Comments By Eric G.

You say you are "emotionless" on your decision.... are you really sure about that??? I am starting school in August and I have Zero family or kids. You will be away from the house for months at a time. When you're 2,000 miles from the house and your wife goes into labor then what? Your income for the first year is going to suuuuuuuckkkkka.. I'm not trying to bring you down however, plan on months away from the house. when you leave for school and then pass (One month (ish)) then get on the road training (three months (ish)) ya just can't run to the house when you're "under load"....

I really hope hope you have the fortitude for this... It's a lifestyle not a job. I truly wish you all the best and may the always wind be at your back.

Re-read what I posted... I'm not emotionless... "I can't say I'm emotionless."

I have a thick, bushy goatee but I have been considering growing a beard.

Sounds like you're really looking forward to it. But make sure you two will survive this. Your wife is pregnant, you will miss your child's toddler years completely. Your wife will also be completely alone taking care of the child, doing household chores, bills, etc. she'll have to do everything. Make sure she can handle this sudden change of lifestyle. And make sure you'll be able to survive not seeing your newborn and your wife for weeks at a time.

Trucking is really tough on a marriage, and even tougher when you have children in the picture. Just reminding you to cover your bases and really make sure that this is what you want.

I wish you luck sir! And congratulations!

I can't say that I'm completely emotionless on the decision but definitely was getting burned out with working at the jail.

Hey welcome aboard Eric. Glad to have ya!

So have you been around TruckingTruth at all to see things like our Truck Driver's Career Guide, My Book (free online edition), or our High Road Training Program?

Have you been studying for the permit or do you have it already?

I have been studying the CDL book. I did Pam's eGears. I'm about ready to try those two items you have suggested!

I hail from the mighty Amish town of Goshen, IN. On Monday, I go to CDL school in Fort Wayne, IN. I'm very nervous. About 7 years ago I did the Schneider National company sponsored training and was doing well until I accidentally put the rig into 2nd gear instead of reverse and the instructor fell on his bottom... he didn't get hurt, thank goodness.... I left... I was really embarrassed... I was also immature at 19 years old... Anyway, I'm more grown and ready to try this again. I'm going to try the Pam route since I can't really afford a loan or cash option. My wife is extremely supportive and if she wasn't pregnant right now she would want to do it too (that's what she said). I researched this for a few months since I grew up in Fort Wayne I think when the instructors tell me to go down a certain street or what not in the area I shouldn't have too many surprises (I'm still expecting surprises, though)! My ultimate goal is to go Regional/Local. When my kids grow up some I want to take them out with me if I can and my wife.

About team driving, their driver portal (which I am signed up to) says this:

"The PAM Transport OTR Team opportunity requires that you drive as a team for a minimum of 6 months. After 6 months, you can change to a solo position if you choose. The advantage of team driver is that both you and your co-driver are paid for all miles the truck runs; not based on individual miles driven. Teams usually run twice the amount of miles as a solo driver."

And Further:

"Team Driving Positions The PAM Transport OTR Team opportunity requires that at any point in your first year you agree to be teamed with another PAM driver for a minimum of 6 months. This 6 month team driving clock starts at the time you are initially teamed. In the event you finish your 12 month employment agreement but have not fulfilled 6 months of team driving, the choice is yours to remain team or driver solo. The advantage of being a team driver is that both you and your co-driver are paid for all miles the truck runs: not based on individual miles driven. Teams usually run twice the amount of miles as a solo driver."

About starting pay it says this:

"New Driver Guaranteed Pay PAM Transport is committed to helping the new driver achieve success in a trucking career. The company knows the first few months of a new job can be stressful as you learn new routines and become more efficient with daily tasks. That’s why PAM Transport guarantees your weekly paycheck to be at least $500 for the first 60 days after becoming a first seat driver."

I think PAM is starting to realize beginning truck drivers need a slight increase in their beginning pay. A few years ago they said maybe $300 while with a trainer during one week. There is no way I could survive on $300 a week for a month of training or more. After researching several truck driving companies I think Pam is slightly better for the trainee. If you pay your dues, you can realistically get paid better. I know a PAM driver who is 6 years in with them who is making in the mid 40 cent per mile range. Anyway, I don't know if that is just recruiter propaganda but its in writing. I start truck driving school with them in Fort Wayne on Monday. I grew up there so I don't think I would get lost and think I will flourish as a student.

I always hated the smell of cigarettes. My parents smoked inside the house for years and I never thought it was that bad until I moved away and then visited later. I know when it came to my clothing I use to put stuff in the deep freeze. Hey for a few bucks I think you could get a high school student to clean your vehicle real good.