Update to CDL BLOG

I am now driving a class B truck (30ft in length). The opportunity provided by Werner Enterprises, in my opinion, was not a fair one. I now drive night shift for Wolfe News. I run about 10hrs, 5 nights a week (about 350 miles/night) and am home every day. The pay is ok, but realize I am new and inexperienced, so I will bide my time. At least I am home every day. If you can't get the pay you want, at least be able to sleep in your own bed. So all in all, things are going well.

That's it for now

Don

Off To Werner Enterprises

Hello one and all, Wow, so much has happened since starting this BLOG. I have started and graduated from NTTS. I have taken and passed my NYS CDL road test. And now, I am on my way to begin a new career as a professional commercial driver. I have decided to close this BLOG and start a new Blog coinciding with the beginning of my trucking career. I have appropriately named the new Blog :"Trucker Probe" as I will be on probation for I believe 500 hours. This next BLOG will document my orientation and over the road training. It should be an interesting read. I hope you will join me: http://truckerprobe.blogspot.com/

My very best regards,
Don

Third Time is the Charm

Thursday July 16th the day I passed my NYS CDL Road Test. Wow, I was really beginning to doubt myself, but I told myself to just "Do It", and I did. It was a great ride. Ok, I could have done my paralell park better, but everything else went really well.

So, The next logical part of my BLOG, is to document my experience at Werner Enterprises. So far, my experience with their recruiting department has been great. I have had to reschedule my orientation three times, and they have been very understanding. The instructions for travel and lodging were very clear. I have an e-ticket waiting for me so all I have to do is arrive a little early, give my confirmation number, get my ticket and board the bus. When I arrive, call the Hotel for a pickup. Spend the night, and catch a shuttle to the terminal in the morning.
I will check back in from the Hotel next Thursday evening.

Best Regards,
Don

Strike Two

Well, I was ready today, only slightly nervous. I had a good ride at the DMV. That is till I got approximately 100 yds from parking the truck. The DMV Inspector had given me a passing grade, and all I had to do was get back to the starting line and park the truck.
So, this is how it went, as before, all turns prior to getting on the highway were fine, the highway run was great as before. This time, when I exited, I got into the correct lane to make the left hand turn. I successfully exicuted the right hand turn where I hit the curb last time. I was on the way back and the Inspector wrote me up with a passing grade. I made the right turn, and was wide as needed, when a car came out of no where straight at me. I turned back to the right early and unfortunately put the trailer wheels up on the curb. One hundred yds to go to park the truck, and the Inspector scratched out the pass and failed me. I was crushed. I just couldnt believe it.
I am back at home now, I have to wait another two weeks to retest. Hopefully, third time is the charm. I am determined to get this once and for all.

Regards till then,
Don

I'm Back in the Saddle Again

Hello once again from the apartment provided by NTTS in Liverpool, NY. It is strange to be here once again, and yet, my old room mate is here and we are having a good time getting caught up again.
I can't help but feel the atmospher of the apartment has really changed. First Zak graduated, then me. Now I am back, and have learned that Freddy failed his road test and has returned home to await his next road test. This apartment is an ever-changing environment. Students come and go as they start and graduate from the school.
So, today I completed one of my road trips, with my favorite Instructor. I was nervous as I hadn't been in a truck for couple weeks. I did pretty good but truth be told, ground a few gears, and had some issues with a couple corners. My road Instructor had me go round in cirles like 3-4 times in the city to give me practice making right hand turns. Round and round we went, and even though it didn't look like it, I was getting better. After this we returned back to the school, where I was asked to parallel park. Well, it took thee times, but I got it on the third try.
Tomorrow I will have an opportunity to practice my parallel parking, as well as take a second road ride.
Till then, Have a great night.
Don

NYS Road Test Day,

We were all nervous as we gathered at the school. But even though we were nervous, everyone was doing their best to act cool and together. We chatted and laughed, but all just wanted to get it done and over with. One by one the trucks departed for the test area. I was selected to go first for team 2, and therefore was chosen to drive the truck, we were to test in, to the test site.
The Instructor for my test had one straight ten truck driver before me. We all watched as this Student (second attempt at the NYS road test) completed his pre-trip inspection. Then he did his 50-foot brake test and headed for the first turn. As he disappeared, we all continued to "mill about smartly". We were all amazed to turn and see this first Student returning to the starting position just a few minutes after he left. We later learned he had driven over a curb.
I was told to head over to the truck and get ready. I completed my pre-trip with no issues. I signed my test document and completed my in-cab inspection. I completed my brake test and we were off. I completed the city part with no problems. We headed off to the highway and again, no problems. On the way back we pulled off the highway and approached a two lane stop. I was told to make a left so I got into the left lane. (the beginning of the end) The right lane of the two lane stop was marked for both left and right turns. (I was in the wrong lane for the left turn, and the Instructor made sure I knew it.) I knew I was done as she started writing on the paper. Shortly after I brushed a curb with the trailer, and again more writing. We returned to the start point without doing the parallel park or straight line back. Crud, I knew I would have to do this again.
Later that day, I received a call from a Team member. He said that two other Team members had also failed. The good news is that the one guy that struggled in the yard actually was the one from our Team to pass. YEA!!!
I was really bummed, but I know what I did wrong and will do better next time. I now have two weeks off, due to NYS scheduling. NTTS has provided me with an additional two road rides, and will allow me to stay at the apartment. My new test date is July 2nd.
Bye for now!!!
Don

Graduation Day

Today we arrived at school at 10:45 am as usual. At roll-call each member of my team was assigned a 30-minute road ride. And yes, once again, I got to go out with my old buddy, the Lead Instructor. A thirty minute ride goes pretty fast. All we did was go down to an Industrial Park and do a parallel park and straight line back. My first attempt was less than satisfactory, but my second was right on the money. After that, we drove back to the school so the rest of the Team could have their ride.
At 11:30 members of Team one and Team two piled into the classroom for graduation. We had pizza and soda and received our certificates. None of the guys brought their significant others. We all left after graduation, and were given instructions for tomorrows NYS road test.

