On Training

Jimmy P · Sep 15, 2010

ac120 said: ↑

I don't necessarily disagree with you, but . . . I think basic professional competence is assumed once a rookie successfully completes a post-training road test, and I think it has to be that way. Given the statistics, I'm not sure that we can assure the general public of much. And, really, there's lots of competent truck drivers, men and women, who got through their training (whatever it was) and moved on.

In a perfect world trainers would be paid to train, and paid well. But the economics of the industry dictate that trainer trucks are team trucks--team freight is where many carriers (and trainers) make their money. The dollars to hire people to just train--and to pay them well--may not be there. Margins are thin.
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I see your point. What I am at odds with is the lack of standardization. Some outfits don't give a rats ### as long as they can push the new guy until he gets fed up and either leaves the company or the business. The quality of training needs to be predictable.

Jimmy P · Sep 15, 2010

Palazon said: ↑

OK, 1st the creds. 22 years military (instructor in my field), then trucker.

Personally, I think a perfect training program would be 6-8 weeks, but I'll use 6 as an example program.

Week 1. Solo miles (400-600/day), various weights. Trainee drives up to 4 hrs a day. Trainee does ALL paperwork, inspections with strict supervision. Trainer gets additional $100/week

Week 2-3. More miles (500-750/day). Increase trainee driving burden. Trainer gets additional $80/week.

Week 4 More miles (750-950/day). Increase trainee driving burden. Trainer gets additional $70/week.

etc, etc.

The bonus pay should be in addition to the .01/mile bonus the trainer gets for having a trainee. Weeks 5-6 should be more of a team setting with only a trainer bonus of .02/mile.

Now that's not hard and fast, but that's how I generally think training time should go. That said, my trainer had a daily 600-700 miles run. By week 3, I did the majority 400 + of the driving. He'd take over driving claiming he was bored....

Oh, and if the miles seem low, I'm on the west coast... 55-60 mph limits.

And finally, Thank you to all our Vets. In this house, you are treasured.

Pal
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I don't know your rank, but I'm saluting you just the same. Your program may sound a little harsh and rigid to some. However, the outcome can only benefit all concerned.

Palazon · Sep 18, 2010

Thank you. And I was just an ol' broke-down MSgt (E-7).

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