Just got job at TMC!

Just thought I would go ahead and update this a bit.

Got into Des Moines yesterday afternoon and got all checked in.
Day 1 today, orientation. We started out the day in a classroom to fill out things and start testing our general knowledge on the computers. We didn't get very far into it before they pulled us to take the bus to a local clinic to run through our drug test, DOT exam. Once finished with that, we camexpect back to the facility and went right into the truck shop to run through our testing out there which consisted of squatting and crawling under the trailer, climbing a ladder to the top of a trailer and sticking our toes out over the side then proceed to climb down, and finally tarp lifting and carrying. There was one guy who couldn't pull/lift himself onto the trailer for the tarp exercise, but he is still here, so I'm guessing that's good. I was rooting for him! We then proceeded to lunch at the cafeteria at the facility. Then went straight back to the classroom to continue testing and learning modules on the computers and that's basically how we finished the day. Looking forward to another day.

 

I actually took it before I came. They only allow you to take it here twice before sending you home. In my state I was able to take it 2 times a day. Only took me a couple tries though.

 

Well, today was fun! Day 3. We actually got some truck time this morning! I have never ever driven anything with a stick and never driven anything with a trailer. The instructor took us out to the country on some backroads. I was extremely nervous, but I went second. The guy before me had just a little bit of military experience. When it was my turn, I hopped on up in the driver's seat and proceeded to listen to what the instructor told me to do and when to do it. I picked up shifting fairly quickly. However I need to work on my down shifting. We headed back to the training facility for lunch and the instructor actually let me drive through town, through stoplights, traffic and everything. Talk about nerve wracking! I did alright I guess. It was very exciting and cool to finally be able to drive one! Tomorrow, we get on the simulators. Gonna be a long day, so I'm gonna go ahead and hop off here and start winding down for bed.

 

Thank you very much! So far, everyone has been great and I'm really really liking it!

 

Been a while since I updated. We tested out this past Tuesday and the entire class passed. Got released on Wednesday and have been home with my family for a few days before going outo with my trainer this next week for 5 weeks. Very pleased and honored to be with TMC and I look forward to starting this journey!