*This story was originally published on .*

A native of Brooklyn, New York, who now lives in central Arkansas, Sue PeƱa decided her ultimate goal was to become a professional driver. However, it was nearly a decade later before she had a chance to follow that dream. When The Trucker Jobs Magazine team first met PeƱa in July 2022, she was working as a crime lab forensic technician and moonlighting as an emergency medical technician (EMT), in addition to attending night classes at 91¾«Ę·.

Student Success Begins at DDA

In October, she completed her training and passed the final gauntlet ā€” the driving portion of the CDL exam. She now has both hazmat and tanker endorsements and is slated to begin orientation with Dallas-based in early January.

ā€œMy biggest challenge was believing in myself, believing that I could do this training that I started late in life,ā€ said PeƱa, who is now 44. ā€œIt wasnā€™t that I didnā€™t have confidence; if I didnā€™t, I wouldnā€™t have signed up,ā€ she said. ā€œOnce I delved into it and realized, ā€˜Wow! So this is what trucking is,ā€™ I thought, ā€˜Can I do this?ā€™ā€

Student Reflects on CDL Training Experience

Two of PeƱaā€™s instructors at DDA were women, something she says helped her build confidence behind the wheel. ā€œMs. Kat and Ms. Rachel, those two were the most that really inspired me to continue pursuing what I was doing. There were days I was like, ā€˜Aw hell, I canā€™t do this!ā€™ā€ she said. ā€œBut after speaking with them, learning what trucking was like when they started, I realized it was actually harder for them. They paved the way. If it wasnā€™t for (women like) them, I wouldnā€™t be able to do this.ā€

PeƱa says the most memorable milestone of training was the first time she drove a truck across the driving pad. ā€œIt was feeling that movement, knowing that I was driving,ā€ she said. ā€œWhen they start you off, itā€™s a straight back; you drive forward, you drive backward. Thatā€™s it, nothing fancy. But feeling the vibration, feeling the movement, knowing that I was driving a 53-foot truck and trailer ā€” that moment, I was like, ā€˜Oh my God! Iā€™m really doing this!ā€™ā€

The second-most memorable step was the first-time students in her class took the school rigs out on the road. ā€œI can only imagine what the instructor was thinking and feeling, knowing that this person was driving a truck for the first time,ā€ she said. ā€œNow Iā€™m comfortable with it.ā€

Watching PeƱaā€™s skills progress from those first shaky, tentative attempts to smoothly and confidently completing straight and offset backs, then 90-degree backs and other maneuvers was an amazing experience for The Trucker team.

Looking Forward to Future Truck Driving Career

While sheā€™s excited about starting her new career behind the wheel, PeƱa is well aware that she still has much to learn, and that actual over-the-road driving will be quite different from training. The challenge is one she looks forward to overcoming.

ā€œMale or female, if this is what you want to do, if this is your passion, if all you think about when you get up and go to bed is driving a truck ā€” then go for it,ā€ she said when asked what advice she would give other would-be drivers. ā€œDo it for the right reasons, do it with the best intentions, and just go for it.ā€

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Inspired by this story to begin your truck driving career? Fill out the form on this page, or contact us to get the journey started!

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91¾«Ę· is proud and honored to celebrate its 50^th Anniversary in 2022! What began as a one-truck and trailer training school has grown to three campuses across Louisiana and Arkansas and thousands of successful graduates! But before celebrating this momentous occasion, we must look back at the journey that got us here.

Opening the First Truck Driving School

This story begins on June 20, 1972, in Mansfield, LA. The founders, Abe Busada and M. B. Chastain, found an airstrip of land on the outskirts of DeSoto Parish and knew it would be the home for their CDL School. Based on the foundation that people can succeed in the trucking industry, they wanted to begin training interested truck driver trainees. However, before any students enrolled, there was a need to develop sound driver training programs curriculums.

DDA established its programs after extensive research and careful processes. Students were then welcomed into the facility and learned everything there is to know about truck operations and the industry. After seeing the high demand from both interested students and the high industry demand, 91¾«Ę· knew that it had to expand.

