Swift or Prime for training?

First of all, last I heard, Swift owns Prime. So your really not making any changes. I did drive for Swift for 3 months because they were able to get me home. However, being an experienced driver, they really didn't work for me. I DO commend them on their training program. For someone new, just getting into the industry, Swift has an excellent training program. When it comes time for your OTR training, make sure you have a trainer that will teach you. Not someone who just takes students to make extra money and really don't give a ####. You can always change trainers. Remember, that CDL will be your livelyhood. Learn everything you can. Ask questions if your not sure. This career is a learning experience on a daily basis. Good Luck and see you soon!!

 

Swift does NOT own Prime.

 

Good to know Sazook. You know how the rumors fly out here. I should have checked my facts. I know nothing about Prime. Thanks for the feed back

 

Several Prime threads on here. They seem to be a better option, although I don't know much about either except what I have read on here and the few Swift drivers who have come by looking for a new job who had little good to say about the company.

 

You can't really go wrong with either. See which pays more and has a terminal closer to your domicile.

 

if you don't want to get screwed, stay away from CR England lol

 

I'm sure either one will "train you up real good." They'll give you experiences you'll remember for a lifetime... (Sarcasm intended)

 

I can't speak to Millington, but I went to the Academy in Richmond, VA, and the training there was top notch. VERY professional staff. When I was there last summer, they had a ~96% first time pass rate. Testing was not done by Swift employees, either. To go take your test, you have to prove to the instructors that you know your stuff.

Prime's CDL instruction is done by drivers in an OJT (on the job training) environment; you are out driving the truck seven days a week. While you get lots of steering wheel time, you may do a backing only once or twice a day. Unfortunately, they do have instructors that really shouldn't be doing instruction.

*Most* of Swift's Academies are PTDI accredited, so most other companies that take rookies will accept a Swift Academy graduate. By the time I graduated from the Academy, I had a half dozen recruiters asking when I could attend their company's orientation.

On the other hand, once you get out on your own, Prime's starting pay is a LOT better than Swift's.