Class B driver

Have a read on my thread, I'm in very much the same boat you're in: http://www.thetruckersreport.com/tr...ers/233074-so-here-goes-the-dream-begins.html


That said, if you have the wherewithal to go thru a proper class, do it: it'll open more doors for you as a n00b driver. I've read that the community colleges put on a pretty good class, and they have the ability to see if you qualify for financial assistance and/or grants.

If you got laid off, you should be eligible for unemployment benefits: USE THEM!!!!


Seriously: put any thought out of your head about "I AIN'T SUCKLIN' OFF NO GOOBERMINT TEAT!!!"

YOU PAID FOR THOSE BENEFITS, NOW USE THEM!!

Yes, that money the company paid into the unemployment insurance was money they set aside in their budget for your position as an employee; part of it went for your salary, part for your health benefits, and the rest for your unemployment insurance. If you don't take it, they get that money back--meaning they got you axe you AND get paid for doing it!!

Don't let them do that.

As a student, you will qualify to continue to draw your benefits, they will allow you to draw unemployment and train for a new career (trucking); whether or not you'll have to continue to look for jobs, I have no idea, but even if you have to, just apply for jobs you know you won't take.

Youre in a good position to give yourself a head start, so have at it.


Now, if you're like I am (still fighting for the benefits, money getting tight, etc), looking at a trucking outfit that trains is a good thing, especially if they pay you during training (Millis is one, there's others). But I suspect you're the first scenario, so do the school and get a BUNCH of prehire letters (yes, those count as job searches), and do a metric flockton (how's THAT for avoiding the cuss filter!!) of research--and this joint is a good place to do it. Contact a lot of the experienced drivers here, network yourself like crazy, and maybe one will pave your way into their company.

Good luck, bro!

 

Here's some ideas:

Attend a community college or private CDL school that's at least 160 hrs.
While in school get the tanker/hazmat, doubles-triples endorsements, plus TWIC.
Now get some tanker experience with either Superior Carriers, Schneider tanker division or companies advertising on Careerbuilder website. These tanker jobs will lead to better pay & benefits and better chances of local work in the future.

If not tanker, look for food service, same again; Careerbuilder website or grocery warehouses near you or a Walmart Distribution Center. There's a Walmart Distribution Center in London, KY & I think Schneider does their transportation logistics. Maybe US Food Service or Greatwide food service division since you have a driving background.

Now,if not a private or community college CDL school, look at Millis Transfer which will provide CDL school plus employment after graduation. If you're a motivated, hard worker you can probably make in the $50K range with this company.

At the top of this page click on "CDL Practice Tests" to prepare for the Class-A and endorsements. Google will show where the nearest TWIC office is.

 

Check out WIA government grant in my state when you get laidoff you are approved for grant.