CDL-go thru Community College or Company??

I would say the local community college route is the best, but it should not cost you anywhere near $5K........keep looking there are many colleges in the 1000-1500 range. I know most boardering states consider you an in state student for (in state tuition) I would keep looking if $5k is the norm in your area.

 

While MUCH of what you say about being treated like dirt is true. Keep this in mind; life is what you make it, if you show up with a lousy work ethic, and a chip on your shoulder YOU WILL GET WHAT YOU ASKED FOR. On the other hand if you show up clean, and have a good attitude. Don't turn down loads, don't cry and whine with every load you receive. You will 90% of the time be treated fairly, "eventually" you will make a decent living, even at one of those companies you have listed above.

To me companies like Swift, England, JB Hunt, Schneider etc (the big boys) are a stepping stone as a company driver. They are a place to start, they are a good place to start actually, and earn valuable work experience for your resume. Take your lumps, and the lessons good and bad lessons and advance yourself. Ultimately you'd want to find a local trucking company to work for, or buy your own truck and authority.

Another thing to keep in mind, I have said this before on this board, and I will say it again. MANY of the OTR drivers these days are one step from homeless. With all that the label "homeless" entails, they are the walking wounded (both mentally and physically) of our society whom have found a job/life in trucking where they weren't able to function normally in society.

What am I saying? Take the bad mouthing on this board of the various trucking companies with a grain of salt. Many of these people can, and do find fault in EVERYTHING their company offers them.