Begin on July 25

In September of 2010 the company I worked for had to close due to mismanagement and lack of funds. It put an end to over 35 years in and around the construction industry. I did mostly civil construction and jobs throughout the years included surveying, estimating, sales, and even a part owner. The bottom actually fell out in 96 but I was able to hold on for a few more years. In 1996 I started looking into becoming a driver. I have always been around trucks and even in my much younger years when licensing was different I drove a couple of tractors hooked up to lowboys for my Dad’s construction company.

When the company I worked for last year closed I signed up for the WIA from advice of a local truck driving school. Now after 9 months I have been approved for trucking driving school and will begin July 25. I am looking forward to the school and the possibility of becoming a professional driver. Eventhough I just turned 58 I am in excellent health and will be able to give at least another 8 to 10+ years to the road.

Starting a new career at any age can be a little frightening. Fortunately my children are grown and my wife doesn’t need me in her arms every night. Another factor in my decision is living in the Metro Atlanta area. Most all of the big carriers either have terminals or drop yards and there are countless number of other trucking companies form small fleets to large fleets located within a short drive from my home. Don’t know how true this is but I have been told I might be able to start with a regional or dedicated run after my training. At any rate if I can survive the first 6 to 12 months I will have several paths to follow.

I usually spend a few minutes each day reading the post here. Good or bad a new driver can get a feel for the industry. As far as the negative post my advice is to read them for what they are worth. There are several contributing members who are giving good advice and there are some who are either just pissed off or maybe be in the wrong profession. This job is not for everyone and I agree with a lot of the post who tell you if you are driving a truck because you can’t do anything else you won’t be happy. I personally know a couple of truckers who where not happy with driving; However the reason was not the actually job but circumstances surrounding the job. One lived in rural Mississippi and was so far from the shipping lanes he rarely ever got home and the other couldn’t stand to be away from his wife even for a day. These are serious issues to be addressed by any new trucker. I been fortunate enough to see my son play ball through high school and graduate from college and didn’t miss any swim meets or band performances by my daughter who in now in her second year of college. Whereas making money is always an issue my wife is a nurse and has a good steady income.

Anyhow I will keep everyone informed of my progress over the next few months.