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Are you looking for a great job that pays well, offers stability, and lets you stay close to home? Construction vehicle CDL (commercial driver’s license) jobs might be what you’re looking for. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of construction driving, give examples of jobs that require a CDL, and explain the benefits of working in this field.

Construction Jobs That Benefit From A CDL

Construction driving means operating big vehicles like dump trucks, cement mixers, and cranes. These vehicles are essential for construction projects, such as building roads and bridges or assembling tall buildings. 

You’ll need a CDL to drive many certain types of construction vehicles, which you can get by completing special training and receiving a license. In other cases, a CDL isn’t directly required, but can still be beneficial to show potential employers that you have experience driving large vehicles. 

Four construction jobs that may require a CDL include: 

1. Dump Truck Driver

As a dump truck driver, you’ll transport and unload materials like gravel, sand, and debris from construction sites. This job keeps construction sites running smoothly.

2. Concrete Mixer Driver

Being a concrete mixer driver could be a good fit if you excel at tasks that require precision. You’ll deliver freshly mixed concrete to construction sites and ensure it’s poured correctly and quickly.

3. Crane Operator

Operating a crane takes skill and carefulness. As a crane operator, you’ll lift heavy objects and equipment, which is an essential job in construction.

4. Heavy Equipment Hauler

Construction sites often need large, heavy machines like excavators and bulldozers. As a heavy equipment hauler, you’ll ensure these machines are transported safely to and from construction sites.

Benefits of Construction Vehicle CDL Jobs

Construction vehicle CDL jobs are a great choice if you want a stable career that pays well and lets you stay close to home. With job security, skill development, and opportunities for advancement, a CDL career in construction can lead to a rewarding future.

Five of the benefits of working in a construction job that requires a CDL are:

1. Good Pay

Construction vehicle CDL jobs often pay well. There’s high demand for skilled drivers, so employers offer good wages to attract and keep talented workers.

2. Job Security

The construction industry is necessary for the economy, and there’s always a need for skilled workers. If you choose a CDL career in construction, you can enjoy job security and a stable future.

3. Local Job Opportunities

If you want to work close to home, construction vehicle CDL jobs are a great choice. Construction projects happen in various places, allowing you to find work near your community.

4. Learn New Skills

Operating construction vehicles needs special training and knowledge. By working in a CDL career in construction, you’ll keep learning and developing your skills, which makes you valuable in the industry.

5. Room to Grow

With experience and more certifications, you can move up in the construction industry. You could become a supervisor, a trainer, or even start a construction trucking company of your own. There are lots of opportunities to move ahead in your career.

Drive Your Future Forward At Phoenix Truck Driving Institute

If you’re ready to start an exciting career, consider attending a high-quality truck driving school to earn your CDL. Phoenix Truck Driving Institute is a leading truck driving school that offers comprehensive training programs designed to give you the skills necessary to excel, however you choose to use your CDL. With experienced instructors, top-notch facilities, and flexible training options, our program prepares you for success on the road.

Drive your future forward today by contacting one of our advisors.

When it comes to long hours on the road, truck drivers face the challenge of staying alert and focused. Many drivers turn to caffeine to combat fatigue and enhance their performance. In this blog post, we will explore the effects of caffeine, its benefits and drawbacks, and how to use it wisely while pursuing a career in trucking.

Understanding Caffeine

Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant in various beverages and foods, such as coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate. It works by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called adenosine, which promotes sleep and relaxation. By doing so, caffeine increases wakefulness and helps individuals feel more alert and energized.

The Benefits of Caffeine

Caffeine helps reduce the feeling of fatigue, which is, of course, its most well-known benefit. Moderate caffeine consumption has also been linked to enhanced cognitive functions, including improved memory and concentration. These benefits can be valuable for truckers who often face demanding schedules and lengthy drives, provided caffeine is used responsibly. 

The Drawbacks of Caffeine

While caffeine can temporarily relieve fatigue, it’s necessary to recognize its limitations and potential drawbacks. Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches and irritability. Consuming high amounts of caffeine close to bedtime may also disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insufficient rest and decreased alertness the next day. Additionally, some individuals may experience side effects from caffeine, including increased heart rate, anxiety, or digestive issues.

