Profile For Howard H. "Double H"

Doug, So I am in the same position today. I am 50 years old, been framing, building residential homes for 30+ years now. Had the L4L5S1 fusion 12 months ago yesterday. Married with a wonderful woman, we both think this could work for us. But still I am unsure.... So how did it turn out for you? Who did you start with? Was is all youd hope it would be? At this moment Stevens trucking is offering me a position. I have reached out several other companies waiting for a reply. I will have CDL in hand, with all endorsements by months end. Still up in the air. Any help, advice you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Howard H.

Hey folks... Great forum! First post:

So here I am... 50 years old, and in a career I love. I'm a luthier. I have built electric guitars professionally since 2006. But, there are 2 main problems: It's extremely hard to find buyers for instruments that range in cost from $1700 to $6000. And, my biggest problem is I have developed an allergy to wood dust, which has triggered asthma = incessant coughing when exposed to wood dust. This has limited my time in the shop over the past 2 years. This has caused lost sales & income. To date I am about $30K in the red. The only reason I have hung on this long is my wife is an RN with a good job. We decided not to renew our lease on the shop building after Dec. Which means I will need to get a "real" job.

For years I have wondered what an OTR driving job would be like. Ironically, in 1976 my Dad changed careers from law enforcement, to truck driving (O/O) at age 50. He loved it! So, the lifestyle isn't completely foreign to me. I went on runs with him as a kid. So, I am very seriously contemplating going with either Schneider, or Roehl. Here are some of my concerns... Maybe you veterans can help me finalize my decision.

Stamina: I'm currently not used to working 12-14 hour days. I feel like I could get there. But, I'm worried about the shock to my system. Right now I only work 6 or so hours/day due to the asthma thing.

Back Pain: I've heard horror stories about how bad driving is on your back. I had L5S1 surgery back in 2002 (herniated disc). My back is OK, but I am careful not to aggravate it.

The Better Half: I've been married for 27 years... I'd like to keep it that way. My wife & I have talked about the separation part of the job, and both of us feel we can adapt.

The Long Term Plan: My plan is to sign on, and drive OTR for 12-18 months minimum. Then, re-evaluate the OTR lifestyle. If it's going good, then I will continue on. If not, I will take the year+ experience, and seek a local dedicated driving job that get's me home every night.

Let me know what you guy's think... Any advice is helpful. Thanks! Doug

If not Stevens, where? I should be a new CDL holder in November, with a Double/Triple, and a Tanker endorsement, waiting on Homeland security for the HAZMAT. Im going all out. Just needing advice as to where I might start with my new career. I am turning 50 soon, sogames is not what I am looking for. Thoughts?

Dont go lease

Yes I am speaking of Stevens out of Dallas. The CDL school says it is a good place to start. I am paying for everything on my own. So I can take my new CDL anywhere. I wont be going at this with a contract with anyone. Thought I would definently reach out and ask for advice from real Truckers doing the job, with real experience. Thanks for your help p>

Welcome Howard. Are you referring to Stevens Transport out of Dallas??? If so you may want to look toward another larger carrier. Stevens has been going through some reorganization the last year or so. That usually isn’t the best atomsphere for a new driver. My GF started there and as soon as her contract was fullfilled I hired her.

I am in CDL classes , now. I have been contacted by Stevens for a Pre Hire. Thoughts? I have been building houses for 30 years. Changing careers, wanting to make sure I am going to the best place possible, to start my new career. I know I need atleast a year experience.