I love my job! It all started 5 years ago and I haven’t looked back since. I finished my classes, passed all my exams, successfully got my Z endorsement, and finally on my first attempt, I passed my road test on August 18, 2020, obtaining my full AZ licence! None of that would have been possible for me if it wasn’t for a group of women who empower other women, supporting each other, educating one another, building all women up, cheering each other on to reach your potential, and giving opportunities to women who otherwise may not have them. We all have dreams, and those dreams become achievable for each of us when we support each other.
The day the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada awarded me a scholarship is the day they changed my life and five years later, I find myself even more thankful than I was back then. I’ve worked hard to make them proud of their decision to support and believe in me and hope I have done just that. I’m 50 years old and a mom of 4 Kids who always came first, so my dreams were put on hold. Being a mother of 4 is a very hands on job but eventually, my kids grew up, became adults, and I decided to go after something I’ve always wanted, and the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canadawas right there to support me. They are a huge part of my story, having helped me to achieve my dreams, and got me to where I am today. For that, I will forever be thankful.
I acquired employment immediately after passing my road test with Contrans Tank Group. Today I work for Contrans as a local driver out of our Burford terminal, pulling liquid tankers hauling a variety of food grade products. I pull both tandem and multi-axle equipment and even pull a trailer with my picture on the side of it. I love the days I get to pull that trailer! Throughout my career, I’ve faced some challenges, as everyone does when first starting out. Some of the hardest challenges are those simply associated with being a woman in this line of work. From the beginning, it’s been nothing I’ve been too afraid of to face head on or had any issues with showing what this woman is capable of. I’ve worked hard and come a long way in a short time, earning respect with male Drivers where so many times, it’s usually given automatically. I’ve been asked, why would I want to work in a profession that is historically male dominated? Why would I want to be a trucker, that’s a man’s job? I always respond with why not? I’m quite capable regardless of our differences. If nobody questions a male in a traditionally female-dominated career, why should a woman have to explain or justify herself?
Since day 1, Contrans has welcomed me as a part of their team. My dispatchers, the mechanics, the wash bay crew, management, and my fellow Drivers have all treated me with respect, and supported me through good days and bad and I am proud to work along side each of them. Working for Contrans has given me the opportunity to continue to learn and grow, not only as a Driver but also as a person. I have a lot more self-confidence now and I’ve certainly toughened up. When I was offered the opportunity to be a trainer for new hires (something I am very proud of), I was shocked to think, “Contrans believes in me?”. I now get to spend 2 weeks on road with new hires, training them on equipment use for loading & offloading product, customer sites, yard movement, safety & emergency procedures, paperwork, and anything else they may need to have a successful career driving for Contrans Tank Group. I really enjoy this part of my job and it means a lot to me that Contrans trusts me to be one of their trainers.
I find myself sitting back and thinking, “Wow 5 years went by fast and so many things have changed for me”. The best change of all is that I don’t dread going to work anymore because I get to do something I love every day, and every day is a new adventure! Thank you to everyone at The Women’s Trucking Federation of Canadafor helping me achieve something I had wanted for such a long time. I do not take the opportunity you gave me for granted at all and I recognize, appreciate, and value what you have done for me. Your generous gift unlocked my success story and I will forever be thankful!
Dana Allard is a Professional Driver at Contrans Tank Group
A Message from the Women’s Trucking Federation
Dana,
We couldn’t be more proud of everything you’ve achieved over these past five years. From the moment you earned our scholarship to the day you passed your AZ road test on the first try, you’ve exemplified determination, passion, and excellence in every mile you’ve driven.
Your rapid rise from new driver to trusted trainer speaks volumes about your skill, leadership, and unwavering commitment to safety and professionalism. You’ve not only shattered stereotypes in a traditionally male field, but you’ve also become a role model for women across the industry showing what’s possible when dreams meet hard work and support.
Watching you mentor new hires, guide them through every procedure, and empower them with confidence fills us with immense pride. Your success story is exactly why we exist: to open doors, foster sisterhood, and amplify women’s voices on and off the road.
Thank you for carrying our mission with such grace and grit. We look forward to cheering you on as you continue to blaze trails, inspire others, and redefine what it means to be a woman in trucking.