Using Caffeine Wisely

Here are some tips to keep in mind when combining caffeine and trucking:

Moderate Consumption

Aim for a moderate caffeine intake of 200-300 milligrams (mg) per day, roughly equivalent to two cups of coffee. Be mindful of other sources of caffeine in your diet as well, such as energy drinks or certain medications.

Timing Matters

Try consuming caffeine early in your shift to help combat sleepiness. Avoid large amounts of caffeine close to bedtime to ensure a good night’s rest.

Hydration is Key

Remember that caffeine acts as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water alongside caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated throughout your journey.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body reacts to caffeine. If you experience side effects or find it interfering with your sleep patterns, consider reducing your consumption or exploring alternative strategies to combat fatigue.

Don’t Use Caffeine To Replace Sleep

Although caffeine can help give you a quick boost of energy, it’s not a replacement for regular sleep. 

Your Trucking Journey Starts Here

Gain the skills you need to succeed in the trucking industry at Phoenix Truck Driving Institute. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to upgrade your skills, attending our truck driving school will set you on the path to success. Our students can enjoy comprehensive training, experienced instructors, and state-of-the-art facilities as they earn their commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks. Join our program today and pave the way for a fulfilling future in the world of trucking.

Contact one of our advisors to start your trucking journey at Phoenix Truck Driving Institute.

Commercial truck routes require a lot of planning. As a professional truck driver, optimizing your routes is essential for success. Finding the most efficient course can help you save time, money, and fuel, as well as make sure your deliveries arrive on time. 

 

Here are some tips for optimizing your trucking routes:

1. Analyze Your Data

Analyzing your historical data is the first step to optimizing your trucking routes. Look at your delivery times, fuel costs, and other metrics related to your journeys to identify any areas of inefficiency. This information can help you determine which routes may be too long or too short, where you should make stops, and whether certain routes are more fuel-efficient than others.

1. Use Route-Planning Software

Route-planning software can be a great way to save time and optimize your routes when driving a commercial vehicle. These programs consider factors like traffic, road conditions, and other variables to help you plan the most efficient routes. Programs also typically allow you to customize your journeys based on your needs and preferences. Many motor carriers have preferred software that you’ll have access to 

1. Avoid Traffic

Avoiding traffic is one of the best ways to save time and fuel on your routes. Look for roads with fewer stops and congestion points and try to time your trips during off-peak hours when there’s less traffic on the roads. This can help you decrease your driving time from point A to point B.

1. Consider Loading and Unloading Times

Loading and unloading times can substantially impact your delivery times, so ensure you factor them in when planning your routes. Considering this element of travel can help you determine which trips are more efficient, as well as how much time you’ll need for each stop.

1. Take Weather and Road Conditions into Account

Weather and road conditions can also affect the efficiency of your routes. If you know that certain roads are prone to traffic jams or that certain areas have bad weather forecasts, you should plan your routes accordingly. Accounting for these factors can help you avoid delays and ensure your deliveries arrive on time.

1. Track Your Performance

Once you’ve optimized your routes, tracking your performance is essential. Monitor your delivery times, fuel costs, and other metrics to confirm your trips run as efficiently as possible. This can help you identify any areas in need of improvement so you can adjust accordingly.

Develop Essential Trucking Skills at Phoenix Truck Driving Institute

Optimizing your trucking routes is one of the many essential skills necessary for success as a professional truck driver. At Phoenix Truck Driving Institute, we set our students up for success with a curriculum that covers everything you’ll need to know as a trucker, taught by skilled instructors with real-world experience. Our truck driving school can help you earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks with a combination of classroom and hands-on training. 

Contact one of our advisors today to learn how to earn your CDL and become a professional truck driver.

 

Managing and preventing trucking burnout is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of truck drivers. The long hours, time away from home, and pressure to meet deadlines can lead to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. In this blog, we will discuss some practical strategies that truck drivers and employers can adopt to manage and prevent trucking burnout.

