Trainer vs No Trainer

What's everyone's take on this? Do you think hiring on with a company who doesn't use trainers is a good or bad idea.

I drive for Watkins Shepard, the main reason I chose W/S is because they don't use trainers. I went to a Community College for my CDL (384 hrs) then went to W/S's 10 orientation, upon completion I was out on the road earning money, so far so good.

I say for the right person it's a great way to get truckin.

What say you?

 

Back up your statement Marine. What exactly do they (trainers) teach you that's not taught in school?

This should be interesting for the mere fact that you didn't go to my school and have no idea what I was taught. Not to mention, my instructor had over 30 years behind the wheel. It's highly doubtful in my mind that some "trainer" with 6 months experience himself is going to teach me anything.

 

Dang! Now that's something.

 

Rich, Yes they did, except for chains. I learned to install snow chains when I went to the 10 orientation out in Missoula, MT home of W/S. I was glad for that too, since I started my driving career in the dead of winter.

Actually, my school was 384 course hours long, with the majority being behind the wheel or on the range.

 

Get a grip dude. I never said I have figured out everything to do with trucking. If me being able to get into a truck by myself after going to school bothers you.... it's your problem, not mine.

For what it's worth, I'm glad a trainer worked for you. I went the route I did because it's what I wanted to do and so far my training from my school and through W/S has kept me out of trouble. I have put myself in some tough spots being inexperienced and if I said everything has gone perfect then I would be full of crap..