Passionate about driving & REFUSE to be enslaved via mega-carriers

Need advice from experienced drivers! Rest assured, I've done extensive research and collecting of information on not only opportunities that are available, but on the industry as a whole. That being said, I'll get to the meat and potatoes.

I'm in search of a carrier or fleet owner who may be willing to bring a new driver with no verifiable OTR experience into their organization. I'm an Army & OEF veteran who has recently been honorably discharged and is now preparing for a professional driving career. My time in the service was spent in a route clearance patrol as a driver. Our primary objective being the removal of improvised explosive devices from roadways and routes in order to allow for freedom of movement of fuel tankers supplying the numerous FOB's (forward operating base). All of the vehicles operated by myself were "MRAP" equipped vehicles, or mine resistant ambush protectant. These heavily uparmored vehicles can be quite massive, the Buffalo for instance.(image search buffalo RCP). I'm well aware this is NOT directly relevant to the operation of tractor trailers, however it does show adequete experience in the use of air brakes at the very least.

I have already attained my CDL permit, and have been traveling OTR with a good friend of mine who happens to be an O/O. I am more than confident in my abilities, and will be testing for my license and hazmat cert this coming week.

I'd like to consider myself somewhat intelligent, and make a legitimate effort to gain as much knowledge on anything that makes an impact on my life, my career is obviously no different. Through my research I've lost quite a bit of enthusiasm, to be honest. The effect that mega carriers have had on this industry is disheartening, to put as nicely as possible. The worst part about it? These crooks still manage to fill thousands of seats with the rear ends of new CDL graduates each and every week. Failure to research other alternatives to such "CDL mill" programs just allow these money hungry corporations the ability to continue conducting business dishonestly, a textbook example of supply vs demand. I, however, REFUSE to put in my "mandatory 1 year OTR exp" with one of these organizations. I need to be given the opportunity to prove myself, though, and I feel an interview would potentially get my foot in the door.

I understand the risks associated with placing a newer driver behind the wheel of such an expensive rig, and the effects it may have on insurance rates as well. In an effort to negate this, I WOULD EVEN BE WILLING TO COVER THE COSTS OF MY INSURANCE for a period of time. I believe that speaks volumes for my passion and dedication towards making this a career.

I take pride in my work and even more so in my driving abilities, and this is sure to show in my performance.

I ALMOST FORGOT!

Anyone who decides to give me a shot is eligible for over $5,000.00 of free cash from the federal government, paid to you on the coming years tax return. I've taken it upon myself to study the necessary process, and will ensure my employer correctly submits the necessary form. This is a sure thing as well, and I would be more than happy to walk you through the process if interested.

I also possess very adequete mechanical abilities and understand the proper methods to care for and operate the equipment that your hard earned money has been invested in. This equates to less profit going towards repairs, as you all know very well the importance of proper maintenance. In addition to this, I have signifigant experience in automotive detailing, and will regularly perform paint corrections, polishing, and general cleaning. The appearance of your rig is paramount in this industry, and I guarantee to surpass your expectations in that department.

Hopefully somebody has a word of advice that can put my mind at ease. I want nothing more than to make this work and I'm determined to do just that.

I want to clarify that I don't believe myself to be above any of you and I genuinely apologize if my comments struck a cord with some of you. That is not at all my intentions. Everyone needs to put food on the table for their families and, granted you operate the truck safely, you're every bit as entitled to a employment as the rest. I do, however, feel that individuals who genuinely take pride in their work performance and appearance are a dying breed. I'm a rookie, no doubt about it. The industry can undoubtedly benefit from more drivers with a mindset and love of the road like myself.

Thanks in advance for any help! Most importantly, drive safe!

 

Northwest Indiana, 35 minutes from downtown Chicago. Travel to any connecting state is no issue, though.

Apologies, I'll add my location to my profile immediatly.

 

This would be a very sensible option but unfortunately is not possible at this point in time. He is looking to sell the truck, actually. Unexpected growth within his produce market has been occupying nearly all of his available free time, and the Peterbilt sits around too much to justify keeping her around.

 

Patty,

Thank you very much for the kind words.

I fully intend to do just what you suggested in terms of knocking on doors in my immediate area and will begin the process of doing so on Monday. I would have done so already, but have been on the road since Sunday night. We've knocked out loads in Illinois, Tennessee, Missouri, and Ohio in that order.