Josh Powell
5/5
Advance Bus & Truck School helped me get my Class A License in 8-9 weeks as they had projected & allowed me to see that it was possible. They are also very helpful in figuring out financing options if you are in the low income category. Unfortunately, I didn’t qualify for the public grant funding - but Woodrow is quite versed in how to connect you with WorkNet (EDD). The instructors at this school are providing a great service to our community. They may be rough on you, but it is to bring out the best in you. Advance prepares you to not just pass the DMV test, but to be a lifelong learner who keeps safety at the forefront of everything. The life lessons on safety, efficiency, mentality, & focus to achieve success were paramount in my experience. Plus, the instructors at the school have a good relationship with the test proctors at the Stockton DMV. This is a big deal because they provide you with many tips - you also don’t have to schedule the DMV appointment yourself. The DMV is aware of Advance’s reputation, so they collect a school roster and prioritize you for an appointment. I had never driven a manual transmission until attending this school & now I feel competent in my ability to control a 10 speed combination commercial vehicle. Woodrow: You did very well to differentiate yourself from the other schools by being generous with your time & straight forward about the process. Your knowledge is admirable & I will always appreciate what you’ve created at Advance. Mike: You’re the meanest of the bunch, but I know it’s because you have a big heart & you care very much. Your voice is still the one I hear when downshifting - 8th gear - “UNDER 30!!” I could not have done it without you. Brenda: Your patience with & confidence in your students is inspiring. I feel like you & Mike have a good cop/bad cop thing going haha. I appreciate your kindness & ability to relate to students. You were always encouraging when I was struggling. Julie: You were the most technical of the bunch. I learned a great deal of specialized knowledge from you regarding the pre-trip. I can see why you’re mostly in charge of the permit students. You were always professional & I feel you have a gift for teaching. Francis: You were one of the first instructors I saw upon entry. Your positive spirit & calming aura allowed me to feel at ease when I may have been stressed or nervous at times. You were the one who signed me up & got me through the admissions process. Thank you for making that part of it so easy to understand. Marilyn: I didn’t speak with you much during my time with Advance, but I see that you are the backbone of that operation when it comes to the administrative end. I appreciate you being on point anytime I had a question. Overall: Great family orientated atmosphere that feels like a safe place to learn. I’m proud to be an alumni of Advance Bus & Truck Driving School.