Profile For Dwight

Thanks Steve, I want to go in with a clean sheet and do not intend to promote that past experience. I follow the trucking related sites and such. I want 'boots on the ground' opinions.

I'm looking to drive after retiring from my auto tech career. I hold a current CDL and have past experience. I'm not presuming that will count being ancient. Excellent work and background history. So the question is; what do you think of entering this profession as a 'new' driver considering the current state of affairs; virus, shut-downs, economy, etc. I would like to hear any pro's and con's! It would help me to move forward with a decision. Thanks!

Hi TZ, first you would need the CDL if you are working on trucks. You will need to test drive the vehicle as needed. Keep in mind that starting out as a mechanic will require much more 'training' and cost that being a driver. I have done both. The tool investment can be staggering. From my personal experience, if you go down the mechanic road you need to seriously look at working for a company that has its own in-house maintenance or work for a government agency. Salary and benefits over the long term is much better that working flat-rate. Keep up the CDL: it's a job in your pocket.

There are some excellent CDL schools. And then some aren't. Keep in mind that they are there to secure your CDL license. They have a steady stream of students whose tuition is covered by grants. It's all what you make of it. I went through CDS in Woodford. They did what they said they would do. It was up to me to get there.

You'll probably get a truck abandonment on your record.

You're tough.Damn the torpedoes !

The real limiting factor is the wire size of the source power. Cig /acc plugs are only 16 or 18 gauge. 20 amps pushed by 12 volts through that wire size is okay for limited duration. I 'm willing to bet the wire size on those products mentioned ( connected direct to battery) is around 4 gauge, which is substantially larger.

Good job Driver! Stay safe!

Yup, me too. I'm 60 and ready to come back after 25 years of turning wrenches.

I too believe the top bunk is illegal. Think about low clearances. You should request a different trainer; it is not uncommon to do so. Also realize if you bail on Werner they will likely make a comment in your DAC. Think carefully. The training is the hardest part.

Someone who lights up the tokemaster daily.

You might want to test yourself privately before submitting to an 'official test'. Any company can change their test routine at any time and you don't want to get caught with a failed test.

One of the best training blogs I've read. Thanks and the best of luck to you.

Go to youtube and search for Dale Clay and Berna Schneider. They both work for Maverick and have some good videos about the company.

'Preventable' covers a pretty broad area. Severity of the incident would be the bigger problem.

Hello Joshua. I think you might apply to companies that provide CDL training. If you get offers/interest then go from there. If you never had a CDL before they're only required to do a 3 year background check, although its their option. Assemble as much documentation you can get so they can verify your history. Good luck and at least get IRS form 1099's going forward.

Schneider has been hiring for their Walmart DC in Gordonsville, VA. including new drivers. If you have to go to a local school CDS north of Fredericksburg is good if you get a pre-hire.

Good luck to you! Remember, pay-backs a b***h!

No company, large or small, is getting paid until the freight is delivered. A company, and the individual drivers within, develop a reputation for their level of service. That means on-time, damage free, or just 'making it work'. Higher pay, nicer trucks , paid time off, and all the rest comes after that. Success comes from motivation, communication and the ability to listen others to get the job done.

Good that things are going well for you. The more I read about Roehl the more I become interested in them. I take it you are doing a refresher course with them? I've been out of driving for quite a few years and want to come back. Thanks for sharing and keep posting about your experience. Take care.