Testimonials
Success Stories
Left to right: Janet and Steve Kraft
Steve and Janet Kraft drive as a team. They graduated from Central Tech in March 2008 from the class taught by Mr. Monachella and Ms. Cisco. Here are their comments:
"Central Tech was recommended to us by the recruiter at our current company. Once Steve researched some of the schools mentioned we decided Central Tech was where we wanted to go because of their study program and extensive driving range - it covered all the maneuvers needed in real world over the road truck driving."
Steve had prior truck driving experience delivering construction materials to job site settings. “The computer lab and the bookwork made me a better educated truck driver. The skills we practiced made me better prepared for the situations I would encounter in over the road driving and dock to dock pickup and delivery.” Janet never planned on being a truck driver, but when they were deciding their next career path it sounded fun and sort of romantic (of course they were in sunny Florida at the time; since then they’ve seen all kinds of winter weather!). Janet said “I was happy that we both had to go through truck driver training because I probably would not have done it by myself. The very comprehensive course offered at Central Tech prepared me for handling a vehicle larger than anything I had ever driven before. The course taught the skills and maneuvers needed for real life truck driving. The very positive teaching style made it easy to learn and not feel intimidated. The driving course is awesome; you have room to learn how to handle how the truck moves, as well as learning the shifting tempo. Once we mastered the truck handling we got plenty of real road miles both loaded and empty. I don’t think any other driving school offers this level of training. When we left Central Tech Truck Driver Training I felt like a real truck driver and knew I could handle the job.
The biggest challenges they have faced? Steve said "sleeping when the truck is moving to get proper rest while on the road, and working out the details of the team schedule and operation." Janet said "backing up at truck stops without getting nervous." Since she learned to drive a car in Florida, she has been challenged with learning to drive in all types of weather from beautiful blue skies and the sun in your eyes to snow and ice on the road with limited visibility.
The Kraft’s’ advice to someone wanting to make a career change to truck driving? Steve: "Research many trucking companies to find out rate of pay, benefits, home time policy, anything that will be important to you. Over the road truck driving is not a 9-5 Monday-Friday job and you have to decide within yourself if you have what it takes: patience, flexibility, self-discipline. You are responsible for planning your routes and always being on time for pickups and deliveries. Manage your time and if you think you will have extra time take it when close to your destination just in case something happens to delay you." Janet: "Go For It! Do your homework, then get the best training you can to be the best truck driver you can be. Stick with a company for 6 months to a year- you won’t know if it’s a good fit without giving it some time, plus the longer you are there the better the benefits and pay get. Sign up for the Truck Driver Training at Central Tech. Do yourself a favor and get training from the best of the best - then you’ll be ready to hit the road!"
Eric Devore
"Hello, this is Eric Devore returning your call, I'm on an overnight stop in Wichita, KS, and I thought I'd give you a call back." That is how the conversation started with Eric Devore, a graduate of the Professional Truck Driver program at Central Technology Center. Committed to his profession and the safety of himself and others on the road, Devore waited to return the call requesting an interview until he was safely off the road and able to concentrate on the conversation.
With excitement in his voice, Eric was eager to tell of his training at Central Tech and say how he has succeeded as a professional truck driver because of the training he received at Central Tech. "I owe everything to Central Tech for the way they trained me." Eric said he had always had an interest in the trucking industry, but did not pursue his interest until he lost his job and wanted to go into a different line of work. "I heard about Central Tech through my father, and I'm so glad he passed the information on to me."
He began his training on January 15, 2003, and graduated the class on February 14, 2003.
As a way of promoting driver's abilities, the American Trucking Association holds driving contests each year. In 2007, Eric competed and received the Rookie of the Year award. This year (2009), he topped all drivers in the five-axle class, earning first place. "I competed in the Oklahoma State Truck Driving Championship in Oklahoma City and earned first place for the tractor-trailer five-axle tank class. Most importantly, I earned a perfect score on the pre-trip inspection." He said he found out later that a perfect score has not been achieved since the truck driving championships began in the 1930's. "On top of receiving a perfect score, I also did the pre-trip inspection in record time. I did it in 6 minutes, 43 seconds; we have 8 to complete the inspection."
Devore said he is proud to be a part of the Central Tech tradition, and wherever he goes, he wants people to know about the truck driver training program. "It's the best in the nation and everyone should know about it." Not only was it the excellent training he received at Central Tech that helped him succeed, but also the atmosphere of family that embraces Central Tech. "I have to say thanks to all of the Central Tech family for helping me succeed. I owe all of my success and confidence to Central Tech." While in the Truck Driver Training program, Devore said he really appreciated the way his instructor, Mark Brown, took him under his wing. "I really looked up to Mark Brown," Devore said. "I've been able to take everything he taught me to heart and I have really been able to succeed with my career as a professional truck driver."
Eric Devore offered to return to Central Tech to complete the interview and show off his hardware earned at the competition. As he arrived, the heat radiated off the hot pavement of the driving range on the Truck Driver Training facility. Braving the heat, Devore proudly walked across the pavement and stood next to one of the trucks he trained in as a student. "I just love talking to people about Central Tech," he said. "It was such a great experience. The training I received has really helped me to succeed as a professional truck driver - and there's a difference between a truck driver and a professional truck driver." Mark Brown was quick to agree saying, "That's what we strive for around here - more professionalism in the industry."
