Does anyone know a sponsored cdl program other than the mainstream carriers

You can literally just study the handbook and get your permit at the dmv for under 100 bucks depending on your state. Your only problem is finding a truck that you can learn everything needed to take the road test. But that is the cheapest method and it avoid contracts which mainstream carriers will make you sign if you get your cdl through them.

 

Finding a decent job while going outside the standard route to a CDL-A pretty much requires that you personally know someone who hires drivers for a company.

The only significant exception to this is are a few LTL companies, as mentioned above.

The GI bill will pay for CDL school. If your job was outsourced or made obsolete, you might get a government grant to pay for CDL school.