Profile For Jeff S.

Hey Brett,

Thanks for taking the time and the encouragement. I appreciate it very much. You are right, of course, and I have to say that what has greatly helped me with all this has been reading the articles on Trucking Truth. I have found answers to the misconceptions I have had(like that a recruiter represents the company)and now know not to take to heart all the negative reviews out there online.

I never expected this adventure to be easy and I have always had the common sense knowing that trucking is a unique life and not for everyone. That it is hard, presents challenges, risks and contrary to what some people think, is not simply driving another vehicle down the road. I remember watching one of those special reports that came out years ago when trucks were being used to attack military bases. The correspondent was shown driving a truck in a parking lot, in a straight line, and as he slowly went through one gear, said to the effect, "As you can see, driving a truck is easy."

And I thought, well yes, if you are in a parking lot, and all you have learned is how to shift into first, and all you have to do is go straight for about 15 seconds while the camera rolls. It was such a misleading report, and made by someone who had no idea about trucking.

Have a great day and thanks again. Jeff

Old School,

Thank you again. I will have to take a look at flatbed when I get there as there is something about it that I like. I know it is more labor intensive and that is presents many challenges that you do not find running a dry van...but it goes both ways. I know each has its unique challenges and rewards. I do agree that there are those necessary obstacles like additional training and it is all part of the process and leads to the end result, me running in my own truck. I know..take a breath and remember all those who have been there and made through.

The road is just beginning and like all things, the reality and my perception will only happen when I am sitting in the truck.

Take care and have a safe day. J

What great stories and thank you for letting us in within your world. Your trainer and his quirkiness is making me smile as I can just see this being played out.

Rochester is my old Neighborhood and points north.

I put in initially for Van but now being the waffler I am, am thinking flat bed.

J

Old School,

Thanks for your honest candor and reply. I do not want a sugar coated answer but one like yours as you are there now and have been through it.

I will read your story in a bit. Sunday I have to start weeding through my things and figuring out where to store and what to do. Yes...waffling is a apt word. I admit it. But this is why I ask and read the forum and Trucking Truth.

I am not sure the recruiter does know..but there is a page on the site with that about teaming after refresher and at that rate. But....seems to me you know the reality and I will take that as advice.

Take care and have a good night out there.

Jeff

Well, I have been offered the chance to come down to Nashville on Monday and begin the refresher course on Tuesday. Have to admit being nervous about this, and getting the chance came about last minute and quickly. My concerns with Western now are with the mixed signals of refresher and on one hand the website says there will be 30 days with a trainer and then I am on my own, and the other statement from the recruiter is, first I go out on the road with a trainer and then 3-4 weeks team with another refresher grad at 15 CPM. I am also wondering about the realities of delivering to NYC. Bad/Good/difficult?

The decision to enter this world of trucking had been hard. I have doubts and then I have moments where I think, I can do this and it will be great. Am I alone with these thoughts...or is this one of those careers that keep you guessing?

Thanks! Safe trucking..

And..thank you for your encouraging words. They are greatly appreciated.

Old School,

Thank you for taking the time to reply with an honest view of WE and what to watch for in class. I am enjoying reading your posts as it gives me a true sense of life on the road.

Maybe I will have the good fortune to see you out there. Until then..

Safe travels~

Looks like I should have not spelled the b word. Sorry Brett....

Old School,

Thanks for the reply. I meant to say that I have my CDL and what they offer is a refresher course at no cost. Sorry for the confusion.

As I had said, I have not heard too much about them and do not want to get caught up in the *****ing and whining of those negative comment boards out there where it seems every company is evil and to be avoided.

Safe trucking!~

Hey everyone,

Great to keep seeing that I am not, at 52 and counting, too old to enter the world of trucking. I have had some encouraging advice on FFE and Central, and would like to hear from those who know about Western Express. I called the recruiter and the only thing that made me use caution was when she mentioned that after initial road time with a trainer, they then send you out with another student for a few weeks.

Is this the norm?

They do not appear to require any tuition and according to the recruiter, they just hope you will stay and drive with the company. I have not seen much info and want to make sure I am not missing anything.

Thanks again and safe driving.

Jeff

Thanks. I appreciate your time and encouragement. Ah the days when I was 21. A lifetime ago and how time flies.

My only advantage right now is that I have my class a in my pocket. Actually obtained it many years ago thinking I would go into UPS. So, on paper I have gone though a school and had that road test. But I have forgotten most of it and hence the refresher. In one way I would be learning all over, but without the sweating of that exam.

I read Brett's online book and some of the articles, all helpful. Many questions have been answered along the way.

Thanks again and keep it safe.