Profile For Ernie S. (AKA Old Salty Dog)

Today was pretty difficult. My trainer and I went to the pad to practice backing. We worked on left side offset, right side offset, and alley dock. I absolutely could not get it. It would not click. I am so aggravated with myself. I know I will get it but today was not the day. Trying to tell myself that this is only day two of pad training, we only had a pad for two hours last night, and two hours today. I eventually succeeded in doing a right side offset. I’ll get it. I better get it. It better click...very soon.

Don't beat yourself up too bad. Try not to over think things. Listen to your trainer, it will come along just fine.

Ernie

I just met Rainy!!!

Good deal. I might get to one day. Ya never know.

Ernie

Kim T.,

Sounds like you are doing just fine so far. Before you know it, you'll be testing out and have that CDL. Then the real fun begins, learning all the things you need to know to survive out here on the road.

Ernie

Stay safe and have fun. More than likely going to the Walmart DC.

Ernie

Ernie, Manual transmission - yes, I am worried that when my time comes to get through the initial training before taking the CDL driving test that I am going to be forced into an automatic. Any tips on how to avoid being put out on an automatic for the pre-CDL test training? Thanks. Roy

Roy,

I personally don't know how to answer that. I will ask a buddy of mine who is a trainer if you as a student have the option. Will let you know.

Ernie

Just one word of advice to everyone that is in training (or waiting for a trainer) at Prime, if at all possible don't allow yourself to be limited by getting the Automated transmission restriction on your license.

I was able to help another young lady at Prime to get a trainer ahead of several others on the waiting list because she did not have that restriction. So be advised, if at all possible, take your test in a manual trans truck.

Ernie

Kim T,

Sounds like everything is going well for you. You know how to contact me if you need anything.

Ernie

Kim,

Old School is dead on the money as usual.

Don't worry, things will move forward when they are meant to.

Call me if you want/need to talk.

Ernie

It was so great meeting you!

Same here. The only stupid questions are the ones you don't ask. Need anything, don't hesitate to call.

Ernie

That would be awesome. Where do you want to meet?

I'll be driving a black PT Cruiser with VA plates. Meet me at the front desk area.

Ernie

We were told that students without the purple badge were not allowed to go, that they would be sent home.

Then that is a change in policy that I was not aware of. Didn't mean to get anyone into hot water and derail them before they get started. Would it work better if I came to the Campus Inn?

Ernie

I wish I had seen this earlier. Had Sim class at 1300 then Stephanie K and I walked to have dinner. I may catch the shuttle over in a little while, I’m wanting to study pre-trip some more before we hit the Plaza in the morning. Stephanie just got here yesterday so she’s not allowed at the Millineum yet. Donna is out on TNT.

Hopefully I’ll get to see you later today.

Stephanie is allowed, she just has to be escorted.

Ernie

You are certainly welcome to stop by. Don't worry about getting the shuttle back to the campus, I have my car here and can give you a ride back later if need be.

Ernie

I see several of our members are here in Springfield. I'm presently in the milinium building if anyone wants to come over for a bit.

Ernie

Kim T.,

You still here in Springfield? I would have thought you were out with a trainer.

Ernie

Got it.

I just don't normally have much time to check here. It's been just the last few days that I was helping a couple of folks here at Prime that are members here.

By the way, do you still have the tracker active?

Ernie

I was under the impression that there is a FB for trucking truth. Or have I missed something?

Ernie

Good job. Keep up the good work.

Ernie

For anyone here at Prime, I'm presently here in the milinium building if anyone wants to come by and chat.

Ernie

Yes, she is at the Campus Inn. She didn't get into Springfield until late Monday because the Gray Dog was late. So she has been busy trying to catch up with everyone else.

Ernie