Starting at TMC 9-14-09

The first few days will be in the classroom, you'll cover logs, safety, and operations, When i was there we had to do tests (This was years ago, not sure if that has changed)

You'll do some yard training (Backing, learning to maneuver the vehicle, etc) which has to do with 45 degree, 90 degree, serpentine, etc. I know they took the serpentine out but i believe it was re-added recently.

You won't do the road test until after you're finished with your trainer, at least back when i started we diddn't. You'll also be driving out on the road, they will try to get some day driving and night driving so your schedule will be a little odd.

Make sure you aren't late for class, ever. Stay off the grass, try to get there the night before you start so you can get a good nights rest, if you can afford it i'd recommend getting a rental car, or driving yourself to avoid that greyhound, the earlier you can get there the earlier you will be settled in.

Don't spend a bunch of money on TMC gear until you're sure you will make it, it's a job interview, you aren't actually hired until you are handed the keys to your own truck. The instructors will be tough on you, but they do it for a reason, they want to weed out the lazy people and the sissies before they blow a bunch of money training you, it's better that you leave the first day if you're having second thoughts than to keep spending their money on meals and training, etc. Just go with the flow, try to keep your head down and do what you're supposed to be doing and you will be fine.

Good luck.

 

They never asked too much about it. They say that they require a fenced, secured yard, i haven't had to deal with it much because we had a small drop yard here where i parked my truck on the weekend as well as some dedicated accounts as well.

Theres a few places in Chicago where we have dedicated accounts, (Chicago Metallic is a good example) the lot there is fairly small, but they may let you park there.

 

Hay IL Newbie just wanted to see how thing are going. Did you start on the 14th or did it get moved back.

 

Good luck! I got a prehire from TMC but chose Werner since i heard flatbedding was really slow right now..I will be in orientation next week unless i get a call from KBR soon.

 

sweet, could you tell your new coworkers to stop running me off the road?

 

FYI, They have a computer in the lobby of the hotel that anyone can use.

Good luck, act professional and you'll do fine..