A lot to learn

I am seriously considering entering the industry. However, as a female I have some real concerns, particularly personal safety on the road and at truck stops and discrimination in the industry. I am reliable, honest and hardworking. I am also in my mid-50s, so am concerned that will be a consideration even though age discrimination is illegal.

I just started reading trucking forums and will continue to do so to learn as much as I can. I would really appreciate feedback on the above concerns and areas below - from newbies as well as experienced drivers - as there is nothing as good as conversation about a subject.

Also, I have read some horror stories about some trucking companies. I am looking into Swift, England, Gordon (GTI), Schneider, CRST, Knight, Roehl, and ConWay. Any feedback on any of these is appreciated.

Finally, I am weighing attending an independent trucking school vs a company-sponsored program. So far have only found Roehl and CRST actually have CDL-A programs followed by company orientation and OTR training. CRST also has a 'Train your Partner' program that my husband and I are interested in to get us driving together. Does any other (good) company have this?

Thanks in advance to all who respond for your input, insight and experience. This will be a HUGE lifestyle change, so we are not taking this lightly . . .

 

Wow - I first posted two hours ago and already three friendly souls responded - thank you thank you thank you

I like to think I know how to use my noggin and have a good load of common sense, like thinking ahead and not putting myself in a bad situation if I can help it. I am extremely calm in emergency situations but then need a dozen Krispy Kremes when the adreneline wears off . . .

I am not afraid of hard work, but if I had my druthers (and based on NO experience), I'd prefer drop/hook van loads.

I'll keep ya posted . . .

 

Where are you/did you go to school? How did you make your decision to go how/where you did?

I have been doing a lot of research, on companies (where I take what I read with a grain of salt) as well as trucking forums and blogs.

I look forward to reading what BigJohn54 copies and pastes LOL

Again, a big thank you for your input!

 

That's good to know. I want to work for 10 - 12 more years. Thx also for the info on GTI & May - I meant to include May in my 'companies to consider' list.

Do you have a dedicated route or ? what is your driving schedule? I am concerned about having enough home time to rest and enjoy.

I will check into the state-sponsored training ASAP. Didn't know about that.

 

Thanks again for your input.

I have the funds to pay for school, so wouldn't be obligated to fulfill a contract b/c the company paid for my CDL-A training.

Just trying to decide between independent school (and not get ripped off) and company training and getting hired out of their gate, but without an obligation if I don't like something down the road (sorry, bad pun).

Back to researching . . .

 

I'm not so sure I have 'cohones' - I'm just not afraid to learn and try something different. My first career was as a graphic designer/art director for almost 20 years; I have trained show horses, cooked and managed a small restaurant and gone back to school in accounting. I have always loved to drive - just ask my husband how my eyes light up when he says 'road trip' - and am comfortable spending long periods of time by myself.

That's quite a story about your wife HAVING to work solo due to circumstances beyond her control. Sorry it had to happen, but what a lesson about what how you think life will be . . .

Thanks for the referral to Central Ref - I will check them out. Do you or have you worked for them?