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[Anonymous]

I'm seeking some advice for employment opportunities with any railroad. I've been a trainnut for years and will be graduating in May 2005 with a BS in Computer Science. I really don't have a desire to work for a tech company. I love the outdoors too much and can't stand a desk job.

I'm starting to research various opportunities available and have considered working for the railroad. I realize that it's a hard job with irregular hours but at this point in my life I could pursue this as I'm not married and don't have any responsibilities along those lines. I remember a series a few years back in Trains that covered a new employee (of UP?) and the life it entailed. One incentive is it'd be something I've dreamed of doing before and the pay is good enough to make it worth the work. Career wise I could see doing this for 3 to 4 years before I "settle down".

Thoughts, comments, suggestions, (job offers!) ?

[Anonymous]

Im not sure about that but welcome to trains.com!

[tpatrick]

Check www.modocrailroadacademy.com for just the info you need. Modoc is in Cal- E -fornia (in Arnoldspeak), so it probably places most graduates with western roads. If you favor the east, there is a similar school in Dayton, OH. I don't have the name right now, but if I can locate it, I'll post it. Be prepared to invest some money in your education, but if you want the job, it will be well worth it.

[Big_Boy_4005]

If you want to work for the railroads, don't be stupid and throw away your education. Railroads have computer departments too. Of course you won't be out watching or working with trains everyday, but as an employee you may have pretty good access. I'll bet the pay and working conditions are a whole lot better in computers, than on the rails.

[ndbprr]

Don't know where you live but CSX and BNSF are advertising for all train positions in Chicago. Are you prepared for the fact that as a trainman and particularly an engineer you will probably kill at least one person during your career through no fault of your own?