radio, featured in newspapers and magazines, and joined discussions with the FMCSA’s Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee. Each one of those moments came from WIT’s belief in women drivers — and in me.

Encouragement That Changed Everything

I owe a lot of my confidence and opportunities to WIT’s founder, Ellen Voie. She encouraged me to say yes to new challenges — to take part in committees, discussions, and events I might’ve otherwise watched from the sidelines. She reminded me that my voice mattered, and that drivers like me belonged in those conversations.

That’s how I want to encourage other drivers now: to speak up, get involved, and learn about the issues shaping our industry. Sitting back and complaining doesn’t create change — showing up does.

Knowing When It’s Time to Take the Exit

After 15 incredible years, I’ve realized my passion is shifting. It’s not leaving trucking — it’s simply taking a new route. The same energy that once fueled my volunteer work with WIT now drives my purpose through A Woman Trucker, where I focus on coaching, mentorship, and mindset growth for women on the road.

I recently made the decision to retire from my WIT volunteer role and step back from official positions. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s the right one. I believe new voices and fresh perspectives will carry WIT into its next chapter — and I’ll be cheering them on from the open road.

A Message for Drivers

If you’re frustrated with what’s happening in the industry, don’t just sit around talking about what’s wrong — get involved. Learn about the issues. Join an organization. Volunteer. Ask questions. Share your experience.

Drivers have more influence than we think, but it starts with showing up. You never know where it might take you — maybe even to a boardroom, a microphone, or a committee meeting that helps shape the future of trucking.

Gratitude for the Journey

Serving with WIT has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and I’m thankful for every friendship, lesson, and mile along the way.

While this chapter closes, the mission continues. I’ll keep supporting WIT and celebrating the incredible women who are out here making a difference every day.

The road ahead is open, and I’m grateful for every turn that’s brought me here.

— Deb LaBree, A Woman Trucker
“The Road Is Yours.”