Meet the Monster Truck-Driving ER Nurse!

In a career as demanding as emergency nursing, finding time to follow a passion can seem like an impossible feat. Yet, Rebecca Schnell, a 34-year-old ER nurse, has done just that, making waves both in healthcare and the adrenaline-charged world of monster truck racing. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, she talked about balancing the two worlds and her journey into monster truck driving. 

Rebecca Schnell, ER Nurse and Monster Truck Driver

Schnell balances a high-pressure career as an emergency room nurse with her life as a professional monster truck driver. Her journey into motorsports began serendipitously in 2009, when she attended a monster truck show and met her future husband, Darron Schnell, a BIGFOOT racing driver. Fast forward a decade, and Rebecca herself took the driver’s seat, becoming one of the few women in this male-dominated industry.

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A Dual Career of Saving Lives and Thrilling Fans

Rebecca’s day job involves treating life-threatening conditions and providing critical care to patients in the ER. Outside the hospital, she brings joy and excitement to fans on the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Tour. Her transition from nurse to racer came after advocating for a seat designed specifically for a woman driver, enabling her to make her debut behind the wheel in 2019.

On the Road for 40 Weeks a Year

Schnell spends approximately 40 weeks annually traveling across the United States and beyond for monster truck events. Despite the challenges of being away from home for extended periods, she cherishes the opportunity to connect with fans, particularly young girls who see her as a role model.

Paving the Way for Women in Motorsports

As one of the few female drivers in monster truck racing, Schnell sees herself as a trailblazer. She is committed to breaking stereotypes and inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in motorsports—and beyond. For Schnell, her dual roles embody a larger message: women are capable of excelling in any field they choose.

Rebecca credits much of her success to the support of her husband, her team, and her own perseverance. Balancing two demanding careers isn’t easy, but Schnell’s passion for both nursing and motorsports keeps her motivated. She takes pride in showing that women can thrive in high-intensity environments, whether in a hospital or an arena filled with roaring fans.

Rebecca Schnell’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of following one’s passions. By excelling both as an ER nurse and a monster truck driver, she not only breaks barriers but also inspires countless others to pursue their dreams. Her message is clear: women can and will thrive in any arena they choose, whether it’s saving lives in the ER or captivating audiences in a monster truck stadium.