Is Contract Training Right For You?
You see it advertised as FREE tractor-trailer training. Some students are thinking of contract training with a company or school that offers training for free if the student will sign a contract to drive for a company for one to two years. Students limit their job opportunities with carriers. Many times you are limited to one or two carriers for employment. There are many more opportunities for students not under contract.
While some student drivers have had a good experience through contract training, most student drivers find the training and jobs offered through these schools to be less than desirable. Some drivers find that they are slaves to their contract with the company. Drivers often find that they must stay out for 30 days or more at a time without coming home. Due to the short term of the training many drivers find that they are not prepared to operate a tractor-trailer as a solo driver and must run as a team with a stranger before they can qualify as a solo driver. The drivers who quit or are terminated before the contract is completed find themselves with a high tuition payback. The contract is written with the company in mind...not the driver.
If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is. Students should explore all options before signing a contract to work for a company. Contract training may or may not be for you.
