So many training programs, what do experienced drivers recommend???

Hey Y'all,

I am a 36 year old female who has worked in Dentistry since I was 18 years old but always thought a professional trucking career would suit me better. With my personality and craving to have a career outside of the nonstop drama of working in an office full of catty #####es and an annoying office manager looking over my shoulder all day every day seems to be looking better every day. For years it's just been a thought because I have been too scared to leave the field I know and I really do love creating beautiful smiles for people and forming a relationship with them and their families but year after year the nitpicking and micromanaging has over shadowed the love I have for my job so I really feel like now is the time to make the switch!!

I have read so many insightful articles which has for sure been a reality check so THANK YOU to all the drivers that took the time to write them!! I really imagined a career in trucking to be what driving has been for me since I got my license, therapy, so it's nice to have an accurate look into what I'm getting myself into because I think that helps with keeping my expectations in check.

However, all though the articles have been a nice reality check it hasn't deterred me from wanting to learn! I have been doing some research and it seems like there are some really good training companies that will pay to train and hire you but now days you can't trust what the internet says is the top rated company without wondering if the company just paid someone off to be at the top of the list!! SO I WANT TO KNOW WHAT REAL DRIVERS SUGGEST!!!
What companies are good companies to learn and train? Would you recommend learning through a big company instead of getting a loan to go to a private school? And in 2020 what is a reasonable rate to accept? ------> The pay was an issue in Dentistry too because all these girls were coming out of school and taking an hourly rate just over minimum wage!!! It really screws over the whole field!!! I don't want to work for nothing, especially if I'm away from my family and I don't know if these companies are gonna look at me as this girl who is new to the industry and try to screw me over so please help with a reasonable rate! I am in SC, I don't know if that makes a difference if I'm trying to drive OTR or not but just in case I'm putting it out there.


THANK YOU for listening to my rant and for ALL THE HELP Y'ALL CAN PROVIDE!!!

Hopefully working with y'all soon,
Erin

 

FOR REAL, thank you so much for taking the time to read my question and reply!! It's insane to me that I could start off making that much!! I mean before the pandemic I was working 10-12 hour days and literally made teeth for patients while they were in the chair right next to me literally waiting on me to cement their teeth in their mouth and after years of working not even making 35,000!! Even with the nerves and anxiety about the 1st year of trucking after reading everyone's posts and suggestions I am excited to do this!!

 

That actually makes me feel so much better!!! I was basing my fear off of not ever really seeing female drivers. Probably not the best information to use since it's been limited but that's what I went with

 

Thank you!! I'm excited and scared all at the same time lol!