Considering getting my CDL

I, as well, agree with the others. Continue on with Swift. One of our great drivers on here (Don't worry, not tagging you, Lep...) was a trainer for them, before he, too, broadened his horizons.

Besides, now that they are sorda under the 'Knight' umbrella, I believe things will be looking up there, if not already.

I'd go for it. Stay a year. Minimum.

 

I'll admit that Knight has been good for Swift in some ways.
In other ways, not so much.
A marriage is all about give and take.

njcrackbaby, if Swift is giving you a chance that is great.
So, give Swift a chance as well. On both ends.
The front end is getting in with Swift and learning as much as you can to become a professional driver.
The back end is ignoring all the hype and bad rep stuff you hear about Swift, and give them the chance to be a company worth working for without prior bias.

The bad you hear about Swift is because of some drivers, some driver managers, some terminals, and much more from people that have no clue.

I have been at Swift for nearly 9 years. The person that mentored me had 6 years in already, and he is still at Swift.
There are a lot of long time drivers here because Swift is not all that bad.
Many that seek 'greener pastures' end up coming back, because Swift ends up being the greener ground.

Don't go in with a chip on your shoulder, expecting all the bad because of what people say.
And you can PM me for advice if needed.

 

IMHO, Prime is quite picky (as are their 'sister' companies, WilTrans/Jim Palmer) so I probably wouldn't ... what IS your job history like? They are sticklers there, as well.

Maverick flatbed and glass; I hear good things, they do well. Much more to learn, however, than driving. Securement, et al. I'd get a year in with box or reefer first. Still saying Swift, or perhaps, CFI. REALLY think you can't go wrong with either. CFI is lenient to a point, as well.

If Swift will have you, just go....and quit mulling. A year goes QUICK.

 

Worst they can say is no. Apply see what they say. First tho before you call put together a list of questions you’ll need answered if hired and there’s tons I can think of off the top of my head.

 

I dont remember how long it takes for points to fall off in NJ. How many points do you have on your license at the moment? Accidents?

If Swift wants you then JUMP on it. License points are a killer in this industry!

Also, a good place to get a CDL in NJ is Jersey Tractor Trailer up in north NJ. They also had some financial assistance programs available last time I heard. RVCC (the college) may be another place to look into, or even the unemployment office in Somerville. NJ1stop career center or something like that.

 

Best of luck, Roehl is a good company. Just prounounce it right; it's RAIL, jsyk.

Keep us posted, for sure.

 

I endorse this. Dont get caught up in what people say about Swift. It's nothing wrong with working there. It's all about getting experience. It's a win win...you get your CDL, and you'll have a job right after. One year will come and go and more opportunities will manifest.

 

One of the best training videos I have seen were from Swift. Guy was really good Ton's of understanding to pass on to you. Swift is so huge. Much greater odds for things to go wrong. Then they get broadcast to everyone.
I've heard very good about Roehl. A winner.
Make sure they know about your driving record ahead of time. I've heard of some who won't check you out till you're there. Then send you home. Don't let them waste your time.

Back when I was looking for first job. Recruiter at Prime didn't like my mixed employment for last 10 years. Jobs here are not good. They're fighting. Join in on the fighting, or you're headed out the door. One way or the other. This was until I got my first driving job in Class B. Worked for an old fashioned South Dakotan. Tough to work for. But fair. That means alot. Worked driving for him for 7 years. He sold the company. I got laid off by the Millenials who bought it. I wasn't squirrrely enough. Got unemployment and grant to upgrade to Class A. .... Well that 7 years didn't mean anything to Prime. What? I had to tell her I had a career for 18 years. Then she was happy.