Jumping from academic world to trucking industry? Can it be done?

Researching is the best thing you can do. You already said you're researching schools, but make sure you research companies as well. There are a lot of bad apples out there, but there are a lot of good ones as well. Other than that, I would advise you to stay away from company-paid training schools. More drivers' careers end there than anywhere. You would be better to go to an independent school and pay for it yourself. You'll get a better education and many companies will reimburse your tuition anyway. Plus, you'll find that you'll make more money if you go for the companies that don't do schooling themselves. Maverick's glass division for example, starts out at .40 cpm and you'll be at .48 in nine months. Schneider will let a fresh graduate drive a tanker for .40 cpm after six months. You'll be treated better at these companies vs. companies with their own schools as well. Anyway good luck, and like I said, research is the single best and most important thing you can do for yourself. Welcome to the industry.

 

That didn't sound very clear; Schneider will let you drive a tanker right out of school, and you'll be making .40 cpm after six months.

 

I have a good record. My last violation was in 2007 and even though it was BS, I took it with no complaints. I cannot show the last five months, however I can show them my 100+ applications and denial letters for being "overquailified". I have no unbroken employment before that. I have always had a job since I was 15. I am pursuing a career. I have applied to be a police officer, a county manager (for LA County), and every position related to my last two jobs in Technology and Finance. I can prove anything they want. My employer that terminated my contract even wrote me a great letter of recommendation because they knew it was stupid to lose me, but they could not afford it! (I think they should have fired the non-producing sales members, but it was by seniority). This last five or so months has been the hardest in my life. I have run the gambit of emotion. I am going stir crazy!

 

This is good enough for Schneider! You're in like Flynn, dude! Read Harbinger117s posts too. Ask ethos, please, as well about this, but my recommendation would be to call SNBC once you know you've got a date to begin CDL school in Cali. I know what you mentioned about staying here for a year and saving every penny, before moving to TX. I assume you'd be getting a job with another carrier or with Schneider van, as an example, after CDL school. But, if you were willing to relocate to TX, once you have that CDL and no experience, or staying here for a year after the CDL - driving, either way, with no gap in driving employment or after CDL school, maybe you could get a pre-hire from SNBC Houston.

You can do this; don't doubt yourself! Your driving record, background (Schneider likes military), and work history is well sufficient. None of this will hold you up!

 

It's more than three years old, so no one is going to care. Your MVR will be clean.

 

Thank you. Thats good to know. I have been moving through the Police Department background check with flying colors but I understand that driving could be a different animal. I think I will apply to Schneider. Do I do it once I start school or do I have to wait until I am finished?

 

Apply the first week you start school. If they like you, they'll send you a prehire letter, and a recruiter will call you to set up a potential orientation date.

 

Thanks Harbinger! I will do that. I am excited to begin this exciting career.

 

I was too when I started. I just accepted a job driving a tanker for Schneider a couple days ago actually. Good luck to you friend. See you on the road.

 

Congratulations!