See you tomorrow,
Regards,
Don

Week Ten - Friday

So that's it. The last day of school. Today was a strange day. We are all tested out, so there was really nothing for us to do. The Instructors were all over the field ensuring the Students didn't bunch bunch up and just hang out talking. They wanted to make sure all the trucks were being used. So, much like many days in the past, the Team drove forwards and backwards continuing to practice our maneuvers.

We are looking forward to Monday, GRADUATION DAY !!!

WHOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA !!!

I can't believe my CDL training at NTTS is over. Man, these 10 weeks went really fast.

I will check back in Monday after graduation.

Best Regards,
Don

Week Ten - Thursday

Thursday - Thursday

The yard testing went very well. Here's the break down:

1. Drop & Hook Test . . . 100
2. Off-set backing . . . 100
3. Blind Side backing . . . 90 (Crooked in the Box)
4. See Side backing . . . 100

The other members of the Team all passed as well. :-)

So, we have now completed all requirements to graduate from NTTS. Our graduation is scheduled for Monday June 15th. We take our NYS road test on Tuesday morning.


da da da dats all Folks!!!

See yall Friday.
Don

Week Ten - Wednesday

Road test two was a big success. I did a perfect pre trip, (even found 3rd gear LOL). Did a perfect straight line back and parallel park. My grade for my second and final NTTS road test was a 94. Tomorrow, we will be tested on yard maneuvers. We are not sweating this at all. This what we have spent the majority of our time doing for the past 7 weeks. My road test was scheduled last in the day so I had plenty of time to think about it. The other three members of the team completed their rides before lunch. So I was the only one remaining to pass. We were all glad when my ride was done and I told them my score.
Like I said, the team is not worried about tomorrow's backing tests, we are now all looking forward to completing the NYS road test on Tuesday morning. We are all happy to have achieved and completed successfully the NTTS Road tests. Tonight we will enjoy our success and relax.

Today was a very good day !!!

Best Regards,
Don

Week Ten - Tuesday

Hey, Welcome back !

Deep breath. . . YES!!! I passed my first NTTS road test. And, guess what? I went out with the Lead Instructor AGAIN. As if I wasn't a bit nervous based on the importance of the test, I drew the hardest grading Instructor at the school.
So, here is the brake-down on the road test.

First we have the pre trip inspection. There are two parts, external and in cab. I aced the external. The internal inspection was also completed successfully, right up to the 50 foot brake test. Well, I put the truck in REVERSE... can you believe it. OMG I couldn't believe it. 40 points right out the window. Score on the pre-trip 60.

Well I found 3rd and completed the 50 foot break test. Then it was off to parallel park. I did pretty good, The Instructor claimed the back end of the trailer was sticking out a bit (-5pts)
Score on the parallel park 95.

Finally we are off to the races, first thing I was asked to do is stop on a hill and restart without letting the truck roll back. No problem! On the road we go... In a nut shell, I missed a gear and failed to call out a couple bridges. Score for the Road Test 80.

Back into the practice yard and I am asked to pull up for some straight line backing. No problem, I nailed it. Score on the straight line 100.

So, there you have it, I passed road test one with an 80. Road test 2 will be tomorrow with a different Instructor. Also, each of the things tested separately today, will be considered part of one test. So, any failure of any part will mean failing the test. Should be fun . . . AYE!

Check back tomorrow to see how it goes.

Regards,
Don

Week Ten - Monday

Wow!!! I made it to week ten. Oh Yea!!!

Today, I had a great road ride with #1 Instructor. I would have had a perfect score, alas I finally hit a curb. Not a moment too soon. Now I can go on my 1st NTTS Road Test not needing to take out a curb. :-).
Comments from the Instructor included " Much improvement with Shifting", and no hits on the check list. As for the rest of the day, the same old back and forth...

So, tomorrow, road test one, Wednesday. the old back and forth. Thursday, road test 2 and phase III testing on backing maneuvers.

That's it for today,

Good Nite,
Don

Week Nine - Friday

Friday has finally arrived. We do not expect to have a road ride today. In the morning the Team worked on the everything truck. In addition, one team mate and I also did a drop and hook.

The everything truck is set up for the following backing maneuvers:

1. Straight line
2. See side
3. Off set
4. Blind side

In the afternoon, we worked on our parallel parking. At 4:45, we were gone. I was headed back to Rochester.

Have a great weekend,
Don

Week Nine - Thursday

The Night Ride was GREAT !!!

Hello all, Today for the most part was like many others lately. Drive forward and back up, over and over, and over, and over again.

But at 6:00 PM, it was time to embark on the famed "Night Ride". Three students go out with an Instructor for 3-hours. We arrived and 5:45 and began pre-tripping the truck. We needed to borrow three safety triangles from another truck. At 6:03PM we departed. I was in the #2 position and therefore did mostly highway driving. That was fine with me, because shifting a straight ten with a sleeper cab is currently not my specialty. My high point was starting out from the on-ramp in reverse... WHOOPS!!! Once I actually found 3rd gear, we were off to the races. After that, all I had to do was keep the accelerator mashed to the floor. The truck is governed at 65mph. Once my hour was up I turned the truck over to the third student who brought the truck back to the school. We all had a good time and learned a bit more of what it is like to take a load from point A to point B.

