WORK!

Hello all, I just joined the club and I received my ICD this past February and was wondering if anyone had any ideas/knowledge on employment. I know there are a number of minimum wage jobs out there that may hire but my problem is I drove semi truck for the past 25 years, so if you are or know any truck drivers they will tell you they drive truck because it pays so well. That being said I’m in need of guidance as to a new career path that pays well and can carry me for the next 20 odd years until retirement. I have applied to over 70 different places and it seems like the general consensus is that they feel I pose too much of a risk. I’ve only ever held a handful of jobs since I graduated in 88’, and this is the longest I’ve ever been out of work (February 2018). So any advise would be great. Thanks


6 Comments

job

by Shell - 2018-05-10 17:13:56

What kind of places are you applying at and why do they consider you a risk? I can see a job where you may need to drive a vehicle that may be a problem but otherwise they don't need to know your medical backgraound. I don't know for sure but it be discrimination.

70 applications

by The real Patch - 2018-05-10 17:32:40

Well hopefully 71 is your lucky number.

Look, it sounds like you are sharing too much information with companies. Unless they require a physical exam, generally they shouldn't be asking medical questions. Don't lie but don't volunteer. I would also suggest you do the following;

Make sure your resume does not highlight your medical information such as why you left trucking.

Create a document that you can get your Cardiologist to sign that basically says you have no restrictions. I would go a level further and detail some specific things in that so it's clear he's saying you are fine. Then, if the subject can't be avoided, present that...can't hurt. Few people understand ICD's and associated conditions that create the need for one. Until people like you start educating them that won't change.

You need to look at what you enjoy,and what you are good at and then focus on finding something in that area of expertise. Your Bio mentions hunting and fishing perhaps something in that area would be ideal.

Don't give up good careers don't just drop in your lap. Good luck

Workplace Restrictions

by Growla - 2018-05-10 20:55:30

Hi - I have had my PM for nearly 12 Months now.

I am an Aircraft Engineer Team Leader - management are fully aware of my condition.

I have had no problem carrying out my job which is supervising teams of tradesmen carrying out Aircraft maintenance, the only job restriction is that I cannot work inside the Aircraft Fueltanks (for obvious reasons).

Good luck with the Job Hunting - I can see no reason that a PM should have any affect on your Truck Driving ability.

 

Work

by Chuck1269 - 2018-05-10 22:35:00

Thank you for your comments,  the problem is explaining why I no longer have my CDL, and unfortunately it doesn’t seem to matter that other than the ICD I’m pretty physically fit. People are afraid of taking the risk I might kill over on their watch, lol.  The Department of Transportation will allow you to keep your CDL with a PM, but not with an ICD. I’m willing to work, just need the right company willing to give me the chance. Thanks again for suggestions, I’m definitely going to have to rethink how to explain my device. 

You are more than a job

by Gotrhythm - 2018-05-11 12:54:01

I have two nephews who are truckers. Listening to them, I've realized there's a lot more to it than steering a truck mile after mile. I'll bet you know a lot more about trucking and the trucking industry than you think you do.

Widen your sights. Think of what contributions you could make to a company because of your experience.

Also, listen to Robin. You are more than a job. Most truckers are highly intelligent. I know my nephews are. Is there anything else you've always wanted to do? There might be mney available for retraining through your state's employment office.

whoa

by The real Patch - 2018-05-11 13:59:52

I know you cannot have a CDL with a defibrillator, that's a given in the US, however if you are applying for other careers why on earth are you explaining why you no longer have a CDL? If you are asked why you stopped driving then simply say something like you are looking to change you career field and are seeking new opportunities and challenges, truck driving is too restrictive.

I think you need someone to coach you and do some practice interviews so you avoid the gotcha situations. You also need to learn the buzz words in a new field, and for heavens sake stop limiting yourself to minimum wage jobs, you want a career that pays a decent wage and no reason you shouldn't expect to find the perfect opportunity.

You know you're wired when...

You have an excuse for gaining an extra ounce or two.

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