In sisterhood and solidarity,
The Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada Team
Resources and Advice for Aspiring Women Drivers : • Join a women-focused industry network for mentorship and support • Partner with a company/trainer who believes in you and challenges you to grow • Build confidence through continuous learning “every mile is a lesson”
Keep your dreams alive, support one another, and remember: the open road is big enough for all of us.
About Geri Cox: For over 50 years, Geri Cox has been a driving force in the transportation industry. As the founder of Polaris Transportation Group in 1994, Geri’s vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the company’s trajectory and success. Her commitment to excellence continues as she actively contributes to the Polaris Executive Leadership Team, identifying opportunities to enhance strategic initiatives for the company’s overall growth.
Geri fosters an environment for women to advance and grow within Polaris and beyond. Her dedication and contributions serve as an inspiration to all, particularly women looking to make their mark in this traditionally male-dominated field. Her leadership and mentorship have paved the way for many women at Polaris and within the transportation industry.
Award Purpose: The Geri Cox Allyship Excellence Award honors male allies who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the inclusion of women in trucking through intentional, positive, and conscious actions within their sphere of influence. This award recognizes those whose actions have significantly contributed to the betterment of Canada’s trucking industry.
Award Criteria:
Commitment to Inclusion: Demonstrates a consistent, dedication to promoting the inclusion of women in the trucking industry.
Intentional Actions: Engages in positive and conscious actions to support women’s advancement within the industry.
Industry Impact: Contributes significantly to the growth and improvement of Canada’s trucking industry through these inclusive practices.
How to apply –Deadline to Apply Aug 23rd, 2024
In 500 words or more tell us why you’re nominating this individual
Send 2 letters of support with your nomination
Include a photo of your nominee
Include nominee’s contact information
Send email to inquiries@wtfc.ca
Please include the best way to contact you should we have any questions
Award will be presented at our Bridging the Barriers Conference
Why This Award Matters: Geri Cox has made an impact by breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity within a traditionally male-dominated field. This award celebrates male allies who embody these values, ensuring that the trucking industry continues to evolve into a more inclusive and equitable space for all.
By recognizing and honoring these individuals, we aim to inspire more positive changes and support the ongoing efforts to make the trucking industry a place where everyone can thrive.
Why Polaris is Sponsoring the Geri Cox Allyship Excellence Award
Polaris is proud to sponsor the Geri Cox Allyship Excellence Award as a testament to our commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusion within the trucking industry. Named in honoring of our founder, Geri Cox, this award celebrates male allies who have made significant strides in supporting and uplifting women in this traditionally male-dominated field.
Our Commitment to Gender Equality: At Polaris, we believe in giving women a chance to excel in trucking. By sponsoring this award, we aim to highlight and reward the efforts of those who actively work towards creating an inclusive environment where women can thrive. We recognize that diversity brings strength and innovation, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture that values and promotes equal opportunities for all.
Celebrating Positive Change: The Geri Cox Allyship Excellence Award honors individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to supporting women’s inclusion in trucking. These allies play a crucial role in driving positive change, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that women have the same opportunities to succeed as their male counterparts.
Building a Better Future: By celebrating the achievements of male allies, we hope to inspire more individuals to take intentional, positive actions that support gender equality. Our sponsorship of this award reflects our ongoing dedication to making the trucking industry a more welcoming and equitable space for everyone.
Through this award, Polaris continues to champion the values that Geri Cox instilled in our company from the very beginning. We are committed to building a future where the contributions of women in trucking are recognized, valued, and celebrated
Effective mentoring involves getting to know a mentee's personal strengths and future goals, then providing tailored advice and encouragement. This award recognizes the value of mentoring and the positive impact of strong mentoring relationships on individual mentees within the trucking industry. In addition, this award recognizes the future leaders for their interpersonal skills, and effectiveness in working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and levels of experience.
First and foremost I once again want to Thank You (Shelley Uvanile-Hesch), The Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada, your member’s and CHET!!!!
I am Absolutely having the time of my life!!!!
