Finally getting my CDL A

[njdeerhunter]

I just wanted to say everyone I am new to the site and I hope I can make some new friends.

I went to training twice but was unable to finish school because of work and some family problems. I just got laid off and I now have the chance to go back and finish my training so I can change careers and do what I always wanted to do. I would like to work locally for a construction company and would also like to be an equipment operator. I have a better chance getting a job in heavy construction if I have a CDL.

[njdeerhunter]

101 visits and know one can say anything

[ranger309]

Originally Posted by njdeerhunter

I just wanted to say everyone I am new to the site and I hope I can make some new friends.

I went to training twice but was unable to finish school because of work and some family problems. I just got laid off and I now have the chance to go back and finish my training so I can change careers and do what I always wanted to do. I would like to work locally for a construction company and would also like to be an equipment operator. I have a better chance getting a job in heavy construction if I have a CDL.

Why go through the hassle of getting a CDL if you want to operate heavy equipent? I sure wouldn't. I doubt it will help you get a job since you won't be driving a rig plus in some states like mine having a CDL means no to traffic school if you get a citation in your car. Don't do it.

[njdeerhunter]

Hi thanks for the reply.
I want to haul the equipment to the job sites too. I also want to keep my options open just incase I decide to drive full time.
But when you start reading these forums it sounds like the trucking industry is not a good place to have a career.

[ranger309]

Originally Posted by njdeerhunter

I just wanted to say everyone I am new to the site and I hope I can make some new friends.

I went to training twice but was unable to finish school because of work and some family problems. I just got laid off and I now have the chance to go back and finish my training so I can change careers and do what I always wanted to do. I would like to work locally for a construction company and would also like to be an equipment operator. I have a better chance getting a job in heavy construction if I have a CDL.

Why go through the hassle of getting a CDL if you want to operate heavy equipent? I sure wouldn't. I doubt it will help you get a job since you won't be driving a rig plus in some states like mine having a CDL means no to traffic school if you get a citation in your car. Don't do it.

[Cerberus_Kelpie]

Construction is not a good place to start since there are fewer opportunities because of the current economy.
MOST Heavy Equipment hauling companies want SOME EXPERIENCE however gaining it is as well a challenge especially to a new comer AND the fact that currently there are A LOT of experienced drivers out of work.

Trucking in and of itself is NOT A GOOD CHOICE at this time as many companies have increased their hiring restrictions or simply initiated hiring freezes PLUS a lot of them quit hiring drivers with less than 6 months to 1 year recent (within 1 or 2 or 3 years) OTR experience.

Heavy Equipment Operation is still a good option if one goes through a COLLEGE COURSE and stays away from the Heavy Equipment training courses not offered at local Community Colleges.
In Jersey there are Unions for Operating Engineers unlike say here in NC where the pay is pathetic.

If you want to be out 10-21 days OTR and sit many of them waiting for loads, then go right ahead with our blessings.
WELCOME TO TRUCKINGBOARDS!!