Military Experience - Does It Matter?

Officer,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fyufZ8NPeZk

 

road_runner, you're right for most drivers. For me though I was never happy unless running coast to coast. With trucking, there's something for everyone, local/LTL/regional/OTR/oil fields, etc. That's what's so good,you can take your pick, switch around to whichever suits you.

 

Start contacting LTL outfits where you will be living. Have someone from the states get you phone #'s and call them and let them know your intentions and experience with the Military, 20 years you wont have a problem getting a job. Contact Old Dominion, Conway, YRC etc. After 20 years with the military you need a Local home nights Job and LTL is the only way to go. I did 8 years of active duty and when i got out i went OTR just to get my experience back. I left after 6 months when i found my first Local job

 

Let's see... I got out in June of 2012... but I started applying right around February. This is usually the time when they start accepting applications in anticipation for when things pick up. The sooner you get started on applying, the smoother the transition will be. I would recommend getting your CDL just before you get out. I went with Sage (overpriced CDL mill IMO)... but I've had some coworkers go with Roadmaster. All of us ended up going local.

 

The mega-crap just wants a cut of the GI bill. Avoid them like the plague they are. The will start you at the bottom and leave you there as long as they can. Poverty wages.

Passing the CDL tests should be no problem with your experience. I would try to avoid schooling to get CDL if that is a possibility in your state.

Road_Runner has the advice. LTL, Construction, and Agriculture will appreciate your experience and give real consideration for it. Mega-crap just gives mouth service, no money, or respect.

 

The hazmat class is pretty close to what we've taken in the military. I took the practice hazmat test on here and passed with just the knowledge I've gained in the Army. I'm also wanting to go LTL when I get out in a few months.

 

Seriously. LTL is hurting for drivers just like the OTR guys. At 30, I was the youngest driver that ever got hired on. Right now we are running a campaign to promote our dock workers as drivers. We value your experience. Do not get suckered into the training companies that want your GI benefits/tax breaks. You wanna run local, then just apply. If you have the right attitude and skills, the terminal manager for an LTL company will hire you on. This is what happened with me. I invite you to join us in our LTL forum. I will help you out as I can.

 

Wyatt, I sent you a PM.