My Job Search For Paid CDL Training Has Begun
Topic 31097 | Page 1
Omigosh;
I remember you!
Well, cool for re'inventing yourself . . . for sure!!
~ Anne ~
ps; I'm not a driver yet; as y'all know .. next 'early' 2022!
Following.
OWI:
Operating While Intoxicated
I’ve decided to share the company names in my original post with a brief update.
Company 1 - Prime Inc., the recruiter has continued to stay in contact with me.
Company 2 - Wilson Logistics, recruiter also staying in touch.
Company 3 - Maverick
Company 4 - Veriha
Company 5 - CRST
I was contacted by a hiring manager with Knight Transportation on 11/20. She was very interested because of my steady work history of 38 years and clean driving and criminal records. However, Knight’s policy is no more than 12 months unemployment in last 3 years. She said that she would write a letter on my behalf to her management recommending an exception approval in my case. Still waiting to hear from her one way or the other.
Other companies that I applied to were Roehl, Swift, C R England and TMC.
I’m very happy with Prime or Wilson Logistics. My choice now is Prime, assuming I get through the preliminary background checks to get invited to orientation in January.
I’ve come to terms with my apprehension about team driving during TNT training period after re-reading training diaries. In fact, Prime and Wilson Logistics offers both approaches to training being solo dispatch during the permit driving period and then team dispatch during the CDL training period.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
- Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
- Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.
TNT:
Trainer-N-Trainee
Prime Inc has their own CDL training program and it's divided into two phases - PSD and TNT.
The PSD (Prime Student Driver) phase is where you'll get your permit and then go on the road for 10,000 miles with a trainer. When you come back you'll get your CDL license and enter the TNT phase.
The TNT phase is the second phase of training where you'll go on the road with an experienced driver for 30,000 miles of team driving. You'll receive 14¢ per mile ($700 per week guaranteed) during this phase. Once you're finished with TNT training you will be assigned a truck to run solo.
LOL And I was thinking company #5 was CRST... Just by your description....Prime's an excellent choice I think, from all I've heard here
Quick update 12/16/21
1. Prime - still talking. Will resubmit my application on 12/22/21 with documentation to target a 1/24/22 orientation start date.
2. Wilson Logistics- I submitted requested documentation on 12/15/21. Was informed on 12/16/21 that I was not approved by manager because too long off work.
3. CFI - I called a student driver recruiter on 12/16/21 and submitted an application. Recruiter implied that the safety manager considers the work history of retirees on a case by case basis. So wait again to see what happens.
If I am fortunate enough to have to make a choice between Prime and CFI, it will come down to my preference for training approach and future opportunities within the company with my HazMat endorsement (I was told that 25% of CFI business is HazMat at extra $0.06 cpm with dedicated accounts).
For retirees considering trucking who have not worked within 3 years. Beware that opportunities may be limited.
HAZMAT:
Hazardous Materials
Explosive, flammable, poisonous or otherwise potentially dangerous cargo. Large amounts of especially hazardous cargo are required to be placarded under HAZMAT regulations
BMI:
Body mass index (BMI)
BMI is a formula that uses weight and height to estimate body fat. For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat. The BMI's biggest weakness is that it doesn't consider individual factors such as bone or muscle mass. BMI may:
- Underestimate body fat for older adults or other people with low muscle mass
- Overestimate body fat for people who are very muscular and physically fit
It's quite common, especially for men, to fall into the "overweight" category if you happen to be stronger than average. If you're pretty strong but in good shape then pay no attention.
CPM:
Cents Per Mile
Drivers are often paid by the mile and it's given in cents per mile, or cpm.
Quick update 12/16/21
1. Prime - still talking. Will resubmit my application on 12/22/21 with documentation to target a 1/24/22 orientation start date.
2. Wilson Logistics- I submitted requested documentation on 12/15/21. Was informed on 12/16/21 that I was not approved by manager because too long off work.
3. CFI - I called a student driver recruiter on 12/16/21 and submitted an application. Recruiter implied that the safety manager considers the work history of retirees on a case by case basis. So wait again to see what happens.
If I am fortunate enough to have to make a choice between Prime and CFI, it will come down to my preference for training approach and future opportunities within the company with my HazMat endorsement (I was told that 25% of CFI business is HazMat at extra $0.06 cpm with dedicated accounts).
For retirees considering trucking who have not worked within 3 years. Beware that opportunities may be limited.