Truck Driving School Grows in Size

The success of DDA’s first location was solidified by receiving accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The continuous growth allowed this school to open its second truck driving school in , in July of 1987. This location saw quick and overwhelming success. Because of this, a third school location opened its doors in Jacksonville, AR.Ā Lastly, the number of training programs grew from one to three to include Basic CDL training, Advanced CDL training, and a CDL Prep Course.

Consistent Success for DDA CDL Schools

Our staff and graduates, who built their career foundation on our training yard, have seen great success over the last 50 years. Also, during this time, 91¾«Ę· developed different opportunities for its students. These include fostering and continually developing relationships with some of the top trucking carriers across the nation and financial aid incentives. Finally, the training standards have also changed and will continue to evolve as the regulations and industry may require.

Become a part of 91¾«Ę·’s history today! Contact us to get started in our next available class!

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It is with great sadness that 91¾«Ę· shares the passing of our school’s founder . Abe passed away on March 15, 2021, just a month after celebrating his 99th birthday.Ā  Born in 1922 in Worcester, Massachusetts, Abe was the son of Lebanese immigrants. During World War II, Abe proudly served his country as an officer in the United States Army Corp of Engineers. It was during this time that Abe met his wife, Louise Monsour, a daughter of Lebanese immigrants and a native of Shreveport, Lousiana.

Achieving the American Dream was more than an idea to Abe, it was the way he lived his life. Abeā€™s long business career was marked by his relentless optimism, extraordinary vision, and unyielding drive. In the early 1950s, he founded Busada Sales Company, which introduced plastic pipes to this region of the country. Busada Sales Company pioneered the usage and sale of this revolutionary product that is still widely used today. Recognizing the need for a robust workforce in the growing transportation sector, Abe was one of the founders of 91¾«Ę· in 1972. After 49 years. we continue to stand as one of the oldest and largest commercial vehicle training schools in the country with campuses in Louisiana and Arkansas. Because of Abe’s vision, we have helped tens of thousands of Americans earn their Commercial Driver’s Licenses and enter the trucking industry.

Abe was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Louise. He is survived by his 4 children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. His legacy will continue on through all of them and the many businesses and employees he has mentored over the years. We thank Abe Busada for his dedication and commitment to not only the city of Shreveport but the entire state of Louisiana. The ideals he espoused during his life will continue to be at the core of 91¾«Ę· and how we strive to help others created a better life for themselves. May you rest in peace, Abe.

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From the industries along the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge to the businesses in Shreveport, these professionals move approximately . They ensure our Louisiana communities have everything they need to thrive. Whether you’re planning your future, seeking a stable career, or ready for a significant change, there has never been a better time to join this vital profession.

Why We Must Celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

The importance of this week becomes clear when you ask a straightforward question: What would happen if trucks stopped for just one week? The impact would be immediate and severe. Within 24 hours, hospitals would face shortages of life-saving medical supplies. By the 72-hour mark, grocery store shelves would be bare and gas stations would have no fuel. Professional drivers are the linchpin of our modern lives, delivering the reliability and commitment our country depends on, especially after facing unprecedented supply chain challenges in recent years.

Read more about what would happen if truckers stopped driving in our blog here.

Why NTDAW Matters to Professional Drivers

For the , NTDAW is more than just a week of recognition. Itā€™s a moment when their hard work, long hours away from family, and commitment to safety are seen and valued by the public. A simple “thank you” or a thoughtful driver appreciation message goes a long way in acknowledging the sacrifices they make to keep our country moving. This week reminds them that they are respected professionals in a noble and essential career.

Truck drivers are the backbone of America, and National Truck Driver Appreciation Week gives us a chance to thank them for their dedication. In CDL training, we see the commitment it takes to enter this profession, and this week reminds both new and veteran drivers how vital they are to our communities and our economy.

