Women in Trucking: Andrea Prohl and Kelsey Templeton are Driving Change

In an industry long dominated by men, women are steadily carving out their place behind the wheel and doing it with excellence. At Total Distribution, Inc., two standout drivers are proving that safety, skill, and heart know no gender. Meet Andrea Prohl of Jacksonville, Florida and Kelsey Templeton of Greer, South Carolina: two phenomenal women whose dedication and performance are setting the pace for the future of trucking.

Andrea Prohl: A Veteran of the Road

Andrea Prohl’s journey began more than 25 years ago with a simple ride-along that sparked a lifelong passion. What started as curiosity quickly turned into a career, and today Andrea is an owner-operator leased to Total Distribution, Inc., through the Grimes acquisition. Since joining the company in 2002, she has driven across the country, embracing the freedom, flexibility, and beauty of life on the road.

Her Stats Speak Volumes

  • Samsara Safety Score: 100% (2022-2023), 99% (2023-2025)
  • Miles Driven: Over 135,000 in three years
  • DOT Inspections: 4 clean inspections, zero FMCSA violations
  • Top Driver Recognition: Ranked 5th companywide in August 2025

Andrea’s record is spotless, her professionalism unmatched. Whether she is navigating mountain passes or relaxing with a jigsaw puzzle at camp, Andrea brings precision and pride to everything she does.

Kelsey Templeton: A Rising Star with Heart

Kelsey Templeton made a bold career pivot from healthcare to trucking in 2021 and she has not looked back. Drawn by the adventure and the chance to meet new people, Kelsey quickly became known for her punctuality, team spirit, and eagle-eyed attention to detail. From finding her hidden tags to obeying every speed limit, she is the kind of driver you want on your team.

Her Performance is Stellar

  • Samsara Safety Score: 99% (2024-2025), 100% (2025)
  • Miles Driven: Over 53,000 in under two years
  • Top Driver Recognition: Ranked in the top five six times, 2024-2025

Kelsey joined TDI through the Swafford acquisition in early 2024, and she has been making waves ever since. She is a Carolina Gamecocks fan, a dog mom to Willow, and according to company lore, the undisputed queen of Buffalo Chicken Dip.

Technology and Transparency: Leveling the Road Ahead

As the trucking industry evolves, technology is helping women thrive. Tools like Samsara’s telematics and driver scoring systems offer unbiased, data-driven insights into performance. That means drivers like Andrea and Kelsey are recognized not for tenure or assumptions but for how they drive.

These innovations promote fairness, accountability, and respect, creating a safer and more inclusive space for women in trucking. When paired with cultural progress and advocacy, they help rewrite the narrative of who belongs behind the wheel.

Andrea and Kelsey are not just driving trucks— they are driving change. Their stories remind us that excellence isn’t about gender, it is about grit, grace, and getting the job done right. Let’s celebrate these trailblazers and keep pushing for a future where every driver is valued, respected, and empowered.