I have Never Loved a Job Like I Love My Trucking Career!!! Everyday I Look forward to and can’t wait to get to work!! I can’t believe I get paid to do something I Love So Much! Being in My Truck Out on the Road Truly is My Happy place, and I’m always smiling from ear to ear!!! I am very lucky as I got a job rather quickly after I completed school and passing my road test on the first shot with only 2 demerits which is something I am very proud of myself for accomplishing! I am currently working for Contrans Tank Division Hauling Chocolate!!! When I first heard they wanted me to haul tanker I wasn’t too excited about that as I wanted to haul flatbed, but I gave it a shot and I Love It, I can’t imagine hauling any other type of trailer! My dispatcher keeps me very busy; I work a lot of hours and endless days but it doesn’t bother me at all, I Love Being Out There! I’ve learned a lot of things along the way as this job never stops teaching me something new everyday and I’ve met so many other drivers, all of which are very helpful and so welcoming to me into the trucking world!!
I can’t express how Thankful I Am To You All for Awarding me the Scholarship last year, for believing in me and having faith that I would take this gift and run with it, which I certainly have! Because of your belief in my abilities I am fulfilling my dreams, and if it wasn’t for your generous gift I wouldn’t be living my dream… I’d still be living with a dream trying to figure out how to make it happen and that means so much to me! So Thank You!
I’ve included a couple of pictures of some of my proud backing moments, a parallel park I have to do at one of my customers as it’s the only way to offload for them and a couple of me with my truck!!! Dana Allard
Message from Ryan Dierick – General Manager, Contrans Tank Group
Contrans Tank Group is proud to partner with the Women’s Trucking Federation on success stories like Dana Allard. Being a specialized tanker hauler, we see many drivers, especially new drivers, who are nervous about pulling a tanker because of the product handling that goes with the job. Dana’s success with Contrans Tank Group goes to show that with the proper training the tanker industry can be a great and rewarding job for all drivers. I personally cannot say enough good things about Dana and her work ethic at Contrans Tank Group, she is always pleasant with everyone she meets in her new career and a great addition to our company. I encourage others to follow in her footsteps and explore the rewarding and enjoyable jobs that the trucking industry can provide.
Message from Shelley Uvanile-Hesch CEO of the Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada
We would like to thank Philip Fletcher Commercial Heavy Equipment Training Ltd (CHET) and Musket Transport Ltd for donating this full scholarship to our scholarship program. We are proud to partner with Contrans Tank Group and thank you for your ongoing support of WTFC! It’s been a pleasure getting to know Dana and watch her grow in to her new career. Stay safe out there Dana!!
Looking to start your career as a Professional Driver reach out to CHET at http://www.chet.ca/
Are you a Professional Driver looking for a great company culture to work with? Reach out to Contrans Tank Group https://www.contranstankgroup.ca/
Delivery and pick up of loads from DC to Walmart stores and vendors
Operating tractors equipped with multi-speed transmission (Automatic or Manual) safely while adhering to all safety requirements
Perform inspections of mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment of tractor-trailer unit before, during, and after trips
Connect and disconnect semi-trailer hoses
Complete all applicable paperwork.
Maintain up-to-date Driver Log throughout the duration of each shift (via ELD)
Communicate with our Dispatch team
Establish and maintain positive working relationships with customers and co-workers in a professional manner
Be able to perform physical work at times (lifting in excess of 50lbs)
Use of satellite tracking equipment
Observe and comply with rules and regulations of the Federal Motor Vehicle Transportation Act as well as provincial governing bodies
We offer:
Competitive wages – starting at $24.15 / hour + Premiums
Safety Bonus
Premiums for afternoon, evening and weekend shifts
NO TOUCH freight
Home daily
Health and dental benefits
Company matched Pension Plan
RRSP and TFSA options
Walmart Discount Card
UniformWork Boot allowance
Associate Referral Program
Position Requirements:
Valid AZ driver’s license
Minimum of 3 years’ verifiable tractor trailer driving experience
Clean abstract and CVOR
Our people make the difference, join our growing team!
Walmart Fleet (div. of Walmart Canada) is part of the world’s largest and most recognizable retailer. Each day our drivers deliver our products to hundreds of stores across the nation from our distribution centers in Mississauga, Calgary, and Cornwall.
Innovative and at the fore-front of technology, Walmart Fleet is setting the bar for trucking in Canada! We focus on exceeding expectations and continually improving the quality of everything we do. We invite you to pursue a rewarding career in a results-oriented, people and performance focused culture.