-Josh Woodard, DDA Baton Rouge and West Monroe Campus Director

How the Public Can Show Appreciation to Truck Drivers

Everyone is invited to participate in National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Here are some driver appreciation ideas to show your support:

• On the Road: Give trucks plenty of space, use your signals, and be patient. A friendly wave and a safe driving environment are among the best truck driver appreciation gifts you can give
• At Rest Areas or Gas Stations: A simple “thank you” can make a driver’s day. If you’re looking for how to start a conversation with a truck driver, just ask them about their journey
• Share a Kind Message: A thoughtful driver appreciation message can make a real difference. Here are a few impactful ideas for a card, social media, or to say in person:
  • “Your dedication on the long haul makes life better for all of us back home. Thank you for all you do.”
  • “Happy Truck Driver Appreciation Week! Wishing you safe travels, open roads, and a reminder of how much your hard work matters.”
  • “To all the professional drivers out there: You are the engines that move America forward. Thank you for your commitment and sacrifice.”
• For Families and Businesses: Consider putting together goodie bags for truck drivers with snacks, water, and notes of appreciation. Need ideas? Check out how Paradigm Digital Group did it in

Leading trucking companies show their gratitude in significant ways. DDAā€™s carrier partners, including Stevens Transport, Werner Enterprises, TMC, and Schneider National, are known for hosting appreciation events, providing catered meals, giving away prizes, and offering special bonuses to their drivers during this week.

How DDA Shows Appreciation Year-Round

At 91¾«Ę·, our commitment to drivers lasts far beyond one week. We show our appreciation by investing in their success at every stage of their journey.

• For Future Drivers: As one of the top accredited truck driving schools in Louisiana, we provide clear guidance on financial aid and a transparent admissions process
• For Present Drivers (Current Students): We provide industry-recognized behind-the-wheel CDL training from experienced instructors who are dedicated to student safety and success
• For Past Drivers (Our Graduates): We offer robust CDL job placement assistance, connecting our alums with top companies that are actively hiring CDL students and graduates from DDA

The State of the Trucking Industry: Trends and Opportunities for 2025

Is the trucking industry growing? Absolutely. The industry generates over and supports over . The outlook for 2025 is optimistic, with opportunities for entry-level drivers.

Addressing the Driver Shortage

The ongoing truck driver shortage creates unprecedented demand for new, qualified drivers. This means greater job security and negotiating power for those entering the field.

Competitive Compensation

According to Indeed, truck drivers with less than a year of experience can earn up to $65,000, while experienced drivers in Louisiana can earn an average base salary of $90,174.

H2: Ready for a Career That Delivers More?

Why do people become truck drivers as a career? Many are seeking more stability, better pay, and a profession they can be proud of. Trucking offers a direct route to all three.

• Tired of underemployment or the factory floor? A career in trucking means no more uncertainty about shift work. It’s a path to higher earning potential and the freedom of the open road
• Ready to leave physically demanding jobs like construction? Professional driving leverages your skill and focus, not your back. It offers a respected, long-term career where experience is valued
• Looking for a path to independence? For the younger demographic, trucking provides a fast track to a high-paying career without a four-year degree and associated debt

What is the best part about being a truck driver?

This is a job that would never lay you off, and the money is outstanding. If I had to say it, the only problem is that I didnā€™t start doing this 20 years ago!
ā€“ Frank Gaines, DDA Graduate

H2: Your Path to a Rewarding Trucking Career

Earning your Class A Commercial Driverā€™s License (CDL) is more than just passing a test. Itā€™s the start of a career that can take you anywhere. With proper training, youā€™ll have the skills and credentials to qualify for a wide range of opportunities across industries. Whether you want steady regional routes or the adventure of cross-country hauls, your CDL can open the door to a variety of opportunities.

Some of the most common career paths for our graduates include:

• Long-Haul Truck Driver: Travel across states or even coast-to-coast, delivering goods that keep businesses and households running
• Heavy Equipment Hauler: Transport oversized loads like construction equipment or machinery, often requiring specialized endorsements
• Hazmat Driver: Handle the transport of hazardous materials, with extra safety training and endorsements that often come with higher pay
• Flatbed Driver: Haul oversized or irregularly shaped freight that requires securement skills and attention to detail
• Refrigerated Transport Driver: Move perishable goods such as food and medical supplies, ensuring products reach their destination fresh and on time

And thatā€™s just the beginning. With a Class A CDL, you can also explore careers in tanker driving, local delivery, specialized freight, and even step into management or training roles as your experience grows.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Careers

How much do beginner truck drivers make? The national average salary for new drivers can be up to $65,000. While earnings vary, it remains one of the highest-paying entry-level careers available.

How much training does it take to become a truck driver? At 91¾«Ę·, you can complete your professional ELDT-compliant CDL training in as few as four weeks.

