Where are all of my Jacksonville area driving school grads?

I'd like to know who's running the program because they (FCCT) are advertising for a Instructional Program Manager, Commercial Driving. I thought that the guy who was running the program was about fed up and would eventually leave.

It's a good program...at least it was last fall.

 

I think it is a good program because the instructors/trainers are all OTR vets with many years (some had 25-30 years).

Jim designed the program when it started 2-3, maybe 4 years ago. His people skills are not the best but his knowledge of the industry seemed to be good.

THIS IS MY TAKE AND ONLY MY TAKE...Once the program grew in popularity it began being noticed and others moved in on "his territory" and he didn't like that. He liked being in charge.

You'll be fine. It is a good program...they just didn't educate companies on what they are doing out there. They need to bring companies in to show them that this program is much better than the CDL mills that charge thousands of dollars.

 

Thanks for the kind words...

I think all of the instructors at FCCT are good.

For the skills pads and OTR training...assuming these folks are still there...I think Leroy is the best. He will teach you how to drive a truck. Downside with Leroy, if others are struggling, they will get more seat time. He is crazy and loud but will teach you a ton.

If you get Bob, a nice guy and you will drive a ton of miles. Bob, doesn't work the pad, just the road training. his group logged the most miles.

Although I didn't have Joe, I think Joe would be good too. He subbed in the classroom for a couple of days and he is a good instructor.

I am back in Elm Springs on Monday for WSE Orientation, Round 2. I should have stayed in March. Duh...

One thing I will push for this time though is longer runs, more miles, trips west of the MS River. I think I crossed the MS headed west twice from Dec - Mar...headed to TX both times.

At least I know what to expect now.

When you finish at FCCT, give Gavin Reynolds at WSE a call. You can even tell him I suggested it.

You won't make a ton of money with WSE (start you at $0.26/mile) but they are straightforward and don't lie. There is a Comcar (CCC) yard right here in Jax on New Kings Road near the Amtrak station, so you always have somewhere to park your truck when you want to come home. And we haul a ton of freight into FL so getting home was never an issue for me...the caveat, I was only out there for 3 months so, I am not sure if my experience was typical but the other WSE drivers I ran into, seemed to have similar experiences as I.

Good luck with whatever you choose to do.