Well it is time to hit the hay. Take care all...
Don

Week Nine - Wednesday

Hey! Welcome to over-the-hump day. This was a good day. Yes, we did more of the same thing. However, On this day, I completed my first road ride with no hits. You see, at the end of each ride the Instructor has a carbon form they can check boxes that refer to areas we need to work on. It also has an Instructor comments section and a place for the student driver to sign.
So, like I was saying, today's ride I received no tics and the following Comments; "Nice Ride, Nice Parallel Park. No Complaints or Concerns of any kind. Good Job Today"

That made my day !!! :-)

Have a great day,
Don

Week Nine - Tuesday

It is really getting tough to come up with new ways of telling you all the same things. So, I will keep this short. No rides today. I worked on Pre-tripping the truck, and the good old drop & hook. After that excitement LOL, We were back to going forward and backing up in various directions. All I can say is that I am glad we are all another day closer to graduation.

That's it for now,

Good day,

Don

Week Nine - Monday

Wow, Week nine already!!! One more week and a couple road tests, and I am outta here :-) So, Let's take stock of where I am in the whole scheme of things.

1. I have learned all backing maneuvers that I am to be taught
2. I have completed 15 road-rides
3. I have learned about the truck, including how to inspect it
4. I have learned how to maintain a log book
5. I have learned how to perform trip planning

We continue to work o n our truck maneuvers and take road trips to continue our work on driving and shifting under various road conditions. We are mainly driving in the city these days. Many traffic lights, stop signs, railroad tracks, and various road hazards.

Today I had another road-ride. And again, it was with the main man. I felt like I did much better, even though I still grinded the gears a few times. I also had to do a parallel park, and that was done perfectly. The Instructor was impressed, and that made me happy.

So, that is all for today,

Regards,
Don

Week Eight - Friday

Today was most uneventful. No Road-rides, and more of the same old backing maneuvers, drop and hook, and pretrip inspections. Although our days are shorter now, they seem longer and longer as we are not learning anything new. Now we are refining that which we have already been taught.

It seems so strange to whiteness the various Student dramas unfolding among the various classes working together in the field. This is what keeps us amused these days. Well that's it for today.

Best Regards,
Don

Week Eight - Thursday

Today I drove a straight ten speed truck for the first time. Once again, I handled the truck well, but shifting was very interesting. Driving the straight ten truck requires much more shifting. Shifting all gears in order, instead of skipping gears, requires a different thought process. I was actually starting to get it towards the end of the ride. All in all, it was a good time driving the straight ten truck.
After the ride it was time for lunch. After lunch we were back in the yard practicing the various backing maneuvers. It would be nice if we could learn some of the other maneuvers, but alas it is not to be. Two more weeks till graduation and NYS road test.

So, that's about it for today.

Have a nice evening,
Don

Week Eight - Wednesday

OK, so for clarification, the last blog was actually from Tuesday. Monday was a Holiday and the school was closed.
As for today, it was pretty much another normal day. We drove forwards and then backed up over and over and over again. ALL DAY LONG!!!
Tomorrow, yes, we will do the same thing. I am truly great full that I did not sign up for the 18 week session. I think 7 weeks would have more than been adequate for this program. I should have a road ride tomorrow. I am hopeful my shifting will be better.

Have a great night,
Regards,
Don

Week Eight - Monday

Good evening,

Monday was a Holiday, so today, Tuesday, was our first day back this week. I arrived at school at 10:30, as scheduled. I had a road-ride first thing. I got to go out with a great Instructor. The ride went well, I am still having issues with grabbing a gear properly on the downshift. My city driving and highway driving is really good.
When I returned, I did a pretrip inspection and a drop and hook. Then I moved over to the everything truck. On this truck, I can do a c-side and blind side backup, as well as an off-set backup.
After lunch, Our Team worked on parallel parking. We did this till 4:45, when we left for the day. I can't believe we are in our 8th week already. Time is just flying by. I need to make up some flash cards to learn my speed and tachometer vs gears.
It's the same old thing for me, I have got to get my shifting down in order to make a clean sweep of my remaining tests.

Have a great evening,
Regards,
Don

Week Seven - Thursday

Today was a very long day in the sun. The temp was up to 87 degF. We drank a ton of water, and did pretty much the same as yesterday. I did not have a ride today. Tomorrow we will be let loose early due to the upcoming Holiday.

Not much else to say about today.

Have a nice evening,
Don

Week Seven - Wednesday

It's over-the-hump day !!! More of the same, backing maneuvers, Pre Trip Inspection, and drop and hook. I worked with another group of new students today. They seemed very receptive, if not overwhelmed.
Road ride #11 was today, I went out with the Boss, in a truck that well..., let's just say was a bit of a challenge. I did pretty good, considering, especially once I got a handle on the shifting pattern, the clutch plate, and the shift sticking. All other aspects of the drive were fine. On the return, the Instructor had me parallel park, I nailed it not once, but twice. All in all, a decent performance. I still need to focus on revving the engine on hills (both ways). I know that with more experience I will get better at this. Especially, when I will have more than an hour in the same truck. ;-)

So, at week 7.3, all is well and full speed ahead.

Have a nice evening,
Don

Week Seven - Tuesday

What a difference a day makes. Today I was on... The parallel parking was much better today. I had a road trip into the city, and it was great. Shifting was much better. My trip report was good across the board with the following statement in the comments section; "Good job around City turns".