What are the requirements to become a truck driver? Basic federal requirements include being at least 18 (21 for interstate travel), having a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, passing a DOT physical examination, completing CDL training, and passing background checks.

Where can I get CDL training in Louisiana? DDA has campuses conveniently located in Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Monroe.

H2: Start Your Journey with 91¾«Ę·

This National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, start your journey to become a highway hero.

These drivers improve our quality of life by dedicating themselves to safety and making every effort to deliver the things we need efficiently, professionally, and responsibly.
ā€“Chris Spear, President and CEO, American Trucking Association

Ready to get on the road? Contact our admissions team at a Louisiana campus near you!

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To help meet the growing demand for new truck drivers, 91¾«Ę· has partnered with the Department of Community Development, the Bureau of Workforce Development, and the WIOA Youth Program for a Pre-Apprenticeship Truck Driving Program.

This program allows anyone aged 21-24 years old to enroll in CDL training at 91¾«Ę· in order to obtain a CDL (Commercial Drivers License). This program includes a 1 year apprenticeship with Schneider Trucking. Drivers will be paid $9 per hour during training, for a total of 95 clock hours.

Who Qualifies?

This program is open to anyone between the ages of 21-24. To qualify, potential students must have a clean driving record, a clean criminal record, and must be able to pass a drug test as well as the DOT physical.

Specialized Training for New Drivers

Truck driving is one of the best trade jobs you can get, but it takes special know-how. Youā€™ll need a commercial driverā€™s license (CDL) and specialized training. 91¾«Ę· has been training new truck drivers since 1972. Our CDL training is continually updated to meet industry standards and is designed to provide new drivers with the skills and endorsements companies want.

Wages and benefits for truck drivers are increasing; entry-level drivers can earn up to $50,000 in the first year of driving. And, companies like Schneider are offering new drivers improved benefits like more home time and updated equipment.

This Pre-Apprenticeship program introduces students to the trucking industry while preparing them for a wide range of job opportunities as a truck driver. CDL training for this program begins on April 15, 2019, and will run through June 30, 2019.

For more information, please contact the Department of Community Developmentā€™s Bureau of Workforce Development WIOA Youth Programā€™s Youth Coordinator, Penny Butler, at (318) 673-7567 or Youth Counselor, Shaquavia Durden at (318) 673-7544, or 91¾«Ę· at 1-800-551-8900.

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A recent development out of Washington D.C. promises to make a huge impact on the ongoing driver shortage in America and create more jobs for graduating high school seniors. Passage of the DRIVE-Safe Act was made possible early this year by Representatives Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) andĀ Trey Hollingsworth (R-Ind.) with backing from both the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and the International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA). The act seeks to address the issue of young drivers ages 18-20, whom until now, were not legally permitted to cross state lines for the transportation of goods. So in what ways will this new initiative serve to improve not only the trucking and foodservice distribution industry, but the economy as a whole?

PROMOTES SAFER ROADWAYS

Stipulations under the DRIVE-Safe Act require that drivers under the age of 21 must undergo completion of a highly demanding apprenticeship program beyond simply earning their CDL. This will comprise of 400 hours of on-duty time and 240 hours of driving under the supervision of an experienced driver over the age of 21. The young drivers will also be required to prove they can master such skillsets as rural two-lane driving and maneuvering into close quarters among several other performance benchmarks.Ā Strict adherence to these guidelines will mean safer road conditions for all motorists and is sure reduce the number of preventable accidents each year.

ADDRESSES DRIVER SHORTAGE

With the increasing number of ,Ā the trade industry is reaching a demand that must become more accommodating to the millennial generation in order to survive. Passage of the DRIVE-Safe Act will help to fill the growing employment gap with eager young drivers who prove themselves capable of transporting goods safely and efficiently.

CREATES MORE JOBS

More drivers on the road will translate into more cooks in the kitchen thanks to the coupled on the passage of this bill.Ā The food industry recognized the positive benefits the DRIVE-Safe Act would have on the transportation of food to stores and restaurants all over the country. This will ideally yield shorter delivery wait times, a reduction in the cost of fresh food, and more affordable meals at your favorite restaurants. Think more drivers, more food service workers, and more money in your pocket!

