Profile For Heidi

OMG forgive me if this shows up elsewhere. I had my reply all typed out and bumped something and it disappeared. I hate computers.

Anyway, I just finished an 8 week course here at my local community college on the 14th. I was very, very fortunate to have received grants for everything! So I highly recommend any of you look into that. I wasn't willing to go back into debt at this age (turned 40 on the 20th) but I desperately wanted to change careers. I took and passed my road test on the 17th. It wasn't nearly as bad as I had it all played out in my mind. I encourage all of you to move forward with this if you truly think you'll enjoy it. Best wishes ladies!!

Hi All, I just joined this group and have so enjoyed reading both the questions and the comments back. Lot's of great info and insight. I am 52 years old, and I along with my 22 year old daughter will be starting classes in January. We are looking at team driving once we complete classes and also find the right company. I have so, so many questions, but I will only ask a couple of them here. :-) 1. Where did you find the info on the grants? Would you be willing/able to share? 2. What are some of the better companies to work for? I have been reading some of the comments on other forums, and I am sad at the number of drivers that talk about the low pay; having to fight for everything/anything. It seems as though most companies take better care of the office staff than they do their drivers. Is this really the case, or, is it like so many other things in life, that people will shout loudly about the bad things, but not share the good things nearly as often or as loudly? I would love to hear from women that are driving who can speak about what they like about this job, (career), and be honest about the things that aren't so nice, along with what they do to make things work out for them.

Thanks in advance for any and all information, opinions and input. Mindy

Sad I don't even know how to "quote" properly! Hi Mindy...Sorry for the delay. I received my grants right through the school. I wasn't even aware I could get them. They offered them to me. I would assume that if you just brought it up directly to them they'd know the best way to go about it. Covered my books, DOT physical, drug test, and all tuition. As to the negativity you hear, I agree with your theory of them sounding off. I figure if they're making good money and happy, they have no need to complain on a forum. Therefore you'll hear much more of the down side. I've heard lots of good things from local friends in the business. Especially in your case. Two women and team drivers?!?! My understanding is that you'll have an upper hand in some cases. Good for you two! I wish you all the best. Heidi.

Red Gator is a mother and is very successful at balancing everything. You might try sending her a private message. She is busy most of the time because she is a trainer also. She has helped me with other things and I am sure she will have some insight for you. Best of luck!

I have to figure out how to navigate this site...lol. Thank you for the idea! I will do that.

I just recently got my CDL, and due to previous work history (hairdresser 15 years) I'm having a bit of a hard time finding work. I feel like I'm going to have to go OTR for a brief stint just to gain experience. I've asked in another forum, opinions of trucking and motherhood and all the replies (men) basically told me to stay home, that is where a mother belongs. A bit more politely though, sort of. So I ask you ladies...are any of you Mom's? What are your opinions? My husband and I have a solid, strong and happy marriage. After each of our sons were born, I was fortunate enough to stay home a few years. Now the roles have reversed a bit and I have the opportunity to repay the favor to him. He could stay home with the boys for however long it takes for me to get some exp. under my belt. Not real long though...I've never even been away from my boys over night! I just want to pay my dues, get my exp. and then come home and maybe deliver oil, and play house. **Lastly....(sorry I'm getting long winded) I also feel it would be good to step away briefly, and see it all from a different angle. I'd probably see my boys and husband in a new light, from a very different perspective. I think we could all grow by experiencing each others rolls.

I'm truly open to honest opinions...if you disagree a lot just don't bash me too much I'm feeling a little sensitive due to mother nature and having just turned 40 ha ha.

Best wishes!! You will do well!

OMG forgive me if this shows up elsewhere. I had my reply all typed out and bumped something and it disappeared. I hate computers.

Anyway, I just finished an 8 week course here at my local community college on the 14th. I was very, very fortunate to have received grants for everything! So I highly recommend any of you look into that. I wasn't willing to go back into debt at this age (turned 40 on the 20th) but I desperately wanted to change careers. I took and passed my road test on the 17th. It wasn't nearly as bad as I had it all played out in my mind. I encourage all of you to move forward with this if you truly think you'll enjoy it. Best wishes ladies!!