Profile For Justin S.

Hi Everyone, I need some guidance from experienced members of the trucking community. I've never had a CDL but am experienced with driving lots of heavy equipment, and even have a little tractor trailer experience from serving in the Army. I'm 36 with a young family and would prefer a regional or local truck driving position, but would be willing to drive over the road temporarily to gain experience. I plan on leaving an office job I absolutely cannot stand making 65K a year to pursue a trucking career. I'm hoping I can start out making 55K-60K in my first year, but understand I may fall short of this. Is getting a local/regional truck driving job making 55K-60K right out of school a pipe dream? I feel like it may be, except for the fact I personally know someone who was able to do it. Then again he may have been extraordinarily lucky, but I'm hoping someone on this forum can tell me if this is the case. The recruiter at my local trucking school assures me what I'm asking for is attainable, and I am inclined to believe her. She pulled out a whole packet of companies they work directly with, and had one story after another of people who had graduated from her school and were now leading successful trucking careers.Then again she is a recruiter and her job is to entice me to enroll and spend money. I would appreciate any advice you all could provide for new guys starting out in the industry. What I could expect, and what surprises I may not be anticipating. Thanks!!