When you think of the reality TV show Shipping Wars, one name that stands out is Jessica Samko. Known for her bold personality, her massive Volvo 780 truck, and her unmatched driving skills, Jessica became a fan favorite on the show. But what happened to her after the cameras stopped rolling? Is she still driving trucks? What’s she up to now in 2025? In this article, we’ll uncover the journey of Jessica Samko — from her rise to TV fame to the quiet, fulfilling life she’s leading today.
Jessica Samko Quick Bio
| Full Name | Jessica Samko |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 1, 1982 |
| Birthplace | Amsterdam, New York |
| Occupation | Professional Truck Driver, Business Owner |
| TV Show | Shipping Wars (2014-2015) |
| Company | JMS Transport LLC |
| Marital Status | Divorced (as of 2022) |
| Pets | Two Dogs: Oogie and Wilson |
Who Is Jessica Samko?
Jessica Samko is best known for her role on Shipping Wars, where she became one of the standout stars. Known for her fearless attitude and her skill behind the wheel of a massive semi-truck, Jessica earned the nickname “The Road Warrior.” She quickly rose to fame as one of the few women on the show, proving that women could excel in a traditionally male-dominated field. But Jessica’s life is much more than just a reality TV stint. From her early life to her current entrepreneurial endeavors, Jessica has created a fulfilling, independent life on her own terms.
Jessica Samko’s Early Life and Family
Born in Amsterdam, New York, on June 1, 1982, Jessica was raised in a modest family. She has a brother, Matthew, who was also a trucker at one point. Jessica doesn’t share much about her father and prefers to keep her family life private. Growing up, she was always fascinated by travel. Although she once dreamed of working on cruise ships to see the world, her life took a different turn when she was introduced to the world of trucking.
Her journey into trucking began through a personal relationship. At the time, she was involved with a truck driver, which sparked her interest in life on the road. This curiosity eventually led her to a job at DMS, a trucking company owned by her then-boyfriend. Despite the challenges she faced at the beginning, Jessica found a sense of freedom and excitement on the road that she would later turn into a thriving career.
How Jessica Samko Got Into Trucking
Jessica’s entry into trucking wasn’t part of her original plan, but it quickly became her passion. After learning about trucking from her boyfriend, Jessica decided to dive into the world of freight and logistics. She started working in Newark, New Jersey, moving containers at a busy port. It wasn’t easy at first, but Jessica quickly found herself hooked on the independence and adventure that trucking provided.
Eventually, Jessica’s skills behind the wheel and her growing love for the job led her to bigger opportunities, including joining the cast of Shipping Wars.
Jessica Samko’s Rise to Fame on Shipping Wars
In 2014, Jessica Samko made her debut on Shipping Wars, joining the cast in Season 6. The show, which followed truckers who transported unusual items, gave Jessica a platform to showcase her driving skills, tough attitude, and unique personality.
She drove a Volvo 780 semi-truck, one of the largest trucks on the show, and often handled the heaviest loads. Fans loved her no-nonsense approach to trucking, and she quickly became a fan favorite for her boldness and wit. Over the course of Seasons 6 and 7, Jessica appeared in 38 episodes, earning the admiration of viewers for her ability to navigate tight spots and handle jobs that other truckers would shy away from.
What Made Jessica Samko So Popular on the Show?
Jessica Samko didn’t just fit the typical image of a trucker. She stood out with her unique personality, her strong attitude, and her laid-back yet cool style. She wore ripped jeans, Chuck Taylors, and had a rock-and-roll vibe that resonated with fans. But it was her skills on the road that truly set her apart.
She didn’t try to be someone she wasn’t. On-screen, she was confident, sometimes sarcastic, and always ready to take on a challenge. Fans loved that she was a woman in a male-dominated industry, and they admired her work ethic and determination.
Jessica Samko’s Life After Shipping Wars
After Shipping Wars ended in 2015, Jessica Samko quietly stepped away from the spotlight. But she didn’t step away from trucking. Instead, she took a bold step forward by starting her own business.
In 2016, Jessica launched JMS Transport LLC, a one-person trucking company. Despite her reality TV fame, Jessica didn’t chase more celebrity status. Instead, she focused on what she loved — driving trucks and running her own business. She still drives the same Volvo 780 truck that made her famous on TV, and she handles all the logistics for her business on her own.
Today, she’s based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where she continues to drive across the country, taking on long-haul deliveries and enjoying the freedom that comes with being an independent business owner.
JMS Transport LLC: Jessica Samko’s Trucking Business
Running her own trucking company has given Jessica the flexibility and freedom she always wanted. Initially, she didn’t own her own truck, so she leased a vehicle through Landstar, a company she had worked with before. However, after saving enough money, Jessica purchased her own truck — the same Volvo 780 she’s known for.
She now handles long-distance hauls, from New York to California and beyond. As the sole employee of JMS Transport, Jessica makes her own schedule, picks her own jobs, and drives solo, handling everything herself.
Jessica Samko’s Personal Life and Relationships
During her time on Shipping Wars, Jessica was married to fellow truck driver Derek Smith, the owner of DMS Freight. However, by 2022, Jessica revealed that she was happily single and had divorced Derek. She hasn’t publicly discussed the reasons for the split but has expressed that she’s content and not in a hurry to remarry.
These days, Jessica enjoys a quiet life, focusing on her trucking business, spending time with her family, and caring for her two dogs, Oogie and Wilson. Her love for animals is evident, and her pets are often her traveling companions on the road.
Jessica Samko in 2025: What’s Next for the Road Warrior?
As of 2025, Jessica Samko continues to live life on her terms. She’s no longer chasing fame, preferring instead to work independently and focus on what matters most to her. Whether she’s driving her truck across the country or enjoying quiet time with her pets, Jessica’s life remains a testament to the strength and independence that made her a TV favorite.
Conclusion
Jessica Samko’s journey from reality TV star to successful business owner is one of grit, determination, and personal growth. Whether on Shipping Wars or behind the wheel of her Volvo 780, Jessica has always remained true to herself.
In 2025, she may not be in the spotlight, but her legacy as “The Road Warrior” continues to inspire. Through her trucking business, JMS Transport, and her quiet, independent life, Jessica has shown that it’s possible to carve out your own path — even in a world that often demands conformity.
Her story is a reminder that success doesn’t have to be loud or flashy. Sometimes, the most powerful success is found in the simple act of doing what you love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Jessica Samko still married?
No, Jessica Samko is divorced from Derek Smith. She is currently single and has expressed that she’s not in a hurry to remarry.
2. Does Jessica Samko have social media?
Jessica Samko is not active on social media. She prefers to live a private life away from the spotlight.
3. How old is Jessica Samko now?
Jessica Samko was born on June 1, 1982, making her 43 years old in 2025.
4. Where is Jessica Samko now?
Jessica Samko lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and runs her own trucking company, JMS Transport LLC. She continues to work independently, driving across the country.
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