A new association dedicated to connecting, supporting and championing women across the road transport industry in the UK and Ireland will officially launch with a firewalk event in Coventry on Friday 27 November 2026.
The Women’s Association of Trucking UK & Ireland (WATUKI) has been founded by Claire McKinlay and Laura Muir, with the aim of building a supportive and inclusive community for women working across all areas of the transport and logistics sector.
Recognising the important contributions women make throughout the industry, the association welcomes professional HGV drivers, transport managers, fleet operators, business owners, logistics professionals and women working in administrative, planning and management roles.
Under the message “Connecting & Championing Women in Trucking”, the association aims to provide a platform where women can share experiences, celebrate achievements, access professional development opportunities and contribute to positive change within the industry.
Supporting Women Across the Industry
The association’s objectives include:
Networking and community: Creating opportunities for women across the UK and Ireland to connect, share experiences and build supportive professional relationships.
Mentorship: Supporting women entering the industry while providing opportunities for experienced professionals to share their knowledge.
Education and development: Providing access to industry webinars, training resources and professional development opportunities.
Career advancement: Helping women explore opportunities and progress their careers throughout the transport and logistics sector.
Industry advocacy: Promoting inclusion, increasing the visibility of women in transport and ensuring their experiences and perspectives are heard.
Membership is open to women at every stage of their careers, from those considering entering the industry to experienced professional drivers, managers, and business owners.
Official Launch and Firewalk
To celebrate its official launch, the Women’s Association of Trucking UK & Ireland is inviting women from across the industry to participate in a firewalk event at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre, Coventry, on Friday 27 November 2026.
The firewalk represents an opportunity for participants to challenge themselves, build confidence and celebrate the courage and determination of women working within the transport industry.
The evening will also provide an opportunity for attendees to meet the association’s founders, connect with other women working in transport and learn more about the organisation’s objectives and future initiatives.
Donations will be collected during the event in support of a local women’s shelter, reflecting the association’s wider commitment to supporting and empowering women.
The event is sponsored by Heart of England Events & Conferencing.
Event Details
- Every key deadline: diesel rebate, fuel excise, carbon tax
- Tick-box checklist for tacho, CVRT, CPC & operator licence
- Where drivers get caught at RSA roadside checks
Date: Friday 27 November 2026
Time: 6.30pm – 11.30pm
Venue: Heart of England Conference and Events Centre, Meriden Road, Fillongley, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV7 8DX
Tickets: £50 per person
Booking: https://www.zeffy.com/en-GB/ticketing/launch-and-firewalk
Tea and coffee will be provided, and accommodation, restaurant and bar facilities are available on site.
Attendees joining the association on the evening will receive a 10% membership discount.
The Women’s Association of Trucking UK & Ireland welcomes women from across the sector to attend the event and become part of a growing community committed to supporting, connecting and championing women in transport.