 

Trucking burnout is a condition where truck drivers experience physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion due to prolonged exposure to stressful work conditions. It can lead to feelings of cynicism, detachment, and reduced efficacy in one’s job. Truck drivers who experience burnout may become less engaged, less productive, and less committed to their job, leading to safety concerns and decreased job satisfaction.

Causes of Trucking Burnout

Trucking burnout can result from various factors, including:

 

1. Long hours on the road: Truck drivers spend many hours on the road, often driving for 8-14 hours a day, which can cause physical and mental exhaustion.
2. Time away from home: Many truck drivers spend several days or even weeks away from their families, which can be emotionally taxing.
3. Lack of sleep: The irregular schedule of trucking can make it challenging to get enough sleep, leading to fatigue, irritability, and decreased job performance.
4. Pressure to meet deadlines: Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, leading to stress and anxiety.
5. Safety concerns: Truck drivers are responsible for the safety of themselves, their cargo, and other drivers on the road. The constant vigilance required to ensure safety can be mentally exhausting.

Strategies to Manage and Prevent Trucking Burnout

1. Take regular breaks: Truck drivers should take regular breaks to reduce the physical and mental strain of long hours on the road. Breaks can also help drivers stay alert and focused while driving.
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise, can help truck drivers maintain their physical and mental health.
3. Stay connected with family and friends: Staying in touch with family and friends can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness while on the road.
4. Manage stress: Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, or exercise, can help truck drivers cope with the pressures of the job.
5. Prioritize self-care: Taking time for self-care activities, such as hobbies or relaxation techniques, can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

 

1. Seek support: If truck drivers are experiencing burnout, they should seek support from their employer, a mental health professional, or a support group.

Employers’ Role in Preventing Trucking Burnout

Employers can play a crucial role in preventing trucking burnout. They can support their truck drivers by providing adequate rest periods, promoting healthy lifestyles, creating a positive work environment, prioritizing safety, and offering support to their drivers, such as access to mental health resources and support for family and personal matters.

 

1. Provide adequate rest periods: Employers should ensure that their drivers have adequate rest periods and that their schedules allow for sufficient sleep. Hours of Service (HOS) requirements from the Department of Transportation (DOT) are designed to help with this. 
2. Promote healthy lifestyles: Employers can encourage healthy lifestyles by providing healthy food options, access to exercise facilities, and resources for mental health support.
3. Create a positive work environment: Employers can create a positive work environment by fostering a culture of respect, recognition, and open communication.
4. Prioritize safety: Employers should prioritize safety by providing proper training, equipment, and support to ensure the safety of their drivers and the public.

1. Offer support: Employers should offer support to their drivers, such as access to mental health resources and support for family and personal matters. Employers can also implement policies to ensure that drivers have adequate time to rest and recharge, allowing them to return to work refreshed and energized.

Preventing Burnout

As a new truck driver, you can prevent burnout by starting your career with a strong foundation. Creating positive habits and prioritizing safety from the beginning of your time as trucker can help you succeed in the long term. 

 

If you’re interested in becoming a truck driver, contact us today. 

 

Adding endorsements to your commercial driver’s license (CDL) can increase your income and job opportunities as a professional truck driver. One endorsement to consider is the hazardous materials endorsement. This endorsement allows drivers to transport materials deemed hazardous by government regulations, such as gasses and explosives. To add this to your CDL, you must first study and prepare to pass the exam.

 

Follow these ten tips to increase your chances of passing the hazmat endorsement exam:

1. Understand the Exam’s Requirements

The hazmat endorsement exam is a specialized test that covers a wide range of topics related to the transportation of hazardous materials. To pass the exam, you’ll need to demonstrate a thorough understanding of all aspects relating to hauling these materials. Understanding the exam’s requirements will help you study the correct information.

1. Familiarize Yourself With the Test Format

The hazmat endorsement test is typically a multiple-choice exam. In some states, the format may vary slightly, so be sure to confirm ahead of time so you are familiar with the format of the exam you will be taking.

