Do you remember Jessica Samko from Shipping Wars? She was one of the boldest drivers on the show. With her big Volvo truck, fearless attitude, and cool rock style, she quickly became a fan favorite. People called her The Road Warrior — and for good reason.
But when the show ended, Jessica slowly disappeared from the spotlight. Fans started asking: Where is Jessica now? Is she still driving? What is her life like today?
In this article, we’ll share everything about Jessica Samko’s journey — from her early life and TV fame to her quiet life on the road in 2026. Let’s take a look at what really happened after the cameras stopped rolling.
Jessica Samko Quick Bio
| Full Name | Jessica Samko |
| Nickname | The Road Warrior |
| Date of Birth | June 1, 1982 |
| Age (2026) | 44 years old |
| Birthplace | Amsterdam, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Residence | Allentown, Pennsylvania |
| Height | 5’6″ (172 cm) |
| Weight | 132 lbs (60 kg) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Ex-Husband | Derek Smith |
| Profession | Truck Driver, TV Personality |
| Known For | Shipping Wars (A&E TV Show) |
| Company | JMS Transport LLC |
| Pets | Two dogs – Oogie and Wilson |
| Net Worth (2026) | Around $500,000 |
| Social Media | Not active |
Who Is Jessica Samko?
Jessica Samko is a real truck driver who became famous through a TV show. She’s not an actress or someone chasing fame. She’s a woman who truly loves the open road.
She got national attention when she joined the A&E reality show Shipping Wars. Her strong voice, cool clothes, and big truck made her stand out. But what really made fans love her was her realness. She didn’t pretend. She worked hard, took risks, and showed that women can handle tough jobs too.
Even after the show ended, Jessica stayed true to herself. She didn’t run after the spotlight. Instead, she kept doing what she loves most — trucking.
Jessica Samko on Shipping Wars
Jessica joined Shipping Wars in Season 6, back in 2014. The show followed independent truckers who competed to deliver big, strange, or hard-to-move items. It wasn’t just about trucks — it was about grit, fast thinking, and personality.
Jessica drove a Volvo 780 Class 8 semi-truck, which was bigger and heavier than most other trucks on the show. That alone made her stand out. But it was her fearless attitude and smart decisions under pressure that made her unforgettable.
She appeared in 38 episodes over two seasons. She didn’t just move loads — she entertained. Her sharp comments, confidence, and cool style made fans want more. Even though the show ended in 2015, Jessica is still one of the most loved cast members today.
Jessica Samko’s Life Before Shipping Wars
Jessica was born on June 1, 1982, in Amsterdam, New York. She grew up in a regular American town, raised by her mother, Christina Buczkowski, and stepfather Kevin Buczkowski. She also has a brother, Matthew, who was once a trucker too but now works in real estate.
As a child, Jessica dreamed of working on cruise ships so she could travel the world. She never thought she’d become a truck driver. But life had other plans — and it turned out even better.
She always loved exploring and being on the move. That love for travel stayed with her — and later became a big part of her trucking journey.
How Jessica Started Trucking
Jessica’s road to trucking started through a relationship. She once dated a truck driver who complained that the job was boring. Instead of agreeing, Jessica became curious. She wondered what it would be like to drive a big rig across the country.
That curiosity quickly turned into passion. Jessica got a job with DMS, a company owned by her then-boyfriend (later husband) Derek Smith. She drove containers in and out of the busy Port Newark in New Jersey.
It was hard work at first. But the more she drove, the more she loved it. The quiet roads, the freedom, and the challenge — they all pulled her in. And from that moment, Jessica knew trucking was the life for her.
What Made Jessica Samko a Fan Favorite?
Jessica wasn’t just another driver on Shipping Wars. She had something special.
She spoke her mind. She didn’t act fake for the cameras. She wore ripped jeans, Chuck Taylors, and had a cool rock-and-roll vibe. Fans saw her as strong, real, and a little different — and they loved her for it.
She was also one of the few women on the show. In a world mostly filled with male drivers, Jessica showed that women could be just as tough, skilled, and smart.
People connected with her because she was both strong and down-to-earth. She didn’t need to prove anything — she just showed up, did the work, and stayed true to who she was.
Why Shipping Wars Ended and What Came Next
After two exciting seasons with Jessica, Shipping Wars ended in April 2015. The show had passed its 100th episode, and A&E decided to close it down for a while.
Some cast members tried to stay in the spotlight. But Jessica chose a different path. She stepped away from TV and focused on her real passion — trucking.
She didn’t try to join other reality shows or start a YouTube channel. Instead, she kept driving, building her future one mile at a time.
Jessica Samko’s Trucking Company, JMS Transport LLC
After Shipping Wars, Jessica took a big step. She started her own trucking business called JMS Transport LLC.
At first, she didn’t have her own truck. So, she leased one through Landstar, a transport company she had worked with before. She took long-haul jobs across the country, from New York to California and back again.