I am feeling much better than yesterday. I want to summarize what we are up to:

Maneuvers:
1. Pre Trip Inspections
2. Drop & Hook
3. Straight Line Backing
4. See Side Backing
5. Blind Side Backing
6. Off Set Backing
7. Parallel Parking

City Driving

1. Close Intersection turns
2. Abrupt Stops
3. Anticipating city hazards
4. Hillside starts
5. Tight lanes/parked cars/unloading cars-trucks etc.

So, we have learned everything that we are supposed to in the 10-week program. We now face mastering and increasing our confidence in handling the trucks in various city and highway situations. In addition, we need to perfect our backing maneuvers. We have three more weeks till graduation. We should be in good shape by the second week of June when we have our School Final Road test. We must pass one of two school road tests to graduate from NTTS. Once we graduate we will then go to the Department of Motor Vehicles for our New York State road test.

Now, once I graduate from NTTS and pass my NYS road test, I will be off to Allentown, PA for my orientation with Werner Enterprises Trucking Co. My orientation will include another physical and drug test. Testing of my general Trucking knowledge including rules and regulations and log books. I will need to demonstrate knowledge of trip planning and using the Atlas. Then, I will have to pass trucking maneuvers, a pre trip test, and a Company sponsored road test. So, you would think after passing all of this, I would be good to go, but you would be wrong. Once I prove that I can in fact drive the truck, I will then be assigned to a trainer. I will move into the truck with the trainer, and we will head over the road for approximately 6 weeks. Then, based on the trainer's recommendation, I will be assigned a truck. I will be routed back near my home and get to take a few days off, before heading back over the road.

Take Care,
Don

Week Seven - Monday

So, another week is upon us. Today, we learned our final maneuver, The parallel park. We are struggling with this one, but we pretty much have everything else down. I had a road ride today, and forgot the time. The Instructor found me in a truck practicing parallel parking. Oh brother, not a good thing making the Instructor come looking for you. To make things worse, i miss-judged on coming traffic as I pulled the truck out of the school lot. GEESE !!!!

I am still having issues down shifting, especially on hills. Today we went into the city. I once again misjudged an approaching car as I made a left-hand turn. To say the least, I was glad when this ride was over. Bummer!!!

Here's hoping tomorrow goes better.

Good Night all...
Don

Photos at NTTS

Week Six - Friday

So, today we continued our backing maneuvers. We continued our pre=trip inspections, and our drop & hooks. We only have one maneuver left to learn, and that is the parallel park. We are set to learn that one on Monday.

Yesterday we tested out of Phase two. We each had a road test that included a full pre-trip and an in-route straight line backing maneuver. Back in the yard we were each tested on our drop & hook, and our see-side backing maneuver. I thankfully Aced each test. The other Team members also did very well.

So, Monday we enter our final phase of testing, Phase Three. The Team has four weeks to master all maneuvers, including confidence in truck handling in city, country, and highway areas. This to include the identification of all hazards and proper truck handling in these situations. Though this may seem impossible, each of us will have over 20 1-hour, 1 on 1 road trips with various Instructors using various trucks and trailers. We will also have a 3-hour night ride.

To graduate from NTTS, we are required to pass 1 of 2 full road tests. These tests are much more dificult than the New York State CDL Road Test, but to quote our Instructor, "We are not here to teach you how to pass the road test, but how to be safe and make money in the trucking industry. PRETTY COOL HUH !!!! :-)

I just calculated my school average at the end of phase two. I have raised my phase I average of 94 to my phase II final average of 97. In addition, I not only have perfect attendance, but have banked approximately 40 extra hours of training. Calculating the total hours and total cost of my training program, the 40 extra hours means I have volunteered for and received an additional $889.00 worth of training, so far ;-)

Ok, well time for me to crash, enjoy your weekend.

Don

Good evening, Say hello to Team 4-6 (10-week) Today was a good day. We learned our final backing maneuver, the blind-side back up. We spent most of the day working on our various maneuvers. Our lab was on various types of trucks, low boys, over-sized loads...etc.

That's it for today,

See you back tomorrow,
Don

Week Six - Monday

Well, Today is the first day of the second half of my 10-week program. In addition to our normal maneuvers, we learned how to do off-side backing. After lunch, I had another road-ride. It was awesome, I continue to improve on my shifting. The Instructor was very relaxed and kicking back during the ride. This is a good sign. His post ride comments stated that I continue to make more and more progress with each ride. He still grinds gears a little, but it's getting allot smoother. He also stated that I could be ready by Friday to drive in downtown Syracuse. Driving in the city is the final big test of a drivers road skills. I am not sure if I am ready to drive in the city, but will do my best if the Instructor takes me there.

Well that's bout it for today. Have a great evening,

Don

Week Five - Friday

Friday was a good day. More practice in the yard. We continued our work on Pre-trip inspections, Drop and Hook procedures, straight line and see side backing. For the most part, the Team is doing very well. We are trying to help each other with our maneuvers.
I am very tired today, and am looking forward to returning home.

Best Regards,
Don

Week Five - Thursday

Today was rainy, chilly, and rather dreary. The Team is really ready to learn some new maneuvers. Today we continued our backing, pre-trip inspections, and drop and hook procedures. It was a very long day.
I did have my 6th road-ride this afternoon. I must admit, I didn't do so hot. I still tend to choke on my shifting when I come up on situations. For example, today I made a right hand turn, just after being shown how to use the range finder to go up and down a single speed. So, I made a good turn only to find myself going up hill. I tried to shift, but the speed slipped and I missed the gear. I tend to get frustrated with myself, and that only makes things worse. So, I know that I need to get more familiar with looking at my speedometer, and tachometer and knowing what gear to go into, or what gear I am currently in.
Well it's time for me to get busy, so that is all.

