Coming out of Training

You should have discussed that BEFORE training

 

I believe most jobs are defined at your hire date. You should know before you start what you are applying for specifically.

 

If you are going out with a trainer then I assume you are at a big name co like Swift, Schneider, Werner etc. They will give you the choice of which division you want to join. I want to take this opportunity to inform you that drivers come in all different shapes and sizes. Keep an open mind when you meet your trainer. The biggest problem in the trucking industry is that drivers can qualify to become trainers with minimal experience which is nothing more than the blind leading the blind. You may get some older driver who has recently started driving himself but tries to use his age as a badge of experience. Maybe not. There are good trainers and not so good trainers.

Once you have joined the solo driver class, remember that now you merely have a license to learn. Most of your learning will happen while you are out there on your own. Let me know if I can help you. Started in 1980 and trained drivers for nearly 8 yrs. at Werner Enterprises way.......back in the 80's.

And remember: Truck driving is a thinking job. When you quit thinking, that's when you will get yourself into trouble.

I will never claim to be great driver but I will continually strive to be one.

Good Luck!

 

Depends on the company but most cases you sign up for the division before you even go to orientation. Not always and the less reputable companies might try the old bait and switch. What company are you thinking?

 

I've been OTR for 10 years except a brief stint as a local for about 7 months. For me OTR works.

 

That is a personal decision, there is no single area of trucking that is best for everyone

 

How long do you think a driver should be wit a trainer? Is 8 weeks really necessary? I kniw it required but do you think that much time is necessary?

 

I never had a trainer