I just moved from Miami where I worked as graphic designer to Porltand, where I'm unemployed with few prospects. I'm considering a career in the trucking industry. I'm a vet (Army, 46Q) and qualify for a $2k grant from the State of Oregon for training. I'm looking closely at IITR for my schooling.

The school tells me that there is a labor shortage in the Northwest trucking industry and that I shouldn't have a problem finding a job either local or OTR as graduation nears.

Is this true?

Well I've been watching the market out here for the last 7 months and it really depends on where you are. Portland may have better options than Eugene since it has a shipping port. Last week I was turned down by Schneider because they were not hiring out of Eugene (bummer!) so I'm trying to find other alternatives atm. From what I've read Interstate Dist shut down their school so that's out, and Gordon(GTI) does not have a school so strike two. I'm trying to get a job with one of the "better" large carriers so hopefully I can be kept busy but no joy so far. It may help to get your CDL first (mostly I've been looking at company schools) so you may have better luck if you go that route.

At this point I think I'll just keep checking with Schneider and hope something comes open within the next month or so. I've read about IITR and they seem to be a decent school, albeit a tad expensive (~$5k). Then again with your CDL in hand you would not have to sign a contract for school/employment so that may be in your benefit.

Good Luck!

-Reby

Have you checked with Watkins and Shepard in Missoula, MT they have their own 30 day company training with a guaranteed job upon graduation.

You can also try May. the only company sponsored school I know of in the portland area is Swift, and I think they send you to Lewiston Id for that. Good luck!!!