Terry Amiott graduated July 11, 2008, from
Mr. Monachella's class. On the day after 
graduation,
his wife gave birth to a baby girl. He was home with them for the weekend, and on Monday started his new job with a company hauling in the oilfield. He had a trainer for 3 days (his trainer calls him DC because he can double clutch). On the first location he went to, he had to back around a U shape and it took him 2 tries. His female supervisor said that was pretty good since it took her 3 tries the first time; she’s been driving for 15 years. She also said he must have gone to a good school. After the first 3 days, they gave him his own truck.
The biggest challenges he has faced are the roads – he hauls mostly on dirt roads and some paved roads of course, but the dirt roads get slick when wet. Most of them have the red clay dirt which is really slick.
Terry says that Central Tech Truck Driver Training changed his life. He’s got a great job and makes good money, but he’s still home every evening about 7-7:30 p.m. That way he gets to spend time with his family.
What advice would he give to someone wanting to make a career change to truck driving? Listen and learn all you can while in school. Once you get out on the road, there’s no one to tell you what to do, when to do it, or how to do it.
My name is Danielle Jones and I graduated from Central Tech in June of 2003. Mark Brown was my instructor.
Trucking was a career choice I never thought I would make, but my previous job as a Medical Secretary, for Arkansas Children’s Medical Services, had taken an emotional toll. My friends encouraged me to consider driving, but I did not have much confidence; that is, until I attended Central Tech. Mr. Brown instilled the confidence I needed to succeed. His calm demeanor and vast experience as a driver himself helped me to embrace driving as a reality and a career that anyone could be successful at. I took away from Central Tech skills that were admired by my subsequent trainers at Schneider National. In fact, my over-the-road trainer cut me loose to drive solo earlier than usual, as she considered me advanced above those she normally took out.
Years later I am still driving, but as an owner-operator leased to Dart Transit; and with over a million miles behind me I have a perfect DOT record with no tickets and no preventable accidents. This I attribute to God first and Central Tech training second. Drivers must make life and death decisions every time we get behind the wheel. Should I pass? Are the roads too slick to drive on? Is my speed okay? How’s my log book? Can I pass a DOT inspection? Whenever these and other questions arise I fall back on my Central Tech training and the knowledge passed on to me by Mr. Brown.
My advice to someone wanting to drive, check with Central Tech and then afterward put each and every day in God’s hands; He will always steer you in the right direction. God said "do not fear" 365 times, once for every day of the year.
Student Reviews
Between the knowledgeable instructors and excellent equipment, I have gained the ability to operate as a professional driver. Thank you!
John L., Tulsa, OK
I just got tired of living paycheck to paycheck. I always talked about being a truck driver. I looked around at truck schools; one day I talked with my uncle, he told me about Central Tech. I looked into it. When I got to Central Tech, it was great from the first day to the last day. I got my CDL and I never drove a manual transmission before, but if they can teach me they can teach you. Thanks for everything.
Joshua B., Vian, OK
I spent one year looking for a professional truck driving school. This is the best training you will be able to receive anywhere. These teachers are all dedicated to seeing you receive any and all help as it is needed. All the people you deal with at this school are true professionals.
Jimmy R., Sallisaw, OK
Entire school personnel exceeded all my expectations. Teachers and Administrators were professional and very knowledgeable. Gave great guidance in all areas. Would recommend school to all interested. School utilized time in a proficient manner.
John C., Yukon, OK
This class has taught me a lot about myself and others. I have enjoyed learning and the instructors were great. I feel confident I will excel in my new career and will recommend this school to anyone who has an interest.
David B., Stillwater, OK
This school is very well run and the people at the school are among the finest people I have had the pleasure of meeting. The instructors are really good and have the knowledge and experience to train you. I am glad I came here and hope to have a long trucking career. It helps to have a near perfect background and it really helps to see where the company you are trying to get on with hires you in the state you live in. Great school!!
Rex P., Prescott, AZ
I found Central Tech Truck Driver Training to be a very positive learning experience. Tech is an excellent school grounded in academics and skills application with an absolutely professional staff to teach and who are always available to help. The campus is student friendly with a totally paved truck driving range to facilitate skills development. My fellow students were friendly, helpful, and focused on beginning a new career in transportation. Tech measures up and stands out for me as a great opportunity I am pleased I didn't miss!
Edward B., Oklahoma City, OK
After being at my present job for 29 years, I got laid off and decided to have a career change. Truck driving always interested me. After completing this school, I can say this school and staff is a first class operation. The training is excellent and now I am well trained for the trucking industry.
Frank P., Prague, OK
The training at Central Tech is far more than I expected. Instructors have so much knowledge about the trucking industry. Someone has the answer to your questions. It is the best place to learn what you need to get started.
Thomas L., Gore, OK
When I first decided on a career in trucking, I was nervous to learn I would be coming to Oklahoma for training. However, once I got here that nervousness went away. The instructors are very knowledgeable and make the course fun. I learned to much while here and I'm so glad I made the choice to come to Central Tech. I will never forget this experience.
Tiffany T., Lower Burrell, PA
Hands down best decision I have ever made! Great place to be with the best instructors who have been in your shoes - I met instructors whom years ago attended this very school and came back to teach - that says something! Definitely a lifelong career change for me and an eye opener to the trucking industry. Thank you Central Tech!
Zach D., Tulsa, OK