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[quote]QUOTE: Originally posted by ney1815 Oh I understand 100% that working for a RR completely changes your entire life. I have never claimed the contrary. LOL! Based on UP's job description I thought "Shop Laborer" sounded pretty cool. I guess I am just easily pleased. I worked 8-16 hr shifts before and during my military stint in all kinds of weather. In addition, the 16 hour shifts were seperated by only 8 hours off and I had to wear a Chemical Suit in 100 degree weather with a Heat Index of 110-130+ for 8-12 hours for a week twice a year. In fact, even with my white collar job right now, I only get 5-6 hours sleep. I guess I am a glutton for punishment. [/quote] That glutton for punishment thing will serve you well. I as well as others with military backgrounds tend to do fairly well on the RR. Also, in my experience RRs like hiring ex-Mils. Some things are similar to the military, such as the old "hurry up and wait" experience. Arbitrary and capricious supervision is another (some even wear fatigues and watch you through night vision devices). On the other hand, at least in the military you knew when you were going into the field or being deployed and knew you would be going away for some period of time (known or unknown). On the RR it is truly 24/7 from the day you get on the property until you quit or retire. Even having an assigned job (like me, finally, at least until after deer season) the caller will still try to get you to take an extra train when they don't have anybody else. This means NEVER being able to plan anything, sleeping in your car as much as at home, missing all sorts of important events (births, deaths, Christmas, anniversaries, weddings, etc), always eating on the run, and many other things that will affect the quality of your life in ways you can't now imagine. I am not saying don't do it, I am saying you need to be absolutely flexible as the railroad is unbending. LC
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