New Year week at trucking school

by Collin Barnette
(V)

Not much to report. That's why you haven't heard from me in a few days. Tuesday was a half day and yesterday started out as one but to my surprise I got a whole day at school. Like after Christmas, myself and one other student got the instructors all to ourselves.

Everyday, everyday we go out to the trucks, check the oil and water then do a "Pre-Trip" inspection. Back in the cab we preform our "Air Brakes Systems Check". I think this is good reinforcement of those skills we will be demonstrating for the DMV Examiner and every day we will drive truck in the future.

My backing has really improved. The instructors could see that my approach and style of backing to a dock was a bit different but that I also was showing that I had control of the truck. This week I got to take advantage of the small classes and get some good pointers from the Instructors. Better everyday, that's what school is about for me.

Next week will be a big one for me. I know I will be going to the DMV to preform my skills. This test will involve. The Air Brakes Systems Check which you must complete with no errors. The In Cab and Pre-Trip walk around inspection consists of some eighty items to be identified and checked within a prescribed amount of time with no more than nineteen errors.

Then assuming all goes well I will demonstrate my controlled braking, straight line backing, parallel parking and alley docking which is also timed and scored. Practice and being prepared is all that can be done to calm the butterflies in the stomach. I'll will, of course, let you know how it goes. Wish me luck!

Next blog I will give you a run down on the different details of these skills and inspections I've been talking about. Have a good weekend and if your out on the roads stay safe and be courteous to the other drivers.

Peace Out!
Collin