questions about training companies?

I'm currently on the lookout for a training company. I've been lurking around these boards for weeks and reading all the bad info and the good about several....but I have questions.

I know its a hard life, and you have to look out for #1 so I don't need to hear about that part.

I'm looking for companies that will train someone who's never driven anything bigger than a 24' straight truck, and will hire out of Colorado. If you put someone up here, drop a name or whatever, if you have info from personal experience on them, let me know.

I've discovered in life that people with bad experiences will find an outlet for their complaints. While those that have had a good experience will sometimes not let people know. The vocal minority will always find a way to be heard. (its an internet phenomenon!)

I want to go into this with my eyes open, and my head up. I don't want to be blindsided with a bad deal.

A little info to help you, help me:
I am looking at being a company driver, I currently have no desire to L/O-O/O. I'm not particular on freight, miles is miles. I have a strong background in transportation, I've driven everything from a car/taxi all the way up to 24' straight trucks, no moving violations, or DW/DUI's EVER. No tickets whatsoever in 20 years. (not even speeding) I'm a safe driver, I don't do drugs, don't drink, DO smoke. (my one vice) I like hometime as much as the next guy, but I can do without in order to provide for a better life.

ANYTHING has got to be better than where I am right now, which is dead end as it gets, and no room for a u-turn. I realize that coming out the gate things will be a bit tight, but if I can make more than 20k a year, I'm good with it. I don't plan on going OTR for life with a training mill, I intend to get my experience and find something dedicated, or local. (at which point I might consider O/O) Sorry, but I can't justify paying what these companies seem to want with a variable like: "Oh crud, I only got 1500 miles this week!" I've read up on 3 companies so far that appear to hire in my area (not that I'm unwilling to relocate if needed.)

My list so far in order of willingness to apply:
1. Prime (so far the least bad reviews)
2. CRE (most of their drivers I've talked with seem to be doing ok)
3. Stevens (from almost everything I've read this is the WORST, but they DO offer training and hire from my current area, and even have training HERE)

I have read up on a few others, but they don't appear to hire from my area. I know the industry is slumping at the moment, but there are jobs to be had by someone who's willing to do the work, and I am that someone.

I'll be around this thread, and will continue to peruse these boards in an effort to make a decision.....hopefully one that will benefit me as much as the company I choose. Thanks in advance for info and or advice to a future driver.