Where to go after graduating from a school

I know this question has been asked many, MANY times, (my apologies) but I would like new and/or updated information on the current market for new graduates from a community college truck driving school.

A bit of background information about myself before I move on. I'm a 30 year old resident of San Diego, CA looking for a new career change. I was previously a defense contractor for the US Navy until the defense cuts kicked in and I'm sure you know the rest of the story. This happened back in May of 2010. Since then, I have been (unsuccessfully) been looking for an office job and I'm virtually stalled out. I'm tired of sending resumes for no responses in return. So, I decided on a career change and have been investing myself on the prospect of becoming a driver. I understand the commitment of being one (fortunately I'm single) and I do enjoy driving, as my Jeep can attest to that for traveling to my distant (6 hours+) off-road excursions.

I am willing to move anywhere in the nation if required. I have no problems moving out of CA, and have no problem even living in a truck if required. My preference is to start as an OTR dry van driver, but I have no qualms with being a reefer, flatbed, etc. driver as well. (I would prefer dry van, as I wish to build up experience before moving on to other loads.) I also have an updated passport, no felonies, super clean driving record, and looking to go after a TWIC card once I get hired on with a company that requires it. (Any more info regarding TWIC would be greatly appreciated.)

For school, I'll be attending Amarillo College Truck Driving Academy located in Amarillo, TX. My reasons of wanting to attend this school is primarily price (just shy of $3000), but also 200 total hours of 5 courses over 5 weeks which can also include hazmat. The courses are divided up as so: Defensive Driving - Professional Truck Operator (16 hours), Commercial Drivers License Written Skills (48 hours), Commercial Drivers License Driving Skills (48 hours), Advanced Driving Skills I and II (40 hours for I and 48 hours for II). From what I have gathered so far, on paper for price to hours of training, this is one of the better schools I have come across. I also have relatives living in Pampa, TX and I was planning to live with them as I attended the academy. Of course, I have discussed my plans with them already and they are completely fine with it, and understand my situation.

If I wish to attend a truck school here in CA, my quoted prices have been anywhere from $6000 to as high as $8000 for 150 to 186 hours. Not only do I not have that kind of money, but the reviews for the schools around southern California have mostly been negative. Also compounded to the negativity of the schools is virtually every representative I have spoken to seemed more interested in getting my money or getting off the phone with me as quickly as possible, giving direct answers rather than going off into detail about the courses and school.

With all that said, on to my dilemmas. I have been rigorously digging through threads on which companies to start out with. I already know CR England and CRST are already scratched off the list, as I have yet to find a positive posts about these companies. Werner is quickly going to that list as well, and Schneider is beginning to sound sketchy with the new sensors they put on their trucks for their idling concerns (I understand the principle, but shutting off in the middle of traffic sounds unsafe at best.) Swift is regarded as one of the bottom dwellers, Knight seems to be a mixed bag, but Maverick seems to be reputable. A lot of positive comments from that company.

I have a general idea where to go, but I would like to have additional inputs. I'll be honest; I hate idling if I can avoid it, so a list of companies that have APUs (generators) for new drivers are a plus for me. I know every company will have its pros and cons, but I have a good attitude and take things in stride.

Appreciate the help!

 

Forgot to add this to the list, thanks for reminding me. I'm not a lease man, I prefer full ownership so I was thinking of saving money to put down for a brand new truck. Honestly though, I'm not worried about it at this time and will see what the situation is like about a year and a half down the road.

I haven't crossed off Swift from my list, and I like the fact they have a large terminal in Phoenix, AZ. But your right; I have accepted the fact I have to work my way up through the ladder, and honestly, its acceptable to me. I know I'll have to deal with "crap" for the first couple years on the road. Heck, if any job was all roses and chocolates with great pay on the first day, well, chaos would ensue to be hired on.

Not too concerned with pay to be honest. No, I really mean that. I have managed my finances where I owe very little debt, and literally have nothing to lose (except my Jeep, which is paid off.) But, I do thank you for the advice and that is excellent information regarding pay, of which will be extremely useful to me in the future.

I'll begin looking into Marten Transport and Melton Truck Lines as well.

Yeah, I noticed that too. As you can see, I've been doing my homework of what is involved to be a professional driver. Fortunately, I have no wife nor kids to worry about; just me, myself and I. As far as regarding family time...well, I'll just say my family is dysfunctional and leave it at that.

Social whenever I can, but no problems of extended solitary periods either.

 

Can't argue with that. It doesn't surprise me one bit that many can't get used to the new life style, thus high turnover rate. For myself, I grew tired working in an office. If I have to work in an office, I want it on wheels where the scenery changes daily. I've discovered I'm a more "outdoor" worker rather than a cubicle slave.