Have a great evening,
Don

Week Five - Tuesday/ Wednesday

I was unable to Blog last evening as I was on the road to see my Son conduct his middle school choir in Buffalo. It was an awesome concert, and he did a great job.

Yesterday, I had a great road ride showing improvement in clutching and shifting. I felt really good coming off that ride. I finally got a ride with my original classroom Instructor.

Today, I drove back to school and got in to the yard around 9:00 am. I met up with some of the guys and started working on backing maneuvers, and drop and hooks. We have been working on these maneuvers for a long time now, but the Instructors will not add additional maneuvers till next week. This is to keep us on track with our 10-week program. Honestly, it is a bit boring, but we have yet to truly master the maneuvers we do know. I had another great road ride with yet another Instructor.

That's it for today,

Best Regards,
Don

Week Five - Monday

Hello, welcome to another week at NTTS Liverpool, NY. Today, out Team continued to work on PreTrip inspections, drop and hooks, straight line backing, and c-side backing. In the morning our third team member mastered the c-side backing, and finally, just before knock-off, our fourth team member nailed the c-side backing. It was sooo great to finally have all of us doing the c-side maneuver.
This morning, two new guys came onboard Team Two, to get their Class B training. The B folks use a straight truck, but do similar backing maneuvers. I helped them with their pre-trip inspections, and then demonstrated the straight line backing maneuver in the B-truck. Both the B-guys took right to it with no problems.
Todays lab was on breaks and setting the slack adjusters. I thought this was going to be rather complicated, but it turned out to be rather simple to do.

So, that's about it for today, I should get another road-ride tomorrow.

Take it easy,
Don

Week Four - Friday

TGIF: Today was a long day. No road-ride, unfortunately. Our lab today was on Bridge formula, and calculating Axle weights. We then got into when, why, and how to slide your Tandem and or fifth wheel.
The Team continued working on straight line and C-side backing. Two of us have it locked, one is close, and one is getting better.
After only one week in the various trucks, I am feeling more relaxed and my shifting and yard maneuvers are really coming along well. In addition to continued road rides, straight line and c-side backing, next week we will add off-side and blind-side backing. We also will continue our Pre trip inspections and drop and hook procedures. Our Team has 6 more weeks to master these techniques. If we attack the next six weeks with the same hard-charging attitude we had this week, we will pass the NTTS program as well as our Road Test with flying colors.

Well, as I am home now, and my nice big bed is just behind me, I think I will call it a night. It's been a long hard week.

Have a great weekend and I will see you Monday evening.

Regards.
Don

Week Four - Thursday

Today was a busy day, I went on another road trip (#3) this morning. I drove a construction style low-boy trailer towed by a super-10 tractor today. The Instructor was a peddle to the metal trucker. We followed all speed signs, but some of the back roads do not have speed signs, so 55mph was the speed we drove at. The Instructor was great at assisting me with my timing, shifting, and taking turns at intersections. Today, I had a great ride.
After my ride, I had classroom lab time. We discussed driver and load safety, as well as the Commercial Driving industry as a whole. After lunch, our team was back out on the yard practicing C-side backing. After considerable trying, the light bulb clicked on and I got it. There are now 2 of 4 drivers on our team that have conquered the C-side backing. One other is close, and unfortunately, one team member is still struggling. Tomorrow is Friday, I have had a full week, and am glad to be going home.

Best Regards,
Don

Week Four - Wednesday

Aloha !!!

It was a very good day !!! Today I drove the back roads of Syracuse, NY. My Instructor was simply amazing. His voice and laid-back mannerism was just what I needed, to settle myself enough to focus on all the things truck drivers do while trucking on down the road. Class 4-6 (10-weekers) This is how the team I am on is referred to. Anyway, our class worked on a new maneuver today. It is called a C-Side backing. This is back from a C-shaped tractor trailer configuration. By the end of the day, most of the Team had this pretty much under control.

Tomorrow will be more of the same. practice, practice, practice. :-)

Best Regards,

Don

Week Four - Tuesday

Mark this day, The day I drove an 18 wheeler on public roads and highways. Had that puppy up to 65 Mph. Shifting was not exactly my forte, But I did very well on keeping the truck in the lane and turning. I did stall the truck one time, while starting up when the light turned green. But all in all, not too bad for my first run. I got another ride tomorrow morning first thing. I did more training today on drop and hook, Pre trip inspections, and straight line backing. It rained most of the time I was on the lot today. but my rain coat and new water proof boots kept me dry. I Have decided to continue coming in at 8:00 am and staying until 6:00 PM. This affords me more time to practice, time that I intend to use to the best of my ability.

Well, that is it for today,

Best Regards,
Don

Week Four - Monday

Today was a MOST EXCELLENT DAY !!!!

A new class of Newbies has taken over Classroom C. (The Cave) Today, I was supposed to arrive at 10:30, but I still went in at 8:00. We were done at 4:45 PM, but I stayed along with my team till 6:00 PM. Just for clarity, I call us my team because today we were out on the yard working with the truck, and we missed roll call. We walked back inside and talked to the Instructor. He looked right at me and said "Dohr, I am holding you personally responsible for these guys missing roll call" I smiled at him, and said "no problem, I came in early today, and plan to stay late, all week. I was serious too, I want to take full advantage of driving the trucks over the next seven weeks.

