Rolling with the Best: 2025 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel Recap

If there’s one thing we know about women in trucking, it’s that they don’t just keep the wheels turning—they set the road on fire! The 14th annual Salute to Women Behind the Wheel at the 2025 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) was a celebration of grit, grace, and good old-fashioned horsepower. With close to 250 guests, including nearly 125 female CDL holders, the celebration this year was one for the books.  

Women In Trucking (WIT) once again pulled out all the stops, bringing together female truckers from across the country to recognize their hard work, resilience, and road-warrior spirit. The event was a sea of red shirts—a proud tradition at the Salute—worn by the incredible women who keep America moving every single day. 

The highlights?

• An exclusive energizing yoga session designed specifically for truckers led by Hope Zvara of Mother Trucker Yoga. She taught special techniques to stay healthy and flexible on the road.
• Special performance of the National Anthem by national recording country artist Lindsay Lawler whose music celebrates the spirit and resilience of truck drivers everywhere. 
• Kathy Blaies, a professional carhauler with more than one million safe miles, named 2025 Driver of the Year! Talk about a rock star. Not only does she navigate the highways like a pro, but she also mentors up-and-coming drivers, proving that success is best when shared. 

Beyond the awards and well-deserved recognition, the event was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and of course, plenty of photo ops. Whether swapping stories from the road, catching up with old friends, or checking out sponsors and exhibitors, every moment was a reminder that women in trucking aren’t just part of the industry—they’re shaping its future. 

As the Salute wrapped up, one thing was clear: the women behind the wheel aren’t slowing down anytime soon. If anything, they’re just getting started.

So, here’s to the ladies of the highway—keep on truckin’! 

See you next year! Mark your calendar: Friday, March 27, 2026 at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, KY.