Dual training

Even with a "school" certificate. You will be placed with a trainer for an additional time period.

No school can prepare you for truck driving in the real world.

Furthermore, stay away from Swift....period.

 

I understand your reasoning for wanting a 7 day school. But it's not going to happen, sorry. The are "minimum" requirements that have to be met for "certified" schools. You'll spend a minimum of 3 weeks, shorter if you have actual experience, and the school will allow you to test out after all "classroom" instruction.

Many of the students I had, came from Swift. And trust me, they didn't know jack, even after 4-5 weeks on the truck with their "Swift" mentor/trainer. Many of Swifts trainers are the so-called Owner Ops (actually struggling Lease operators) looking to make some extra money. You may or may not actually get to drive during your so-called training period. But you will log a lot of driving...as the trainer uses your log book to increase his/her driving times.

Look around and look closely at ALL options, DO NOT sign any long term commitments for "paid" training. There are many good companies, make a list of all you want to look at. Read through this forum, it will take you a day or so, pick one.

Recruiters will promise you the moon! I suggest going to a truck stop, getting a couple of trade rags (they're free). Look at the ads, then compare that company's claims with the post on this site. Do they jive?

I know a lot on here sounds negative (people and post). But, you'll become accustom to that when you get into trucking. This is truly a high turnover industry, and for good reason. Everyone sugar coats everything, in the actual hiring process. Then....when the clock strikes midnight....pumpkin time.

 

I really appreciate all the feedback from everyone. Just when I thought I had a plan. I do have 1 other question. Will a felony conviction back in the mid 80's hurt me finding a job? My driving record is spotless for 15 yrs. Not even parking ticket. I also know your right about Swift.

 

cman -

Swift really isn't as bad as the boards make them sound. They are the largest company out there, so just by numbers alone they will have more adversaries than others!

I personally know quite a few drivers who have been through training with them and are doing well with the company. Do they have bad mentors? Of course they do... virtually EVERY company will.

The good trainers at Swift will MAKE you practice your backing skills every chance they can. Mine did.

At Swift (or any other company) if you feel you are not receiving adequate training, it is your right (and responsibility) to call Safety - explain your situation and get in with a REAL trainer.

If you take to heart all the comments on every trucking board, you wouldn't want to work for any company out there!

 

For the most part, no. A felony can easily be overcome. Just be honest from the word go...do not try to hide it. Tell them upfront...period.

What can hurt you, felony-wise. A major drug offense...and a few others.

Don't ever expect a company that requires you to run Canada to hire you though. Canada defines felony differant...but jeeezzz louis and you will not be allowed in. If allowed in, you might not get home any time soon.

 

Thanks for the info. My felony wasn't anything major, but it was still a felony. Something stupid when I was young. No sex or drug charge. I don't plan to work for anyone where I have to go East or into Canada. Heard too much about both.