1. Study the Material

Studying the material thoroughly is the best way to prepare for the hazmat endorsement exam. Ensure you understand the regulations, safety guidelines, and procedures concerning transporting hazardous products. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the different types of hazardous materials and how to handle them safely.

1. Take Practice Tests

Completing practice tests before the final exam can help you identify weak areas in your studies and gauge your progress. Several online resources offer practice tests for the hazmat endorsement exam, and you can often take as many practice tests as you need to feel confident in the subject matter.

 

1. Utilize Study Materials

Numerous study materials can help you prepare for the hazmat endorsement exam. These materials include textbooks, guides, and practice tests. Using several study methods can expand your knowledge of the information.

1. Create a Study Plan

In addition to using different study materials, it’s helpful to create a study plan that outlines the topics you need to cover and the amount of time you’ll need to devote to each. This plan will keep you on track and confirm you review all the necessary details.

1. Make Connections

Another practical study tip is making connections. Try to connect the information that you are studying with real-world scenarios. Identifying links can help you better understand the material, giving you a better chance of passing the exam.

1. Get Adequate Rest

Getting adequate rest, the night before you take the hazmat endorsement exam is crucial to your success. Feeling well-rested will help you stay alert and focused during the test, which is essential to your chances of passing. 

1. Stay Positive

It is also vital to stay positive throughout the studying process. Remain positive and focus on the material you have studied, regardless of the outcome of your practice tests. A positive mindset can help you stay focused on your end goal and do your best on the exam.

1. Attend Classes

Lastly, under the federal Entry-Level Driver Training requirements, you must take a theory class prior to applying for the hazmat endorsement exam. These classes are taught by experienced professionals and will provide you with an in-depth look at the material covered on the exam.

Earn Your CDL and Hazmat Endorsement in Phoenix

If you are interested in commercial truck driving, consider attending Phoenix Truck Driving Institute. Our program offers high-quality classes to help you earn your CDL and endorsements, including hazmat, tanker, and doubles/triples. When you study at our truck driving school, you can complete your training in as little as four weeks.

For more information about our program, contact one of our advisors today.

 

There is no denying the importance of having good technical and mechanical skills in the trucking industry. After all, it takes a lot of knowledge and expertise to safely and efficiently drive a big rig. However, in today’s competitive world, truck drivers must have more than technical skills to succeed. Soft skills are the key to success in the trucking industry. Learning soft skills can help drivers be more successful and enjoy a more rewarding career. 

What Are Soft Skills?

Soft skills are the non-technical abilities and character traits that complement hard skills in the workplace. They include communication, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. In the trucking industry, these skills are particularly essential, as truckers must interact with customers, coworkers, and other professionals on a daily basis.

Essential Soft Skills For Trucking Professionals

Combining soft skills with the technical and mechanical skills necessary for professional truck driving helps truckers excel in their careers.

 

Five essential soft skills for trucking professionals include:

1. Communication Skills

Communication is a critical soft skill for professional drivers. Since drivers spend significant time on the road, they must communicate effectively with other drivers, dispatchers, and customers. Communication involves more than just talking. It also involves actively listening, being able to read between the lines, and understanding the nuances of communication. Drivers need to be able to read people’s facial expressions and body language to communicate effectively.

1. Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving is another essential soft skill for truck drivers. Drivers often face challenging situations on the road and need to be able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions. Problem-solving requires the ability to analyze a situation, identify potential solutions, and choose the best course of action.

1. Decision-Making Skills

Decision-making skills are also beneficial to trucking professionals. While on the road, drivers must make quick and informed decisions based on the available information. They must also be able to weigh the pros and cons of different decisions and make the best choice for their safety, the safety of other drivers, and the success of their deliveries.

1. Critical Thinking Skills

A fourth relevant soft skill for the professional driver is critical thinking. Critical thinking requires looking beyond the surface of a situation and identifying the underlying causes and potential solutions. Drivers must be able to think logically and objectively to make informed decisions and come up with creative solutions to problems.

