CDL School starts on Monday!

Today went a lot better on all fronts!

In the morning we learned how to log and they showed us how to use the sleeper berth provision.

We also talked a lot about safety and Commercial Motor Vehicle laws. That's where it kinda got real for me. Just the stories that the instructors told about past students they've had, 2 of which aren't with us on earth anymore. I always knew it was dangerous, but some of the stories you hear put it all in to perspective.

Talked about the importance of protecting your driving record and CDL. I've already made it a point to drive properly even in my car. My CDL is my livelihood, as I'm sure it is to a lot of folks. I want to do everything I can to make sure I don't lose it.

Lots of talking about "real world trucking" today.

In the afternoon, I got to drive on the roads in the automatic truck, which I think helped a lot because the first day I drove the standard and I think that was just too much, too fast for the first day because of everything you have to pay attention to.

I think I improved in my lane control and my stopping though still not great at it. Now I need to focus on turns and watching what the trailer is doing when I change lanes, turn, etc.

I wanted to correct something I said earlier: The standard shift truck we have is an 8 speed, not a 10. Is that going to be a problem in terms of driving a different geared truck (like a 10 speed)?

I haven't practiced backing in a few days, so hopefully I'll get to do more of that when I get back a week from Monday. I'm on Spring Break this upcoming week.

 

I'm still on Spring Break, but I wanted to tell you folks that I'm studying for my Tanker and Doubles/Triples endorsement tests and hopefully I will have those taken and passed by tomorrow afternoon!

 

Passed it all!

My next step will be to schedule a driving test here in a couple weeks!


The only endorsement I don't have is HAZMAT which I can't get until after I turn 21 years old (mid-June).



I have to say I'm nervous about the driving part, granted I've only driven twice on the roads since the start of CDL school. Driving makes me more nervous than anything because it's easy to screw up and kill someone (and of course, I don't want that to happen!). I'm sure with more experience I won't be so nervous!

Hopefully I'll also get lots of backing practice in as well. I'm not really nervous about that so much as I know I just need practice.

Next week shall be a great week.

 

Well yesterday I didn't go to class because I had to go to the doctor.

However I did get a call back from ABF Freight! I applied for a dockworkers position in Fort Worth and she called me back and wants to set up an interview in the next couple days (details TBD). It's not a driving job, but I figure I have to start somewhere.

I'll keep you guys posted!

 

Several things to report today!

I drove the standard truck today. I think I did better. I was more relaxed. My stopping was better. Need to work on keeping the speed limit (I go too slow) and keeping myself in the lane. I feel like I'm gaining confidence everyday which is good. I have a very patient instructor which helps a lot!

I've said this before but I don't know how you guys train people. I COULDN'T DO IT! Some new guy's life in your hands, not for me!


I found out what time ABF wants me to come interview! It's 11:30 tomorrow! Wish me luck!

Also, YRC is having a hiring "Open House" in Dallas on March 28th, so I will definitely go to that!


That's it for now!