Lorsqu'Isabel s'est tournée pour la première fois vers le secteur du camionnage, elle n'aurait jamais imaginé à quel point ce voyage allait façonner sa vie. Issue d'une famille d'avocats, de juges et de médecins, sa décision de poursuivre une carrière dans les transports était étonnante. Mais Isabel savait que sa vocation n'était pas dans les bureaux ou les salles d'audience juridique, mais sur la route. Pourtant, chaque tournant l'a préparée au rôle qu'elle occupe aujourd'hui avec fierté au sein du Groupe Erb en tant que formatrice de chauffeurs et mentor de la prochaine génération de professionnels du camionnage Cheminement et Inspiration [caption id="attachment_4004" align="alignright" width="395"] Driver Trainer Isabel, with one of her first trucks in Peterbilt, London, ON.[/caption] Isabel’s journey began in 1988 when she earned her AZ license and began driving with her friend as a team. Over time, Isabel transitioned to solo driving, eventually running her own trucking business. “Owning my own business was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” Isabel recalls. “But it made me the strong person I am today.” After selling her trucks in 2007, Isabel joined The Erb Group as a straight truck driver, focusing on local deliveries. Missing the longer hauls, she later left to pursue her passion for highway driving once more. By 2018, Isabel’s journey took another turn as she returned to The Erb Group, stepping into the role of a Night Switch Driver. Then, in 2021, she discovered her true calling as a Driver Trainer. However, this transition wasn’t just a career change but a way to balance her dedication to the industry while being able to stay connected to her family. “I’ve faced a lot of challenges over the years, but every experience taught me something valuable,” Isabel says. “Now, I can use those lessons to do what I love while helping others to succeed, all from one place.” Compétences et stratégies En tant que formatrice de chauffeurs, Isabel apporte à son rôle une grande expérience et une passion pour le contact avec les autres. Sa philosophie du mentorat est ancrée dans le pouvoir de l'écoute et la promotion d'un sens de la communauté et de la compréhension. Qu'il s'agisse de raconter une anecdote de voyage ou de donner des conseils pratiques, Isabel s'efforce de créer un environnement chaleureux et accueillant. “I always say thank you to the drivers I meet for their hard work and diligence. A simple acknowledgment can make a big difference,” she notes. For Isabel, the most rewarding moments come from seeing her trainees succeed. Whether it’s their first safe highway run or their growing confidence behind the wheel, each milestone reinforces her commitment to mentorship. Her office is often described as a reflection of her journey—decorated with photos of her travels and magnets from places she’s visited. Each one tells a story, sparking conversations that build trust and camaraderie with her trainees. Isabel also uses her own experience to inspire confidence in others, especially women entering the field. She proudly champions the vast opportunities within the trucking industry, encouraging women to embrace their potential.

« En repensant à mon parcours et à ma position actuelle, je suis fière de dire que je suis heureuse d'être appelée conductrice de camion », déclare-t-elle.

L'un des moments dont elle est le plus fière est celui où elle a reçu, lors de la soirée de l'excellence Erb,le prix « Vivre selon nos valeurs »,qui récompense son engagement inébranlable en faveur de l'excellence et sa présence en tant qu'élément important à notre équipe. Pour Isabel, il ne s'agissait pas seulement de la reconnaissance, mais aussi des relations qu'elle avait nouées en cours de route. Perspectives personnelles et futures Isabel knows firsthand the challenges women face in a traditionally male-dominated field. But she also knows the rewards. “This industry isn’t easy, but it’s worth it,” she says. As one of the female Driver Trainers at The Erb Group, Isabel is setting a powerful example for others to follow. She envisions a future where more women take the driver’s seat—not just on the road but in leadership roles across the industry. “Women bring so much to the table—communication, adaptability, and a unique perspective. We need to create spaces where they feel safe and supported,” she noted. At The Erb Group, we celebrate team members like Isabel, who embody the spirit of l'esprit de résilience et de mentorat qui définit notre entreprise for 65 years. Her journey reminds us that investing in great people creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond our organization. “I’m committed to making a positive impact,” Isabel says. “Every driver has a story, and I’m here to help them write theirs.” Isabel’s ability to collaborate, empathize, and empower others has been instrumental in her success as a mentor and leader. These qualities, combined with her technical expertise, make her an invaluable asset to Erb’s training program and an inspiration to the next generation of trucking professionals. Learn more about the incredible women driving change throughout The Erb Group here:

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