The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Jessica Olsen as its October 2022 Member of the Month. Olsen is a professional driver for SRS Distribution.
Olsen was introduced to the world of trucking when she worked as a truck stop waitress. She wondered if a professional driving career would be a good fit and regularly questioned drivers coming through about their careers and what it takes to be successful in the transportation industry. However, after becoming a single mother, she had to pause her efforts to follow this career path.
Like many restaurant workers in 2020, Olsen was laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With continued encouragement from her customers, she used the stimulus money she received to go to a trucking school and obtained her CDL.
Open to embracing new experiences, she looked for opportunities in her area that would give her experience behind the wheel. She accepted a position at ABC Supply driving a boom truck. While at the company, she also learned how to operate a crane and became National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) certified.
“I stumbled upon crane operation simply because my previous employer was at the top of an alphabetical list,” said Olsen. “I had no idea what I was getting into or how much fun I would end up having. Operating a crane is like stepping into the shoes of a much larger and more powerful being and each job site is a puzzle to solve. I truly enjoy going to work every day and 18 months later, that magic still hasn’t worn off.”
In May of 2022, Olsen began her career at SRS Distribution as a professional driver and Logistics Specialist II boom driver and operator. She is known for consistently delivering materials in a safe and efficient manner. Additionally, she has built a reputation within her company for having a positive attitude and many of her coworkers say she is a pleasure to work with.
Olsen encourages other women to pursue a career in the industry and to not get discouraged. “Don’t be afraid to go after an intimidating specialty and always be confident in your own abilities.”
