Advice

Discussion in 'The Welcome Wagon' started by Makana, Oct 20, 2014.

  1. Makana

    Makana Bobtail Member

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    Oct 20, 2014
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    Hi, I am at a turning point in my life. Have had some incredible experiences in a past "career," but have no qualifications. I am now a spritely fit 54 year old, stuck in a dead end low paying job after being divorced, loosing my business etc. etc. Moan, moan, moan!! :)

    My question is, what is the reality of me being hired by a company if I pay out the money and take a CDL A class...and pass? I desperately need a new direction, purpose and hope. Any advice would be gratefully appreciated.

    Thank you!
     
    Chinatown and Ukumfe Thank this.
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  3. trukngrl

    trukngrl Lollipop, lollipop...

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    Manchester, Ga
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    Most companies nowadays want you to go to a school. If you can pay for the school yourself then you won't have to be under contract with them. Some local companies may hire you with just your license, but I don't know of many. Best of luck to you
     
    Ukumfe Thanks this.
  4. Makana

    Makana Bobtail Member

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    Oct 20, 2014
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    Thank you for your response! What is the issue of being "under contract" and under contract for what?

    Thanks!
     
  5. OFTOTR

    OFTOTR Medium Load Member

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    If a company pays for your cdl training, or you go to a school they provide, you may be obligated to work for them for a pre-determined period, or repay the cost of the school if you quit.
     
    JReding Thanks this.
  6. Makana

    Makana Bobtail Member

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    So, do they do it for a constant supply of drivers they can underpay? What would the approx' pay be for a situation like that? I guess, that would be a good way if getting experience for a newbie I guess!

    thanks!
     
  7. Alaska76

    Alaska76 Road Train Member

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    Inland Empire, WA
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    Paying for and attending an accredited school of your choice would be to your benefit in that you would not be obligated to a less desirable starter company(otherwise known as "bottom feeders", here), and would have greater freedom to begin your new career at a more desirable, of your choosing, company to begin with based on offers after graduation and applying.
     
  8. Makana

    Makana Bobtail Member

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    And, realistically, are company's "lining up" to hire newly graduated drivers?

    Thanks for your response!
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  9. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Henderson, NV & Orient
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    Yes, companies are lining up to hire new CDL graduates. Get all the endorsements, TWIC card, passport and you will have dozens of job offers.

    You can go to a private CDL school; a community college CDL school, or trucking company school and there are dozens of either to choose from.

    Put your location on your profile and many on this forum can help you get started. The reason for knowing your location is to know the hiring area you live in. If you don't want to list your town, just put the nearest city.

    At the top of this page, click on "CDL Practice Tests" to study for endorsements and your CDL.
    Google for nearest TWIC office to apply for TWIC card. This is used for entry to sea ports, chemical plants, some military facilities.

    Ask some questions on the "Questions From New Drivers" thread.
     
    Ukumfe Thanks this.
  10. Makana

    Makana Bobtail Member

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    Thank you so much for taking the time to reply, that Was helpful! I am in the Tampa Bay Area FL, do you have any school recommendations or advise of places to avoid?

    Thanks again!
     
  11. trukngrl

    trukngrl Lollipop, lollipop...

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    Mar 7, 2009
    Manchester, Ga
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    They're always looking for warm bodies to fill their seats
     
    Ukumfe Thanks this.
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