Obtaining a CDL is a smart decision for anyone in any field. There is always a empty seat waiting on you if you get laid off from another job, or just want a change of scenery.
I am currently training 5 young people to drive low boys, dumps, and how to operate skid steers and excavators for a marine construction company. Two of them are college grads who's primary jobs are estimating, environmental studies, and permitting for the company. The 3 others previously worked as a cashier, residential construction, and Uber driver. They are doing pretty well considering that none of them have ever stood near a excavator or skid steer, never mind actually driving them onto a lowboy. After showing them the basics of the machines and all the safety issues, I let them tool around in a wide open lot for a couple days so they can get the feel of the machines. Then I teach how to load dumps, and drive the machinery onto the lowboys for chocking and chaining.
Starting pay is $19.75, and tops out at $24.50 per hour depending on versatility. Drivers that stick with the company also have the option to work with the barge crews as the designated CDL driver while picking up additional experience as pile drivers, doing layouts, and decking.
I didn't even want this job but the owner is a old friend who was in a bind.
We have one Class B driver going for his Class A CDL next week, and the Uber driver goes for his Class A the week after.
The hardest part of it all is Governor Northams bull shit DMV hours and getting the drivers permitted for on the road training.