Lena Evers tells us about her first year as a trucker

– Lena Evers, professional driver in training and heavy metal fan

Do you get the feeling that many people still think driving trucks is a job for men?

Lena Evers: I don't see it that way. That said, when my 20.75 metre long truck loaded with eight prestige cars rolls onto a company's yard somewhere, people often look a little surprised to see me climbing out of the cab. I always find that quick amusing.

So it's been a year that you're in training and six months since you started driving long-distance haulage. Has anything changed for you?

Lena Evers: I've become more open-minded. I can start a conversation with people I don't know much more easily now. After all, if you don't ask, you don't get. On parking areas or works yards, communication is the be all and end all.

What is it you like most about this job?

Lena Evers: I have much more freedom than in other jobs and can decide a lot of things myself here.

How did you get into this line of work?

Lena Evers: My Dad's a trucker. And my Mom also has a truck driver's licence. She was curious to see what it was like. And I just always knew it could be an option for me.

During the week, you're often on the road on your own. Is that a little bit strange?

Lena Evers: Well, you're never really totally alone. Us haulage drivers have all exchanged phone numbers with our colleagues. And so we often chat to one another. For example if I want to know where the best place to park at night is. Plus I always call my boyfriend of an evening.

What music do you listen to in the cab?

Lena Evers: I love metal. Next year I want to go to Wacken again!

Photos: Kristian Barthen