1. Interpersonal Skills

Interpersonal skills are the final necessary soft skill for drivers. As truck drivers often interact with customers, other drivers, and dispatchers, they need to have the ability to remain calm, professional, and courteous throughout these interactions. They must learn to communicate effectively, build relationships, and resolve conflicts.

Learn Essential Trucking Skills at Phoenix Truck Driving Institute

Earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) at a high-quality truck driving school helps set you up for success as a trucking professional. Phoenix Truck Driving Institute combines classroom, range, and on-the-road driving to teach aspiring truck drivers the hard and soft skills necessary to succeed in the industry. When you train at our school, we can help you earn your license in as little as four weeks.

To learn more about our program or schedule a tour of our CDL school, contact one of our advisors today. 

 

From good wages to flexible hours and the opportunity to travel, trucking is a popular and rewarding career choice for many. Here’s an overview of the top 10 benefits of a career in the trucking industry.

1. Job Flexibility

One of the main benefits of a trucking career is the flexibility it provides. As a truck driver, you’ll have the freedom to choose the type of routes you want to drive. This can include long trips to maximize your earning potential and see more of the country, or you can stay close to home and work a local route. You can also choose to work for a variety of different trucking companies so that you can experience a broader range of tasks and loads.

2. Job Security

As the industry is always in need of qualified individuals, another benefit of being a truck driver is the profession offers job security. The demand for experienced and safety-focused drivers continues to rise, making it an ideal choice for people looking for a reliable job.

3. Job Variety

Truck drivers can take on various tasks and loads, offering more job opportunities to keep things interesting. From hauling freight to transporting livestock, there’s always something new to experience with a truck-driving job.

4. Paid Vacation Time

Trucking jobs often provide vacation time and paid holidays. When you spend so much time on the road, paid time off allows drivers to take a break, recharge, and spend time with their families.

5. Great Pay

Another benefit of a career in trucking is that truck drivers can earn a competitive income. Tractor-trailer drivers are, on average, among the highest-paid employees in any sector, earning an average of $58,000 a year, with some positions earning over $70,000 a year. Pay typically increases with years of experience, and bonuses are common for drivers with an excellent safety rating.

6. Professional Growth

Trucking jobs provide opportunities for professional growth, as plenty of additional certifications and training are available such as hazmat, tanker, and doubles/triples endorsements. You can gain experience in various trucking specializations and learn about new technologies that make your job easier and more efficient.

7. Travel Opportunities

Trucking jobs offer many travel opportunities while earning an income. It’s an opportunity to see the breathtaking views of America’s cities, from deserts to mountains and everything in between. As a driver, you’ll be able to experience many different places and meet new people while on the road.

8. Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Working as a semi-truck driver provides valuable hands-on experience that most other job types can’t match. Truck driving is not like a desk job; drivers learn about the truck’s inner workings and how to care for it. They also gain experience navigating the highways and understanding how to handle varying conditions.

9. Community Support

Lastly, the trucking community is incredibly supportive. Drivers often band together and help each other, making it a great place to network. These social interactions can be a great way to make friends and build relationships while still enjoying the independence and freedom of the job.

Enjoy The Benefits of a Trucking Career Today

Above are just a few of the many benefits of being a truck driver. If you are interested in enjoying these advantages and more, you can take the first step toward joining the trucking industry by earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL). At Phoenix Truck Driving Institute, we offer accelerated CDL training and test programs that can get you on the road and earning a paycheck in as little as four weeks. 

To take advantage of the benefits of a trucking career, contact us today.

Professional drivers are a key element of the U.S. economy, and without them, stores would be without groceries, fueling stations would have no fuel, and medical centers would run out of crucial provisions. There has been a rise in the need for drivers, but the number of qualified people to fill these positions has not been adequate. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) issues an annual report on the truck driver shortage, which has been growing significantly since its first recording in 2005.

More information about this shortage and how it could affect you as a consumer and a driver: 

Truck Driver Shortage Basics

The ATA’s most recent update on the truck driver shortage was released in 2021. This report uses industry data to make estimates and document trends related to the shortage of professional drivers. 

