I just came out of LATTC the semester before you. 47 and 1245 are the best locals to go to, but like you said, they have the longest lists. I've signed the books in Oregon 125 and Colorado 111. What I suggest you do is get your CDL with the Tanker Endorsement. I have a friend who was #85 on book 3 at 47. They skipped all the people in front of him and called him. Right now I'm pretty sure I am going to be called pretty soon.
I also suggest if you really want the work to sign up in Texas or South Dakota. Both were suggested to me at the Union halls. I'm number 11 in Oregon and haven't got a call yet.
Good luck.