Posted: 6 years ago
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What was key to making the jump?
Thanks for letting me know about the training. I was debating about going back to the same school I went to before or just diving in head first. From what you explained it sounds more real world and not a bad deal if you stick it out. I know that the rule of thumb is to do a year at a company and then move on if you like. I like the fact that they have different divisions as well. When do they start the clock on the employment? Would that be day one of your training or after you are solo in a truck? I'm in a government position right now, fairly a new thing, but I waited years to get it thinking it was something else. Once I get here the job itself is not what I thought at all and the pay is not worth the sacrifice from home all the time. Being a worker bee in a government position is an oxymoron in itself, and honestly it's driving me a bit crazy. Some have told me "easy money", but that is not the reason I came. I was looking for more responsibility, more independence, to move up in a job because my last one I was stuck unless I wanted to move to a new state. And lastly, to do something different but the same field--I work in supply/logistics/transportation. My kids are 11, and 15, and I like the option that I can take them with me on occasion and even my pets.
Thank you for letting me know about the time away part---it seems as though they will take care of you as long as you take care of them--that's to be appreciated. (Something else I had wondered about) From reading other posts of yours it seems as long as you get the job done they leave you alone--I'm not one to be baby sat and completely loathe those who do that to me. I figured that if you hired me to be an adult and do a job you should treat me like one and leave me alone, if I have questions I will come to you.
Posted: 6 years ago
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What was key to making the jump?
Hello to all, I remember reading a very lengthy post on here about what people did before they did trucking. That would be great if it could be reposted. More than anything I'm interested in what made you personally decide to take the leap and just do it. Rainy (apologies if I misspelled your name) Your background story peaked my interest as I will be turning 41 this year and thinking that it is also time for a change in career. Why did the company training appeal to you? Was there a straw that broke the camels back moment? If anyone started this as a single parent I would love to hear from you as well. (I do have help, so not alone.)
I'm presently on my hometime. As you can see, I live in Chesapeake VA as well. If you have questions, or would like to see one of Prime's trucks up close, let me know.
Ernie
Funny that your name is Old Salty Dog, I'm currently on a ship now (Civmar) and have been looking at this path for awhile. I'm in the deep creek area but only home every so often...trucking would actually get me home more and I can take my kids and pets. LOL!
Posted: 6 years ago
View Topic:
What was key to making the jump?
Hello to all, I remember reading a very lengthy post on here about what people did before they did trucking. That would be great if it could be reposted. More than anything I'm interested in what made you personally decide to take the leap and just do it. Rainy (apologies if I misspelled your name) Your background story peaked my interest as I will be turning 41 this year and thinking that it is also time for a change in career. Why did the company training appeal to you? Was there a straw that broke the camels back moment? If anyone started this as a single parent I would love to hear from you as well. (I do have help, so not alone.)
Posted: 6 years, 7 months ago
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My examiner really didn't say a word. She just followed me around to the different parts that was on the pre trip. She did give me a hint on what she wanted by saying, "point to the item and tell me why". She wanted the "no more than 90 degree angle when brakes are applied". She was also nice by not moving on to the next section, when she didn't move with me I knew right away that I missed something, thankfully I caught my mistake.
Posted: 6 years, 8 months ago
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Still looking at flatbed, just curious on how much backing do you need to do compared to regular dry van? Still in school for about two days, and other than straight back, my backing is nothing short of rookie style.
Posted: 6 years, 8 months ago
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You don't...get over it that is. And you don't have to. After my Dad passed away, I caught myself wondering what to get him for Christmas...after I realized it, I cried. They have been in your life your whole life, it takes awhile to process. But I don't think they ever leave you, he's still around. Call me nuts if you want, but I still talk to him. (Even 8 years later.)
Posted: 6 years, 10 months ago
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Thank you Big Scott, sorry for the delay, work has been a bit busy. I will defiantly look up the videos.
Posted: 6 years, 10 months ago
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There is a book out by Jon Acuff called, "Do Over". He is really good at putting things in perspective and making sure you don't want to jump off the edge just yet career wise. I'm in the opposite boat, I'm looking at going into trucking. I have a good job now, three degrees, but I've hit my career ceiling with this company and I'm looking at taking a leap into a lateral field (currently in supply chain).
Posted: 6 years, 10 months ago
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Thank you Susan, I did stumble across her posts and what Old School had told her about the roofing paper. Having unloaded a many of flatbed I understood what she meant by the lifting to the platform. I also went today and bought a roll of roofing paper.....but I'm pretty sure it's not 90lbs, but it's good exercise. LOL!
Posted: 6 years ago
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What was key to making the jump?
No worries, I knew what you meant to say.