Trucking - An Informed Decision

Hello everyone,

I am considering a career in truck driving and I'm trying to make an informed decision on whether or not its worthwhile.

I see hundreds of trucks on the interstate, day after day, so I realize that there are many who make a career of it, but I'm not crystal clear on what it takes to be successful in the field.

This website has provided a wealth of knowledge, but it has also scared the #### out of me regarding the industry as a whole.

I've basically come to the conclusion that large, big-name companies are training mills and they take advantage of the newbies that are trying to get a fresh start. It gives the industry a bad name as a whole.

I've been checking into driver training at the local tech school and I've done everything necessary to get accepted. I plan to attend Ga Northwestern Technical College, beginning Nov 30th, but before I dump a lot of money that I'm in no position to waste, I want to know that I'm doing the right thing.

I'm a 35 y/o divorcee with 2 children and I would like to continue to see them on my weekends. Is that a realistic expectation? Every other weekend with the kids? Is that even possible with OTR? I think regional would be better suited for me.

I'm recently unemployed, but without the luxury of unemployment benefits. Not a pretty story. I have an excellent work history in both a corporate setting for the wireless industry and later as a field superintendent for a residential builder. Needless to say, construction is in the toilet, so I have to turn to other options. I never would have imagined truck driving as one of those options before now, but it appears to be the only industry thats still hiring.

So, am I setting myself up for disappointment or can I have realistic expectations that this is a good career move in today's economic crisis?

From what I've read at great length on this site, I've determined that:
A) Crete and Roehl are the best. Covenant, Werner, Swift, and US Xpress are among the worst.
B) Recruiters are great liars and will promise you the moon only to disappoint you at orientation.
C) Avoid reefers and flats - go for dry van.

The instructor at the school says I can expect to make $35 - $40k my first year. Is that true?

I've heard so many horror stories of companies hiring you, then stranding you in timbuktu.

I am in no position to go broke while attempting to start over.

Currently, I live in Trenton, GA near I-59 and I-24. Presumably, I'm located in a good area and there are ample opportunities in this area, but the local companies are garbage according to this site.

I would like some strong, but realistic advice from those who have found themselves in a similar position. Starting over with little. Rising from the ashes. I'm running out of resources fast and I have to do something soon. I just want to make darn sure that I am doing the right thing.

Sorry to start a new thread on a subject that's likely been kicked to death, but if you could be so kind as to offer some honest feedback, I would be grateful. I will continue to read whats out there, but your help might expedite my decision.

Best Regards to all.

 

Yeah, I know. I tried to delete the original, but couldn't figure out how.

My MVR:

12/18/2006 - 72-55 (points eliminated)
01/29/2008 - 57-35 (points eliminated)
01/09/2009 - 78-55 (points eliminated)

Zero current violation points and any commercial disqualifications have expired as of 7/01/09.

 

Well, yes, I have had some difficulty with a heavy foot in the past, but 2 of those were interstate, keeping with traffic flow, but above the limit no less. No deliberate endangerment of other drivers.

In any case, I appreciate the honest reply rather than being sugar coated.

I would be curious to hear more angles on this.