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I'm 24 years old and I've found my calling. Well, I had it since I was born. Life is about risks. And I'm gonna take this one before I get any older. What do I do to achieve this? I know about the hours and conditions. I know I have to start from the bottom. I just want to get my foot in the door (preferably UP or BNSF). Would specific education be a plus? What about that Modoc Railroad Academy? Would it be better to go with a railroad's training (if any)? Should I just apply on their websites and send resumes then cross my fingers? Is it a secure job? I heard alot of talk about layoffs and the like. Can anyone steer my in the right direction? Any websites specific to my questions? I'm a newbie to this area but I've had the desire ALL of my life. Thanks for any info, Manny
Eric Member # 674
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Hey Manny, I'm 15, and I'm going to be a locomotive engineer also. My interests are with Amtrak, but I suppose the training is similar to freight carriers. I haven't found much info on this topic on the Internet, but your best bets might be the BNSF/UP homepages. You should also get in touch with a local railroad office. I picked up a small booklet titled "BNSF Employee Orientation Guide" from my local depot last year. It discusses many items. Also, get to know some engineers, firemen, etc. They'll tell you a lot of info about the job. I hope some of this helps! Good luck, and maybe we'll meet on the rails! Eric
Charlie McCandless Member # 939
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Manny,
Don't forget the shortlines. You may be able to get more of a family life. If you go to the mainline you better stay single.
BCAmtrak1 Member # 148
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Hey, I want to be a locomotive engineer for Amtrak California, I have found the BNSF website to be beneficial to me so I can review the rules on the BNSF and also the Amtrak rules. Look at BNSF.com/employees and look up the rule books (General Code of Operating Rules and the Amtrak rules found at Railfans.com and clicking on the GCOR-General Code Of Operating Rules
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