Steps to Becoming a Monster Jam Driver
Oh, the thrill of maneuvering a colossal monster truck through dirt tracks and pulling off epic stunts! Becoming a Monster Jam driver is like stepping into a world where adrenaline meets passion. So, you’re eager to know how to rev up your journey towards this dream profession? Let’s buckle up and explore the steps to wowing the crowds from behind the wheel of a powerful monster truck!
Now, sliding into the world of Monster Jam drivers isn’t just about having a heavy foot on that gas pedal. Talent scouts keep their eyes peeled for fresh faces each year. They work closely with experts and seasoned drivers to school newbies in everything from basic controls to safety protocols and even public relations skills. It’s like entering a high-octane academy where you learn the tricks of the trade, quite literally!
Did you know that before the mega event kicks off, fans get an exclusive chance to rub shoulders with drivers during the Pit Party? Picture this — getting up close and personal with these daredevils and marveling at those massive trucks before they hit center stage! Remember, snagging tickets for this pit extravaganza is as crucial as making sure your seatbelt is fastened before a wild ride.
But hey, who’s behind that iconic Grave Digger monster truck that sends shivers down our spines? The mastermind steering this beast goes by the name of Adam Anderson along with a stellar crew including Krysten Anderson, Weston Anderson, Tyler Menninga, and Brandon Vinson from Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.
So how does one graduate from admiring these machines from afar to actually driving one like a pro? Well before you rev those engines as a Monster Jam driver, there’s some groundwork involved. You might have to start small by dipping your toes into volunteering at shows or even joining as part of the crew. It’s like warming up those tires before hitting top gear!
Here’s an insider scoop — some paths bumpy ones may lead aspiring drivers through fields like auto repair or racing or maybe even show them right through local events flaunting monstrous trucks cranking out horsepower higher than your morning coffee kick.
Have you ever pondered how these mammoth machines are tamed across obstacle-laden terrains? The key lies in hydraulic steering both at front and rear wheels (yes – 4-wheel steering) controlled by toggles akin to super-sized gaming controls! It’s not just about driving; it’s about owning every turn and conquering every jump effortlessly.
Now that we’ve peeked under the hood of becoming a Monster Jam driver strap in for more insights in our upcoming sections—it’s sure to be an exhilarating ride!
| Owner and driver information | |
|---|---|
| Owner | Feld Entertainment |
| Driver(s) | Adam Anderson, Krysten Anderson, Weston Anderson, Tyler Menninga, Brandon Vinson |
| Home city | Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Truck information |
What You Need to Know About Monster Jam University
Monster Jam University, located in Paxton, Illinois and headed by the legendary Tom Meents, offers aspiring Monster Jam truck drivers a crash course in the art of monster truck driving. This “University” may not have an open application process, but talent scouts scour motorcross and drag racing events worldwide to discover potential students. The curriculum at Monster Jam University goes beyond just learning how to handle these massive trucks on rough terrains; it also includes media training and fitness tips to keep drivers in prime shape for the adrenaline-pumping performances.
At Monster Jam University, drivers receive hands-on training in driving ATVs, Speedsters, and honing their skills in monster trucks. New recruits entering Monster Jam are also sent to this facility for training. Beyond mastering the art of monster truck driving, physical fitness is emphasized with unique exercises like monster truck pulling where drivers work together to pull a truck using a rope. The facilities aren’t exclusive; any Monster Jam driver can attend to brush up their skills or train for those jaw-dropping stunts like front flips or double backflips before attempting them in stadiums.
Aspiring Monster Jam drivers should note that becoming part of this thrilling world involves more than just filling out an application form. Talent scouts play a crucial role in scouting new talents each year. Those who show promise in related motorsports may earn invitations to join Monster Jam University and train under experts who will school them on everything from basic operations to public relations.
Costs and Requirements for Monster Truck Driving School
In the world of monster truck driving, there’s more to consider aside from just honing your skills on the track and landing sponsorships. Understanding the costs and requirements involved in pursuing a career as a professional monster truck driver is crucial for success. Let’s dive into some key aspects to keep in mind when venturing into this thrilling industry.
Income Potential: Monster truck driving may promise decent wages, but it’s essential to manage your expectations early on. While local events might offer only modest appearance fees for trucks, major shows can bring in anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 for winning drivers—although these significant payouts happen less frequently. Additional income streams like merchandise sales, ride-alongs, garage appearances, and pit parties can significantly boost overall earnings. Remember that income potential tends to increase alongside your fame over time.
