Looking for some advice....

Hello everyone. I just want to say thanks to the site creators, staffers, volunteers, and members. These forums are simply amazing. I found the site two weeks ago and have been unable to peel my attention away from here. Enough of my rambling, here's my issue.

I have always had an interest in trucking. My first real job was fueling big rigs at a small truck stop in Warren, In at the age of 15. From that time on, I've always had a minor fascination with trucks and the industry in general.

My parents always pushed me to get an education and make as much of myself as possible. To make a long story short, I followed their advice, went to a 4 year university, graduated, and began working my way up the corporate ladder. I didn't mind my profession or the job but I was never truly happy.

Last month, the company made some changes and decided to release a large number of employees, myself included. I'm 28 years old and spent all of my working years in this specific industry. I do not want to get back into a similar line of work. I enjoy human resources and think I could be a good recruiter in the trucking industry.

My ultimate goal would be to get at least 1 yr. OTR experience (possibly more if I enjoy this as much as I think I will) and then segway that experience into recruting. I have a bachelor's degree in Business/Human Resources and experience recruiting in the business world but I refuse to take a recruiting position in the trucking industry without gaining real work experience in the field. I will not allow myself to be one of the butt holes I've read about on this website. A good recruiter has worked the job. Bad recruiters make up lies and mislead potential hires.

Like I said, I don't have any family commitments that hold me back. I just have bills that have to be paid. I've crunched my numbers and have concluded that I need to make $30,000 - $35,000 gross income in order to be able to cover my bills while I'm gaining my experience.

I have the money to pay for my own schooling, I want to avoid any contractual work agreements for tuition costs. I also have a little saved up (about 2K after schooling costs) to cover my expenses as I progress through training and working towards solo driving.

I've read, on this site, a lot of horror stories with the national companies. I've started my search but there are so many companies that it's mind boggling.

I'll try to summarize all my babbling with some real questions....

1. Will I have a problem finding a place where I can make 35K my first year?

2. Can you suggest any companies that are reputable for being a good place to start your career?

3. Do you think it's a bad idea to get OTR experience before searching for a recruiting position?

4. Could you recommend any schools in the Ohio area?

I know this whole thing might sound crazy to some of you but I've always had an interest in your field of work. I'm not looking to get rich, money doesn't buy happiness. I just want to be able to pay my bills, get my trucking experience, and start working in recruiting. I don't want to be one of the typical jerks that will tell an applicant anything necessary to get them on the job.

I'm sure I'll have more questions as I continue to do my homework. I truly respect what all of you do. I have the utmost respect for your families and their ability to deal with the demands of the industry. Thank you sooo much for your time, consideration, and feedback!

Best wishes to everyone!!

 

Your input is very much appreciated. Thanks again and best wishes!!

 

Thank you all for your input. It's very much appreciated. I hear a lot of bad things about the industry but I agree with what you all are saying. Having a positive attitude and a passion for whatever your doing will get you places.

Thanks again for your time and consideration! Best wishes!

I'm going to spend a couple more months researching companies, schools, programs, and see what my best options are. Couldn't do it without these forums and input from great people like you all!!!