Later, she saved up and bought her own Volvo 780 — the same kind of truck fans saw on the show. She now runs her business all by herself, driving solo from coast to coast and managing every part of the work.
She lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where she runs her company and enjoys a more peaceful, private life.
Is Jessica Samko Still Married?
During her time on Shipping Wars, Jessica Samko was married to Derek Smith — a fellow truck driver and owner of DMS Freight. They shared a passion for trucking, and their bond seemed strong.
But by 2022, Jessica revealed that she was no longer married. She didn’t share many details about the breakup, and that’s okay. Jessica is a very private person when it comes to her personal life.
Now in 2026, she says she’s happily single. She enjoys her independence, her work, and her quiet time. She’s focused on her dogs, her business, and the life she built on the road. Jessica says she doesn’t feel the need to rush into another relationship — and she’s never been more at peace.
Jessica Samko’s Love for Dogs and Animals
One thing Jessica talks about often is her deep love for animals. She has two adorable dogs named Oogie and Wilson. They travel with her in the truck, keeping her company on those long, lonely drives.
Her dogs are more than pets — they are her roadside family. They sleep in the cab, ride across states, and even eat snacks with her. She says having them with her makes her job feel less lonely and a lot more fun.
But being an animal lover on the road isn’t always easy. Jessica has shared that seeing stray animals, or animals hit by cars, really breaks her heart. She said she wasn’t ready for how painful it would be to witness that. Still, she does her best to stay strong — for her dogs, and for the animals she cares about.
Jessica Samko’s Real Personality Off-Screen
On TV, Jessica Samko came across as tough, loud, and even a bit harsh. She had no problem speaking her mind and going head-to-head with anyone.
But off-camera, she says she’s very different. In real life, Jessica describes herself as goofy, friendly, and pretty chill. She laughs a lot, jokes with her friends, and enjoys simple, peaceful moments. She even says she’s “not nearly as serious” as she looked on the show.
The truth is, the cameras sometimes made her seem harder than she really is. That’s something fans don’t always see. But those who know Jessica in real life say she’s kind, fun, and super easy to talk to.
Jessica Samko’s Hobbies and Favorite Things
When she’s not on the road, Jessica enjoys a few simple things. She loves rock and metal music, and she tries to go to live concerts whenever she can. The loud music and energy make her feel alive.
She once joked that she doesn’t look like she fits in at concerts. She said, “Most people there have mohawks or tattoos. I just wear my old jeans and sneakers!” But she still goes — because she enjoys it.
Jessica also likes classic cars and motorcycles. She’s not into fancy fashion. Her favorite outfit? Ripped jeans, Chuck Taylors, and a simple t-shirt. She doesn’t care about trends — she wears what makes her feel comfortable. That’s what fans love about her: she’s always 100% real.
And here’s a fun fact: back in 2013, Jessica was a finalist in Overdrive’s “Most Beautiful” trucker contest. Her fiancé entered her into the contest without even telling her. That’s how humble she is — she never thought of herself that way.
What Is Jessica Samko Doing Now in 2026?
As of 2026, Jessica Samko is still living life her own way. She runs her trucking company, JMS Transport LLC, all by herself. She still drives her Volvo 780, taking long-haul jobs across the U.S., often with Oogie and Wilson in the passenger seat.
She’s based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, but she’s always moving. Jessica spends most of her time either behind the wheel or taking short breaks in quiet places.
She’s not active on social media, and she rarely gives interviews. Jessica prefers peace over fame. She’s said before that she loves the quiet of the road — just her, her dogs, and the open highway.
And even though she’s not on TV anymore, her story still inspires a lot of people — especially young women who want to do things differently and follow their own path.
Final Thoughts
Jessica Samko proved something important: you don’t have to be loud or flashy to be strong. You just have to be true to yourself, do your job well, and keep going — even when things get hard.
From Shipping Wars to running her own trucking business, Jessica’s journey is about grit, freedom, and heart. She showed the world that a woman in a truck can be just as tough, just as skilled, and just as successful as anyone else.
Even now, in 2026, she’s still rolling forward — mile by mile, with her dogs by her side, and a peaceful smile on her face.
Whether you remember her as The Road Warrior or admire her quiet strength today, one thing is clear:
Jessica Samko is still on the road — and she’s still driving her own story.
(FAQs)
How old is Jessica Samko now?
Jessica Samko was born on June 1, 1982. She is 44 years old in 2026, even though she still looks young!
Is Jessica Samko single now?
Jessica is happily single. She got divorced and now enjoys her quiet life alone.
What is Jessica Samko’s net worth?
Jessica has around $500,000 in 2026. She earned it through trucking and her own company.
Who was Jessica Samko’s husband?
Her ex-husband was Derek Smith, a truck driver like her. They are no longer together.
Where does Jessica Samko live now?
Jessica lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania. She runs her trucking business and still drives across the country.
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