PLOVER, Wis. — Women in Trucking, an organization that encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, has signed its 1,000th member just a year after being formed.

“Our rapid growth confirms what we’ve known all along,” said Ellen Voie, WIT chairwoman, “that an association like this was long overdue. With a very active board combined with enthusiastic members we firmly believe we can make a difference in the trucking industry. One of our goals when we started WIT a year ago was to have 1,000 members before the end of our first year. We’ve met that goal, and now we hope to double again within the next six months.”

The group provides a platform to voice the successes and struggles of women in the trucking industry. It promotes female-friendly work places in the industry and attempts to break down barriers to entry for women.

“Although encouraging women to consider careers in the trucking industry is one role of WIT,” explained Voie, “it’s not our only focus. We believe that providing a greater understanding of the special challenges that women face on the road, under the hood or behind the desk will only serve to better the industry.”

Members of WIT include 80 corporations, 203 drivers, 133 non-driving individuals and 56 students. Nearly 20% of members are men, Voie said.

For information on the group, visit www.womenintrucking.org.