Ask the Influential Woman in Trucking - How to Get Started in Trucking
by Angela Eliacostas, on Mar 5, 2019 3:43:00 PM
Ask Angela: How do I get started in trucking?
This question has many different answers. First, where do you live? Do you want to be a long hauler or do you need to stay local? If you are just starting out, the first thing is to get your CDL. Search your area truck driving schools or enroll in a truck driving program. Are there trucking schools near where you live?
The first option to obtain your CDL is truck driving school. Usually, you need to pay for truck driving schools ahead of time. Many community colleges and tech schools offer training for a Class A commercial driver’s license. Call or visit your local school to see if they offer a program. If paying for the opportunity ahead of time is an issue, there are scholarships available. Women In Trucking offers several scholarships through their foundation. To find out more visit their scholarships information page - https://www.womenintruckingfoundation.org/scholarships.
Another option is to enroll in a truck driving program. There are many options out there. These programs are typically a lower cost than truck driving schools because the companies who host them are training you to potentially work for them. Make sure that you do your research to make sure that the training has received positive reviews and that the company has too.
No matter which choice you make, the trucking industry needs you. I wish everyone joining our industry the best of luck.
- Angela
About Angela
Angela Eliacostas, President and Founder of AGT Global Logistics. Angela is the 2018 Freightliner and WIT Influential Woman of the Year. She has more than 25 years of experience in the transportation industry. Angela is a leader in expediting shipments and serves as a liaison between carriers and companies. Her company AGT Global Logistics specializes in the energy and utilities sector.
The annual "Influential Woman in Trucking" Award provides recognition to a woman who provides leadership, creates change, and inspires others in the transportation industry. Because these industry trailblazers have years of experience and wisdom, WIT created the column, “Ask the Influential Woman in Trucking.” Therefore, the 2018 recipient, Angela Eliacostas, President and Founder of AGT Global Logistics, will be providing answers and advice to popular questions often asked by WIT members.