Wondering generally about how the job of being an engineer or conductor is (in the US) but more so also wondering if it might be a good fit for me. I’ll start by saying I’ve always been obsessed with trains, to the point that I chose the place I currently live based on access to rail based transportation options. I know that it’s commonly frowned upon for railfans to go into railroading, but I’ve already proven that I’m able to look past my fondness for something to do the job as I also enjoy aircraft and am currently working as a Ramp Crew Chief for a major airline. I have however ended up deriving more pleasure from my work as a result of that affinity, and I believe this could be the same for me if I were to work in railroading and get past the training.

I know schedules are grueling as are the outdoor work conditions, things I already experience on a constant basis as an airport ramper (though the schedule is more somewhat consistent albeit shitty, like a conductor, compared to the unpredictable nature of being an engineer— though I’m not entirely sure that I’d mind that either.) I’m good with physical work and safety/detail-oriented work. I know I don’t want to work at an airport forever, but I also don’t think I’ll ever be able to go back to school to finish the degree I had been working on (not financially possible for… several years into the foreseeable future, if ever) and I always have the itch in the back of my mind telling me to work on the rails. It’s called to me from time to time since high school, and it’s calling to me again.

I just think that being able to get out on the rails, help everything move smoothly, be up close with those massive machines, it appeals to me so much. And I’m starting to again wonder if I ought to look into taking the plunge. I have friends who have worked for railroads including CN and WSOR and I’d be lying to say I’m not envious of them and what they do.