kind of new

First I want to thank everyone for all the info posted here. Knowing this site is here makes things a little easier on newbies such as myself. Okay, here goes... I got my cdl a in jan 2006 but never used it becuse there was a death in the family and I had to work in the family business. I was on the verge of going with Crete 3 years ago as a student right out of school when the death occured. Now I'm looking to get back into trucking and had a few questions. I spoke to Roehl and was told I'd need to start over again from scratch and I expect this from the other companies. I'm considering going with Scneider, Roehl and PAM. Crete doesn't have a school, they accept RECENT graduates. It looks like you have to pay Scneider and Roehl up front and then be reimbursed as you work it off over a period 12-18 months. It looks like PAM will front the money in return for a period of 12-18 months of working there. This is a big plus for me.

Also, PAM has automatics. I had alot of trouble getting the shifting down in school because it was the first time I drove a manual transmission. Somehow I passed the test and got the license which I've kept current along with the hazmat and double/tanker endorsements. The shifting worries me. My main concern is being SAFE driving the truck and not stalling it.

Which of these 3 companies would you recommend? I've heard mostly good things about schneider and roehl, some good and bad about PAM. Some of the posts on these companies are kind of old and might be irrelevant so I'd like some updated opinions. Also, should I choose a company soley on the basis of it having autoshift trans. or do you think I can get the shifting down? My instructor said they' be able to straighten me out in a week with the shifting- is this true or am I doomed to drive automatics? I'm 43 with a clean driving record (never had a ticket) no criminal history and realize the first year will be rough. I just want to be SAFE. The money concern comes a close second. Thanks in advance for all your help. I greatly appreciate it.

 

Thanks for your help