Comments By B_Dawg

My CDL test is scheduled for 9/26. Trying to decide between running OTR flatbed with Western Express, OTR 48 reefer with May, OTR 48 dry with Werner, or Werner's TCU Mexico run from Laredo to NJ (where I live).

Does anyone have info on Werner's TCU Mexico run?

Hey guys, was checking this out on Amazon (along with other units like it) for about $439. Anybody on here know if they are any good? I don't know of any truckers who use them so I'm looking for some input.

Hey man, you go right on ahead and toot that horn as loud as you want...you earned it! grats!

Hey guys! Just got confirmation yesterday that my application to Western Express was approved. Whoo-hoo! hopefully I'll test out around the end of August and start orientation 1st or 2nd week of September. lot's of good info on here about WE, especially Old School's post where he did the daily diary was a great read and really set my mind at ease going with OTR flatbed. now, back to my pre-trip...

been awhile but have been busy with school. in my 3rd week at S&S and loving it. I really think I made the right decision. it was kind of overwhelming at first, but I took it one step at a time. got my permit, just basic endorsements for now but plan to get my TWIC and hazmat, doubles and tanker within the next week or two. doing maneuvers now, straight back then alley. might be starting offset next week. studying my pre-trip. like I said, a lot to take in but slowly getting more confidence with the trucks and my pre-trip...practice, practice, practice!

I have a pre-approval from Werner but haven't committed. waiting to hear back from Roehl and Western Express. lots of local/regional options in my area (NJ), but definitely want to start out with OTR. I'm interested in flatbed, even though I know it will probably kick my arse. Werner's recruiter told me they don't have many flatbed runs available, but WE does. but hey, first things first...gotta get that license!

haven't posted an update in awhile but glad to announce I'm officially enrolled at Smith and Solomon! I go for my DOT physical on Tuesday and class starts on the 27th. I have a pre-approval from Werner that I hope is still on the table in 8 weeks or so WHEN I get my CDL.

wish me luck!

Yeah, I'm not taking it personal. It was just funny because the email from Knight's recruiter had a line about their CDL training, but here the girl on the phone is telling me they don't train. What can you do, right? Their decision. But, I agree. Werner is the only one so far to actually give me an approval. They're willing to give me an opportunity to prove myself. When the time comes, if their offer is still on the table I'll remember that. Good luck at Stevens!

Errol, all the companies I've applied to so far offer sponsored CDL programs. Unfortunately, they've all turned me down to this point although I'm still waiting to hear back from a few. the past 2 1/2 years I've had some personal/family stuff to deal with so I've only worked less than a year total. Prior to that, I worked 13 years for the same company. From '92 when I started working thru 2013 the only time I was unemployed was when I got home from boot camp and that was only about a month, but that's all too far back to count. Most of the companies seem to want at least a year of steady employment over the past 3 years. Prime Inc wants 24 months. Maverick Transport was the only one that seemed willing to flex a bit but not enough. The Knight Transportation recruiter actually told me they don't offer training. The Swift Transport recruiter told me they can't offer me training because I live in NJ. I been trying to reach someone higher up at all the places I applied to but no luck. I don't give up easy!

Hey Old School! I live in southern NJ about 10-15 minutes across the Walt Whitman from Philly. Scranton is almost 3 hrs north of me. beautiful up that way. I love driving thru PA, but the damn tolls are insane so I haven't been taking as many trips as I used to. the S&S school I'm going to is in Bellmawr, NJ.

I applied to a dozen companies but kept getting turned down because of my recent (un)employment history. Anyway, just when it looked like this deal wasn't going to happen, I get a call from Werner Enterprises saying I'm pre-approved. I know it's not a guarantee, but I'll take it!

I need to get some money together for tuition, but the plan is Smith and Solomon for training. There's a location about 10 minutes from my house in NJ. Once I'm enrolled, I need to call my recruiter and keep them in the loop.

It's a long road ahead, but I'm motivated, dedicated and determined to succeed. I want to thank everyone on TT for the advice and knowledge. You guys are great! Wish me luck!