Hi everyone I'm new to the forum. I just recently finished trucking school at Daly's Truck Driving School and now I officially have my CDL. I am undecided as to whether I should go with a company with automatic or manual transmission trucks. I was trained with a 10 speed and took my test at DDS with a 10 speed so I can drive a manual. However, an auto sounds so much easier especially for a newbie like myself. Any advice or suggestions from drivers with experience with both would be appreciated. Thanks in advance
If it were me I would try to get a job with a manual so you get the experience early and don't get lazy from the start. This is of course speaking from someone who is just a wannabe hopefully to get into a training school soon.
do whatever you want to do, but if your iffy on shifting you will regret driving an auto. And some people have posted here that they have had trouble finding another job, because companies dont want someone that has been driving an auto truck..... Personally i want nothing to do with autos, I tell the truck what to do, screw what the computer "thinks" is right. Plus stick is more fun.... American Trucker
My advice, as a future Daly's attendee starting July 25, is to pick a company based on what they have to offer and not what kind of transmissions are in their trucks.
Your 1st year should be about developing skills and learning about the career path you decided to take. Chances are you will not be with whatever company you choose after a year. Turnover rates are through the roof with these training companies. You will want the skill set of a professional... and professionals know how to shift.
