Profile For Rick S.

TnT is going great! We're having some issues with my CPAP machine, but I'll be calling the sleep lab today to address that. I'm getting some driving in, learning a lot. I'm eager to keep going, and keep learning. I've seen more of the country in the past week than I have my entire life, it's crazy! I love it.

How is TNT going?

It's been a long month, but it's over. I passed my test on Sunday! It was my third attempt, because I was a bit foolish. My first attempt I passed pre-trip, but forgot a couple important parts of the alley dock and ran out of time. My second attempt I pulled a right parallel for my last maneuver. This is one I can do really well. But I pulled too far forward and in my overconfidence told myself I was fine. I was not fine.

My third attempt was great. I passed the backing easily, and only.got dinged on a couple things on the road test. Hopefully going out on the road with my TNT trainer this weekend!

I have tons of respect for him. He's a great guy, and he's taught me a lot.

Justin is awesome. He knows me. 😀

I'm hoping to test out on Monday! Not sure what time I'm scheduled. My trainer, Justin, has been amazing. I've talked to a few other instructors out there to glean bits of wisdom from them as well. Just staying humble and respectful and enjoying the process. Sorry I missed you though! It would have been great to meet you. Stay safe!

Sooo???

I was out there. I am changing trucks now and going OTR

What does your driving, work and criminal history look like?

My criminal and driving history are clear. My work history is solid except for a seven or eight ish month gap this year.

Hey Victor. Take everything I say with a grain of salt, as I'm not an expert. I'm just sharing my experience.

That being said, apply to multiple places. Many companies are featured here on TT, and you can get a good rundown of what they offer. Wilson turned me down as well before I accepted an offer from Prime Inc. Look for a company not based on just pay, but what you're looking to get out of your training. I went with Prime because they offer a pretty comprehensive training program, and it's essentially free if I drive for them for a year.

Also look at what you want to drive. Check out companies that offer those divisions. There are many options, don't limit yourself. :)

Hope things are going well for you Rick. Were you able to get a trainer quickly? How's that experience been for you?

I got a trainer within an hour and a half of arriving at the training pad. I guess their 'personality' survey works because this guy is awesome! Not only is he teaching me a lot, he's allowing me to make mistakes and try to figure out how to fix them before he steps in. We have very similar personalities, and he's helped me overcome much of the anxiety I had.

I was cleared for training a week ago and started Tuesday morning. Since then I've become proficient in straightline backing, almost got my offsets down (I nailed that today, very proud) and I've done some driving out in a nearby industrial park to get a feel for things.

Everybody I've interacted with here at Prime has been amazing. Instructors, drivers, in-house staff and other students have all been great. I hear groups of students helping each other with everything from pre-trip to overcoming nervousness. It's been an awesome experience.

Hey Jerry! I was in the same boat not long ago. I just recently started CDL training with Prime, and I'm learning that you get out what you put in. I imagine it's like that with most companies.

I go out in the morning ready and eager to learn. I know I'll make mistakes. I'm new to this. The instructors do what they do because they are good at it. They want you to succeed. I bombarded my instructor with questions today, and he loved it.

I guess what I'm trying to say is, it's okay, and normal, to be nervous. Just go in with a healthy attitude. Get ready to mess up. Be willing to learn from your mistakes and listen to the critiques of your teachers.

And don't hesitate to poke this forum for advice in general. There's a bunch of great folks here.

Hello, everyone! I arrived yesterday evening in Springfield. The bus ride was pleasant, even if the driver was a bit on the irritable side. We almost got hit by someone not paying attention, but our driver was on the ball and managed to avoid it.

The Campus Inn is nice. I'm alone in my room for now, but that may change. Just keeping things tidy so if I do get a roommate they have somewhere for their stuff.

I was told last night that class started at 7am, so I was here at 6:30. I hate being late to things I can control. Turns out it doesn't start til 8. No big deal, gives me some extra study time. So far everyone has been great. I'll post again later after day 1 is over.

Thanks, BK! Prime reached out to me, and I will hopefully be starting orientation with them next week. I've been studying my butt off for the CLP (using a mixture of apps, youtube and High Road Training), and I think I'll be ready to take the test by Friday, Monday at the latest. I'm going in for my physical tomorrow.

Rick, you might find something by giving a recruiter at Hogan a call. They hire drivers to drive cars from one location to another. Could be a way for you to bridge to another driving job.