types of engineering

What does it take to become a train driver?

By Bill Rollins 10 June, 2023 3 mins read

It doesn't matter if you have always wanted to become a train driver. There are many people who share your passion. We will examine the Skills necessary to become a Train Driver, the available Training programs, and the outlook. If you're interested in getting started in this exciting career, read on to learn more. These are the most frequently asked questions by train drivers. One of the most common questions that train drivers ask is "What does it take to become an engineer?"

To become a train conductor, you need certain skills

Train driving requires communication skills and concentration. It requires concentration on both the tracks and inside the cabin for long hours. Because lives are at risk, passengers need to be able to focus. Train drivers must be able manage pressure and work independently. A train driver must be able provide excellent customer service and be patient under pressure.

As a train driver, you will be responsible for starting and stopping the train when directed. You'll also need to operate controls for speed, heating, and keep a log of any engine issues or defects. After passing the tests, you will need to be able to operate the train under different weather conditions. You'll learn about route information, track maps and timetables during your training. The typical length of train driver training programs is three to twenty months.

Career options

Driving trains is a great career choice if you like traveling and have flexible work hours. Train drivers are usually required to work in shifts for three to five days each week. Sometimes, they may alternate between night and morning shifts. While train drivers may have to work some national holidays, they will typically have flexible schedules. Some jobs require overtime, and driving trains may require long hours, including nights and weekends. While a career as train driver may be financially rewarding, it is not for everyone.

Train drivers are often trained as operators of freight and passenger trains from the beginning. Train drivers start their careers often in a different position such as brake, switch operator, yardmaster or conductor. Train drivers may also advance into a supervisory position or even become general managers in the rail industry. They may also choose to become train driving instructors. But, it is not easy to get a job as a train-driver.

Training programs

The train industry requires highly skilled drivers. This position is highly demanding, requiring high levels of communication, strong physical fitness, and experience in a confined space. ERA assists the European Commission with developing common minimum standards for train drivers. Directive 2007/59/EC created a European certification scheme that included the issuing of harmonised certificates to employers as well as European train driver licences. Therefore, training programs for drivers of trains are essential to the industry.

Employment prospects are excellent for train drivers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is an expected increase in the number of people employed as train drivers, particularly as older train operators prepare to retire. Train drivers begin as part-time operators, eventually becoming full-time locomotive operators. Train drivers often become conductors or engineers. There are also opportunities to become station managers. But not all training programs to drive trains lead to a steady career.

Perspectives on the job

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the outlook for train driver jobs is positive. The average growth rate of all occupations is 6%, but the profession is expected grow by 6% in the coming decade. Railroad workers experience an average rate of growth of 5%. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (Board of Labor Statistics), the projected growth in railroad workers is due to increased transportation options such as rail. However, this growth may slow down slightly in the future due to the possible decline of coal.

As many train drivers prepare to retire, the job outlook is generally good for them. Train drivers older than 40 are retiring. This will make it less attractive for those who are interested in the career. Train drivers start out working on a part of the train. Then they may move onto the entire train. They may be promoted to engineer positions, or conductors. They may also become station managers.

FAQ

Engineering What?

Engineering is, simply put, the application of scientific principles for useful things. Engineers apply their knowledge of science and mathematics to design and manufacture machines, vehicles, buildings, bridges, aircraft, spacecraft, robots, tools, structures, materials, electronic circuits, and so on.

Engineers may be involved in research and development, production, maintenance, testing, quality control, sales, marketing, management, teaching, consulting, law, politics, finance, human resources, administration, and many other areas.

A variety of responsibilities are available to an engineer, such as designing and building products, processes, and systems; managing projects; performing tests, inspections; analysing data; creating models; writing specifications and standards; supervising employees; and making decisions.

Engineers can be specialists in many areas such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, computer, biomedical and manufacturing.

Some engineers are more interested in specific types of engineering than others, including aeronautics and biotechnology, computing, electronics energy, industrial, maritime, medicine, nuclear, robotics space transportation, telecommunications and water.

How much do engineers make per hour?

These figures can vary from one person to another and from company to company. The average annual salary for a software engineer in the entry level category is $60,000 per annum. After working for a while, this number can reach over $100,000.

What do electricians do?

They create power systems that can be used by humans.

They are responsible for the design, construction, testing, installation, maintenance, and repair of all types electric equipment used in industry, government, and commercial customers.

They also plan and direct the installation of these systems, including planning and coordinating the activities of other trades such as architects, contractors, plumbers, etc.

Electrical engineers design and install electronic devices, circuits, and components that convert electricity into useful forms.

What is a Mechanical Engineer?

A mechanical engineer designs machines for people, such as vehicles, tools, products and machinery.

Mechanical engineers apply mathematics, engineering principles, and physics to find practical solutions for real-world issues.

A mechanical engineer can be involved in product design, production, maintenance quality control, research, testing or sales.

What types of jobs can I find if I major in engineering?

Engineers can work in nearly every industry: manufacturing, transportation and energy, finance, government and education.

Engineers who specialize in particular fields can often find employment at specific companies or organizations.

An example of this is that electrical engineers can work for telecommunications firms, medical device makers, or computer chip manufacturers.

Software developers may work for websites or mobile app developers.

Computer programmers could work for tech companies like Google or Microsoft, Apple, Amazon or Facebook.

Statistics

Typically required education: Bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering Job growth outlook through 2030: 8% Aerospace engineers specialize in designing spacecraft, aircraft, satellites, and missiles. (snhu.edu)
Job growth outlook through 2030: 9% (snhu.edu)