Comments By Lil

Kat, your statements mirror what I've heard from the teachers I know. I even saw how NCLB has hindered education not helped it when I worked for a youth training program. It's sad that accountability and excellence are diminishing, even in AP classes. But it's good you will be done w/ the BS and starting a new direction. That's great about Prime; they seem like a good company. Good point on out of state permit.

Hyrnn, It's good to read another perspective of Roehl and that you're having positive experiences with them. You make a great point about talking with recruiters. Schneider is still my top choice, although a lot can happen once I finish school. I appreciate your input.

Congratulations on your CDL and good luck with your job search!

Kenneth,

I know this thread is old, but I just saw it now and wanted to respond. You have another option to get both your GED and your CDL that you may not be aware of: Job Corps. It is a federally funded, residential youth training program, for youth ages 16-24. I used to recruit for it, and my students had their choice of 11 different training centers. Training centers offer different trades. A center is setup like a small college campus where it has dorms, dining halls, classrooms, recreation center, etc. Some centers are even former military installation centers. Some centers are not as nice as others. But you don't choose a center because you like the amenities or the location. You choose a center because of the program. Job Corps isn't the military. You don't march and you don't wear camoflauge, but you will wear uniforms (like a polo shirt and khaki's). You don't pay for anything. The government does. You receive basic medical, dental, vision as well as food, room/board and an allowance (enough to buy soap, shampoo, etc) all at no cost to you. When you finish the program, you can receive a graduation bonus. It used to be $1200, but not sure what it is now. It is not all fun and games, nor is it an escape, as some students thought. It is a tough program. You are living with all different personalities and with people who come from all different backgrounds. You also deal with a lot of drama in the dorms (yes even the guys have drama). That was the #1 complaint I heard, the drama. You would also have to do chores. But in return for that, you are being taught social skills, living skills and life skills and can finish your education and get a trade, all at no cost.

I could see how the WY winters would be awful. I'm guessing you mean LA, the city, and not LA, the state of Louisiana. If so, that would be awful to drive in. That's good you didn't have to wait too long at customers.

Ahmalia, That's nice of you to offer your guidance. I'm sure I will have plenty of questions for you once I'm in school. Thanks!

Katherine, I'm not in school yet, but after doing my research I would think it's better to try for your CLP (Commercial Driver Learner Permit) before you start school. Yet, that may also depend upon how long a CLP is valid in your state. In WI, one is good for 6 months, so I'm going to try to get mine a few weeks before school. I'm going to a tech college (not a private school), and the instructors said the students will try for the CLP within the first few weeks of classes. Since I want to be a step ahead, I'm going to start reading Brett's High Road series on here to help me prepare and try for the CLP a few weeks before school.

Before I decided on trucking, I was thinking of getting my alternative teaching license, but all the teachers I know are leaving the profession because of all the bureaucracy. Good for you for getting out of an abusive relationship. That takes courage and strength!

That's awesome and a great accomplishment!!! Funny about the mountains. After watching Highway Thru Hell on Netflix, I can't imagine driving some mountain passes.

What's the most challenging thing you faced this year?

Congratulations!!

Wow, that is awful . I can't believe that a company like Roehl would do that. I could see CRST after all their sex scandals, but not Roehl. I'm shocked and sadly reminded that women may face more adversity then men. This is disgusting!!!! Thanks for sharing your story. Roehl was one of my top choices when I finish school, but I will not go with any company that has cameras that face the sleeping area.

Hi Everyone,

I'm in my 40s and will be attending a local tech college in a few months to obtain my CDL. I had a professional career, but also had high student loan debt that I'm worried about paying back. I haven't been able to bounce back fully after I was laid-off years ago since my field in nonprofit was heavily affected by the economy. Therefore, I'm looking for a new career that I can support myself and save for retirement. I love to drive, love a challenge, love an autonomous job and love variety, so trucking makes the most sense at this time in my life.

I've enjoyed reading about other women's experiences. I recently signed up for this site, but have read a lot in the last several weeks. Thanks to those who've shared their stories, which is making me realize I can do this.

Lil