so many starter companies

Most companies do.
Recently Trimac Transportation in Louisana hired 2 new cdl grads from the same class; one young and one older.
At first the terminal manager told them he wasn't hiring new cdl grads, so they went home. The next morning he called them to come back to the terminal; he wanted to hire them both and did.
That's why we recommend to always apply to any company you're interested in, even if you don't think they'll hire you.

 

I know its not Tanker or dry van but Maverick has excellent training and their trainers are always in the jump seat while you are driving. They have flatbed, glass, and Reefer(which they like to call temperature control)

 

Here's another one I just thought of, but not sure they hire in LA. Call if you want or just apply and see if you get a job offer. It's a reefer & tanker outfit.
Seaboard Transport - tankers and reefers. Think they're headquartered in Kansas, but not sure. They do hire new cdl grads.

 

Lots of good advice in thread .

Like Six said about cleanliness, my rule has always been “no shoes past the drivers seat!” Always treat that interior as it is your house, while on the road it is your house!

This applied to my trainees when i was a trainer as well. Truck clean, shower daily, laundry weekly. No exceptions.

 

Some trainers are going to be a-holes. They will talk to you tough, much like mine did. As long as it wasn't outright disrespect, and I was learning, I was good with it. You'll probably be out with him/her at least a month. As much driving as you'll be doing, that month will go quickly. If it's possible, try to stick it out with the same trainer through it all.

 

I’m 46 and just did exactly as you are doing.
Talk to the head of training, tell that person your expectations and tolerances, and have the same conversation with your trainer.

I told both a yelling and screaming trainer will just lead to a physical altercation, and I can’t put up with pigs.
I treated my trainer with the utmost respect and expected the same in return.
Also told him my major pet peeve was smacking food and gum.
We got along great.

Last piece of advice I can give you is to separate yourself from the trainer whenever possible.
If you’re stopped to eat, then get out of the truck and give each other a half hour of quiet time. Nobody gets along forever without arguing.

Lastly, realize he knows more than you about this job and suck it all in. And back at every opportunity. Even if you can pull through, find a spot to back in.