We went back on the field and met up with out Trainer. We spent the rest of the day doing "Straight Line Backing" This is just what it says, backing up the truck keeping the 50' trailer and the Tractor in a straight line while backing into a box. The box represents a loading dock. There were three sets of cones set up for us to pull up too. The first set of cones were like 50 yds out, the next were at 75 yds and the last set were at 100 yds. The Trainer said just go to the first cones. We all were able to do it fine, so we asked to move to the second set. Most of us hit that one too. On my next turn I went for the third set of cones and nailed that too. Then another Team member went for number 3 and he got it too. We were having a great time. Driving is alot of fun. But I can see how how easy it is to loose control of the trailer backing up. We only run in low reverse and first gear forward. We are not allowed to touch the accellorator when working on the yard. Good thing, controlling the trailer at this speed backing up is pretty tough.
We were all have a great time driving the truck, so much that when knock-off came we asked if we could stay till 6:00 PM and keep driving the truck. The Trainer said go for it. Around 5:30 PM he came over and collected the Team to have us watch how the trucks get moved into position at the end of the day. He said we could assist with moving the trucks if we wanted to stay each day. SWEET !!! :-)

Today was a really good day. Hot, Sweaty, but really good :-)

Tomorrow we continue with our Pretrip inspections, Drop and Hook Proceedures, Inline backing, and we will learn C-Side Backing.

Have great night.
Don

Week Three - Friday

What a week, I am so glad to be back home again. Truly looking forward to sleeping in my own bed tonight.

Today was a busy day. Here is how I did on the battery of exams I completed today. Three 100%, One 95%, One 85%, and One 80%. My Phase I average is 94% :-)

This afternoon we 7 & 10 week-ers were back on the simulator. I did a bit better than yesterday, and that is encouraging, but I will need to work on my rhythm over the weekend. So, next week I move to the field assigned to Team 1, the Super 10 Team. I think I have my first road trip also. Then we begin working on our PreTrip Inspections, Straight Ling & Drivers Side Backing Maneuvers.

Well, that's it for today, I am now going to go and relax.

Take Care,
Don

Week Three - Thursday

Today was much more active than yesterday. Today I learned what Team I am on, and even had my first and second go at the truck simulator.

I have been assigned to the Super-10 Team (refers to the type of transmission I will be learning on) and testing on. I will be working with John, the same Instructor I had for weeks one and two. A really great Instructor. It was very obvious to all present that I was new to double clutching. As a matter of fact to clutching at all. I guess, all I can say is, it's all uphill from here. I took the third of three drop and hook tests today, and got a 100%. For the three tests (30, 100, 100) I get to drop one grade (30) so I aced this part. :-) OH YEA!!! LOL

This is where I stand so far:

A. Perfect Attendance

T1. 100
T2. 100
T3. 95
T4. 100
T5. 90
T6. 90
T7. 100
T8. 100
T9. 88

This gives me a 96% to date

Tomorrow we will Do the following tests:

1. Vehicle Orientation
2. DOT 390 -393
3. DOT 395
4. DOT 396 - 397
5. Final DOT EXAM

See you tomorrow,

Don

Week Three - Wednesday

Good evening all. Let me start by saying I tested for coils and tow truck at lunch today. I passed tow truck, adding that endorsement to my CDL permit, but need to work a bit more on the coils endorsement. I missed 6, max you can miss is 4. Ok well, this weekend I have something to do. I have plenty of time, 7 more weeks to pass my coils test. On a good note, it only costs $5.oo till I pass, then another $15.oo to get a new permit printed.

Today we spent the day working on our defensive driving course. Although it is important stuff, which may save our lives one day, it really was a long day in the classroom. I am glad to be back at the apartment.

Tomorrow, we are supposed to learn which field team we will be assigned to. This is the team that we will be working with through the next phase of our training. I am already looking forward to the weekend and sleeping in my own bed.

Best Regards,
Don

Week Three - Tuesday

The day from Hell !!!! OMG I was board to tears today. Practically the entire 8-hrs was spent going over material in the DOT safety book. The Instructor read the book to us. Really, it would have been better if he just asked us to review specific chapters in the evening. Or even simply highlighted the important sections and asked us to review them ourselves.\
The high point of the day came after lunch when we were given our second of three drop and hook tests. I got 100% this time. Making flash cards with the step number on one side and the actual step on the other really made the difference for me. To learn, I arranged the cards out of order, with the number side down and the step side up. Then as quickly as possible I put the cards in order. I completed the test today in less than 3 minutes.

After lunch some of us climbed inside a couple of parked trucks. We were amazed at how much room was in the sleeper section. In one of them, I stood on the bunk, and still had 5 inches above me. (I am 6'3" tall) We learned that if we want the goodies in our Truck, that we need to purchase them. The sleepers are pretty bare. Spacious, but bare.

Tomorrow, we will be covering more on defensive driving. As for me, tonight I will be studying for my coils and tow truck endorsements. I will be going over to the DMV during lunch and taking the tests.

Have a good evening,

Don

Week Three - Monday

So, week three is here. I can't believe how fast the first two weeks passed. I have already learned so much, my head is spinning. I still need to get down to the DMV and retake the CDL endorsement tests for coils, and Tow Trucks. Not because I need them, but because I set a personal goal to do my very best, and I know I can pass these. In addition, having all my endorsements will make a statement to perspective employers.

Good News !!! I received a pre-hire notice from Werner Enterprises. The only downside to this, is the fact that there is only one recruiter, and she is so busy, you cannot get her on the phone to speak with her.

As for what happened in school today; We have a new Instructor "Big John". Today we spent the day doing more review on the safety manual. It was very boring and dry material. But, important that we know it, and where to find it if needed in the future.

Today, I continued to work my flash cards on the Drop and Hook procedures. I am happy to say I got all 16 steps perfect 4 times today. We have two more tests on this process alone, and I am confident I will get 100 % on both.

