Back Again

It's been a while but here I am again on TT. I was close to becoming a trucker a few years ago, had my CDL learners permit and some training on backing, etc. but bailed at the end of my tech school training to go back to IT work. The thing is I'm SICK of IT, doesn't pay nearly what it used to, and it's saturated with kids working for 12.00/hr. I still feel that "what if?" every time I see a truck pass me. I'm currently a printer technician travelling around throwing parts at old dirty and greasy printers. Could be the WORST job I ever had. BUT I just turned 60, and I just gotta know if trucking is for me.!!!

I just don't want to work the next 10-12 years not enjoying what I'm doing. There's too much to see! I love driving around Atlanta and the suburbs just for the joy of driving. I'm single, no kids, it's just me. I'm on the road 10-12 hours a day ANYWAY, and, like I say, I see these big rigs cruising through Atlanta and I think to myself "yeah" THAT'S what I wanna do!!

I'm close to Millis trucking school in Cartersville Georgia and I'm thinking about starting the application process. I just GOTTA try this or I'll regret it, like I already regret not finishing CDL school when I had the chance. Thoughts on an old 60 year-old hitting the high road????

Thoughts on an old 60 year-old hitting the high road????

Well for starters don't "bail" this time.

Why did you quit the last time? You had it...so close. You need to understand why you didn't see it through, before you attempt this again.

I also suggest taking a different route this time around;

Paid CDL Training Programs

Apply For Paid CDL Training

You are 1year older than I. I have over 5 years of experience at this point...almost what you would have experience wise if you stuck with it. if I can do it, you can do it. But you must commit 100%, otherwise you are wasting your time.

you must commit 100%, otherwise you are wasting your time.

This is the key right here. This job demands entirely too much for people who just think it might be cool to try it out. You won't last long at all. That first year is really, really tough. It's safe to say most drivers want to quit their job or quit trucking altogether at least a few times that first year.

I see these big rigs cruising through Atlanta and I think to myself "yeah" THAT'S what I wanna do!! I just gotta know if trucking is for me.!!!

You've obviously said that before but it turned out that it wasn't what you wanted to do.

Understand that trucking itself is highly competitive. The top tier drivers in the industry put in massive workloads and get rewarded with the best equipment, the best miles, and the most favors. Drivers can legally be on duty 70 hours every 8 days. That's almost two full time jobs. And that's only the part they're logging as on duty. By the time you finish all of the other things you're doing you can expect to put in a lot of 16+ hour days.

We'll certainly support you if you're up to the task but we want you to realize this may be the toughest job you've ever had. That doesn't mean you won't love it, but you have to love the challenge and the adventure of it. We watch people drop out of trucking everyday because they came in thinking "it's just trucking" and all you have to do is kick back, relax, and drive around for a while. Truth is, it takes a hell of a lot of commitment. Read this from Old School:

Trucking Takes Commitment

What Brett and G-Town said is true. You need to commit 100% There are single people of all ages out here living as "homeless" truckers. They gave up the rent and car and live in the truck. They take home time when and where they want.

With all that said, this is a lifestyle not a job. It can be very tiring driving a truck all day. Some times you have to change your daily routine to get the job done.

I'm 51 and have been out here just under a year. If I was single without a house, I'd get a dog and stay out here. I love seeing this beautiful country. You can do this.

I was trained by and drive for CFI. I love them. CFI covers this country. There are only 4 states West of the Mississippi and 4 East of it that I have yet to hit.

Millis is an excellent company and will train you. They pay well but do not go to all of the lower 48. Good luck we are here to help.

Sorry it took so long to reply guys..Been crazy busy in the "Field Service Technician" field. I read and re-read your posts, and have to say THANKS for the honest feedback. I remembered the reasons I decided not to pursue the career...I'm on the road 10-12 hours a day and am pretty worn out fighting traffic by the time I get home, but have a big old recliner, friendly old cat, 55 inch TV, hot supper and my king size bed waiting every night when I get home. I think I'd miss that too much. Maybe I'm just getting old... It does take a special person to be a trucker, and you guys will always have my undying admiration. Heck, I follow y'all most of the time because y'all are the only SANE ones on the road!!! Thanks again, stay safe and God Bless!!! (If ya ever have a printer jamming on ya, give me a holler! :)

but have a big old recliner, friendly old cat, 55 inch TV, hot supper and my king size bed waiting every night when I get home. I think I'd miss that too much

Well.....I have a cab seat, no cat (thank goodness), 24 inch TV, cold supper, and a little tiny bed in a box.

Still, I LOVE trucking and am glad I have the opportunity to be out here, and out of the rat race.