Profile For Nicholas B.

When I say I can drive I in no way mean I'm a pro. I meant that that is the least of my concerns.

Ok guys. Secured my Illinois CDL. Fully endorsed. Got a pretty good feeling I'm going to start at this local steel company doing flatbed locally. Generally small area of coverage. Training should begin Next week. I can drive so not worried about that. They're going to train me on the lifts and the load securcement. My only concern is that they are a union shop. I dont need personal opinions to the union. I just want some company drivers who are union to give me some pointers for my 90 day probationary period. My dad's a Teamster and so were both of my grandfathers. Anyone from Chicago or Illinois, your input would be especially appreciated.

Thanks guys. Looking forward to the career.

Are you 100% sure I can't get hazmat? I think I can I saw no mention of agg. battery as a disqualifier. Same as TWIC. I did time.

Only one way to find out - APPLY...

I did not see agg battery as a disqualifying offense for TWIC/HM either. You will have to disclose the conviction. Make sure you have all your court papers and release documents.

Are you on any type of parole or probation? Restricted movements, or having to report may also be a hindrance.

Rick

I am completely done with all terms of my sentence

Are you 100% sure I can't get hazmat? I think I can I saw no mention of agg. battery as a disqualifier. Same as TWIC. I did time.

I received a grant for a cdl school, and figured it a good move. However, I do have a felony conviction. It was for an aggravated battery. This was about 3 years ago. I am about to get my license and have discussed with my instructor . He's been very helpful and is confident he has a small company contact that can help. But I would like more than one option. Also please spare me the "shouldn't have done it" . A drunk marine hit my girlfriend while I was sober and I defended myself and her. I couldn't afford proper legal representation so I got the shaft, so to speak. I live in Illinois for the record. I have seen a lot of threads relating to this, but have no solid answers. Ps. My driving record is spotless.

My question is, is there any way I can better prepare myself for a cdl course. I am starting Monday. Have my permit. Have my DOT medical. suggestions?

I had an aggravated battery charge in 2012 that resulted in prison time. 21 months served. Anyway, I won't go into details about how terrible our justice system is.. however, I do know this will present challenges. I am in the home stretch of obtaining my grant...I have my permit. I am supposed to start school January 26th. I know a couple people with a record but they ended up landing good jobs..and stayed local. My driving record is PERFECT. I'm 26 and have had my license for 10 years.

Looking for some direction in regards to good companies to go through and any pointers on disclosing too much information before being hired. The community college I'm going to attend is very helpful and works with many reputable recruiters. I'm in Illinois. West suburbs of Chicago.

Looking to move forward and do something positive. Thanks guys.

Thanks for the help guys, I'll keep you posted on everything . I'm going to check out the links as well.

I'm about to start a CDL program at a local community college. I've been told by plenty of people in the industry that passing the pre trip inspection is the hardest part of the test to pass. Any suggestions to help remember all the steps?

Thanks for the help.