whats out there for an 18 year old?

I just got out of the military 3 weeks ago as a truck driver. I think Florida is the only state that will convert your military 2293 to a civilian CDL. Although most states and companies will note recognize your military driving, the experience you gain will make it that much easier to pass the driving tests. None of the carriers I talked to would recognize my nine years of driving... Except for YRC (I am either them now). Military is an awesome options... I used my tuition assistance to go to truck driving school without cutting into my GI Bill. If that doesn't sound like something you want to do, you can always put in as a dockworker and load up trucks. Most companies will let their employees use company assets to obtain their CDL that way. Also most companies will promote from within before hiring outside drivers. Good luck.

 

your best bet is either be a dirt dummy in a tri axle/end dump/low bed, or to peddle product with a two wheeler, or maybe pallet jack. I started peddling at 18 and was pulling double pups at 19....Mass is a very small and boaring state to but I got experiance

 

ding ding ding.... We have a winner ... LOL

 

Get your own truck and haul loads staying in the state......

 

Custom harvesters, ashphalt companies, construction outfits, dump trucks, concrete, refuse. Lots of options. You might be a part driver/ part laborer or such, working your foot in the door. Younger than 21 CDL grads in this area get jobs.

Honestly, college grads presently have a pretty bleak job picture. Lots of Starbucks and waiting tables with a 4 year degree going on.

Pursue an area of strong interest as a career starting point. Nothing wrong with the transportation industry as that starting point. You will hear some advise to stay away entirely, but when I was a teacher I was around the most negative sorry-arse crowd you could ever imagine, far more negative than even here on this forum.Lesson being, I guess, that it ain't no bed of roses whatever path you go down. So good luck and happy trails

 

Go to work for a moving company they will hire at 18 and teach you how to drive their trucks. That's how I started way back when.

 

Tech school,Military--Haul for farmer-get on Wheat crew.

 

If you go the Military route, have a plan just as with anything else. get a job that will assist you with getting a career you would like on the outside. You will likely require extra certifications in whatever field you choose when you get out. However, as someone else mentioned, Florida will convert your military license into a CDL. Although driving a military truck is a bit different than driving a regular truck with a few exceptions. No matter what, have a goal!

 

I would highly recommend against the military just to drive a truck.

two time combat vet...just trust me, dont do it