Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyree McClish.
Hi Kyree, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My career began at UPS as a Driver Trainer and Safety Manager—known internally as a Feeder On-Road Supervisor, a role reserved for the company’s top performers. It was there that I learned to train drivers the UPS way, where safety, discipline, and precision aren’t suggestions—they’re the standard.
Along the way, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, gaining firsthand insight into how large-scale transportation operations truly work. At the time, I didn’t see the bigger picture—but those years were quietly laying the foundation.
In 2018, I bought my first truck and stepped out as an owner-operator. One truck quickly grew into a 20-truck fleet hauling general freight. As the fleet expanded, a troubling pattern emerged: the industry didn’t lack drivers—it lacked properly trained drivers.
That reality hit hard after interviewing more than 30 CDL graduates from local schools. They were licensed, yet unprepared. The core skills we considered non-negotiable at UPS were missing, raising serious questions about how drivers were being trained—and how safe our roads really were.
That moment became the turning point.
What began as a mission to improve driver training quickly grew into a larger purpose: to empower individuals, create opportunities, and give back to the community. At Big Klass CDL School, we’re not just producing skilled drivers—we’re building confident, responsible, and employable members of society. Our goal is to provide structure, mentorship, and second chances, helping people build meaningful careers while strengthening the community around them.
The vision is simple but transformative: safer roads, stronger drivers, and stronger communities
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all. In a market like Dallas, CDL schools are everywhere—almost on every corner, like barbershops—so the competition is intense. One of the biggest challenges has been educating prospective students on the true value of proper training.
Many individuals are drawn to the cheapest and fastest path to a CDL. Unfortunately, that demand has opened the door for unregistered, rogue schools operating at black-market rates. These shortcuts encourage students to choose price over quality, often at the expense of safety and long-term career success.
We’ve seen people willing to pay $3,000 for just one week of training, walk away licensed, and enter the workforce dangerously unprepared—rather than investing a little more for four weeks of comprehensive, hands-on instruction. What many don’t realize is that most reputable trucking companies won’t hire drivers unless they have at least 160 hours of documented training.
Our biggest challenge hasn’t been competition—it’s been changing the mindset. We’re not selling speed or shortcuts. We’re building professional drivers who are trained to last in this industry and help make the roads safer for everyone.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Big Klass CDL School was built from real-world experience, elite-level training, and a deep commitment to safety and professionalism in the trucking industry.
What sets us apart is simple: we train drivers for real-world success, not just to pass a test. Our program goes beyond minimum requirements, We specialize in producing job-ready drivers who understand safety, professionalism, and the expectations of top-tier carriers.
Brand-wise, what I’m most proud of is our reputation. Big Klass is known for integrity, discipline, and results. We don’t believe in shortcuts, quick licenses, or cutting corners. We believe in building confident, employable drivers who are prepared for long-term careers and who help make our roads safer for everyone.
What I want readers to know is this: Big Klass CDL School isn’t just a training program—it’s a standard. Led by a Certified Texas State Examiner, we’re raising the bar for driver education and reshaping what it means to be truly prepared for a career in trucking
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
In trucking, networking isn’t optional—it’s essential. The industry runs on trust, reputation, and relationships just as much as it runs on freight. Strong connections open doors to better opportunities, faster problem-solving, and long-term stability, especially in a market that constantly shifts. Whether it’s securing freight, placing drivers, or building credibility with carriers, who you know—and how well you’re known—can make the difference between struggling and scaling. In trucking, your network truly is your net worth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Bigklasscdl.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigklasscdlschool?igsh=MTJuaWphdXVha3oxaA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyree-mcclish-05183b98?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@bigklasscdlschool?si=ImsS_zVvmX-VRLu0
