Eagle Training Services - Truck Driving School

Q: I heard driving a 20 speed transmission will give me more job opportunities. Are more gears in training trucks better?

A: The majority of modern trucks utilize 10-13 speed transmissions. Virtually every training program will teach shifting, so once you graduate you will have an understanding of multi-speed transmissions and gearboxes. You could contact the major companies and I believe you will find that the 10-13 speed transmissions as well as automatic transmissions are the standard.

Q: How does belonging to different professional organizations make your school standout?

A: Our memberships and services to a variety of professional organizations help promote the industry, alert us to the latest trends affecting employment, working conditions, foster relationships, and friendships within the industry in which we value.

Q: If I attend a training school for entry-level CDL drivers, does this mean I will have to take an over the road driving job and be gone for several weeks?

A: Most of the companies that actively recruit our students offer a variety of options regarding home time. While it is most likely to be hired out of a school by an over the road operation, local jobs can be and are obtained by students, but in significantly smaller numbers. If you are considering attending a truck driving school, you must be aware that the odds are overwhelming that it will be an over the road company.

Q: Does an over the road company mean I will have limited home time?

A: Many over the road companies have regional opportunities offering their drivers more home time. Even the same company can have several options regarding the length of haul. Virtually every company has a different policy and researching the different companies and options they provide is highly encouraged.

Q: I'm a veteran. Are there any programs that may assist with my tuition?

A: Yes, there are many programs available to service our heroes. Both community and technical colleges offer a variety of programs to help veterans. Additionally, many private schools are veterans approved. Contact your local community or technical college and ask for their veterans representative or the designated veterans representative of a private school.

Q: I've heard companies offer tuition reimbursement for CDL training. How does this work?

A: Many companies offer tuition reimbursement to repay the student partial or full tuition. Each company has it's own procedure. Researching a companies reimbursement program is highly advised.

Q: I would like to find out more abut the opportunities in the trucking industry for entry-level drivers. Where can I get this type of information?

A: The internet is a good place to start. Additionally, most community/technical colleges as well as private schools can offer information on a variety of companies. Virtually all schools will provide this with no obligation.

Q: Someone told me that companies would tell me if they would hire me before I even attend school. Is this true?

A: Most companies will accept applications from those seeking CDL training and offer determination on possible employment. This is commonly referred to as a "pre-hire letter". Companies will issue these with no obligation or cost to potential employees.

If you have a question that you would like to have answered please contact:

Jennifer Berndt, Director of Student Services

SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFIED TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOLS
Lake in the Hills, Illinois

Eagle Training Services Inc. serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin since 2006