PAM Transport Trucking Company

Driver Solutions graduate, Nicole Reeves, is quickly approaching the 1 year anniversary of her first truck driving job.  She started truck driving school in late January of 2011, was able to graduate in mid February and by March of 2011 she was an official over-the-road (OTR) driver with PAM Transport.  Overall, she's really enjoyed her time with the company and loves the freedom that comes with working a trucking job.   

For Nicole, becoming a truck driver was fullfilling a dream she's had ever since she was 16 years.  At the time, she was riding a bus to and from work.  During that trip, she'd gaze out the window at the trucks passing by wishing she could become a truck driver.  Since then she's had many other jobs such as: dog groomer, construction worker, cashier, working at a car wash and even at a carnival hauling rides. 

Now Nicole has a stable truck driver job, allowing her to provide for her family.  Her daughters are proud of their mom and show off the post cards she sends from her travels to their classmates at school.  She's visited all but 5 of the lower 48 states and some of her favorites include: Washington, Arizona and Colorado. 

In addition to getting to travel the country, Nicole has more financial freedom than she previously had with her other jobs.  While she's had her ups and downs over her first year, she recognizes that it takes hard work and commitment to be successful.  She's maintaining a positive attitude while staying on track and as a result she's getting good miles and making good money with PAM Transport.  She's also been able to enjoy some of the nice benefits that come along with a truck drivers jobs at PAM Transport such as insurance plans and 401K options.  

Overall, Nicole is loving her job and having fun...and that's how you know you've made a good career choice!

Side Note:
Nicole has also been very active on the Driver Solutions Facebook page in answering questions new students have about CDL training and truck driver jobs.  We'd like to thank her for support and for taking the time to stop by for this follow up interview.  Keep on truckin!!

Apply with Driver Solutions
Are you interested in becoming a truck driver?  Simply complete our secure online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking job options.  Get started now by clicking the Apply Now button. 

Nicole Reeves first applied with Driver Solutions about 1 year ago today.  She had always wanted to become a truck driver and when some things finally fell into place in her life she realized it was time to pursue this lifelong dream.  She attended truck driving school in Indianapolis and went to work for PAM Transport. 

Fast forward to a year later and we're happy to report that Nicole Reeves is loving life on the road with PAM Transport!  Just yesterday, she stopped by one of the truck driving schools Driver Solutions works with in Indianapolis, Indiana to visit for awhile.  During that visit she took the time to do a video interview (full video will be posted later this week) to share more about her story as well as tips for new truck drivers. 

Let's Get to Know Nicole :

Living Her Dream
Ever since she first got her driver's license, Nicole has had a CB radio in her car just to listen in on the conversation.  When trucks would pass out on the highway, she'd think about how she'd like to become a truck driver one day.  She's now visited all but 5 of the lower 48 states and is very proud to say, "I love my job!"

Getting Started
While she had not previously held a CDL, Nicole had some experience driving trucks and hauling things from other jobs which made areas of truck driver training such as backing up a bit easier for her.  She really enjoyed her time at trucking school, stays in contact with some classmates and stops by for a visit when her schedule allows.

Positive Attitude & Communication
Nicole has a positive relationship with her dispatcher which helps make communication between the two much easier.  She recommends asking for home time as far in advance as possible and always asking to be home a day earlier than needed to plan for any schedule changes that may come up.  She says that having a positive attitude as a truck driver is key. 

Budgeting for Meals on the Road
Nicole typically visits Wal-Mart to get her groceries and has a budget of roughly $50-$60 per week for food.  She recommends having quick, healthy snacks available and avoiding highly-caffeinated drinks as much as possible. 

What About the Miles and Pay?
She is really enjoying her time with PAM Transport and averages around 2,500 - 2,700 miles per week, though she just wrapped up a 3,900 mile run to California.  She's happy with the money she's making as a truck driver as it's allowed her to provide for her family.  She plans on staying with PAM Transport for several years beyond her 1 year anniversary with the company

Helpful Hint
She also mentions that velcro is a truck driver's best friend.  She uses velcro on her CB radio as well as many other items around the truck.

Be sure to check back later this week for more from Nicole! 

Interested in CDL training and trucking jobs with PAM Transport?  Complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a driver agent about your career options today!

Finding a truck driving job isn't easy if you lack the experience necessary for trucking companies to consider you a safe driver. 

So, now we're back to the age old question - if you don't have any experience, how do you meet the qualifications to find the job?

