Heading into school soon and just trying to get a general feel

Werner owns Roadmaster, and that's why you have a pre-hire.
Go ahead and attend Roadmaster to get your cdl, but shop around before committing yourself to Werner. You might find another company you like better.
Where are you in Southern California?
Since you have a start date for cdl school, go ahead and contact several other companies and make some comparisons.

 

I think @Powder Joints lives near you and maybe can make some suggestions.

I'll also see what I can find, so you can decide which is best for you.

 

Danny Herman Trucking - terminals in Fontana & Calexico. Headquarters in Mountain City, TN.
Dry van with fancy trucks set up for driver comfort.
Most freight lanes are below I-40 all the way to the east coast.
No northeast runs. Unless their policy has changed very recently; they do hire new cdl graduates, so call and ask.
www.dannyherman.com

 

Werner has the family dollar acct.. if you can not handle physical work don't do it

 

Werner sends you to test CDL at the Fontana DMV and they are kind of tough for the pre-trip inspection. Careful about the road test and alley dock. Someone I know blew the road test 3 times.

 

Freymiller - www.drive4freymiller.com - this is one of the best refrigerated trucking companies around, for new cdl graduates.
DO YOU HAVE YOUR CDL BUT NEED EXPERIENCE?
Freymiller has designed a Finishing Program for new CDL holders to get you the road experience needed to become a successful solo driver!
Our exceptional finishing program will pair you with an experienced, certified trainer who will prepare you with the skills that you will require to become a safe and experienced driver with a great future at Freymiller!

 

McLane Company - mostly local/regional. $2000.00 sign on bonus.
Click here to apply > Apply On Company Site
The teammate learns the essential functions of the Driver job including the accurate and timely distribution of grocery/food staples, grocery/food specialty products and convenience store/restaurant supplies to various customer locations. The Driver Trainee gains exposure to warehouse and other operational functions as part of the developmental process of becoming a McLane Driver.

Some drivers like this type of back breaking work, but I wouldn't do it.

 

I went to school back in July and like you I researched and acquired information from others before deciding on KLLM driving school. Prior to deciding on KLLM I was going to attend a non company sponsored school because I didn't want to commit to any particular company for one year. However, after careful consideration I realized it really doesn't matter because you can payout your tuition and go anywhere you want anyway. I also concluded that almost all companies require that you have 3 mos to a year experience before hiring you for any additional pay what a company sponsored program will offer. In researching I first looked for companies that had a good safety rating and one that had a female friendly work environment. Werner's ratings were not bad at all and in the end of course you do what is best for you. Best Wishes!