Benefits of Being an Engineer/Conductor for US Railroads: A Personal Account

Working as an engineer or conductor for one of the major U.S. railroads is a craft that historically has had an excellent rate of progression. Moving from a labor organization role to management positions, such as those governed by the Railway Labor Act and regulations set by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), can offer a smooth and rewarding transition. Practical hands-on experience in operating trains is highly valued, especially at the various 'carriers' involved in the United States railroad system.

One of the best ways to enter this field is to seek employment at any of these 'carriers' as soon as possible. This can give you a strong foundation and serve as a stepping stone for future opportunities.

My Personal Experience at Amtrak for 21 Years

For 21 years, I was an employee at Amtrak, where I had the privilege of working in a role that is often referred to as TE Service train and engine. Much of my time was spent as a Conductor, aside from two years where I worked in a front-line management position. Later in my career, I returned to TE Service and worked as a Conductor, traveling from Washington D.C. to New York Penn Station.

My role as a Conductor allowed me to encounter a diverse and fascinating array of people throughout my career. During my tenure, I had the opportunity to interact with national and state politicians, authors, television personalities, Broadway stars, and music industry figures. Many of these individuals made significant contributions to the arts, politics, and entertainment fields.

Unique Encounters and Personal Highlights

Perhaps the most unique encounters of my 21-year career came through my roles in both the military and civilian sectors. After a career as a Civil Affairs officer in the U.S. Army Reserve, my military service included a deployment to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom. During this deployment, one of my regular passengers and a Senator, Joe Biden, made a special effort to look me up during a Congressional delegation visit to Iraq. He had learned through his staff that I was working in plainclothes at the U.S. Embassy. As a sign of respect, my supervisor suggested that I should wear my uniform for the meeting, leading to a memorable photograph showing me in the Army Battle Dress Uniform.

Myrtle Vacirca Quinn, a WWII OSS Veteran

Among the many memorable people I met, the most unique was Myrtle Vacirca Quinn, a veteran of the World War II Office of Strategic Services (OSS) who operated in the European Theater of Operations. What made her stand out was not only her remarkable history but also the fact that her father was also an OSS operative. Her contribution to history and her personal journey made her an extraordinary individual.

A Career of Dedication and Continual Learning

Ultimately, a career as an engineer or conductor for U.S. railroads offers a rich tapestry of experiences. These roles are not only demanding but also rewarding, providing opportunities for personal growth, professional development, and interaction with some of the most influential and talented individuals in various fields.

As we continue to celebrate the contributions of these remarkable individuals, it is important to recognize the unique benefits this career offers, both personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways:

Valuable hands-on experience in operating trains Opportunities for career progression within the industry Interaction with prominent individuals from various sectors Trials and successes that shape a rewarding career