Luckily, there are trucking companies that train inexperienced drivers...and Driver Solutions has partnered with two of these companies that offer some of the best entry level trucking jobs available in today's market.

PAM Transport and USA Truck both offer over the road trucking job opportunities for students that complete the Driver Solutions CDL training program.  This basically means that these companies are willing to cover the upfront tuition costs for you to get the training and basic experience needed to prove to them that you are a qualified CDL driver.  
Once you've completed the training, you'll be qualified for a trucking job opportunity with one of these companies.  For many students we talk with each and every day, this is the best option available for them to get the experience needed to enter the trucking industry. 

So how do you get started?

It's super easy.  Just complete our secure online application.  This does not commit you to anything and will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent who will answer any questions you have about entering the trucking industry. 

For more information, check out these related links:

• Where to Find Trucking Companies with CDL Training
• Find Companies Offering Trucking Jobs with No Experience Needed
• Looking for CDL Trucking Jobs with No Experience?

I believe I deserve the Truck Driver Convenience Package because of all the time I spend away from home, my loving wife and dog. I take great pride in my new profession and enjoy it immensely. I have seen alot of the country in my 9 months of driving for PAM Transport.  It is a good company to work for as a truck driver. By winning this package, it would make my life easier and even more enjoyable!

Your Name: Tim Evans
Truck Driver: Tim Evans



Hi Tim,

Thank you for taking the time to enter our contest and give us an update on your experience with PAM Transport.  It sure looks like you're keeping your truck in good shape and very clean!  On behalf of everyone at Driver Solutions, we wish you the best!

- The Driver Solutions Team

Driver Solutions received this great entry from Mike Tinsley about the process of moving up within a company like PAM Transport.  Check it out!

I grew up around trucks... all my family members were either company drivers or owner operators. Driving is in my blood. 7 months ago I upgraded to 1st. Seat. I was a team driver for 6 months. And now recently upgraded to be a trainer with my company. I think I could use the gift certificate not for myself but for my new co drivers coming into the industry. I'd use it for supplies to give the new driver as they upgrade to 1st seat drivers after their training.

Your Name: Mike Tinsley
Truck Driver: southern rider

PAM Transport truck driver trainers are talking, and the company is listening. On September 15th 2011, PAM Transport held its first ever Driver Trainer Round Table at the Holiday Inn in Tontitown, Arkansas. The purpose of the round table event was to create an open dialog with some of the company's top drivers in an effort to continue to improve the company and move forward with making positive changes that will enhance the trucking careers of PAM Transport drivers.

The Round Table event lasted several hours and covered topics that affect drivers of every experience level within the company. Company executives hope the round table is the first of many to come in the future. 

If you're interested in starting a trucking career with PAM Transport, go ahead and complete our online application to get started today!

Truck drivers at PAM Transport received special thanks from executives and employees at company headquarters in Tontitown, Arkansas during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.  Employees of PAM organized a cookout to invite truck drivers in the area to take a break and enjoy a free lunch. 

Several employees stopped by the cookout to show appreciation for those in truck driver jobs with PAM who work hard to keep American moving each and every day. PAM Transport CEO, Dan Cushman, was also at the event to thank drivers directly for their efforts.  Over 50 drivers were provided with a free lunch during the appreciation cookout.  In addition to recognizing its drivers during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, PAM also regularly holds other events at additional terminal locations throughout the country. 

One of the main reasons people decide to find a truck driving job is the love for traveling the open road.  Let's face it, there's nothing quite like the view from way up high behind the wheel of a big rig when you're in control!

Recently, Driver Solutions made a visit to PAM Transport headquarters in Arkansas to check out some of their new trucks and take some photos.  The photo below was taken in a new truck while driving through Arkansas.  It was perfect Fall weather and as you can see from the color, the leaves on the trees were beginning to change.  The view was breathtaking!

















If you are stuck in a dead-end job or find yourself looking for something new every few months, why not break free from sitting behind a desk?  Consider a trucking career!  It's a nice change of pace to have no boss standing over your shoulder. 

Where else can you find a stable job that gives the you freedom and the ability to travel the country?

If you can see yourself behind the wheel of a big rig enjoying a view like this while getting paid to drive, take a moment to complete our secure online driver application. 

Driver Solutions has partnered with PAM Transport to offer a company paid CDL training program that will allow you to get started with no upfront costs. 

Just click on the Apply Now button below to schedule a time to speak with a representative about your career options!