That's all for today,
Take it easy,
Don

Week two - Friday

Wow !!! I can't believe another week is done. Only eight more weeks to be able to pass the NYS CDL - A Road Test. I really get uneasy each time I hear about another student failing their Road Test due to something dumb, like hitting the curb.
You see, depending on the length of course you select, you can take up to three practice road tests at NTTS before you take the NYS road test. I don't know, I guess anything can happen, it just gives me an uneasy feeling. I hope I do relatively as well on Road test as I did on the permit tests. You see I was the only one in a class of 21 to take all the exams, and I believe the only one to pass 8 test in one setting. I will retest soon on coils and tow trucks to make it a clean sweep of all CDL -A endorsements.
Ok enough about me. Here is what we worked on today:

1. Continued to review shifting patterns and gear to speed ratios.
2. Down shifting process going up and down hill
3. We visited the Tractor Simulator and our Instructor demonstrated shifting and driving.
4. The Werner Rep stopped by and gave us his shpeeel about driving for Werner.
5. The 5-weekers were split off from our class this afternoon and began working on the
simulator.
6. Those of us remaining, began working on trip planning and using the Rand McNally
Road Atlas.
7. We continued working on our log books.

And that concluded week two at NTTS Liverpool, NY

Home Work:
1. I need to add work to my log book on Sat & Sun
2. I need to memorize the Drop-N-Hook Steps for a test on Monday (I need an
Ace).
3. I need to memorize the gear to speed ratio for a standard 10 speed shifter.

PS: Next week we will be assigned a new instructor. We all really liked working with John. He was an amazing Instructor who worked hard to make us all feel welcome.

Have a great weekend, and see you on Monday evening

Week Two - Thursday

Today we had a fun time busting on our instructor and fellow classmates. We are really starting to get to know each other better. We did some more work on log books. We also worked on the "drop and hook" process. We went out on the lot to see one of the senior students actually perform the steps. He made it look easy. :-)
Then we went back in and took a test on the 18 steps. Suffice to say I did pretty lousy as did most of our class. I studied with a classmate this evening so I think I will do better next time. On this test, our two best grades of three attempts will be recorded. This afternoon, we discussed the various backing maneuvers, straight line, see-side, off-set, blind side backing, and parallel parking. Next we a visit from the Swift Company recruiter. The last thing we worked on was the various shifting patterns for the 9 speed, 10 speed, and super 10 speed shifts. NTTS has each of these style trucks.

One more day and two weeks of my 10 week course will be completed. Time is sure going fast!!!
Good Night, see you tomorrow.

Don

Week Two - Day Three

Today was a long day. I learned that a few students in my class didn't get their CDL A permits, bummer. I am glad to have this test behind me. This evening, I will study the coils and tow-truck endorsements, so tomorrow I can take and pass the tests tomorrow.
Today we started out by studying the Safety book regarding driving requirements. This was very long and dry material. After lunch we started working on log book entries. After a couple run-throughs, we were each given our own log books. We then started putting together trips and working out how we would complete and log the trip. It was starting to be fun towards the end when I actually understood what was going on. We will now have to log every day of class in our logbooks.
So, that was it for today,
Take care till tomorrow !!!

Week Two - Tuesday

Today was the big day. I passed the DOT physical with flying colors, breezed through the Drug Screening, and then departed for the DMV to take my permit tests. I decided to take all the CDL endorsements (10 separate tests). It took me 90 minutes to complete the tests. Grrrrrrrrrrrr almost a clean sweep! When all was said and done, here is what I passed and now have endorsements for:

1. CDL General Knowledge
2. Air Brakes
3. Double and Tripple Trailers
4. Hazardous Materials
5. Tankers
6. Passengers
7. School Busses

After the tests at the DMV, we all had the rest of the day off. Time to kick back in the apartment and relax. Tomorrow we beging studying the DOT Safety Manual. So, onward and upward.

Take it easy till tomorrow.

Don

Week Two - Monday

This morning we took the "Combo" test. I did ok, missed two questions. We then moved into the Hazardous Material section. This is without a doubt the dryest section since starting school. We discussed our schedule for tomorrow; Drug Screening, DOT Physical, and then we can leave to go take our CDL Permit test at which ever DMV we want. Pass or Fail, we are to report back to school on Wednesday. In the past, per our Instructor, some folks have not returned to school till they passed their permit test. All missed time needs to be made up, including missed tests.
We spent the afternoon continuing to go through HazMat rules and responsibillities...again extremely dry stuff. We are not required to take the HazMat endorsement, but for those that want to, this time was well spent. I did really bad on the practice test, missing six of 35. I passed, but barely.
After school, I sought out the public library and studied the HazMat materials for awhile. I feel more confident now. Making up little gimics to remember facts is very helpful to me. While at the library, I realized that I may have left some papers at home, that I needed for tomorrow. I went to my apartment, but they were not there. So, I made an unexpected trip home, and here I am now. I will drive back to school in the morning.
I look forward to reporting my test results in my next blog.

Take care till then...

Week Two - Sunday

Hello, I hope everyone had a great Easter Sunday. I celebrated with most of my family and had a wonderful day. Sunday evening, I drove back to my apartment near school. I cut some plywood to put under my mattress. The steel-framed bed was so bad, I was putting it on the floor each night. Well tomorrow starts another week.

Week One Day Five

Hello all, I had a bit of an accident with my Son's laptop. I spilt water on the keyboard, and well that was it for that. Back home now, I once again have access to my BLOG.

