Train conductors work on board trains to oversee the day-to-day activities of the crew. Read on to learn about the training program and degree options to become a train conductor.
What You Need to Know
If you've earned your high school diploma and want to prepare for an entry-level position as a train conductor, you can find training programs through transportation technology departments at community colleges or through professional railroad organizations. You can complete most of these programs in approximately two years, but those offered on the job may take as little as 4-8 weeks to complete. Either type of program will usually involve both classroom and hands-on instruction.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Education Options</b></td><td> Associate of Applied Science in Railroad Operations, Associate of Science in Railroad Engineering, Certificate in Railroad Operations</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Training Options</b></td><td> Transportation technology departments at community colleges; professional railroad organizations</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Courses</b></td><td> Train operations, air brake handling and other conductor mechanics</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---CanIEarnADegree">Can I Earn a Degree?</h3><p>Conductor training programs at community colleges offer associate's degrees and certificates of achievement. To earn an associate's degree you must complete a 2-year course of study that involves liberal arts and general education requirements - such as classes in technical mathematics, economics and composition - in addition to a railroad conducting core. An Associate of Applied Science in Railroad Operations program could be available to you. You might also want to choose an Associate of Science in Railroad Engineering program.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatDoINeedToKnowAboutCertificatePrograms">What Do I Need to Know About Certificate Programs?</h3><p>Certificate programs only require you to complete a variety of conducting courses. You could also find coursework that can be completed online in tandem with face-to-face training. A conductor certificate or Certificate of Achievement in Railroad Operations might be offered.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatSchoolsOfferTheseTrainingPrograms">What Schools Offer These Training Programs?</h3><p>Training programs are available at technical schools, 2-year community colleges and 4-year academic institutions. In addition to on-campus courses, some schools may offer seminars and workshops to enhance your training. Here is a short list of schools offering these programs:
</p><ul><li>Johnson County Community College (Overland Park, KS)
</li><li>Sacramento City College (CA)
</li><li>Gateway Community College (New Haven, CT)
</li><li>Carl Sandburg College (Galesburg, IL)
</li><li>University of Nevada, Las Vegas
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3><p>Most courses in train conductor programs involve practical skills training. You may also take more theoretical courses. Many programs also offer professional internship courses. Common topics of study may include some of the following:
</p><ul><li>Train operations
</li><li>Air brake handling
</li><li>Conductor mechanics
</li><li>Codes of operating
</li><li>Conductor service practices
</li><li>Safety standards
</li><li>History of railroading
</li><li>Railroad environment
</li><li>Professional ethics
</li><li>Railroad technical careers</li></ul>
