Trying To Get Into The Trucking Industry With Paid CDL Training

I have a strong desire to join the trucking industry, but there are some obstacles I must overcome. At 32 years old, living in Indiana, my work experience spans various fields, including construction, factory, foundry, warehouse, the medical sector, and even owning my own small business for a few years. My goal is to pursue a Midwest Regional Dedicated role initially, focusing on driving and safety.

One hurdle I face is having Type-2 Diabetes, with a well-controlled A1C of 5.1 managed through diet and Metformin. Fortunately, my doctor has approved me to attend CDL school, as the September 2018 revision of the FMCSA's Diabetes Regulation changes supports this. (A1C under 10.0, controlled blood sugar with supporting documentation, etc)

Another challenge is my current financial situation, which has left me with nonexistent recent work history. This can be attributed to my role as the full-time primary caregiver for a close immediate family member during their lengthy battle with cancer, spanning nearly three years.

Earlier this year, I received a workforce grant to attend a private CDL school (TDI), covering approximately 40% of the tuition. However, this grant resulted in an automatic transmission restriction. Despite the school lowering the tuition considerably to accommodate my circumstances, I still needed to gather several more thousands to cover remaining costs, including room/board, food, and travel expenses due to the school's distance from my home. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend, and the WorkForce grant can only be issued once in my state, leaving me ineligible for further grants.

I've applied for company-sponsored CDL Training, and during the application process, I explain my situation in detail, including the financial impact it had on my family. Unfortunately, some companies initially express understanding on the phone, but later, I receive short emails stating they cannot accommodate me. I recognize it's not an ideal situation, but I prioritized my family's well-being at that time.

After thorough the reflection process, I am determined to make a positive change and pursue a career in trucking. I have spent extensive hours researching companies(the ones that have turned me down), talking to truckers, and exploring various options to ensure this is the right path for me.

Despite my passion and dedication, it seems challenging to find opportunities beyond CDL schools, which require payment I currently cannot afford. I'm seeking any insight or information that might make it easier for me to enter the industry.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Hello Matthew.

The diabetes shouldn’t be a problem, especially with the MD sign off. I have it and also take Metformin. It’s not been an issue at all since I got on the medication and adjusted my diet.

Your recent work situation may or may not be an issue. Depends on the company. So be ready to document your whereabouts for the last 3 years so the companies know you have not been in Yemen at a terrorist training camp.

Definitely apply to company sponsored training programs through the links on this website. It’s a little tough to get accepted currently, so be persistent and apply everywhere you can.

Apply For Paid CDL Training

I applied via that link before. I haven’t had any luck. No one has even reached out to me unfortunately.

I’ll be off Metformin before the year is over. So I didn’t think that would be an issue. My doctor thought it was an issue for a long while, even though I showed her the regulations.

I’ve been going through today and individually applying since I can’t apply to that link It’s definitely taking me some time lol

What companies have you applied to?

What companies have you applied to?

Was Schneider one of the companies you applied to? They have a very big operation in Indiana and might be a good fit for you.

TMC, Maverick, Roehl, Carter, Keller, Crum, CFI, Millis, StevensTransport, Prime, Knight, etc.

What companies have you applied to?

Try Big M Transportation, Magnum Logistics, and Cypress Truck Lines.

Big M & Magnum will pay tuition to go to a school near them, if I recall correctly. I think they'll give you a hotel room too.

TMC, Maverick, Roehl, Carter, Keller, Crum, CFI, Millis, StevensTransport, Prime, Knight, etc.

What companies have you applied to?

I’ll definitely look into those. I’m in Indiana. So I was trying to find something here in the Midwest I could drive to for training. If I can’t, will definitely be in touch.

If you or anyone else had any suggestions, please let me know. I’m starting to get desperate lol

Try Big M Transportation, Magnum Logistics, and Cypress Truck Lines.

Big M & Magnum will pay tuition to go to a school near them, if I recall correctly. I think they'll give you a hotel room too.

TMC, Maverick, Roehl, Carter, Keller, Crum, CFI, Millis, StevensTransport, Prime, Knight, etc.

What companies have you applied to?