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Do you want to start working in the trucking industry in Montana?
In that case, you first need some info regarding what the job entails, as well as the training requirements.
Check out the article below!
Article Table of Contents
Getting Trained in Montana
There are only 6 trucking and diesel technology schools in this state, so your selection shouldn’t be too hard.
If you are wondering how to pay for your tuition, you should look into applying for a scholarship.
Some schools cover the entire costs of your training.
For example, check out Montana State University Northern.
This school offers 5 different scholarships to its diesel technology students.
These include the Caterpillar Excellence Scholarship, the Jim Clark Memorial Diesel Scholarship, and the Kevin Holmes Memorial Scholarship.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| D R Morrison Inc | 5030 Old Hwy 93, Pablo, MT 59855 |
| Flathead Valley Community College | 777 Grandview Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA |
| Fort Peck Community College | 605 Indian Ave, Poplar, MT 59255, USA |
| SAGE | 5236 Holiday Ave, Billings, MT 59101 |
| SAGE | 9350 Cartage Rd, Missoula, MT 59808 |
| University of Montana College of Technology | 909 S Ave Wes, Missoula, MT 59801 |
| Watkins & Shepard Trucking Inc | N 6400 Hwy 10 W, Missoula, MT 59808 |
Choosing the right trucking program
Before deciding on a program, there are several factors you should consider.
Some programs are longer than others, so choose based on the time you are able to invest in your training.
Diesel technology programs generally last for longer, and some are 2 years long if you are looking to pursue a degree.
However, truck driving programs only last for 8 weeks or even less.
Diesel technology programs can help you get a better job in the future, as you can get specialized.
Most of the commercial driving programs offer a Class A License.
SAGE School in Montana provides 6 levels of training.
Their CDL program only lasts for 5 weeks, and the Driving Essentials program they offer lasts for 3 months.
Some of the other options they offer are a refresher course, an externship program, an advanced course, and a Class B driving program.
Diesel technology students are offered 2 types of degrees.
In this state, the associate’s degree is the most commonly found.
One of the schools in this state providing a 2-year degree – Helena College.
Finding a job in Montana
Finishing your training program means you can get hired.
If you prefer getting employed right away, look for a school that offers job placement options.
This allows you to get hired by the same company where you completed your training, without spending time on job searches.
The wage you will receive as a truck driver depends on your experience and skills.
On average, drivers can expect to earn $40,090 per year, while someone who is more experienced can get $46,461 annually.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Billings | $42,354 |
| Missoula | $36,552 |
| Great Falls | $38,343 |
| Bozeman | $36,552 |
| Helena | $37,215 |
| Kalispell | $39,250 |
| Havre | $37,680 |
| Anaconda | $36,552 |
| Belgrade | $36,552 |
| Miles City | $41,690 |
Regional Salary in Montana
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billings, MT | 1,740 | $59,790 | $28.75 | $76,220 | $47,030 |
| Great Falls, MT | 440 | $53,320 | $25.64 | $62,670 | $43,850 |
| Missoula, MT | 680 | $56,410 | $27.12 | $72,200 | $43,250 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
There are many trucking companies, repair shops, or dealerships you can get hired at in Montana.
Some of these are Gordon Trucking, BNSF Railway, and Rowley Trucking Inc.
When it comes to the job outlook, the industry has positive statistics.
According to O*Net, truck driving jobs will grow by 15% between 2012 and 2022.
Diesel mechanics jobs will also see an increase of 10% within the same time period.
Conclusion
Becoming a truck driver requires skills and dedication.
However, if you complete your training and get a certification, you can easily start your career without any issues.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Truck Driver
CDL Schools by State