Profile For Michael

No one has any ideas? Anything would be helpful.

Hello! I have been investigating becoming a truck driver. I am in the beginning stages of doing this. My previous job was in the computer field, IT departments. I feel I needed a change in my life as I was getting quite tired of staring at computer screens and being indoors all the time. My hobby is long distance backpacking and I enjoy being outside. I have always been interested in trucking but was told all my life by others that it is a 'low class job' and that I could do better. Well, I finally learned the life lesson to pursue life in a way that makes you happy. All of my family and friends think I am crazy because my earning will go down switching careers to trucking.

I decided to go for it. I am in the north east, and am looking for the best companies that offer company sponsored CDL training. The only truck I have ever driven was a large Penske moving truck to move across the United States in 2012. I was given no training on the truck when I rented it and when I asked the clerk said 'you will figure it out, just go slow' I did figure it out by going slow but was terrified the first day and each day after that improved to the point where I felt confident. I simply kept my speed low and was obsessive at watching the blind spots.

Since I am starting as a total newbie, I need a complete training regimen. I consider myself a smart man, so I would like to earn all of the endorsements available so I can be more attractive to potential companies. The pay is important but not the primary motivation factor for me. My primary need is to feel useful to a company and to be happy with what I am doing. Eventually I would like to do dedicated regional driving with 5 days on, 2 days off on weekends to spend with my girlfriend and cats. I am more than willing to do long term OTR for as long as needed to get the experience in so I can have a better chance of being hired in a job I want.

For example, J.B. Hunt has a job available that I would apply for if I had the requirements currently. Here is the link:

http://www.jbhunt.com/jobs/driver/job_search/jobDescription.xhtml?jobId=3912-16451-2015-01-30

I understand when first starting out you need to earn trust from the companies by driving safe. I am 37 years old and have been driving since I was 17, and I have never been involved or caused a car accident. I have only been pulled over one time by the police because my right tail light was out! I cannot for medical reasons drink alcohol, do not smoke, and have never used illegal drugs or narcotics.

If someone could spare the time to share their experience with me regarding my possible options in Massachusetts I would be most grateful. Thank you for the time and have a nice day!

- Mike