i completed my first year with walton milk hauling

Sweet gig! Wish I could find something like that here in NC.
I wish you continued success.

 

If you are happy then stay there. Too many drivers jump jobs non stop throughout their entire careers - and every time they do it cost them dearly. In most cases had they simply stayed at one decent company they would be far better off financially and in many other ways too.

At the same time - NEVER put your fate solely in the hands of ANY employer no matter how good they may be. Your retirement is not the responsibility of any company - it's your responsibility.

Two key things to consider - get out of debt and stay out of debt. Invest in real estate (and learn how to do it right) over many years while you continue to drive. Do that - and do it right - and your retirement is set.

Lots of people ##### about auto shifts - but I kinda like them (especially in heavy traffic!) and I suggest that people don't knock them unless and until you try them for at least a few trips. Having said that I favor a super 10 - but I am still quite happy too with an automatic.

 

I don't think that is strange at all - especially in trucking. Many people have started that way - loading trucks, or working a gate at a DC/Plant etc. or as mechanics in the shop - then moved on to become drivers.

The knowledge and skills they developed from those earlier jobs helped them become more productive drivers faster than others who had no prior related experiences at all.

It doesn't end there either - not unless you choose for it to do so. You can take the skills you are learning and developing now and use them to move to other areas of this vast industry as well. You may decide to become an owner operator, or to move inside to a staff job - or you may be happy doing what you are doing from now on. The point is you always have options - and whatever you do I wish you continued success!