They're all true. But it goes beyond training - way beyond. Don't do it dude. You'll regret it - big time.
It’s tough out there for a guy like myself. I have been in radio 39 years. Still do my weekend show. However, radio is like a lot of other “mature” industries. It’s a river of blood. The chances of my landing a new full time job are slim. Meanwhile, I have a wife and two teenage boys. At 57 few “entry level” positions are in my reach. It’s humbling. Never thought I’d be in this position. But, a lot of us “boomers” find ourselves here. The idea of driving is appealing. Yes, I’ve read the stories of the downside. But, I appreciate Schneider teaming up with AARP and welcoming people such as myself. Listen. I don’t have other “skills.” B.S. and M.A. in Broadcast Journalism and 39 years behind a microphone don’t count for much to a 38 year old HR trainee.
You don’t have to rely on the companies. A lot of private technical education centers and community colleges also offer CDL training. But whatever route you take (company-paid or private training), you are not going to make big bucks starting out. You’re going to have to pay your dues for a year or two until you get more experience behind the wheel. Nobody - in any profession - is going to just give you big bucks right out of the block. Never have, never will.