It has been a week of cramming as much information as possible about Tractors, and Trailers. The various systems; air and hydraulic systems, and the electrical systems. Pre, during, and post inspections. How to handle your truck at different types of intersections, making right and left hand turns. Picking up and dropping trailers. How to test the various braking systems.
We completed 4 general knowledge tests
a cargo test
a air brake test

On Monday, we will take the Combination Test
Tuesday, we take the drug screening and DOT Physical. Then take the CDL Permit
test.

My next update will be on Monday evening.

Week One - Day One

Well it was a long night with my roommate hiccupping and snoring, not to mention that the bed was the most uncomfortable mattress I have ever slept on. Thank God for ear plugs.
Class started promptly at 8:00am. We received our books:

1. J.J. Keller's Tractor-Trailer Driver Training Manual
2. New York State Commercial Driver's manual
3. Federal Motor Carrier SAFETY Regulations (pocketbook)
4. Rand McNally Motor Carriers Road Atlas

We began our school orientation and Students were randomly pulled out to complete finacial and other administrative business.

1. Training began with a thorough review of chapter one in the NYS CDL Manual. This was a general overview of the requirements. We stayed with this till we broke for lunch.
2. After lunch, we moved to chapter two of JJ Keller's Training Manual.

• Chapter two included: Introduction, Engine Controls, Primary Vehicle Controls, Secondary Vehicle Controls, and Vehicle Instruments.
• Chapter three included: Identification of the key parts of a tractor-trailer, How the key parts of a tractor-trailer function.
• How the key parts function together in vehicle operation.

Once we finished chapter two, we switched back to the NYS CDL Manual, Chapter two.

• Chapter Two is on Driving SAFELY.

1. Seven Step Vehicle Inspections (Pre-Trip, During a Trip, & After Trip Inspection and Report.

Well it is now 6:00pm and our first day is done. My head is spinning, time for dinner. After dinner a bit of review.

Well, that was it for our first day.

Best Regards,

Don

Arrival at School

I have arrived. Today, a little after 2:00pm I pulled into the National Tractor Trailer School parking lot. I met with the director of housing, signed some papers, and followed him to my apartment. Home away from home.
The apartment is very nice. I am in a 3 bedroom apartment about 15 minutes from school. I found the nearest McDonalds for a late lunch, and did some shopping for food for the week. It is now 6:00 pm and still, none of my roommates have arrived. Well, I will just kick back and enjoy a quiet evening.
Check back tomorrow for the next update.

So, Tomorrow it begins

Well, tomorrow at this time, I will be checked into my new apartment. I have my things packed, and car ready for my trip to Liverpool, NY. I must admit, Along with my excitement, I have some serious butterflies.
I will be glad to get there and checked in. I am a bit anxious about my roommates. It will be good to finally be doing something productive. Five months on unemployment has really had its tole on me. It's not that I am ungrateful for receiving unemployment, its just not being able to find a job.
So tomorrow, a new day begins. I look forward to this new chapter in my life.

My very best regards.

Greetings from NTTS

The excitement continues to grow as my class date nears. Today, a representative checked in with me to ensure I was ready to go and to ask if I had any questions. The representative answered my questions regarding drawing unemployment benefits while attending school. Even took care of the paper work today and sent it to the unemployment office for me.

So far, this school is definitely living up to its reputation as a first rate training institution.

Stay tuned !!!

Registration at CDL School

Hello, and welcome to my BLOG. This will be my public journal of my experiences while going through my decision making process and eventual registration and training.
So, a brief background on me to begin;
I am 47 years old, and in 1999 I retired from the Navy Reserves. I did 10 years active, and 10 reserves. I will not draw retirement till I am 62. My wife Mary and I celebrated 25 years together this past year by taking a cruise to Cabo San Lucas. We have 3 Son's, one is now working as a Music Teacher, my #2 is in his senior year of his BS in software engineering, and our #3 is in his second year at the local community college. In the past three years I have been laid off twice from my career as a IS/IT Manager-Administrator. For the past 4 months, I have been using all available resources to find work in the IT field to no avail. So, I decided to look into becoming a professional driver.
My first thought was to become a courier, or a local school bus driver. I could find no decent paying jobs as a courier, and the hours and pay for school bus drivers is really pity-full. Research, research, research. I began looking into getting my CDL.
First, back to the Internet (Familiar ground for me). Then talking with a close friend who has already earned his CDL. Then, the big step, I traveled to a nearby city and met with the Admissions folks for a very reputable trucking school.
I was given a through tour of the facilities and a full background on the schools credentials.
After the tour, we went to his office and got down to the "nitty gritty". He discussed course options, and payment options (there are many). I asked about housing as I didn't want to commute to school every day. This is when I learned that I would need to attend the school's main campus located 100 miles in the other direction. At this point, I knew I needed to retreat and think about all the options that we had discussed.
Two days later, I had an appointment with the admissions person at the main campus, and a laundry list of materials I would need to bring with me.
The list:

1. Copy of School diploma(s)
2. Copy of drivers license
3. Copy of social security card
4. Copy of Military Records showing my awards
5. Copy of 2007 Tax Return

Although I underestimated how long it would take to get to the school, they were very understanding, and I was able to jump into a tour that had just begun. Upon completion, I met with the admissions officer, and then the financial officer. Both meetings went very smoothly. I then met with the housing officer. I will be staying near the campus five days a week, going home on the weekends. I left the school today will all scheduling and financial applications completed, and a start date of April 6th.

Once the decision is made to go for it, it was simply a matter of knowing what I wanted, and getting my documents together. The Admissions process was very easy. I look forward to planning for my first week of school and living away from home. I will update my BLOG every Friday, when I get home.

My next update will be April 10th, at the conclusion of my first week of school.