21 Years old, no cdl, TYPE 1 Diabetic.

Hi guys,

from Metro Detroit area Michigan

I've always had the interest to get into a truck and drive for a living. I made an account here to get some opinions of my current situation.

Some background:
First of all, im 21 currently, i have a full time job as a Retrofit Technician working on new GM vehicles 40 hrs/week AT 18/HR. My take home pay is 575 a week after taxes are deducted, not too bad considering i graduated high school in 2015. I just started taking community college classes in hopes of obtaining a Mechanical Engineering degree(Eventually).

I would be looking to drive a truck during the day and be home every night if that were possible.

My main obstacle to get into driving is my Type 1 Diabetes, I'm 21 and in good shape(you wouldn't even know i was a diabetic) - have pretty good control of my blood sugars. HgA1C is a bit elevated.

Being a Type 1 diabetic ON AN INSULIN PUMP, what would the first steps be in getting a waiver? Would i talk to a trucking company or school before i started the waiver process? I have not been through trucking school but im hoping there are some people on this forum that are Type 1's that can give some advice. Could i expect to take home atleast $575 a week driving a truck? What would be the first steps as a Type 1 Diabetic that is insulin dependent? I wish i didnt have to disclose that i was a diabetic but my blood test wont hide that fact.
With the extra steps involved as a diabetic is it realistic? Or should i stay away from the industry(I do enjoy my current job) but have always itched at the idea of driving.

Any input is appreciated

Thanks,
Adam B

 

Type 1 is insulin dependent. Im currently using an insulin pump to manage my sugar level. Should a waiver be obtained before anything else?

 

I've read otherwise.

 

Is there a certain A1C i should be shooting for to qualify for the exemption?

 

And if I were to get an exemption, would i need to pick out a company/school based on the fact that im Type 1? Or would that be discrimination by an employer to deny me based on my diabetes(WITH A WAIVER)?