Here are some facts from the ATA’s report: 

• The truck driver shortage hit a historic high of 80,000 in 2021. 
• Over-the-road (OTR) jobs are the most impacted due to the unique lifestyle demands of these positions. 
• In 2020, commercial driver’s license (CDL) schools weren’t able to train as many drivers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have contributed to the increase in the shortage. 
• If current trends continue, the truck driver shortage will exceed 160,000 by 2030. 
• The ATA estimates that the trucking industry will need to recruit 1,000,000 more drivers in the next decade to replace those that are leaving the field. 

Impact On Consumers

Data from the ATA suggests that 80.8% of American freight by weight is transported by tractor-trailers. This means that if the truck driver shortage persists, it could cause some serious consequences for consumers. Delays in shipping, higher prices, and shortages of goods could all become a reality due to a lack of people available to haul the freight.

Impact On Drivers

While the truck driver shortage has a mostly negative impact on consumers, it can actually present an opportunity for potential truckers. Now is the perfect opportunity to get CDL and begin a career in truck driving. With the high demand for drivers, motor carriers are attempting to outbid each other for the best driver pay, home time, and benefits. You can take advantage of this competition to find a fulfilling job. As you get more experience, you will become more desirable to trucking companies and be able to increase your earnings.

Hit The Road Today

Driving a truck is a key part of the US economy and you could earn over $72,000 a year* for your effort. If this is something you would like to pursue, the first step is to get your CDL. Phoenix Truck Driving Institute has accelerated courses available to get you in the driver’s seat in as little as four weeks. Our experienced teachers will provide you with valuable experience and we offer a job placement assistance program to match you with employers looking for drivers like you. 

If you’re interested in helping reduce the truck driver shortage and earning high pay, contact us today.

*Professional truck drivers earn a mean annual wage of $48,310. The top 10% of truck drivers make more than $72,730 per year according to 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics.

If you are considering truck driving as your next career, you may wonder whether you should become an owner-operator or company driver. While the driving and knowledge skill sets are largely the same for each job, the two types of trucking careers have many differences. Let’s dive deeper into the pros and cons of owner-operators vs company drivers so you can decide which is a better fit for you.

Owner-Operators

An owner-operator is an independent contractor that runs their own trucking business, which includes one or more semi-trucks they either bought or leased from another company. Owner-operators enjoy higher pay, more freedom, and truck customization than company drivers, but there are also start-up costs associated with this career.

Pro – High Pay

One advantage of being an owner-operator is a higher gross income. An owner-operator receives roughly 75% of the profits of every delivery, while a company truck driver receives 25%.

Pro – Freedom

Another pro of becoming an owner-operator is the freedom it offers. Owner-operators work on their terms, making their schedule and routes and choosing how much or how little they want to drive. They can also decide which type of freight to haul.

Pro – Truck Customization

As an owner-operator, you will always feel comfortable driving and using equipment because it is all your own. You alone will ride in your truck, so you can set everything up to fit your preferences.

Con – Business Expenses

The biggest downside of being an owner-operator is that you are responsible for handling all the business expenses. These responsibilities include truck payments, maintenance, fuel costs, and insurance. There are also sizable start-up costs associated with becoming an owner-operator. 

Company Drivers

A company driver operates a semi-truck provided by the company that employs them. Company drivers receive consistent paychecks and benefits from their employers and don’t have to worry about paying for truck maintenance costs. However, they may work longer hours than an owner-operator. 

Pro – Consistent Paycheck

One of the main advantages for many company drivers is a consistent paycheck. Trucking companies typically pay their drivers per mile driven, and whatever money drivers earn is money they can keep rather than put back into their trucks.

Pro – Benefits

Another advantage of being a company driver is the benefits it provides both before and during employment. Professional truck drivers are in high demand, so many companies offer sign-on bonuses if you drive for them. Additionally, after you sign with a trucking company, you are often eligible for a benefits package, including health insurance and paid time off.