If you would like more information on how to get started in an industry that’s increasing in demand and obtain your own CDL, call us today for information! 1-800-551-8900

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As the new year begins and you look to make your resolution, enrolling in 91¾«Ę· can be just the start to a new career you need!

Why Enroll at 91¾«Ę·?

91¾«Ę· offers a complete array of courses that will help you obtain your CDL license. We offer classes that are both basic and advanced in nature to help you obtain your CDL license.

Basic CDL Course

These classesĀ are for drivers who do not have any previous trucking experience. This course will teach you the basic rules of the road and everything you need to know to get started.

Advanced CDL Course

The Advanced courseĀ is for those who are looking for more in-depth CDL training. No experience is required to enroll in this course, however, this is a much more in-depth CDL experience unlike the more basic training class mentioned above. This coursework includes more extensive teaching of maneuvers in a larger vehicle in addition to complete roadway safety and advanced roadway operations.

Choose a Schedule Based on Your Needs

Students can choose the Basic or Advanced course based on training needs. Each program can be completed through a daytime or evening classes (some evening classes are held at specific campuses only.) The program can be completed in little as a month or up to 30 weeks if you choose to take the Advanced evening class.

Multiple Ways to Help You Pay

We understand that many people will balk at the cost of getting your CDL which can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on the program which you choose to complete.

However, we doĀ have a variety of financial aid options available to help you pay for schooling. These financial aid options include special options for veterans or those who are currently serving in the military.

We also offer programs that can provide grants and additional assistance to help you with your schooling. There are also carrier programs where carriers are willing to pay you for signing a contract with their company. Typically, they give you a specific percentage of the money back each week that you spent on your training if you commit to work for them for a set period of time (usually a year).

Trucking is an In-Demand Position

Trucking is an in-demand job which is guaranteeing your job security for the future, As consumer demand continues to rise, more and more driving jobs are becoming available. Pay is also quite good starting around $40,000+ for the average trucking job with the possibility of getting north of $100,000+ for certain positions.

Most positions also come with paid vacation time. You also get retirement and full healthcare benefits with the trucking company. Finally, many are willing to help pay back the cost of your driving school if you commit to signing a contract with them for a certain period of time (usually a year).

As the new year approaches, join us in our CDL courses so that you can give yourself the treat of a new career for a new you in the near.

For more information on registering with 91¾«Ę· to get your CDL, call today! 1-800-551-8900

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The “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” award was first launched in 2016. The award recognizes veterans, national guard members and reservists who have successfully transitioned from military service to a career in the trucking industry. First year, former military personnel truck drivers areĀ nominated by their carrier employers for the chance to win a fully-loaded .

We talked with 2017 DDA graduate, Summar Hanks, about her route to making the Elite Top 10 for the 2018 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence award.

UPDATE:Ā We are extremely proud toĀ announceĀ that Summar has made it through to a Top 4 spot! She is now in the top running for the new Kenworth T680. Voting begins November 2018!

Summar was born and raised in Crowley, LA and began her military career in July 2008 as an active duty member of the United States Air Force before switching to the Louisiana Air National Guard and starting her trucking career. She enrolled in our Advanced CDL training program at the 91¾«Ę· Baton Rouge campus and graduated in May 2017. She holds an Associates degree inĀ Applied Science, Information Management, and will soon graduate with a degree in Business Management from Trident University.

Where did you grow up and what did you do for fun as a kid?

SH: I grew up in the small town of Crowley, Louisiana. As I kid I enjoyed anything outdoors. I was rarely ever indoors. My hobbies were drawing, biking, fishing and I have a love for music.

What branch of the Military did you serve in?

SH: I served from July 2008 to November 2016 as an active duty member in the United States Air Force then I switched to Louisiana Air National Guard. Iā€™ve been in for a total of 10 years and just reenlisted for another 6 years.

What made you choose this Branch?

SH: I canā€™t really say what made me choose this branch in the beginning. I didnā€™t really know much about the branches and what they had to offer. I knew I wantedĀ toĀ serve and I had many reasons why. Some reasons being I wanted a variety of opportunities, benefits, and to travel. I didnā€™t want my folks spending money on me when I can provide for myself. The unknown scares some people but for me itā€™s an adventure. I decided to go speak to some recruiters in Lafayette, LA before graduating high school. There were recruiters there from every branch. The Air Force told me exactly what I wanted and needed to hear. I left for basic training a month or so after graduating from Crowley High School.

