What is the best way to get into the industry?

It's best to go through a truck driving school or community college. They have instructors that are certified by the state and you are not committed to any employment contract. You might get better financing through a community college or similar institution. I would check your state for grants. Being from economically hard hit Detroit, there might be something available.

Regardlesss where you go to school, most end up at one of these starter companies (mega carriers). It's a coin toss on your training no matter where you go because alot rides on the trainer and dispatcher. At 6 months experience a few doors will open, at one year a whole bunch of better jobs will open. Some companies require 2, 3 and 5 years and those tend to be your better jobs.

You have to work your way up. The first year you hear alot of complaints because some take advantage of trainees and some new guys discover it's not what they thought. Basically you have to toughen up to the industry and learn the ropes. In 1-3 years you can have a decent job paying $50-60K.

What bothers many new guys in the beginning eases up and gets better as you go along. I would stay away from Werner and CRST for sure. You will be looking for the best of the worst to start out. We can help you figure that out when you get to that point.

 

I went through Driver Solutions the second time. You have to sign a one year contract with a trucking company. I went with USA Truck. Or you can pay for your own truck schooling. That way you wont be held at that company for the duration. If you quit befpre your contract is up, you will have to pay the full amount of the training. Research thoroughly before deciding.

 

What's the best way to get OUT of this industry?

 

Become a dispatcher or broker.

 

For me, i went to a local small company for training. Received my cdl and started working immediately. First year earnings was from Feb. to Feb. for a total $60,000 approximately. Thats including 2months of training and not earning more than $3000 during that time. Im home every weekend and usually once a week. Its been a good experience learning the ropes but im currently looking for a local gig to be home more with two young kids in sports i dont want to miss out. Good luck and hopefully you wont have to start out with a mega carrier.

 

Fail a drug screen after a fatality accident.

 

Smith & Wesson!

 

Experiences may vary. Don't even begin to count on these income numbers. I'm skeptical...