Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
Five Month Professional Driver Program??
I have been asked to share the curriculum for this course I am attending. I wanted to upload a picture of the module highlights, but I can't seem to find the paperwork just yet. Once I do, I will upload that Picture. However, I was able to get a basic outline from the school's website, which I'll share now:
Weeks 1-4: • CDL permit test preparation • CDL endorsement preparation (doubles/triples and tankers) • Vehicle inspection for daily operation and safe practices • Hazardous material (hazmat) training
Weeks 5-12: • Vehicle inspection for daily operation and safe practices • Read and identify instrument control systems • Basic control of the truck • Coupling and uncoupling • Range maneuvers • Road training • Hours of service/logging • Trip planning/map reading • Communication • Shipping and receiving • Wellness • Defensive driving • Hazard awareness • Extreme driving conditions
Weeks 13-20: • Vehicle inspection • Forklift training • Load securement/cargo handling • Preventative maintenance • FMCSA rules and regulations • Weigh stations • Transportation security • ELDT (entry-level driver training) • Company speakers • Resume building • Life on the road • Professionalism/soft skills • Preparation for state range and drive test
300 clock hours classroom 24 clock hours range and observation 24 clock hours over the road 252 clock hours remedial Total: 600 clock hours.
Overkill, I am sure. I will be posting my honest opinions about the course as it goes. I am already discovering there is a lot of downtime when we could be focusing on something productive. However, the material we have gone over is really clear in my head, with no questions. We do 6 hour days, Monday through Friday. I can honestly say, I wouldn't be able to afford this approach without my GI Bill, but is a luxury I'm enjoying. If the classes where 8 hours a day we could shorten the training by one month. I can certainly feel how it's constructed to benefit those teaching it ($$). However, I actually did read through every article that has been posted here on my thread about a month or so ago, weeks before I started my training. I feel I understood there would be no real gains, but I liked the idea of taking this on in a slower approach. It also gives me time to resolve some issues with my MVR as well.
I discovered that there was a driver in another state I live previously who shares my same birthday and same license number. Needless to say, I've already been turned down from most companies I am interested in because of this dilemma and was told to call back once I've resolved it.
Anyways, back to enjoying my day off school before work starts in a couple hours.
-Eggman
Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
Five Month Professional Driver Program??
I've had some time to sit and think about some of the responses on this thread. I've determined that there has been some miscommunication. You call me arrogant. You've simply shut me down on all avenues. This thread was supposed to be a unique one, in regards that it actually has some insight on a school CDL program, rather than a company sponsored program. In regards to "career advise"- it wasn't so. However, I suppose I can see how it could be interpreted as advice, because my dad always advises me that you should always do what YOU want to do in life, for you. Never for anyone else, or someone else's purpose. This probably doesn't translate well in the trucking industry, and shouldn't be taken seriously if your making a life-altering decision. My thoughts though is if you would rather desire a school program, for whatever reasonings, you shouldn't let anyone talk you out of it. Just like you shouldn't let anyone talk you into it, because- as it's been made well aware- the "tangible benefits" are not greater. Like you guys also said, you're still going to have to do company training once you get with them too, as most companies it seems to require mandatory 30-40k miles with a trainer. This is where (I'm assuming) you guys are referring to where the REAL learning comes in, and anything prior is a waste of time beyond a couple weeks.
I guess I should follow that up with a question, as I really am here to learn. Is there really any negatives to pursuing an artificially lengthened program? What I mean is does it really matter? Won't I come out of this class exactly the same as anyone opting for a 4-week program? The only difference I can see is that unlike sponsored programs that put you right with a trainer once you have your license and start your 40k ish miles of training, I will have to find a job with a company willing to hire me to do this. Yes, I have read the article that clearly defines the reasoning why it's better to sign a contract, as the company put an investment in you and will be less willing to let you go, and that you will want to stay with your first company for a year anyway. I also acknowledge the fact that someone who begins driving sooner, makes more money sooner. I simply mean, besides the obvious negatives of doing a private school, before actually doing any OJT training with a company, and if your fine with investing your personal time, Will you be any less prepared as someone who just did a four-week CDL class and got their license?
I want to move on and add a formal apology. It seems I have made an offense with this "old dogs" comment. What was meant to be a flavor text has turned into a weapon against me. It wasn't intended to be interpreted as an insult, and I am sorry. This site has an invaluable combined wealth of knowledge and experience- and there is tons of respect for that.
I certainly hope this can now begin to be more of a conversation, rather than what feels like a trial. I am not here to argue, cause problems, and certainly not feel less about myself in any way.
In regards to how my class went today, I passed my combination portion of my exams. I now have general knowledge, air brakes, and combination done. WOOT! Next week we begin studying our endorsements. Department of Transportation came out and spoke with us on the range (where the training trucks are). He boasted family-oriented environment, 60k salary starting out, and 80k for drivers after a couple years. He stated that DOT (from this region) only recruits from this school, due to the reputation it holds in the area. I have heard this a couple of times, but I have a sneaking suspicion that there is more to it than that. He did bring us subway for lunch, so that was nice of him. He talked about having uniforms, and that they work with food freight mostly. Benefits and Decent home time was boasted too. He did claimed to have a 12 percent turn over rate, compared to 90 percent in the industry? I keep hearing these numbers, but am not sure what is fluff or not.
