Train Engineer
Brian
June 2001
My name is Brian and the career I'm interested in is train engineering. I would like to do this job because it is hard and challenging. This job takes a lot of skill and focus. I love trains because they are big and powerful machines. 

 To become a train engineer you have to take exams and tests, but first you have to work in the train yard. You have to be at least 21 years old to work in the train yard because the work is dangerous. The average earnings range from $55,100-$69,000. The environment of this job is labor intensive, but when you are experienced you can become a train engineer.
You have to take qualifying tests covering locomotive equipment, air brake systems, fuel economy, train handling techniques and operating rules and regulations. You have to undergo periodic physical examinations and drug and alcohol testing to determine your fitness to operate locomotives.

 Now, I am even more interested in Train Engineering because of what I have learned and this project gave me a chance to learn more about this career.
 



 
 
 
Interview

Dear Mr. Pate 
  My name is Brian Flynn I am a in the sixth grade student at Bowdoin Central School in Bowdoin, Maine. Our class is studying careers. I'm interested in Train Engineering. I would very much appreciate the answers to the following questions:

What is the annual salary?
What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
Do you see and meet interesting people and places?
What type of education do you need before you can get this job?
What company or organization do you work for?
What is the simplest train to conduct?
Do you think jobs will be available still by the time I graduate?
 
 
 

Thanks so very much for your knowledge and time.

Sincerely,

Brian Flynn
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 I was able to e-mail Stuart Pate who is a train engineer in the state of Massachusetts. I asked him some questions and he replied back to me. I asked how much the annual salary is and he replied that salaries vary from company to company, but an average salary ranges from $50,000-$60,000. I asked what the pluses and minuses were to the job and he replied that the job is enjoyable and that your meet a lot of people, the downside can be the odd hours one is required to work. I asked him do you see and meet interesting people and places and he replied that you meet a lot of interesting people on the railroad and you see a lot of places that people don't usually get to see. I asked what type of education do you need to become a Train Engineer and he replied you need a high school education and the company provides you with its own classes. I asked do you think jobs will still be available by the time I graduate and he replied without a doubt, many of the current engineers on the bigger railroads are due to retire within the next 8 to 10 years. 
 
 
 
Brian
Bowdoin, ME 04287 


Position Sought:    Train Engineer 

Abilities and Talents 

              Possesses computer skills

              Time management and organizational skills

              Leadership skills; exhibits good judgment

              Team player; works well with others

              Independent worker; self-disciplined

              Good communication skills

              Reliable; good listening skills

              Responsible; good management skills

              Conscientious; strong sense of community

              Strong in many subject areas; have a well-rounded education

Achievements and Awards 

              Won Pinewood Derby in 1998

              Won boys basketball championship 2000

              Won runners up for championship 2001 

Work Experience 

         Oct.2000-current
                           Cat farm and shelter
                           Helper/caretaker
 
 
 

Education 

              6th Grade, Bowdoin Central
              Bowdoin, ME

             

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