If none of the above work out, you could check out Witte Bros, Raider Express, and Pride Transport, as well. All hire in your area, I believe. Not huge; not small. Company paid training, lodging, meals, etc.
A former driver for Pride, is our own Mr. Dave Reid (his username on here) and you can look up his postings. He started similar to you, retired. Vikki M. also heavily considered Pride; you could read her findings on here, as well . Ultimately, she went with Wilson. I'm almost wondering since Wilson just 'purchased' a company, and are now being 'acquired' by Ashley Furniture . . . if they are not being a bit more 'choosy in the chaos' so to speak. You'd probably be happy to stay away from furniture upon retirement, anyway!
I'm still hoping Prime or CFI will work out for you; if not, look in to the 3 I've mentioned, above. This is just a 'blip' for you, good sir!
Best always;
~ Anne ~
ps: DML (Dutch Maid Logistics) here in Ohio, is a reefer company, that trains. Approx. 350 power units. Not sure if they hire in your area, but if push comes to shove; worth a look see!
pps: K&B Transport is another possibility! They just recently partnered with a training facility nearby, and are recruiting hard. Good company, know this first hand. (Been in the industry 20 plus years, we thought about them & still get emails.)
HAZMAT:
Hazardous Materials
Explosive, flammable, poisonous or otherwise potentially dangerous cargo. Large amounts of especially hazardous cargo are required to be placarded under HAZMAT regulations
BMI:
Body mass index (BMI)
BMI is a formula that uses weight and height to estimate body fat. For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat. The BMI's biggest weakness is that it doesn't consider individual factors such as bone or muscle mass. BMI may:
- Underestimate body fat for older adults or other people with low muscle mass
- Overestimate body fat for people who are very muscular and physically fit
It's quite common, especially for men, to fall into the "overweight" category if you happen to be stronger than average. If you're pretty strong but in good shape then pay no attention.
Dm:
Dispatcher, Fleet Manager, Driver Manager
The primary person a driver communicates with at his/her company. A dispatcher can play many roles, depending on the company's structure. Dispatchers may assign freight, file requests for home time, relay messages between the driver and management, inform customer service of any delays, change appointment times, and report information to the load planners.CPM:
Cents Per Mile
Drivers are often paid by the mile and it's given in cents per mile, or cpm.
Reefer:
A refrigerated trailer.
OOS:
When a violation by either a driver or company is confirmed, an out-of-service order removes either the driver or the vehicle from the roadway until the violation is corrected.
Thanks Anne for the suggestions. I did look up Dutch Maid Logistics today based upon your prior recommendations to Kerry L.
I’m aware of the Ashley Furniture deal with Wilson Logistics. It isn’t clear if entire company is being purchased or just western US divisions. We have a lot of Ashley and La-Z-boy furniture in our house!
Prime still looks positive and CFI would be very good too. I’m a fan of Big Scott.
I happen to think CFI is the best choice. I am 100% biased.
Training is free. They reimburse, with receipts, for CDL , Hazmat and background, as well as tanker endorsement. They will also reimburse or pay for your medical.
I am happy to answer any CFI specific questions.
Good luck.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
- Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
- Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.
HAZMAT:
Hazardous Materials
Explosive, flammable, poisonous or otherwise potentially dangerous cargo. Large amounts of especially hazardous cargo are required to be placarded under HAZMAT regulations
Thanks for replying Big Scott. I have just read most of you threads regarding CFI and your personal history. I was impressed how CFI stood by you. I also like CFI approach to training.
Just curious, when you first went solo back in 2017 with CFI after 6-7 weeks training, did you feel well prepared?
Prime, Inc. would be a great choice of companies that offer training for potential drivers.
New Reply:
New! Check out our help videos for a better understanding of our forum features
Preview:
This topic has the following tags:
Choosing A Trucking Company Company Sponsored CDL Training
Why Join Trucking Truth?
- The High Road Training Program
- The High Road Article Series
- The Friendliest Trucker's Forum Ever!
- Email Updates When New Articles Are Posted
Apply For Paid CDL Training Through TruckingTruth
Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:
TT On Facebook
This is an update on my job search for paid CDL training that began officially this week. I've revised my profile name to
from
, which I posted under a couple of times.
I retired in 08/16 at age 60 after 38 years working as a Petroleum Engineer / Supervisor with a major multi-national petroleum company. My last 22 years were spent working / living overseas, while my wife stayed in the US. So, being away from home is no problem. In fact, my wife is eager for me to get on the road after 5 years of being under foot.
