Some Thoughts on Training from a former Trainer

This was originally posted in a different forum, but I thought I'd bring it here for you newbie's to see. Maybe this can give you some insight as far as what to expect once you get on your trainer's truck. Anyone who's got something more to add, feel free. I'm not the end all be all of knowledge, that's for certain.

Here's what was said in another thread:

What so many newbies fail to realize is there is only so much that a trainer can do. A lot of this job is learn as you go. You will NEVER learn EVERYTHING there is to learn while you are on your trainer's truck. What another poster was trying to get across is that in two weeks time you will have enough general knowledge to handle things driving down the interstate while the trainer catches a few hours of sleep in the bunk. And, as a former trainer, I can attest to the fact that the "sleep" you get while behind a student is not a very deep sleep. As soon as those jakes come on, any good trainer will get up and at the very least look to see what's happening or ask the student what's goin' on.

Beyond the second week the trainer is still working on all other aspects of the job aside from driving the truck down the interstate. These things include: what to do at a weigh station, using a CAT or other certified scale to check your load weight distribution, logging, paperwork, Qualcomm (or other satellite communications equipment), backing at truckstops, backing at shippers/receivers, checking in at shippers/receivers, handling a DOT inspection, driving on secondary roads, receiving your pay, trip planning, etc.

Like every other of OTR driver, trainers do a lot of work that they don't get paid for. Eventhough they receive more pay than a solo driver, it's still not equal compensation for the work that a good trainer does.