Need some help - but here is my plan so far

ppavone was in the fight game myself, and that until you get hit, is the part i didnt like too much. would look at roehl trucking i here some pretty good things about them lots of luck

 

Gypsum could probably accommodate your home time pretty easy if they'll take you as they are big up your way. The nice thing is they have a lot of tarp system trailers for those nasty winter days.

 

you've mentioned a few things in your initial post such as retiring, strong work ethic, etc... that would probably make you a very good fit at Roehl taking those things at face value. I get up in NY often enough with a van, don't think you'd have much problem getting flatbed loads there either. It's a solid company to start at. They also have a good school in Marshfield, WI that you can pay for up front, about $3kish, thats what I did. Thy reimburse you for that tuition as you get miles. Initial training with a trainer is 9-14 days in which you either make it or fail. I really didn't want to stay out forever with a trainer i.e. prime, etc.. Company is solid, treatment fair, and wages benefits competitive with or better than most start ups. Good equipment too. They also have 7/7 slip seat if you are in a position where you want more time off. One of my classmates who is also retired once, does the 7/7 flat, you just don't get as many miles and health benefits will cost you a little more. Haven't heard anything bad about the other companies you listed, check em all out.

 

You could look into NTTS Liverpool, that's where I'm at. It's a bit of a drive, but they have dorm/apartments. I don't know what the school in Rochester is like, but I think I'm getting the best training possible, as far as CDL schools go. My only complaint is I HAD to do the 18 week course to get student loans. I'd do the 7 or 10 week option if I had a choice and foresight (5, 7, 10 and 18 week courses offered). The school has a good rep though. Not many (none that I've talked to) of our grads go to Swift Werner. Your first year seems to differ greatly depending on the caliber of company you start off with. PM me if you have any questions.

 

It sure is, but it makes it easier to get into that company that lets you make 40 to 50K than the ones that are 30 to 40. Not really trying to sell, just what I believe is something to consider.