Is starting with Werner a good or bad idea?

I would like to get a few objective opinions about using Werner as a starter company. I have read some mixed reviews on them, and they don't seem like the worst option, but I would like some feedback from people that have gone through the Omaha, NE training. To me they definitely seem better than CRE and Prime. From what I have read they offer $400/wk while you're in school, they approve of the school that I can commute from, they offer tuition reimbursement, they will help you to get into the school, and they have a pet policy (a must have for me.) I am hoping to apply for (and get) WIA in Kansas to cover tuition and use the training pay to cover bills while I'm in school. From what I've read the pay isn't great, but I have no delusions of grandeur. I fully understand that probably won't make great money until I have a few years under my belt. As long as I can make more than what I am making driving school bus now (which is less than $1,000/mo net with NO benefits) I will be more than satisfied. I have no problems being away from home. As far as dealing with the nasty dispatchers I've read about.....well let's just say I've one incredibly witchy one for the last 3 yrs and I've learned to give back what I get. I'm pretty good at picking my battles and don't get my feelings hurt easily, but I have no qualms telling anyone to drop an unnecessary attitude or speaking up if I feel like I'm being treated unfairly. Well, with that said I'd like to know more about Werner from people that know more about how they operate, how they treat their employees, about their OTR trainers and whether or not they give a decent amount of miles. Thanks to everyone for any input.

 

I know that much, Lol. I've definitely taken my share of guff from my current job, and I'm pretty good at keeping my temper in check. I won't tolerate bad trainer with no interest in actually teaching anybody though. I fully understand seniority and the rights that they have earned. My dad made sure that we grew up knowing how to show proper respect to the people that deserve it. Just so that can't get misconstrued, that does NOT mean he beat us or anything Lol. It just means that I know to respect people in general, when to just shut-up and take a chewing, and how to recognize when it's MY butt on the line not whoever's trying to talk me into whatever. He also taught me that knowledge comes from experience, and never to be afraid to ask a question. Lol. So what if I take some ridicule because I ask for clarification on something someone else doesn't feel needs it. I'm used to it. Lol. If someone says I need to work on bettering myself at something, I take it to heart because there's probably a reason for it.