Oldie but a Newbie!

Hey All,

I live in Central California, 45 minuts south of Fresno. I am going to start a private CDL school on July 25th, here in the local area. I am new to trucking and looking for a career change at the age of 41. I am married with two boys, ages 4 and 6. My ultimate goal is to get 2-3 years of OTR under my belt and then get a local run. I know there will be great sacrifice in these first few years, but I have 150% support of my family. Any advice from those of you with a wife and small children? Please consider the fact that I am only planning on doing OTR for the first 2-3years of my trucking career.

I am also going to be attending CDL training, at Advanced Career Institute, in Visalia, CA. Any reviews from previous attenders?

I have also been looking at 6 trucking companies and would like some advice from any drivers working, or not, for the companies listed below:

1.) Knight Transportation(10 minutes from my house)
2.) Central Refrigerated
3.) Gordon
4.) Watkins/Shepard
5.) Schneider
6.) Swift

These are not in any particular order, although Knight Transportation is a convenient location.

I am looking at driving reefers because it sounds like there is the opportunity for more runs, as they can also run as a dry van. Any suggestions?

Who has the best orientation and the most thourough training?

Best terminals and service?

Any specific advice would be greatly appreciated.

I have read almost every post on the above companies, I guess I just want some more clarification on each one, especially for my training.

Thanks!

 

Thanks, Gears!

Looking forward to some feedback and getting started in my career.

 

Hey otherhalftw,

I like having a little fun, but I think I am missing your point. I am attending a school that trains drivers to obtain a CDL. Please forgive my ignorance, but isn't that how it works?

CDL school--Company orientation and training-- Mentor training--On the road?