Adolfo’s story is one of transformation, hard work, and the determination to build a better life for himself and his family. As a young man, he left Mexico to work on dairy farms in the United States. He dedicated himself to hard labor, long hours, and countless challenges. Years later, he made the life-changing decision to pursue a career in trucking, finding not only professional success but also personal fulfillment. His journey highlights the possibilities that come with embracing change, seeking out opportunities, and persevering through adversity.
Adolfo shared his story, offering insight into his struggles, achievements, and the pivotal role that Tri-Area Trucking School played in helping him reach his goals.
Here is what he had to say:
Can you tell me a little bit about your background? What brought you to the United States, and how did your career begin? I grew up in Mexico and came to the United States when I was 20 years old. My first job here was on a dairy farm, where I worked my way up from milking cows to handling all the general responsibilities of running a farm. Over time, I gained experience in everything from feeding livestock to maintaining equipment. The farm grew a lot while I was there. When I started, we were milking about 300 cows, but eventually, it expanded to over 12,000. Working on the farm was rewarding in some ways, but it was also incredibly demanding. Some days I worked 24 hours straight without a break, and I often went long stretches without any time off. It became clear to me that while I was doing well financially, I wasn’t spending enough time with my family. I started looking for a career that would offer me a better work-life balance, and that’s when I discovered Tri-Area Trucking School.
How did you find out about Tri-Area Trucking School, and what motivated you to enroll? I heard about Tri-Area Trucking School through a friend who had also gone through their program. He told me how the school helped him get his CDL and find a good job in trucking. I had always been interested in driving, and I liked the idea of having a career that would give me more freedom and better hours. After hearing about his experience, I decided to give it a try. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first. I didn’t know much about the trucking industry, and English isn’t my first language, so I worried about how I would handle the training. But once I got started, I knew I had made the right decision. The staff at Tri-Area Trucking School were incredibly supportive and understanding, which made all the difference.
What was your experience like during training? The training was intense but rewarding. From day one, the instructors and staff made me feel welcome. Jason, one of the staff members, always encouraged me and never treated me differently because of my background. Kimberly, another staff member, went above and beyond to help me by translating materials from English to Spanish so I could understand them better. Her kindness and patience really stood out. During my first two weeks of training, I faced a major setback. I got sick and had to be hospitalized for pneumonia. It was a tough time, but Kimberly and the rest of the team checked on me regularly to make sure I was okay. Their support gave me the strength to come back and finish what I had started. The instructors were also fantastic. Stan, in particular, was very patient with me. When I struggled with the language barrier or got frustrated during practice, he would encourage me to take a break and come back when I felt ready. His advice helped me stay calm and focused, which was especially important when I was learning how to maneuver the truck.
What challenges did you face during the program, and how did you overcome them? The biggest challenge for me was the language barrier. My first language is Spanish, so I had to work extra hard to understand the material in English. It felt like I was doing double the work because I had to translate everything in my head. Another challenge was the state test. I was nervous about passing because the examiner was very strict. I remember feeling a lot of pressure, but thanks to the thorough training I received, I passed on my first try. It was such a relief and a proud moment for me.
How has your life changed since earning your CDL and starting your career in trucking? My life has changed so much for the better. After earning my CDL, I found a job within the first week. I’m working for a small company owned by someone I had worked with before, which has been a great experience. Now, I have more time to spend with my family, and I’m earning more money than I did on the farm. The work-life balance is so much better. I’m able to plan my days and enjoy life in a way I couldn’t before. One of the best parts of this career is the opportunity to travel. I’ve been to places I never thought I’d visit, like Kentucky, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. While I mostly drive locally, I do take occasional longer trips, like the one I have tomorrow to Pennsylvania. It’s been an amazing experience so far.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering enrolling in a trucking school? My advice is simple: never give up. The journey isn’t always easy, especially if you’re dealing with challenges like learning a new language. But if you stay focused and work hard, you can achieve your goals. Also, always stay professional on the road. There are so many distractions, like other drivers using their phones, so it’s important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Safety should always come first.
Looking back, how do you feel about your decision to become a truck driver? I’m so glad I made this decision. Trucking has given me a better quality of life and more opportunities for my family. I’ve learned a lot about myself through this journey, and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished.
Adolfo’s journey from dairy farming to trucking is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to make a change. With determination and the right support, he overcame significant challenges and created a brighter future for himself and his family. For those considering a career in trucking, Adolfo’s story is proof that anything is possible. You have the power to change your life in ways you never imagined when you take a leap of faith.
