Starting CDL training on monday, California drivers i need some info

Howdy Drivers,

I start my CDL training on Monday. I'm going through a company called Advanced Career Institute.

I'm planning on getting all my endorsement. From what I've read on this forum I don't have to go through one of the new driver OTR mills like CR or Swift for my first job(not saying anything's wrong with said companies). I've read that I can start as a local driver straight out the shoot. I would much rather do that, although I'm not afraid of earning my miles. I'm going to be a professional driver and make this a career. I've always believed in earning everything I have with my two hand, the honest way. My goal is to be a tanker driver. A company that I'd like to work for is Williams Tank Lines out of Bakersfield CA. After speaking with them I need two years clean driving to be considered.

I'm First question: can anyone provide me with some info/contacts of local companies. I'm in Clovis CA right now and will do my training there but plan on relocation to southern California after I get my CDL. So driving locally in SoCal would be my first goal.
Second Question: is there any tanker companies that would hire a noob like myself?


Any information would be a great help, thank you guys!

 

I figured that was the route I'd have to take, but after reading so many posts about guys driving locally right our of school I thought I'd give it a shot. I don't have an issue paying my dues but if I can start locally why not right.

If anyone has more information I would appreciate it.