Pro – Not Financially Responsible For Maintenance

Company drivers are also free of the burdens of truck ownership. Since the equipment belongs to the company they drive for, they don’t have to handle truck payments and maintenance. When a company driver clocks out at the end of the day, their job is done.

Con – Longer Hours

A downside to company driving is not having sole control over your working hours. As a company driver, this can often (although not necessarily) translate into less home time.

Earn Your Commercial Drivers License Today

Whether you want to become an owner-operator or company driver, your path starts with earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL). At Phoenix Truck Driving Institute, our students enjoy many benefits, including flexible class schedules, financial assistance, and lessons from skilled instructors. We also offer accelerated CDL training that can get you on the road in as little as four weeks.

For more information, contact one of our advisors today.

 

If you are considering a career in truck driving, earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step, and there are many schools to attend to do so. While websites are full of information and can answer many of your questions, the best way to narrow down your options is to talk directly with an admissions representative at the schools you are considering. Not sure what to ask CDL school representatives? We compiled a list of the most important questions to help you make the right decision.

Questions About the Trucking Industry

Although you may already feel that trucking is the right job for you, you may not know what type of driver you’d like to be or what to expect during your career. It is helpful to ask questions about the trucking industry to establish a solid foundation of knowledge.

 

Some questions to ask include:

 

• What are the different trucking jobs available? What does a typical day look like for each?
• Do different types of driving require different qualifications?
• Besides truck driving, what job opportunities are available for CDL holders?
• What does the trucking lifestyle look like?
• Is there still a professional truck driver shortage? If so, how does this affect me?

Questions About the CDL Training School

Along with learning more about the trucking industry, talking with a CDL school representative can also inform you about the training school you are considering attending. 

 

Consider asking questions such as:

 

• How long does training take in your program?
• What information does your training program cover?
• What is the completion rate for your truck driving school?
• Do your professors have real-world experience?
• What is the student-to-instructor ratio?
• Does your school offer full and part-time classes?

Questions About Tuition and Financial Aid

Finances are a huge factor in deciding where to earn your CDL. Including questions about tuition and financial aid will help you better understand if a school is a good fit for you.

 

A few questions to ask about funding are:

 

• How much does your program cost?
• Do you have funding options available, such as scholarships or grants, that students can apply toward tuition? If so, what are they?
• Are there tuition reimbursement options?
• Do you accept benefits for veterans, such as the GI Bill®?
• How much money can I expect to make as a trucker? Will this wage differ over time?

Questions About Graduation and Support After Training

Most CDL training programs help students transition into their new careers after graduation, so asking questions about support after training will help ensure that your preferred school will be there for you.

 

Ask a CDL school representative questions like:

 

• How long does it typically take to find a job in the trucking industry after graduation?
• Do you offer job placement assistance to your students? If so, how does this work?
• What are my options if I fail the CDL exam?
• What trucking companies do your graduates often work for?

Attend a High-Quality CDL Training School in Phoenix

If you are ready for a rewarding career in trucking, then include Phoenix Truck Driving Institute in your list of potential schools. Our CDL programs have been providing high-quality truck driver training for over 11 years. With our accelerated classes, we can get you on the road and earning in as little as four weeks.

Contact one of our CDL school representatives for more information.

Sleep plays a key role in health. Researchers still haven’t fully uncovered all the secrets of how sleep works, but it’s clear that it’s essential to feeling well and functioning at your best. For truckers, sleep can be a challenge. Variable schedules and sleeping in a semi-truck can make it difficult to get good rest. However, sleep is a key factor for health and safety on the road.

Here are some reasons getting enough high-quality sleep is important for truck drivers:

1. Safety

Semi-trucks are massive compared to other vehicles on the road, and truckers spend more time behind the wheel than other drivers. Professional drivers must uphold a high standard of safety to protect themselves and others on the road.

Driving while tired has many of the same effects as drunk driving. If you go too long without sleep, you could fall asleep at the wheel or experience involuntary “micro-sleeps” where you lose consciousness for a few seconds at a time. Even in less extreme circumstances, fatigue drains your focus and makes it harder to pay attention to the road.

