who to train with

@chefkel --

In case you haven't picked up on it yet from other threads here in the Forum -- the overall freight market right now is pretty much in the septic tank, generally speaking.

Because of that -- carriers that normally would take drivers right out of CDL school -- in many cases now want previous experience, instead.

This makes the hunt for that first CDL driving job much tougher for people like you.

The above explains, in part at least, why the previous recommendations are all with reefer fleets.

If you can afford it time-wise, and otherwise -- your best bet in the long run is to sign up for a CDL-A class at a nearby community college or tech school. Make sure the classes you look at offer at least a 160-hour curriculum (and more is of course, better).

Also: try to find a CDL course nearby that will teach you and also final exam you on a tractor with a manual transmission. That way -- you won't have a manual transmission restriction on your CDL when you get it.

With the above strategy -- later when you graduate, you are not beholden/obligated to any particular carrier for any services for any specific length of time. Instead -- you exit out into a true "level playing field"......are a "free agent"....and can thus sign up with any carrier you so choose.

Depending on the specifics of your situation -- you may qualify for grants/scholarships/other financial aid to put you thru CDL school at a nearby college or tech school (especially since you got canned by DHL).

"Good luck.....Jim"

-- L

 

These companies, already posted, have their own cdl school & free to you for a 12 month contract:
Pime Inc. Refrigerated
Swift Refrigerated
Stevens Transport

 

That's a good plan. Get all the endorsements plus TWIC. This way you'll qualify for more trucking companies at graduation.