During the last 5 years I've had experience driving class A diesel motorhomes (33' and 45') with air brakes, engine brakes, and 6 speed automatics. I took an RV driving safety class from a retired professional truck driver / trainer. It was the best thing that I did. I think all large RV drivers should take a similar class. I also have experience backing a 27' ball hitch travel trailer in campgrounds. Hoping that will help me learn to back the 53' trailers.
I had a vision issue corrected in August with cataract surgeries. My distance vision is now 20/20 and night vision is very good. I've been working with my doctor to reduce my blood pressure with medication. I lost a lot of weight (still losing). I've been using a CPAP machine for 3 years. I'm not Covid vaxxed and don't want to be (I posted on this topic previously).
I passed my DOT medical on 11/3/21. Was issued a one year card because of the BP meds. I barely passed on the BP, so will keep working on it so I don't get sent home from an orientation for not being below 140/90.
I obtained my Arkansas CLP with all endorsements on 11/16/21 (thanks to High Road Training materials). My TSA background check for the HazMat endorsement is in progress. I was told that it will get done quicker because I have a passport, that already included a Fed background check.
I applied to 10 companies on 11/16/21 with paid CDL training programs reviewed on TT. Five recruiters have contacted me within a couple days. Following is a summary without naming the companies.
Company 1 - mega carrier - the recruiter obtained approval from his management for my 5 year retirement work gap without need for documentation prior to calling me. A big thumbs up for him! No vax required. My target date for starting is mid-January, so need to wait a few weeks to start background checks because job application is only valid for 30 days from date of background checks.
Company 2 - first recruiter to call me. His company requires that I document 3 years of social security income. Not a big deal for me to do. No vax required.
Company 3 - requires 18 months of verifiable employment within last 3 years. No exceptions for a retired person like me wanting to go back to work. The recruiter was very apologetic as this policy has caused her to pass on other people like me. Feels like borderline age discrimination, but I'm not an EEO lawyer.
Company 4 - I live outside the hiring area. I guess the recruiter didn't notice my home location in my application. She was very nice, offered to help me with info on how to get my state CLP and DOT medical card. I politely thanked her and said that I had that covered.
Company 5 - I realized after submitting my application that this company is primarily a team driving operation. I don't want to team drive beyond an initial 3 months training period. I like my own space. The recruiter asked me to keep them in mind because they have some solo driver jobs after six months of experience.
So, I'm very happy with Companies 1 & 2 as being companies for which I would be proud to work. I've read many training diaries from both. They both have terminals and training locations in the same city where I used to live. About 6 hours from my current home. Will see how this plays out in next few weeks as I submit documents for the background checks.
I'm very grateful to truckingtruth.com for being a great resource to help me launch this next adventure in my life. Hopefully my next posting will be a training diary from perspective of a senior rookie.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
HAZMAT:
Hazardous Materials
Explosive, flammable, poisonous or otherwise potentially dangerous cargo. Large amounts of especially hazardous cargo are required to be placarded under HAZMAT regulations
Terminal:
A facility where trucking companies operate out of, or their "home base" if you will. A lot of major companies have multiple terminals around the country which usually consist of the main office building, a drop lot for trailers, and sometimes a repair shop and wash facilities.
DOT:
Department Of Transportation
A department of the federal executive branch responsible for the national highways and for railroad and airline safety. It also manages Amtrak, the national railroad system, and the Coast Guard.
State and Federal DOT Officers are responsible for commercial vehicle enforcement. "The truck police" you could call them.
BMI:
Body mass index (BMI)
BMI is a formula that uses weight and height to estimate body fat. For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat. The BMI's biggest weakness is that it doesn't consider individual factors such as bone or muscle mass. BMI may:
It's quite common, especially for men, to fall into the "overweight" category if you happen to be stronger than average. If you're pretty strong but in good shape then pay no attention.
CPAP:
Constant Positive Airway Pressure
CPAP is a breathing assist device which is worn over the mouth or nose. It provides nighttime relief for individuals who suffer from Sleep Apnea.
OWI:
Operating While Intoxicated
CLP:
Commercial Learner's Permit
Before getting their CDL, commercial drivers will receive their commercial learner's permit (CLP) upon passing the written portion of the CDL exam. They will not have to retake the written exam to get their CDL.