What am I missing about Swift?

I'm fortunate that currently I could pay for school myself if I wanted. However, being the cheap b###### that I am I figure if I can get training for free or at a reduced cost then why not? Unless I luck out I do expect I'll have to put my time in at a company that commonly hires graduates. I know the first year is tough, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes.

 

You are correct! Once you finish the 10 day orientation you are out on the big road all by yourself. Wow! Imagine, no one there to hold your little hand as you take your first baby steps into the world of trucking. Gives me the cold shivers just thinking about it.

 

Thanks for all the info. I'll be going to school in about two weeks and wanted to get started early on the reading.

 

That's really sweet of you to say and I thank you, but I don't believe you can any more. I was told (don't know if it's correct or not) that it was one of many threads archived. As for my blogs......well I removed them a number of months ago.

I can tell you though......there are a number of threads from people attending Swift schools that were MUCH more informative and helpful than mine.


Good luck with your training!

 

Hey hey! I'm thinking of buying a house over in Queen Creek. You like it there?

Anyway: Injun gave you great advice.

Some other points: The school has been changed to some degree and it's my understanding that you must have your CDL written test done before you attend Swift training. As you live in Queen Creek I don't believe they'll have you in the motel. (which is good and bad lol) You'll get better rest but you won't have study partners. You'll also have access to home cooked food.

Here's my suggestions: Go get the AZ CDL book ......read it like your life depends on it. Don't just depend on the online practice tests. Know it. Learn the pre-trip inspection until you can do it in your sleep. If (like I was) can't tell a brake from a water pump.......go find someone with a truck and someone who KNOWS the parts teach them to you. LEARN them. Memorize them. Memorize the air brakes test. And I don't mean memorize for a multiple choice test. It's a one chance try with one mistake will fail you on the brake test.

You live in AZ....you know the heat. Prepare for it. The range is the hottest place in AZ. Use sunblock 50, a hat, drink water untill your eyeballs float. Don't use time for smokes or BS under the sheds......use your time to practice. If you don't understand something..........ASK.

Tony runs the school: he's a terrific person but doesn't expect students to be children. He expects adults who are there to learn and will work for their training. The instructors currently are Tom, Terry and Robert. I will say this: I think the world of these 4 men. When I remember how many times these four and a couple of others talked to me and shoved self-esteem and confidence into me I have to fight back tears.

Tony said to me last week: "our job is made twice as hard when a student say's 'I can't'" I was that student LOL I said "I can't do this" from the moment I began until during my actual exam. It's a wonder they didn't beat me with a stick.

Sheesh I'm rambling.


You're going to have great instructors if you go through Phx. I'm excited for you!!! If I get home soon I'll see if I still have my inspection study guide and if so I'll get it to you.

 

biggrin_255,

Thanks for all the info. I'm going to ride with a friend of mine for at least a week back east. I should be a blast. I'm excited about getting into school and hitting the road.

Yes, I do live in Queen Creek. I love it. I've lived in Queen Creek for 5 years now, and it is getting busier, but still nicer then Phoenix. I would say, if you got the money, buy now, because you can get a diamond for nothing right now.

Are you moving in from out of state, or do you live in Arizona now? I've lived here much of my life and can remember when Arizona was the only state that I-10 did not connect. This place sure has grown.

Thanks again for all the info,

Lyn

P.S. If you need any help when you get out here, let me know.

 

We live over in Chandler. We moved out here to be by our grandchildren LOL

 

Are you still driving now?

 

yep, in fact.....we're now headed to SLC. *nods* and i'm headed to the sleeper.

 

So do you drive for Swift or are you leased O/O's? I have heard of people working for Swift that didn't go through the school.