Starting with Gordon

I started with GTI in the NCA operation. I had 1 primary dispatcher assigned to me...if I recall correctly her name was Julie. Anyway, after a couple weeks I found out about a southwest regional fleet from another driver that I had heard nothing of previously.

At any rate, I called the terminal manager for this fleet which is based out of phoenix. I think his name was Daniel...sorry I can't remember it was back in 2004. This operation was great. Most of my runs where vegas, so cal, AZ. On occasion I would go up close to turlock for a load coming back down south. Daniel and the dispatcher I worked with where outstanding, and I was home most weekends. My miles where decent too.

The point I'm trying to make is that there are more opportunities available than what is "advertised" on the website. Talk to other drivers, and find out where they run and etc. It is quite possible to find semi dedicated routes if you like some consistancy(sp?).

Usually you have to be with the company for some time and/or a trainer to get dedicated routes such as Target or Mervyns. On that sw regional I was doing primarily best buy, lowes, and green fiber. All of which where fantastic customers to deliver too.

 

Luman you're correct...and Daniel is still running the Sw fleet in Phoenix.The good thing about Daniel is that he's a planner too...that helps a lot...

 

I just put in an App with GTI out of Rancho, I really hope they come through for me. I have already been pre-hired for WERNER but I would prefer not to go with them, I've just read too many bad things about them, and only a few about GTI. I'm a total newbie, and just graduated my class and got my CDL in February. I'm a bit nervous about starting just because it is such a departure from what I have done in other jobs and being close to home. Tonkatruck, your keeping a blog of your experience has really been great to read and has set my mind at ease, thank you for keeping this blog. You had mentioned keeping a list of items you were going to put in your truck. Do you mind sharing that list? I have been wondering what I can and can't put in there (Flat screen TV, in dash radio with sat, ect). And thank you to everyone else who has offered there expertise on this topic.

 

Ok Tonka I'm curious..... since I'm going to start orientation on the 16th.

Is there a road test for student newbies? If so what do they look for?

Is there a physical other than the basic DOT stuff?

Generally what can I expect at orientation?



BTW GTI was my first choice as a "training company" and I feel fortunate that I have the opportunity to work there.



.................. Jim

 

ok I can answer a few things on here too...You will do a road test b4 you get with a trainer and after you come back off the road from your trainers truck.People have come back after 5 weeks with a trainer and failed the 2nd drive test,so you better be able to drive on your own after training. The training is very good and if you your trainer feels you're ready,then you will be.Just remember that while on a trainer's truck,you will be using the top bunk and what little space he can give you for your things.Keep things to a minimum.Cabbage is a big long hill and don't forget to use your jake all the way down and be in a lower gear b4 you start your decent...especially if you're pushin 80000....

 

hey

thanks a lot guys I really appreciate it!

A little knowledge in advance can go a long way. I don't really anticipate any problems with the road test. I've driven OTR before but, that was a while ago. I passed the DMV fairly easily. I just can't double clutch worth a darn (never could) but I can still float 'em pretty good. Control of the vehicle isn't an issue either.

Again - after reading the info here and researching the company, I feel fortunate to have the opportunity.

thanks again

.......... Jim

 

Tonk, is that lol or lolo pass by missoula. I had my brakes smoke once on cabbage towards the bottom but my jake broke. Not a good feeling.