As a child, I always dreamt of being an astronaut. I had a slight obsession for anything that dealt with space. Also, the medical field was an option, and to be honest it was the grit and action that attracted me to that.
Right out of high school I went on to a 4 year college and obtained my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. I had no idea I would ever end up getting my class A commercial driver license and driving a big rig over the road but life changes and I took a chance and in turn led me to a great career.
NCST as a whole was very welcoming. I truly believe they want their students to succeed. The instructors that I personally had with in the CDL program were fantastic. Mr. Grimm was my main instructor; he was phenomenal in so many ways. He was always extremely encouraging and gave useful advice for my future endeavors as a female driver. Michelle Tohm-Gibson was my instructor for a short time; she was also very encouraging and always cheering me on to the very end. I wouldn’t be where I am today without either of them. NCST gave me the knowledge and skill set to begin my professional driving journey.
Your success in life with a career is up to you. I’m very fortunate to have a great support system with my family and friends. You have to push yourself to succeed, no one can do that for you. If you don’t try and take that risk, you’ll never know what could have been.
I obtained a great career with Palmetto State Transportation in South Carolina as an over the road team driver. I get to see the country and do my job at the same time, life is beautiful. My advice to anyone thinking about a trade is to simply try it. Don’t live with regrets, just go for it and see what the future holds for you. Good luck to all future students!
– Michelle Pingley, New Castle School of Trades Commercial Truck Driving Graduate