Starting my career at TransAm

Thanks guys. Trans Am requires you to get your CDL elsewhere first. Then when you get out here they rely on practical teaching methods out on the road for as much as possible. I like that idea since being a Paramedic is a hands-on-training career field...you can learn the tools in class but eventually you gotta deal with real people.
I'm kind of a self starter and I prefer to have a back-up for my own protection. So I put together 2 spreadsheets on my laptop using OpenOffice.org...completely free office software. One is a weekly log of trips, mileage, shipper, receiver, etc. The other is a spreadsheet "daily log" with all the same fields on the paper log. Just in case.
I did learn that there are some things I should have brought but didn't think to or forgot.
3-ring binder for log in a zippercase
detergent/dryersheet combination for laundry
sunglasses
expandable file folders for receipts/records
light raincoat
large reusable water bottle...STAY HYDRATED!!!
microwaveable meals, etc...

Breakfast and lunch were provided...but not dinner and the Wal-mart is about 3/4 mile away. Decent chinese food and dominos are available for delivery. Around the corner from the hotel in Rockwall, Tx is a Whataburger and a strip-mall with a Subway, Burger joint and Thai Food. There's also a Taco Casa in the same parking lot. The Kabob place has good food but it's over priced.

While writing this I found out that my coach is delayed until tomorrow morning due to mechanical issues beyond his control. But I'm still getting paid while I sit so I'm good to go!

 

I had a class B for about 6 months before I went to CDL school for my class A. At least for me it was the best way to go. Going to a company for your CDL training just leaves you open to be taken advantage of.

 

Thanks. I'm not ready to lease a truck. I have no idea how this business works yet and jumping in without a clue is a recipe for failure in any enterprise. That decision will come based on several factors and revolves around my wife's health. She has advanced Lupus and I need good medical coverage. Trans Am has decent benefits. But she may need coverage that is only available to me as an independent contractor. Time will tell.
The automatics are really nice. It's going to take some getting used to and I imagine that once you're actually pulling something it'll feel smoother. Pulling empty felt jerky...but it was my first time behind the wheel of one.
See ya.