Costs and Expenses: Becoming a Monster Jam driver isn’t just about stepping into a powerful truck; it also involves navigating the financial terrain. Monster trucks themselves are no small investment—the average cost of one sits at a staggering $250,000! Whether you’re looking to purchase or build a monster truck from scratch, be prepared for significant expenses. Building a barebones used monster truck can set you back around $50,000—a hefty sum indeed.
Training Programs: When it comes to mastering the art of monster truck driving, enrolling in quality training programs is paramount. Monster Truck Universities (MTUs) such as Monster Jam University offer specialized curriculums tailored specifically for these massive vehicles. These programs delve deep into topics like truck dynamics, obstacle navigation, jumps, crash avoidance techniques—you name it! Attending an MTU not only equips you with fundamental skills but also provides hands-on training using actual trucks during sessions.
Finding Training Programs: If enrolling in an official Monster Truck University isn’t feasible for you right now—or if you prefer a more personalized approach—consider seeking out private instruction from experienced monster truck drivers. Private training programs and camps conducted by current professionals offer intimate mentorship opportunities where you can delve into subjects like truck mechanics, sponsorship strategies, and industry insights on a closer level. These sessions tend to be smaller and more tailored to individual needs and schedules.
Remember that while the road to becoming a successful monster truck driver may have its twists and turns both on and off the track when armed with determination passion financial comprehensionand an eagerness tolearn,you could soon find yourself revving up those engines at exhilarating events before cheering crowds!
Meeting and Learning from Monster Jam Drivers
To become a Monster Jam driver, you need more than just a heavy foot on the gas pedal. It’s about talent, honing your skills through rigorous training, and having the passion to wow the crowds with epic stunts! Talent scouts are always on the lookout for fresh faces who can handle these monstrous machines and make the roster every year. Collaborating with experts and seasoned drivers, trainees are trained in everything from mastering basic controls to enhancing driver skills and even delving into public relations. The exciting part? Much of this intense training happens at the adrenaline-pumping “Monster Jam University” facility in Illinois, offering realistic tracks and obstacles to prepare aspiring drivers for the thrill ride that lies ahead.
Now imagine getting up close and personal with these daredevils at the Pit Party before they rock the main stage! Meeting Adam Anderson, Krysten Anderson, Weston Anderson, Tyler Menninga, Brandon Vinson from Kill Devil Hills will surely fuel your excitement before they rev those engines for an electrifying performance. And don’t forget—while enjoying these massive trucks up close is thrilling, understanding how hydraulic steering controls all wheels—both front and rear—adds another layer of fascination to this high-octane experience!
So how do you steer your path towards becoming a Monster Jam driver? Starting small by volunteering at shows or joining as part of a crew is like warming up those tires before hitting full throttle as a driver. Getting involved in local events showcasing monstrous trucks or exploring fields like auto repair or racing can also pave your way into this exhilarating world. Remember: it’s not just about driving; it’s about owning every turn and conquering every jump effortlessly.
And when it comes to roaring into action at Monster Jam events and winning over fans’ hearts… well, let’s say harnessing your inner daredevil combined with unwavering determination sets you on course for a thrilling career behind the wheel of those legendary monster trucks! So buckle up because we’re just getting started on this wild ride into the captivating world of Monster Jam drivers!
- Monster Jam drivers are scouted based on talent and undergo training in various aspects of driving, safety, and public relations.
- Attending the Pit Party before the main event allows fans to interact with drivers and see the trucks up close.
- Getting involved in volunteering at shows or joining the crew can be a stepping stone towards becoming a Monster Jam driver.
- Drivers like Adam Anderson and his crew from Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, are the masterminds behind iconic monster trucks like Grave Digger.
- Mastering hydraulic steering is key to maneuvering monster trucks across challenging terrains.
How do people become Monster Jam drivers?
Talent scouts are always on the lookout for those who can do the job, and new drivers make the roster every year. Trainees are taught everything from basic operation to safety, improving driver skills, and public relations, working with specialists and experienced Monster Jam drivers.
How do you get into Monster Jam truck?
Fans have the opportunity to meet the drivers and see the trucks up close before the main event at the Pit Party, available in most markets. Pit Party tickets are required and can be purchased by visiting your event page.
Who drives Grave Digger?
Grave Digger is owned by Feld Entertainment and driven by Adam Anderson, Krysten Anderson, Weston Anderson, Tyler Menninga, and Brandon Vinson. The home city of Grave Digger is Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, U.S.
Do monster trucks have pit crews?
Yes, all trucks have hydraulic steering in both the front and the rear (four-wheel steering), with the front wheels controlled by the steering wheel and the rear wheels by a toggle switch.