Now is a great time to start a truck driving career. The trucking industry is in dire need of qualified truck drivers. Huge demand for freight is creating an abundance of stable, high-quality careers for job seekers.
Adam Abdallah seized this opportunity. “Right now, a Commercial Driver’s License is like gold,” he says. “I want to thank Minnesota Job Partners and the Teamsters for making a difference in my life and paying for my CDL school.” Adam had studied psychology, chemistry, and writing at the University of Minnesota. He also had experience as a driver, dispatcher, and manager. But a loss of work during COVID-19 got him thinking about a lucrative career as an over-the-road truck driver.
The lifestyle appeals to Adam. Many truckers love being behind the wheel all day, delivering the freight that people need. Living out of a semi-truck means having the freedom to travel the country and discover new places. And truckers can earn $80,000 to $124,000 a year plus generous benefits and signing bonuses. Adam’s journey started when he got his CDL permit. Adam recalls, “I had limited information and so many questions. Through my online research, I discovered Minnesota Job Partners and learned what they do for our community. After being accepted into the program, they quickly assigned me a counselor. From there my journey was smooth.” Adam’s Career Counselor suggested he look at several driving schools and pick the best fit. Most CDL training is quick – typically 3-6 weeks – with classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Tuition ranges from $4,000 to $5,000. Learners can be taught to drive automatic and/or manual transmissions. Adam selected Minnesota Truck and Trailer Leasing School in Blaine. Within a month, he successfully passed the CDL Class A test with a perfect score of 100 percent! The owners of Minnesota Truck and Trailer were so impressed with Adam’s strengths and leadership skills that they offered him a part-time job as an instructor. Today Adam is on the road to a rewarding career at Schneiders National Trucking. He was hired for a rigorous, month-long paid training in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where veteran drivers will teach him their trade. “I know I have to work hard to take advantage of this opportunity,” says Adam. “The support system at Minnesota Job Partners was amazing. To my great counselor, Esther, you are the best and I thank you for all the help and support you’ve given me.” Adam also offers this advice for aspiring truck drivers: “If you want to make a career change in your life, I highly recommend Minnesota Job Partners.”