Are you trying to find companies that are offering truck driver jobs with no experience required?


Even if you've found a company with entry level trucking jobs available, you may be wondering how you go about getting started if you have no previous experience behind the wheel of a big rig... 

Surely you have to go through some type of training before they let you take the wheel of a semi tractor trailer, right?

Let's break everything down into 3 super simple steps to explaining how the Driver Solutions company paid CDL training program can help you get a trucking career started:

1. Complete Secure Online Driver Application - You are going to need truck driver training so you can get a CDL license to qualify for a job as a professional driver.  By completing the online application, Driver Solutions can work to find a trucking school in your area.  In addition to this, we will answer any questions you have about the trucking industry.
   
   
2. Consider Company Paid CDL Training - One of the biggest hurdles in starting a career in trucking is the cost associated with training.  It's for this reason that Driver Solutions offers the company paid CDL training option.  This means that a trucking company such as PAM Transport or USA Truck will sponsor your training and cover the upfront tuition costs.
   
   
3. Successfully Complete CDL Training & Start Your Career - We will work to qualify your application for a trucking job opportunity and schedule you to attend trucking school - that's right - we do the work for you as long as your application meets the requirements of the training progam.  Upon obtaining your CDL license at the end of training, you'll have the opportunity to start a new trucking career with a company you've agreed to work with for a period of 1 year.

While these 3 steps may seem simple enough, you still need to start from step 1.  So, go ahead and complete our secure online application so you can schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent today.

There are a lot of things aspiring drivers like you can do to prepare for their first truck driving position. As student in training the main thing you have to get ready for is the CDL exam, which is the starting point of any truck driver's career. Once you have successfully completed your training, passed the driving exam and received your CDL license, you'll be more confident to take on driving jobs as you will have the necessary skills to be an efficient and safe truck driver.

Want to learn more about the ins and outs of entry level driving jobs?  Check out these posts below:

PAM Trucking – Entry Level Trucking Jobs: a post about the various entry-level job opportunities for applying truck drivers. 

Company Paid CDL Training to Find Entry Level Trucking Jobs: Truck driver training doesn't have to be expensive. With company-sponsored training, you can easily start your trucking career.

Entry Level Trucking Jobs – How Much Money Can I Make: Learn about how much an entry level trucker can earn and understand why a lot of people are switching to this career.

If you're considering a trucking career, go ahead and complete our online application to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your options for getting started. 

Truck driving is a career that offers great benefits and high earnings potential, that is if you know where to look for the right kind of jobs and if you have the right qualifications. To start your trucking career, you first have to attend a truck training program, pass your driver's exam and obtain your Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Upon completing these initial steps, you're considered qualified to pursue an entry level trucking job.

Here are some articles about the different career opportunities you can get as a qualified truck driver.

Is a PAM Transport Trucking Career For You?- PAM is one of the leading trucking companies in the country today. Are you qualified to be one of their drivers?

Wanted: 140,000 Truck Drivers For 2011- There are literally thousands of opportunities for you in the trucking industry. There is no better time to start a career in truck driving than right now.

Learn More About USA Truck- Start your career with USA Truck. If you are worried about tuition costs, you can apply for a company-sponsored program and we can help you start your training immediately.

Driver Solutions can help you start a successful career in the trucking industry. Take a few minutes to complete our online driver application and you'll be able to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options. 

If you're looking to obtain your CDL and find a trucking job with no experience, you may be wondering:

• How do I get started?
• What does the process look like?

Here are 3 posts to help answers these questions:

• Are You Trying to Find Trucking Jobs with No Experience?
• How to Pay for Truck Driving School
• Getting a CDL License at Trucking School

The key to starting a trucking career is to secure an entry level trucking job and build your experience over the first year behind the wheel.  Once you've proven yourself in the industry, you'll improve your chances to advance or move on to something new within trucking. 

It's not uncommon for us to talk with a CDL training grad that's advanced to a Driver Trainer position with a company like USA Truck or PAM Transport in a year or less.  It's also not uncommon to talk with a graduate that has put in a year of over-the-road driving and moved on to a local trucking job with more home time. 

If you would like to start the process of finding a trucking job with no experience, complete our online application today.  This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent about your trucking career options. 

John Henries came through the Driver Solutions training program in August of 2010.  He’s kept in contact with us via our Facebook page and we recently had the opportunity to do a phone interview so we could catch up.  Over the next 4 days, we will be posting this interview series, so be sure to check back.