What did you do in the Military and where did you serve?

SH: My job in the Air Force basically falls under communications. The title has changed over the past few years from Knowledge Operations Management to Information Management, to Administration. Being I recently hit my 10 years in service I decided to learn a new trade. I am currently switching jobs in the Air National Guard to Pavement and Construction Equipment which falls under Civil Engineering. I will be doing 5 months of training in Fort Leonard Wood, MO

I did a lot of traveling stateside and overseas, however, I had the pleasure to be stationed in Abilene, TX at Dyess AfB, Gulfport, MS at the Naval Construction Battalion Center, Kuwait, Yongsan Garrison in Seoul, South Korea, Creech AfBĀ near Las Vegas, NV, and now Iā€™m at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in New Orleans.

DDA: What did you enjoy most about your service?

SH: If I had to choose one thing I enjoyed the most, that would be performing Base Honor Guard duties. I was selected to do this within my first two years of service and I’ve volunteered for it ever since. (Military Honor Guards. … A primary purpose for the Honor Guard is to provide funeral honors for fallen comrades and to guard national monuments. An Honor Guard may also serve as the “guardians of the colors” by displaying and escorting the national flag on ceremonial occasions at official state)

DDA: What made you interested in trucking?

SH: Iā€™ve always been interested in trucking. I think what started it was when Iā€™d be traveling from base to base or going back home and I would stop to fill-up at a truck stop. Iā€™d think to myself, how great would it be to get paid to travel. Driving all on its own is something I simply enjoy doing. The more I thought about it and continued to observe truckers the more I wanted to make this dreams come true.

DDA: How did you pick Diesel Driving Academy?

SH: I did some research while I was stationed at Creech Air Force Base in Nevada. At this time I knew I was switching from active duty to Air National Guard and was approved for my new base in New Orleans. I called 91¾«Ę· and began the process. They accepted Post 9/11 () and had school options that could benefit anyone.

I chose the five-month school (Advanced CDL program) because I wanted to make sure I was 100% prepared for the new career I was going to begin. I donā€™t regret it one bit. If I could do it all over I would pick the exact same school, the same length of course, and the same company I chose.

DDA: What campus did you attend at DDA?

SH: I attended 91¾«Ę· in Baton Rouge. I pulled my fifth wheel camper to a nearby campsite and attended this school from Dec 2016 to April 2017.

It was a great fit for me. My driver trainer for both the school and the trucking company was awesome. My driver trainer for US Xpress was an Owner Operator and she was fantastic.

DDA: How has your first year been on the road?

SH: My first year on the road has been great. Itā€™s even better than I imagined. I really enjoyed driving cross country the most. Right now I am on a Walmart dedicated account in Hammond, pulling refer, because I need to be close by for military duties. Although I really enjoy this too, thereā€™s something about being on those open roads, stopping at interesting places across the country. Your truck is your office, your home, and your friend. Be good to it and it will be good to you.

DDA: What cities/places have you gotten to visit that were interesting?

SH: So many! My favorites so far are San Francisco, New York, New York, and Portland, Oregon. We have a drop yard in Kearny, New Jersey and I had some downtime so I took an Uber downtown New York. I had never been to New York before.

DDA: Has anything funny happened on the road yet?

SH: I had a military event to attend in Carlisle, Pennsylvania so I decided to get approval to bring my dad. Heā€™s never really been in a tractor like that before so the entire drive from Louisiana to Pennsylvania, he stayed in the front passenger seat buckled up for dear life. He taught me how to drive but still couldnā€™t go to sleeper birth because ā€œhe needed to see the road.ā€

DDA: What company are you currently driving for, how do you like the career so far?Ā 

SH: I love it. US Xpress has treated me well. I am driving the Air Force truck from their Military Fleet. U.S. Xpress Wrapped six military-themed trucks, one for each branch of service to say thank you and represent our support for those who served and continue to serve our Armed Forces.

DDA: Do you have any long-term goals for trucking?

