Going to college for railroading?

Question

Im thinking about going to college to become a railroad engineer. Do I need to start out as a conductor and work my way up? Railroad employees: feel free to email me if you want more information. [e-mail] Thanx!

Answer 1

It would be a good idea to work part time at a rail road company, to see if you like it before you study it at college.

Answer 2

No, I don't think that you have to go to college. My dad worked on it for years you just have to go to the railroads school, but if you know what you are doing, it should be easy.

Answer 3

The railroads I am familiar with do not require a college degree for employment, but one sure looks good on a resume.

If you are equipped for reading, comprehension, retention and mathematics you already possess the skills needed to successfully navigate most railroad's training programs.

Additional assets would include good eye - hand coordination, reasonably good physical condition (there is definately labor involved) as well as having the ability for abstract thinking and/or multi-tasking.  Quick thinking is a must.

The railroads used to hire engine service personnel off the street, from time to time, but these days you will definitely have to work your way into an engineer's position.

Most railroads did a lot of hiring in the war years and the boom years that followed, with a major turn over of seniority in the 70's as these intrepid souls began retiring.  There is another turn over close at hand as we dinosaurs retire in buches over the next few years, making this an ideal time to hire out, when one can expect to gain seniority quickly.

Welcome aboard and good luck to you.

Answer 4

good question.

Answer 5

Yes, you will have to be a conductor 1st on a class one railroad. Depending on what railroad and location, the wait here to became a engineer is about 2 years. But can be shorter!

Answer 6

Sounds like a Good Thing,  good luck  lots of money there as well, very high paying Carree