Now, let's get started with part 1...


Q: Why did you decide to become a truck driver?

A: I am 45 from West Virginia.   I was working in Telemarketing and the hours were really going down.  It got to the point to where I was wondering if I was even going to have a job.  At that point for me, it was either work in the coal mines, on a river boat or truck driving.  I’ve always wanted to do it (drive trucks) and a lot of people in my family have worked in the trucking industry.  I wanted to take advantage of the timing, so I went to Driver Solutions.


Q: Why Driver Solutions?

A: My cousin went through the Driver Solutions program about 10 or so years ago and drove for PAM Transport.  He told me about it and recommended it to me.   I got on the Internet to check it out and decided to apply.


Q: How do you like it at USA Truck?

A: I love it at USA Truck.  I wouldn’t go with any other company right now.  I am getting the miles, I am getting the loads, and I am staying busy.  They are treating me good and getting me home when I request it. 


Q: How long are you out on the road at a time?

A: I am out about 3 weeks at a time.  I then get about 3-4 days at home.  The longest I have been out is 56 days.  This was a favor for my fleet manager.  He asked me first if I would stay out longer, so I agreed to help out.  Overall, USA Truck is great about getting drivers home and they will do everything in their power if it’s any type of emergency.


Q: How many miles are you getting a week?

A: I am getting between 2800 to 3100 miles per week.  When I first started, the miles were a little low until I proved myself and then the miles came my way.  I would say it took about 90 days.  If you really put your nose to it and you want to make money then you need to make sure you are eager, on time and prove yourself.  If you do these things you aren’t going to have a problem.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for part 2 of our interview with John!

 PAM Transport is among the leading trucking companies looking for entry level drivers.  To give you some background on the company, what they can offer and how to work for them, here are some good reads to check out:

• Trucking Careers at PAM Transport - This blog post contains an overview of the company with a video you can watch.

• PAM Trucking - Entry Level Trucking Jobs - This article is a preview of the job description as an over-the-road truck driver.

• Team Trucking Jobs and Choosing PAM Transport - This blog post continues to describe PAM Transport and its offerings for team truck driving jobs.

The benefits of working with this trucking company are also indicated in all 3 of the above posts.  You can also hear first hand from a PAM Transport Team Driver, by checking out this video interview. 

If you want to begin right away, simply complete our online driver application form.  We have Driver Agents available for you to speack with to help in choosing the best career choice for you at this particular time.

Today, we bring you the 3rd and final part of our interview with PAM Transport driver, Charles Pina.  To check out part 1 of this interview series, go here.  You can also check out part 2 here. 

Now, let's find out what advice Charles has for those looking to start a trucking career:

Q: What tips would you offer to someone just getting started in the trucking industry?
A: Make sure you watch everything going on around you.  You need to keep your eye on the mirrors and watch all of the other cars out there because you never know what they’re going to do.  If you are unsure on backing, get out and look before doing it.  We have to back these big trucks into some tight places, so make sure you feel comfortable with it or ask for help.   Also, if you get to the yard and have time to sit around, practice your backing.

Q: What is the hardest thing about trucking, in your opinion?
A: The hardest part of trucking is being away from home and some of the hours that you will have to work at times.  To make sure I am staying attentive, I listen to my radio and CB.  I also talk with my friends on the phone and call home when I get a chance.

Q: What advice would you offer for someone looking at a trucking career?
A: Well, I would tell them that I really like it.  If someone is already considering truck driving, I would say go ahead and do it.  You never know if you are really going to like it unless you give it a try.

If you are a graduate of the Driver Solutions training program and are interested in giving us an update, we invite you to connect with us on our Facebook page like Charles did.  Let us know if you are interested in sharing your story and we'll be glad to schedule an interview.

If you're interested in the PAM Transport Trucking Company and would like to get started with company paid CDL training, just complete our online driver application using the Apply Now button.  This will allow us to schedule a time to talk with you about your trucking career opportunities. 

Thank you for joining us for Part 1 of our interview with Charles Pina.  Charles came through the Driver Solutions training program about 5 years ago and has been driving with PAM Transport ever since.  We reconnected with Charles via our Driver Solutions' Facebook page when he posted some pictures from out on the road.  He then accepted our invitation to do a phone interview to update us on his progress. 

(Updated: part 2 is available here and part 3 can be viewed here)

Below is part 1 of our interview, stay tuned for part 2 tomorrow!

