Will a new truck derail your backing skills as a new student?

I think automatics are the future. I think Volvo or someone made then started transmission now. I have one they are nice. I wouldn't go back to manual unless I had to. I have the Detroit DT-12 transmission it's a nice set up

 

Call the companies you're interested in and ask if they'll hire you with a automatic restriction.

 

A lot of companies are going with automatics now. I have a Volvo.

On you renting a truck to test, I don't think that is a good idea. A guy I went trucking school failed out. Not because he didn't know it. He was smart as a whip. It was a combination of racism and nervousness. He decided he was going to rent a truck and test out that way. The DMV tester failed him on pretrip He knew pretrip (He helped me learn it) He wasted a month. I had graduated, got hired, and was finished with my company training. He still hadn't got his CDL. The company I work for does CDL training. He passed tge very first time I think that DMV wants drivers to have some kind of firmal training for their CDL. Just my opinion. BTW I am in Texas too

 

Sounds like your in a hurry. IF you can back any truck and trailer you get it. Go for it, if not better stay with the school. And learn how to drive.
Don't take this the wrong way. But you sound just like my son. He was telling me the trainer did not know it all. And was just a Smart guy. Well our son left the school. Found a guy that needed a driver that week. And took him for his testing. Son passed with flying colors.
First trip out you got it. Got in over his head. But was smart enough to call for help. He told us I was right. He was just in a rush. And should have stayed in class. Learned what he could, then get to work.
Also you do know, there's part time jobs. That you can work, until you get through with school? Nothing wrong with working at McDonald's if that is what it takes.
Ask your self this ? is it worth rushing. Then god Forbid get into a wreck. Then there goes your CDL. And could end up in Jail. Please don't rush into trucking.

 

A different truck will screw with you a bit until you're used to it.