I recently completed CDL school at Stevens Transport and even received my Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), but was then informed they wouldn’t hire me due to a mistake on their part. This happened after I disclosed a positive THC drug test from three years prior during my initial application process seven weeks earlier. Stevens Transport admitted fault, apologizing that someone missed this detail initially, and suggested I figure out payment for the $6,000 schooling myself. I was scheduled to start my Over-The-Road (OTR) training the next day, but now I’m left with a CDL and no job opportunity, and they are not responding to my inquiries.
This situation is incredibly frustrating and confusing. After excelling in their CDL program, I’m facing a career setback before it even began. My primary concern is understanding how this error occurred and what impact, if any, this might have on my future in the trucking industry. Could this incident be reported on my DAC report, even though I wasn’t technically employed by Stevens Transport when this issue arose? My background is clean otherwise, except for a driving with a suspended license offense from decades ago. I’m back at my old job now, trying to navigate this unexpected career hurdle. Any advice on how to proceed would be greatly appreciated.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
A CDL is essential for operating various commercial vehicles, including combinations with a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs+, single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs+, vehicles designed to carry 16+ passengers, or any vehicle transporting hazardous materials requiring placards.
The core issue seems to stem from a discrepancy between Stevens Transport’s drug test policy and their initial acceptance into the CDL program. It appears their hiring criteria regarding prior positive drug tests was not properly applied during the admissions process. This oversight has led to a significant disruption in my career path and raises questions about Stevens Transport’s internal communication and procedures. It’s unclear if their drug testing policy is stricter than standard industry practices, or if this was simply an isolated administrative error. Understanding Stevens Transport’s drug test policy in detail would be crucial to understanding this situation.
Over The Road (OTR)
OTR driving involves long-haul trucking across various regions, often requiring drivers to be away from home for extended periods, typically two to three weeks at a time, hauling freight to different customers.
The lack of communication from Stevens Transport after admitting their mistake is also concerning. Ignoring emails and refusing to explain the situation leaves me in limbo and unable to make informed decisions about my next steps. Transparency and clear communication from Stevens Transport would be expected, especially given their admission of error. This silence further complicates the already difficult situation.
Dispatcher, Fleet Manager, Driver Manager (DM)
The Dispatcher (DM) is the main point of contact between drivers and the company, managing freight assignments, home time requests, relaying messages, updating customer service on delays, adjusting appointments, and reporting load planning information.
Regarding the potential impact on my career, the question of a DAC report is significant. If Stevens Transport were to report this incident, even though I wasn’t formally hired, it could negatively affect my ability to secure driving jobs with other trucking companies. Understanding what information Stevens Transport might report and my rights regarding DAC reports is essential. Seeking clarification on this aspect is a priority to protect my future job prospects in the trucking industry.
Drive-A-Check Report (DAC)
A DAC report compiles a CDL driver’s employment history from the last 10 years, including criminal history, drug test results, DOT infractions, and accident history. Used by most medium-to-large trucking companies for hiring and background checks, it’s crucial for drivers to ensure its accuracy and correct any errors.
In conclusion, this experience with Stevens Transport has been a major setback. Being denied employment after successfully completing their CDL program due to an acknowledged error on their part is deeply disappointing. Seeking advice on how to address this lack of communication, understand the implications of Stevens Transport’s drug test policy misapplication, and clarify potential DAC reporting is crucial to moving forward and pursuing a career in trucking. Guidance on navigating these challenges and advice on next steps would be invaluable.