SH: I would like to become an owner-operator. I am two classes away from having a degree in business. To have my own company would be a new exciting adventure.

Summar, along with the nine other top finalists, will be recognized and honored for their contributions to the military and civilian sectors on Thursday, August 23, 2018, at the George W. Bush Library and Museum in Dallas, TX. The top three finalists will be announced at theĀ Great American Trucking Show in DallasĀ (heldĀ Thursday, Aug. 23 through Saturday, Aug. 25 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center) and will enter into a popular vote to determine who will be the ultimate recipient of the Kenworth T680.

Learn how you can use your military training and veterans benefits to start a career in the trucking industry. Get on the road to reaching your civilian career goals with CDL training from 91¾«Ę·. Call us today to see how easy it is to get started. 1-800-551-8900

GI BillĀ®Ā is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available atĀ 

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Early Life and Career

As a child, Lillie Elizabeth McGee came down with scarlet fever and would eventually lose much of her hearing. She would have to wear hearing aids for most of her adult life. After marrying Willard Ernest Drennan in 1917, the couple started their own trucking company. In order to help grow the business, she began driving her own truck. With success and a good deal of hard work, the family truck business Drennan Truck Lines continued to grow, adding more trucks and drivers and becoming a thriving business. Then, in 1929, Lillie became a divorcee – and the sole owner of the trucking company.

Sole Owner of Drennan Truck Line

As the sole owner of Drennan Truck Line, Lillie Drennan had to struggle to prove her own worth in a male-dominated field. Despite being denied her driver’s license (allegedly because of her hearing), she refused to give up. Eventually, she prevailed by showing officials that she was an experienced commercial driver with a clean driving record. They had no choice but to give her a license. For almost 24 accident-free, successful years, Lillie worked to continue building her trucking empire, freighting goods throughout East Texas.

Public Figure

Over time, Lillie Drennan made a national name for herself through several notable achievements, including being a woman leader in a male-dominated field and the first licensed woman truck driver. She wowed audiences with her driving at the Dallas fairgrounds by participating in the “Roadeo” obstacle course. In World War II, the army praised her for helping recruit women drivers to the war effort. Eventually, even those who gave her a hard time would recognize her skills, rewarding efforts and her flawless safety record. The LA Times called her, “a dry land tugboat Annie.” A hero to women and to those suffering from disabilities, Lillie continues to inspire many who follow in her footsteps.

For more information about how to follow in Lillie Drennan’s footsteps, and getting started on the road to your own commercial driver’s license, Ā today! If she can do it, so can you!

Sources:

“Disability History Month: Drennan, Lillie Elizabeth McGee: Truck Driver (1897-1974)” Office of the Governor Greg Abbott,Ā 

“Drennan, Lillie Elizabeth McGee,” Texas State Historical Society,Ā 

The post Lillie Drennan: the First Licensed Female Truck Driver appeared first on 91¾«Ę·ā„¢ | Class A CDL Training.

A recent story by KTBS3 shows why truckers quitting means more jobs in the ArkLaTex.

“There is a population of workers that will tell you their job is to move the world. We’re talking about truckers and a number of these “world movers” across the nation are calling it quits. That means there are lots of jobs up for grabs right here in the ArkLaTex.

In our great country people don’t realize everything is moved by trucks and because of that truckers are really needed,” said 62-year-old truck driver Alonzo Brown.

At 91¾«Ę·, we offerĀ different CDL programs to suit individuals at various skill levels. Our school also partners with trucking companies that send recruiters in to meet with students, and most students accept a job offer even before graduation.

DDA student AlvinĀ Breedlove has already signed up to get in on the available jobs and live the dream of moving America.

“I’ve never been out of the state of Louisiana so I wanted to travel a little bit and see what it feels like to actually get around and see nicer things because it’s a beautiful world,” said Breedlove.

We also have Financial Aid assistance programs to help cover training costs.Ā New driversĀ who want to travel and are willing to put in the work will likely have a job after completing about 20 weeks of training.

Article reposted with permission from Devon Patton, Anchor KTBS3
Read the full story at

The post Retiring Truck Drivers Means More Jobs in the ArkLaTex appeared first on 91¾«Ę·ā„¢ | Class A CDL Training.