Caffeine and other “tricks” for boosting your energy can only do so much. At the end of the day, regular sleep is essential for keeping you alert.

2. Physical Health

During sleep, your body undergoes various processes that affect your physical health. For example, certain hormones are regulated as you sleep. These include ghrelin and leptin, which regulate hunger levels and can cause excessive hunger and weight gain when out of balance. Another example is insulin, which regulates blood sugar. Your blood pressure also drops and a lack of sleep can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Not getting enough sleep can also impact your immune system and leave you vulnerable to inflammation and infections. In short, your body can’t function without enough sleep.

3. Mental And Emotional Well-Being

The mental side of trucking plays a larger role than many people realize. Dealing with traffic conditions, staying focused on the road, and minimizing stress all require a positive mindset and the ability to adapt to challenges. Just as sleep affects physical health, it is also key for emotional well-being. A lack of sleep makes it harder to regulate your emotions. It can impact your memory, increase frustration at day-to-day inconveniences, and increase your risk of depression.

Tips For Better Sleep For Truckers

Now that you know how important sleep is, how can you get more of it and improve the quality of the sleep you get?

Here are some practical sleep tips for truckers:

• Create a routine that you follow before you go to sleep. This helps create consistency even as your schedule changes and makes it easier to fall asleep.
• Block out light and sound to the best of your ability. This makes it easier to get restful sleep even at busy truck stops.
• Take naps if you need to. This is much more effective for fighting fatigue than relying on caffeine.
• Consider upgrading your semi-truck’s mattress and bedding.

Truck Driver Training

If you’re interested in becoming a trucker, Phoenix Truck Driving Institute can help you get started. Our program helps students earn their commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks and we cover a variety of topics related to safe and effective trucking.

Contact us today to learn more about earning your CDL in Phoenix, AZ.

 

Any job comes with some degree of stress, and it’s important to know how to manage this for the sake of your success and well-being. When it comes to trucking, stress management also plays a role in keeping drivers safe since it helps prevent road rage and keep you focused on the road.

Here are some tips truckers can use to manage stress:

1. Remember What Motivates You

Everyone has different reasons that motivated them to pursue a career in trucking. Maybe you love the freedom of the open road and wanted to see more of the country. You may also have wanted a career with the flexibility to find a schedule that works for you, or wanted to support your family with competitive pay.

Whatever your personal motivations and values are, try to remind yourself of them when you feel stressed. It can help make the bad days feel like they have a larger purpose and keeps you focused on what matters most to you.

2. Slow Down

If you notice that you’re getting stressed, take a moment to slow down. If you’re behind the wheel, take a few deep breaths and return your focus to the road. When possible, you may even want to find a truck stop or rest area and take a short break. This helps you reset and gives you time to use any coping strategies that work best for you.

This tip is also important for your safety. One major source of stress for truckers is the pressure to make deliveries quickly. While being on time and efficient is important, safety is more so. Reminding yourself of this and making a deliberate attempt to slow down is beneficial for reducing your stress and helps prevents accidents.

3. Take Care Of Your Physical Health

Your physical and mental health are closely linked. If you’re not getting enough sleep, are eating poorly, or have other physical health issues, you’ll likely feel more stressed.

Here are some tips for improving your health as a trucker:

• Take short runs or walks during your breaks to get moving.
• Prepare food ahead of time and avoid unhealthy restaurants on the road.
• Find a routine that helps you get to sleep and make sure to set aside enough time for rest.
• Drink plenty of water.

4. Find Support

Having others who understand what life on the road is like can help you stay positive even when things are tough. You can connect with students you attended trucking school with, other drivers at your company, or even truckers on online forums. Non-truckers can also be a valuable part of your support system. It helps to have people you can talk to and who have your best interest at heart.

Build A Strong Foundation For Your Trucking Career

If you’re ready to become a truck driver, finding a high-quality trucking school helps you start strong. At Phoenix Truck Driving Institute, we can help you earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in as little as four weeks.

To learn more about out CDL training in Phoenix, contact us today.