Q: Why did you get into truck driving?
A:  I grew up around trucks.  My dad, uncle and grandfather all drove trucks.  I started driving with Class B trucks and then went from that on to a big truck. 

Q: When did you go through the Driver Solutions program & how did you find out about it?
A: I went through the Driver Solutions training program about 5 years ago.  I originally found them through a website.  I signed up for the program and they called me back.  That’s how I got started with training. 

Q: What do you remember about training with Driver Solutions?
A: I still remember driving out on the range.  It was a very informative process and I was the third person in my class to graduate.   I didn’t know what a double clutch was and they taught how to do that even though I kept floating the gears.  The classroom part was good, too.   Some of it I didn’t know and some of it I already knew just from being around trucks most of my life.  The instructors at trucking school were very nice and no question was stupid.

Q: How do you like working for PAM Transport?
A: I’ve been with PAM Transport for over 5 years and it’s been good.  I started doing dedicated runs after 2 months and I really like it.  My first dedicated run was from Michigan to Missouri, but I switched from that one about a year and a half ago.  Now, I am doing a dedicated run from Detroit to Tennessee and it’s working out well.  I really like the dispatcher I have and I’ve been with him the whole time.  He leaves me alone and lets me do what I need to do.  If I need anything, I just give him a call and he takes care of things. 

Q: How many miles are you getting a week?
A: I would say I am averaging right around 2300 miles per week.  Some weeks even as much as 3200 or 3300.  It all depends on what the schedule looks like for some of the companies we are making runs for at that time.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for part 2 of our interview with Charles!

In case you missed it, here are links to some of our top posts of the week.  Just click on the headline to be taken to each post.  We hope you enjoy! 

Living On The Road - Wet wipes, shower shoes, and healthy food.  Check out this post to find out more about some of the things you'll want to take with you out on the open road.

Is a PAM Transport Career For You? - One of the trucking companies within the Driver Solutions Network is PAM Transport.  Check out this post for more information on the company, pay, and benefits.

Get Updates on CDL Training & Trucking Jobs - We're now offering a weekly email to make sure you don't miss any updates on training or job oppportunities.  Check out this post and make sure you sign up to receive updates!

Ready to get your trucking career started?  Go ahead and complete the online application by clicking the Apply Now button to take the first step.  This will allow you to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Agent for a phone interview so we can work to begin qualifying you for a job opportunity right away!

If you are considering a trucking career, you have no doubt looked at the trucking companies that are currently hiring drivers.  You've probably also started the process of evaluating truck driver training programs. 

Watch the video below for an overview on the job opportunities offered with PAM Transport by going through the Driver Solutions program.  If you are ready to go ahead and get your career started, complete our online application by clicking on the Apply Now button in this post. 

Whether you decide to drive solo or join a team and pursue team driving jobs, the importance of getting your CDL training from the best training school cannot be stressed enough. 

Truck driver training can be very expensive. It is recommended that you take advantage of a company sponsored CDL. With this program, you can stop worrying about your expenses and focus on passing your exam to get your license.  All you need to do is find a company that will give you the most comprehensive training and acquire your license. You can also do it the easier way by contacting Driver Solutions and inquiring about our training programs.

We have partnered with some of the best truck driving companies in the industry, like PAM Transport, in order to give aspiring truck drivers like you the best training possible without the upfront tuition costs.  You will get a great training sponsored by one of our partners and enjoy the opportunity to work with top trucking companies in the industry. Complete our online application to get things started today.

Currently, the number of trained truck drivers does not meet the demand for skilled individuals in the trucking industry.  There are a lot of great opportunities in the industry, but the key is getting the CDL training that will help you get started.  If you are looking for a job with a high earning potential, taking a look at this industry and the earning potential might be a pleasant surprise.

A truck driver plays a very important role in making sure goods are available to consumers. Without truck drivers, consumers will have a hard time buying goods and businesses will not be able to distribute their products and earn profit. Truck driving is an indispensable job, especially today where timely delivery of products is very important.

To an unknowing individual, starting a career in truck driving may be a long and hard process. The key to getting a great truck driver position is to know where to look for it and find truck driving schools and companies that are willing to help entry level drivers start their careers.

Driver Solutions assists inexperienced drivers as they look to start a new career with leading trucking companies like PAM Transport. Through their company-paid training program, you can easily start your career without the upfront tuition expense. Contact us today by completing the below application to speak with a Driver Agent who can help you start your trucking career.