Getting ready to start school or already started?

Don't wait until last minute, start the search asap. Thanks to @Chinatown and their advice! Start the search early along with calling companies instead of relying only on what their websites say. I ended up Calling Superior Carriers which is #1 on my list of companies I want to work for.
I'm starting school on the 26th and wanted to find out if my school was on their pre-approved list...it wasn't but they are going to try and get it approved to accommodate me. If they do approve it the timing will be right about the time I graduate...and I may just have a shot at my #1 pick...One other thing, don't get into the mindset that you have to go OTR to get experience....it's BS.
For those new to this site listen to what chinatown says, you won't regret it. Don't just go by what is written on a trucking company's website...call, call, call.

Lastly, don't think that just because you have no experience you have no chance at getting on with a great carrier..find the one you want and call.

 

I was skeptical at first about calling before I was in school but your advice to start calling right away was huge help for me. At first I was told I could apply after a years experience since my school is not on their list. After a little while talking with them they decided they would contact the school and try and get them approved. The whole process will take at least a month so timing is everything.
I was asked what I wanted to do and told them my ultimate goal was local or regional. It really sounds like I could get on local right from the start after training doing food grade or hazmat.

All I can do now is cross my fingers they approve my school and give me a prehire. Fact is, if I ignored your advice, a shot at Superior wouldn't be happening.

One thing for sure is I am grateful for the leg up you gave me.

 

From what I remember being told I had two options out of Lakeland, one of which they currently had no openings. The local work is what I'd really like to do which was one option and the other I just can't remember (was too excited I think). Another option was up in Jacksonville or Savannah GA. Fact is I'd have to relocate as I was told I need to be within 45 miles of the terminal...I'm 100 away where I live now.
If I get an apartment somewhere west of Lakeland I'll have two other tanker companies I could apply at.

Fact is I don't care if I run local, regional or OTR, or if it's a hazmat or food grade job. For me it's about getting a foot in the door with a great company from the start.

Also, the rep I talked to didn't mention Carry Transport but in doing a little research after one of the options was through Carry...Are they owned by Superior?