Trucking publication names 10 Most Beautiful women truckers

TUSCALOOSA, Ala., June 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes to choosing a career, truck driving doesn't top the list for many women. In fact, women represent less than 7 percent of the nation's 3 million truck drivers. That's unfortunate, says Maggie Stone, a finalist in Overdrive's Most Beautiful contest. "It can be hard, but you get to see the country and meet new people every day," says Stone, who owns and operates Missfit Trucking and has been driving for 21 years.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130604/CL26026 )

Stone is one of 71 women nominated for the contest. Nominees each hold a Commercial Driver License, drive full time and haul freight ranging from hogs to logs, from bees to tees. They represent diverse ages and appearance, but share a passion for trucks, trucking and the lure of the open road.

"Trucking often has a negative image with the driving public," says Carolyn Mason, an Overdrive contributor who organized the contest. "We wanted to show that behind the wheel of that big rig you just passed on the highway might be someone who could be your mom, your sister or your best friend. We also wanted to show that trucking can be a good career choice for women with a sense of adventure."

And truck drivers are in demand. Analysts estimate the industry is short 140,000 drivers. By the end of next year, that shortage could rise to 240,000 due to regulatory changes and an improving economy.

Throughout April more than 12,000 people visited Overdrive's website to vote on the nominees, narrowing them to 10 finalists. On June 1, voting reopened to narrow the field to three finalists, chosen by popular vote and an editorial committee. Those three ladies will head to the Great American Trucking Show in Dallas, Texas, Aug. 22-24, 2013, where they will receive makeovers prior to having their photos taken with customized trucks competing in Overdrive's Pride & Polish contest. The winner will grace the cover of Overdrive, a 52-year-old magazine for over-the-road truckers who own and operate their own trucks.

For more information about the program or to speak with a finalist, contact Carolyn Mason at (205) 248-1429 or [email protected].

SOURCE Overdrive