A LIFE BEHIND THE WHEEL

On International Women's Day, it is an honor to introduce Mihaela, a woman whose story challenges stereotypes and forges paths in the world of transport, a sector traditionally dominated by men. As a trailer truck driver with six years of experience, she works closely with TRANSPORTS PORQUERES, demonstrating her commitment, strength, and professionalism day by day.

Today, Mihaela shares with us her journey, her challenges, and her vision for the future of transportation.

Mihaela, tell us, what led you to work in the transport sector?

"I have always been fascinated by trucks and buses. Although I initially wanted to drive buses, they didn't hire me because I lacked years of experience. So, thanks to the advice of my driving school instructor, I opted for trucks. What I like about driving a truck is the feeling of freedom it gives me."

What have been your biggest challenges? Can you share an anecdote with us?

"I remember once I got stuck in a field, I had to load grain for a farmer and when I went there, they told me I had to climb 2 km uphill and instead of heading towards the main road I went straight up. I ended up stuck there for 2 nights because they were asking for a lot of money and we finally called a tow truck from Lérida, there were even wild boars passing under the truck. That happened two years ago, these experiences make you stronger, when you see that you overcome them, it really reinforces you."

Since you started until now, how has the transport industry changed in terms of inclusion and gender diversity?

"When I started, there were few companies that hired women, one company I submitted my CV to told me that as a woman I was not suitable for their company and when they called me after two years to come, I told them it was their company that wasn't suitable for me. Now I see myself better, there are more companies hiring, men in general help us, although there's always people who, if I try to overtake, they won’t let me because I am a woman..."

Can you describe a typical day at your job? What aspects are most rewarding, and which are more challenging?

"In the morning, I have a cup of coffee while I check where I have to go, where to unload, and then I organize the route, breaks, and schedules.

The loads I like the most are grain because we don't really have an exact loading appointment, and therefore it's easier at an organizational level or in case of an unforeseen event on the road.

In my opinion, iron and metal loads are a bit harder because it is physically more difficult for me to close and open the trailer."

How do your colleagues and clients react to seeing you behind the wheel?

"99% of colleagues and clients welcome me well and there's no problem, we help each other and there's a good vibe. Some clients are surprised and sometimes they even want to take a picture with me or sometimes they ask if we can unload or if they need to help us."

Is there a myth about transportation that you would like to debunk?

"Many people think that trucks are always the ones to blame in accidents. However, that's not the case, we sometimes have to perform complex maneuvers to avoid problems."

Considering the demands of working hours as an international transporter, how do you manage the balance between work and personal life?

"For me, it's not a sacrifice. The fact of getting up early is not a nightmare for me. I think it depends a lot on the individual and the company where you work."

What are the essential qualities for a professional driver?

"It's important to command respect, be responsible, and have a lot of patience. Patience, in particular, I didn't have as much before and that has changed me a lot."

Speaking of TRANSPORTS PORQUERES, how has your experience been working with us?

"I value the organization and the support I receive a lot, and I like that. When there are problems I know I can count on the team to solve them, they call us, they are attentive to us, and they always respond to our calls."

TRANSPORTS PORQUERES operates on key routes throughout Europe. Do you have a favorite route?

"The route to Switzerland, passing through a mountain pass, is my favorite. The landscapes are stunning, I love it, I always make a video to post on Facebook because I really like the landscapes. And of course, the route from Girona to Marseille because it is easy and very well organized thanks to TRANSPORTS PORQUERES. They don't make us wait since they constantly track us!

At TRANSPORTS PORQUERES, customer satisfaction is paramount. How do you contribute to ensuring customers receive the best service?

"Communication is very important, whenever we have a problem when getting to the places, it's important to inform and communicate in time so that clients are warned."

How do you think TRANSPORTS PORQUERES differs from other transport companies?

"I have worked before with other companies, but TRANSPORTS PORQUERES gives a lot of security. Before, if there was a problem, we had to manage on our own. Not now with them!

Looking to the future, is there any project that excites you or in which you would like to actively participate?

"I would like to gather many female truck drivers from the area for a meal or a dinner where we are only drivers to share experiences on International Women's Day."

Wow, what a great initiative. We take note of it and see if we can make it a reality next year.

To wrap up, what advice would you give to logistics and transport companies to promote inclusion and diversity?

"Women are organized and take great care of the truck. I strongly recommend hiring women to drive your trailers."

Finally, as a woman in transportation, what message would you like to share with other women interested in this field?

"If you have this dream, act so that it becomes a reality. Don't let prejudices stop you. As a woman, it has changed my life, I am much stronger!"

Mihaela is an example of determination and change in the industry of transport. Through her words, she invites us to reflect on inclusion, diversity, and the power of individual change. Her story reminds us that, beyond the challenges, there is room for growth, solidarity, and shared success.

Mihaela, we deeply thank you for sharing your experience with us, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of transportation and the female strength that drives it. Your journey not only moves loads across roads and landscapes but also ideas and preconceptions towards new horizons.