Experienced Female Truckers in Tucson, Arizona???

I'm a 51 year old 'displaced homemaker' with a husband out of work and I am considering truck driving. Our situation is by no means desperate thanks a handsome size severance package and our savings. Thankfully, I do have the time to really research this potential endeavor. I'm of the belief truck driving might be a good match for me since I enjoy my solitude immensly and enjoy driving long distances (often times never even wanting to reach my destination) in the comfort of my own vehicle, which I know is NOTHING like a big rig. I believe I have an aptitude for problem solving, an ability to learn new things despite my old age and certainly don't hesitate to laugh at myself on a daily basis. I would love to receive recommendations/warnings regarding schools and trucking companies in my immediate area from any/all experienced drivers willing to chime in. I would really love to hear from the ladies about things that would likely make men's eyes roll. For example: is it at possible to load/unload freight; drop and hook without breaking a nail....er...I mean touching boxes/pallets? Is it possible to perform pre-trip truck inspections AND not mess up my hair or get dirty (please recommend things like gloves, aprons, smocks or ANY tricks of the trade ladies)? Any chance the ladies bathrooms/showers are cleaner by the sheer fact that there are less female drivers using them? Is it possible to use Airbnb for overnight stays (typically less expensive than a roadside motel, cleaner, big clean bathtubs, warm hospitality, etc.)? Can you park your load, leave your load and take an Uber to an Airbnb location? Or are you required to stay with/near your load at all times? Silly 'girlie' questions, I know guys but those are the things I ponder over . I think I can handle myself grinding the gears, hazardous conditions & motorists, cranky dispatchors, long wait times, breakdowns (can I call AAA???) and frequent bladder infections as long as my nails stay pretty and I have access to soaking in a long hot bath. I'm serious ladies, I would like to hear from those of you that have found ways to keep yourself feeling pampered (if possible) while working hard OTR. Thank you in advance for reading, replying and humoring me. I'm thoroughly enjoying all these forums and the support/insights/advice/suggestions drivers offer to one another.

 

lol....thank you Chinatown for your prompt reply! What's a good way for me to determine if Southwest Trucking is a good school and not on any companies 'Do Not Hire List'? Call companies directly? Do truckers mind being pestered at truck stops? We have several on the outskirts of Tucson, I've been tempted to chat with a trucker or two but I'd venture to guess they are pressed time??? Thanks again!

 

Love it! Thanks

 

Sensational suggestions! Thank you. That's exactly what I will do.

 

Very VERY good to know. I appreciate your candor. In fact, I appreciate how forthcoming all you drivers are with the nitty gritty details and real world experience and insights.