Company Trained CDL Program (TMC) Question

Hi all,

So I just received my 'acceptance' into the TMC training/orientation--ie I was sent a 800 number to setup my Class Start Date.

My question, when do you know you actually have a job? I've read random comments online claiming that people get sent home often; like TMC has weekly 'cut-downs'. Is that true? Or is it more that once 'accepted' and if jump through hoops, pay attention and toe the line, you'll pass the class and have a job?

Thanks!

jump through hoops, pay attention and toe the line, you'll pass the class and have a job?

That's pretty much how you do it. You do need the determination to complete the course. It is rather compressed - many people feel it's too fast, but the course is designed to get done in 160 hours.

I've never heard of "cut downs". There are many reasons people leave/get kicked out, from positive drug tests to inability to handle the truck to the realization that trucking is not for them. Just make sure you're not in any of these groups and you'll be OTR-ing in about 3-4 months from your school start.

When you are given a date for Orientation you're in! And often after the first two days you are on the payroll.

Papa, those are good questions. Let me give you some thoughts on what trucking is all about.

Many professions have tenure, which basically means once you've done something long enough you're locked in and untouchable. You no longer have to prove yourself.

Trucking is more like a sport. It's performance-based. You must always perform at a high level regardless of how long you've done it. Once your performance drops below a certain level your big miles, big paychecks, and special favors will be shifted to a higher-performing driver.

The profit margins are very thin in trucking, so the trucks must be used efficiently.

It's very hard to differentiate yourself in trucking, so your customer-service (on-time pickups and deliveries) must be exceptional.

So you're heading to TMC in an attempt to make the team. It's a competitive environment. Get juiced up for it. Get excited. Go there and show them you're up to the challenge. Work hard, listen closely, and give it everything you have.

I would avoid looking for finish lines. There isn't a status you can reach that allows you to kick back, relax, and stop worrying. The people who thrive in trucking, those who reach the highest levels of success and fulfillment, are competitive folks who focus on constant and neverending improvement. They continuously hone their craft. They find a good company and stick with that company for years. They learn the inner-workings of their company and building strong relationships.

• Continuously hone your craft
• Strive to perform at a high level
• Build strong relationships
• Be competitive
• Understand how your company operates internally
• Commit to constant and neverending improvement

That's how you become a Top Tier Driver