Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, leading to opportunities that can lead to incredible personal and professional growth. We spoke with Mitchell, a recent graduate of Tri-Area Trucking School, about his journey from wrapping vehicles to starting a new career in trucking.
Below, Mitchell shares his story, lessons learned, and advice for aspiring truckers.
Tell me a little bit about yourself So I’m from Saginaw, Michigan, but I live near the Freeland border now. I grew up on a farm, so I’ve been around heavy equipment, tractors, and trucks from an early age. My dad always encouraged me to get my CDL, but when I was younger, I was too busy focusing on other things. I guess I wasn’t ready at the time! Before getting into trucking, I worked wrapping vehicles at an automotive graphics design company. It was a decent job, but there were some pay discrepancies that made me reconsider my career path. That’s when I decided to take the leap and enroll at Tri-Area Trucking School.
What made you decide to enroll in Tri-Area Trucking School? It was definitely a bit nerve-wracking at first. I had been wrapping cars for ten years, and the idea of making a big change was intimidating. But I wasn’t happy where I was, and I knew I needed to do something different to create a better future for myself. I called Tri-Area Trucking in June, and they got me started in their July program. It all happened pretty fast! By the end of July, I had completed my Class A CDL training and was ready to start my new career.
How was the training experience at Tri-Area Trucking? Were there any challenges you faced? Honestly, it was the most fun classroom experience I’ve ever had in my life. That might sound surprising, but the instructors at Tri-Area make all the difference. My instructor, Eric, was incredible. He really cared about each student’s success, and we’re still friends to this day. As someone who doesn’t enjoy traditional classroom settings, I was worried about the learning process. Sitting in a chair and trying to absorb information has never been my strong suit. I even told Eric upfront that I might need to ask questions multiple times to fully understand and apply what I was learning. He didn’t mind at all. The program is structured in a way that ensures no one is left behind. By the end of the course, everything felt ingrained in my memory. It was challenging at times, but the hands-on approach and supportive environment made all the difference.
What stood out to you the most about the instructors and the program? What really stood out was how much the instructors genuinely care about their students. These are people who could easily make more money driving trucks themselves, but they choose to teach because they’re passionate about helping others succeed. For example, Jason, who helps run the program, doesn’t have to be there every day, but he shows up because he genuinely wants to see everyone thrive. That kind of dedication makes a huge impact on the students.
Do you have any memorable moments from your time in the program? So many! Once we all got to know each other, every day was a blast. The camaraderie between the students and instructors made it enjoyable to come to class. I never dreaded going to school; in fact, I looked forward to it. One specific memory was working through a difficult maneuver with the truck. I was struggling at first, but Eric patiently walked me through it step by step. When I finally nailed it, everyone cheered, and it was such a great feeling of accomplishment.
How has life changed for you since completing the program? It’s been a complete 180. I’m so much happier now. After graduating, I started working as a porter for Tri-Area Trucking, transporting the testing trucks to and from locations. I get to drive all day, which I love, and the job gives me valuable experience for future opportunities. I’ll admit, finding a job right after graduation was tougher than I expected. A lot of local positions require two years of experience, which can be discouraging for new drivers. Thankfully, Tri-Area offered me this position, and it’s been a great way to build my confidence and skills.
Do you have any advice for someone considering a career in trucking? Don’t get discouraged if it feels like you’re hitting roadblocks, especially when it comes to the experience requirements. I understand why companies ask for two years of experience, but I think it’s a bit excessive. My advice is to start wherever you can, even if it means taking a less-than-ideal job to gain experience. For example, some graduates from my program started working for companies that require long-haul trips out of state. That’s not for me since I want to stay local, but it’s a good option for those who are open to it.
What are your future aspirations in the trucking industry? Right now, I’m focused on gaining more experience and enjoying what I do. Eventually, I’d love to work for Faviano Brothers, delivering beer and alcohol to local stores. They pay really well, and the job is close to where I live. For now, I’m taking things one step at a time and appreciating where I’m at.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any hobbies or interests? I’m a big car guy. I love working on my vehicles and tinkering with them in my free time. I’m also into video games—Grand Theft Auto and sports games are my go-tos. This year, I’m planning to get back into gardening. I’m excited to start a vegetable garden and maybe even get some chickens. It’s a nice way to unwind and connect with nature.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about trucking as a career? I think people should know that it’s a career with so much potential for growth. There’s no pay cap, so your earnings are tied to your experience and work ethic. Also, the sense of freedom you get from being on the road is amazing. It’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle, and for the right person, it’s incredibly rewarding.
Lastly, how has this journey impacted your outlook on life and career? It’s made me a much happier person. I finally feel like I have a future and the potential to grow in my career. At my previous job, there was no room for advancement, and it felt stagnant. Now, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead and the skills I’m building every day. Also, the sense of freedom you get from being on the road is amazing. It’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle, and for the right person, it’s incredibly rewarding.
Mitchell’s story is a testament to the power of taking a leap of faith and pursuing a new path. From overcoming fears to discovering newfound confidence, his journey with Tri-Area Trucking showcases the impact of quality training and a supportive community.
For anyone contemplating a career in trucking, Mitchell advises staying determined, facing challenges head-on, and believing in yourself. The road may not always be easy, but it could lead to a rewarding and fulfilling journey you never expected.
