Today is Sunday, the day before I begin my CDL course. The day before the day that could begin the change that will change my life. I have read many positive and negative things about trucking and truckers and the like and, contrary to popular belief I have considered them all.
Truth be told, even without yet being a driver, I have learned that trucking is hard. There is so much more to it than he general public really knows. For example, have you ever wondered how drivers stay fit? How they eat? How they sleep? There is a science to living in a space the size of your closet.
I have so much more respect for those already out on the road that I find myself being especially courteous when driving near semi's. If I can be the ONE person that doesn't cut him/her off I have made my point.
At any rate, I have made my decision. Trucking is something I want to do. It is something I am ready to do. Now, the only thing left to do is learn how to do it. I will spend the next three weeks learning and training and practicing everything I can to be prepared to actually drive one of these things. It will be difficult. I will be required to throw out everything I know about driving and relearn it as if I were a teenager getting behind the wheel for the first time. I will dedicate my time to reviewing how to perform checks, how to diagnose problems and how to maneuver a 70 foot long vehicle with no guide but two side view mirrors.
To the general public...have you ever considered how difficult that must be? If not, you will find out by reading what I have to say. I pride myself in being honest and as accurate as possible. I am thrilled to begin the learning process, but I have come to the conclusion that the real learning begins not tomorrow, but 3 weeks from now when I get in a truck and get on the road.
Bless those who are already out there pushing on and accepting the new challenges they are faced with and best of luck to those who are beginning their journey as well.
I'm at peace with my decision and excited to get started. I am determined that NOW is the best time to learn, as my first time out will be over the winter, and if I can learn to drive in the winter I can drive through just about anything.
YAY!!
Hey Sara,
ReplyDeleteMy name is eddie. My call name on the trucking forum is Shriner75. Welcome aboard, and good luck with training. Stay strong and committed. When it gets tough remember why you are doing this. Best of luck to you and I am anxiuos to read more postings.
Hey there Sara,
ReplyDeleteYou are about to enter an industry that is unique in it's own right. I just left the Navy after 16 years, so living in a small space is nothing new. When I looked into truck driving, I did the same as you..., I researched high and low getting all the info I could, and came to the conclusion that I would love this job. Well One CDL School and 4 weeks of company training later..., I am a refer driver running anywhere they want me togo. I do not get paid by the mile however, I get a percentage of what the truck makes. However, I Love this job...., I have been solo now for three weeks, and I have no regrets. There are some frustrating days, but they are far and few between. I can not believe I get paid to do this job:) Well, any-who....., I wish you the best of luck, and make sure you research and ask around about the trucking company before you commit. Take care and remember...., One safe trip at a time:)
Hi sara,
ReplyDeleteHope you are well and all is going well out on the road. I have found your blog and was hoping you could help.
We are a television production company who make shows for channels like National Geographic and Discovery. We are looking for some fantastic people for a new show all about female truckers and wondered if you would be or if you know any friends / colleagues, who would be suitable candidates.
We are looking for women and they must:
· be a trucker
· have children
· work in the USA / Canada
Please pass this around to anyone who your think could help and please do let me know anyone who you think would be great for me to contact from here.
Don’t hesitate in getting in touch if you have any further questions.
Hope to hear back from you really soon and we ideally are hoping to find the best female truckers in the USA / Canada by next Friday 17th December - any help much appreciated.
Kind regards, Emma Martins
emartins@wagtv.com
t – +44 (0)20 7688 5194
w – www.wagtv.com
Unit 2D, Leroy House, 436 Essex Road, London, N1 3QP