Now to enjoy my weekend off- and practice the air brake pre-trip. Ta Ta -Eggman
Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
Five Month Professional Driver Program??
There you go. Your right- what do I know. :) Just wanted to share my experience- but it sounds like it’s not wanted here.
Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
Five Month Professional Driver Program??
Instead of quoting each person, I'll just address statements without context.
Yes. Yes, I am fully aware that there are companies which provide paid training, ending with a CDL and a job. I get 5 months seems a bit of a lengthy process to get something it takes everyone else only four weeks to get. I also understand that nothing beats real life experiences. I'm a firm believer that education in general, whether that be for a trade or higher learning, is NOT a one size fits all. Sure, I could take a four-week course, have my permit in one, train for two more weeks on maneuvers/pre-trip, and spend the last week taking the state test (multiple times if necessary). I understand that, after this four week of no pay, I can go through months (depending on the company, weeks) of OJT with a trainer in his truck until we both are sure I am ready to be alone. I get that, I could have a solid paycheck, and be out there sooner- if that is what my desire was. They say that you have to do your research before jumping in with just any company and if they don't turn out to be right for you-you'll end up quitting and job hunting. The same can be said about an education. You have to facilitate your learning in a way that proves to be most successful for you in the long run. If this means, taking a 4-week crash course, and learning the rest on the road, well shoot, you go man. However, If you decide to take a slower paced class, really try to build a solid foundation, and commit time to gain knowledge in a more controlled environment, then that can work too. I am fortunate to have the Post 9-11 GI Bill, So the school is free and I get paid to go to school with a monthly housing allowance. The five-month program really gives me time to study everything about the industry: from basic knowledge to company standings. It even allows me to learn more technical things in general such as load securement, Q-logs, etc... It's a great approach if your brand new to the industry, and want to spend a bit more time learning in a college setting.
So, to end all further scrutiny: This decision I made wasn't out of necessity, it's a luxury. As such, I feel logging a diary of my experience could inform, and allow other future rookies to determine if they wanna spend a bit more on the luxury? Or rather, rush through company training because they are wanting to get paid quicker. There is a saying that fits this scenario, and I certainly hope it doesn't break any forum rules, but:
"Different strokes for different folks." -Late 20th Century Proverb
With that being said, I certainly hope that anyone even considering a lengthier training program doesn't get discouraged because the vast majority says it isn't worth it. To be honest, if it makes you a safer driver and more efficient in the long run, don't let these old dogs who succeeded without needing it to talk you out of it. Do your research and make sure what is right for you (which is another quote I stole from every recruiter, ever). I need to get off here, as I have to go take my combination portion of my written exam, then my I need to go to class as my instructor lined up a meeting with a recruiter from DOT to talk to us, and tell us why we should drive for him. Any bets on what he may say? LOL
Until Next Time- Eggman
Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
Five Month Professional Driver Program??
There are tons, (around 80~ish) threads on cdl training. I figured - why not help out by posting my experience as well? I decided to go to a private technical school (using my GI Bill) to attain my CDL. They offered two courses- a typical 4 week crash course to hurry up and get you on the road- or an in depth five month program, really dissecting the trucking industry from a driver’s perspective. If you live in the Midwest- I’d suggest looking into Midwest Technical Institute. At first I was skeptical, but am now really glad I decided to commit the five months. I have zero experience in the trucking industry- and am learning so much. Week one we studied and tested on general knowledge- week two was airbrakes- and the up coming weeks we will go into each endorsement. At the ending of this program- I should have all endorsements (excluding school bus and passenger) as well as several certificates. I can explain more if anyone has any questions.
Two weeks on and already bombarded by recruiters. All wanting us to work for them- each spouting the same “we are a family oriented company- we know you by name- our pay is top in the industry- we won’t sugar coat anything” speeches that sounds, quite frankly- like they are board of saying it themselves. However- there where three companies that stood out Immediately:
Maverick Transportation RBX Inc. Tri-State Motor Transit
Each one sporting unique attributes- each one perfect in their own rights. Through out my diarie- I will explore these companies in depth to determine which, if any, I decide to pursue.
I hope my experiences I post helps just one person in some way. Whether that’s pursuing a company- following through with getting a CDL, or just making them feel a bit more at ease. To steal a reoccurring quote from the recruiters I’ve met with: “I’m a straight shooter”.
I will expose my realistic criticisms and expectations- along with my ultimate outcomes and acceptances. Feel free to join in the conversation.
Until next time- Eggman
Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
My Maverick Transportation Diary
Hoping to hear back about your 21 day experience. Hope things are on your favor!
Posted: 5 years, 4 months ago
View Topic:
Five Month Professional Driver Program??
I want to add a correction to a comment I made:
I have not read Brett's book yet. This is something I am just now starting.
:D
-Eggman