Trucking: Trucking Salaries, minimum salary, ms degree

Question
I am talking to some schools right now, and they are telling me how high the demand is for truckers. They say that the minimum salary for the first year is about $38,000. What's the catch?

They are also suggesting that I might go into the training end of the business and make even more money, since I have credentials (a MS degree in Chemistry).

What can you tell me about my prospects as a first year driver (in the State of Michigan). Also: I am willing to do whatever it takes to earn the most money possible-- be it regional or local driving.

Answer
There isn't a catch that I am aware of, other than they are probably quoting a little on the high end right now. Im not an expert on the operations side of the house.

I do concur that there is a lot of of money to be made in training and hiring. Capacity within the industry is very tight right now. After a plethora of idle trucks in the aftermath of 9/11, companies are scrambling to find drivers to fill their trucks.

Does this help ?