Rail apprenticeship programs offer paid training for careers in the rail industry, with classroom and hands-on learning. Apprentices can specialize in maintenance, safety, inspection, or operations. Tasks grow in complexity as skills develop.
Many public and private rail institutions around the world offer apprenticeship programs designed to train new employees for careers in the rail industry. Some of these programs train the railroad apprentice to work on passenger trains, while others focus on freight trains. Most apprentice rail programs consist of several years of paid training and instruction, during which the apprentice performs increasingly complex tasks. Early in an apprenticeship, candidates may spend most of their time engaged in classroom training and workshops, while some receive more hands-on technical training. Later in the program, a rail apprentice can expect to perform many of the same tasks as their supervisors, including tasks related to maintenance, operations and customer service.
A standard rail apprenticeship starts with at least some classroom training. These courses cover basic railroad terminology and technology, as well as the structure and operation of the company itself. Typically, students are paid to attend these classes and complete special assignments and projects. Those pursuing a service or maintenance apprenticeship may also spend a lot of time in hands-on learning environments. For example, students can attend demonstrations and workshops or train or equipment maintenance and repairs.
Upon completion of classroom training, a rail apprentice is often transferred to the job site to begin their hands-on training. He often acts as an assistant or shadow to a more experienced worker. The apprentice can help the worker with various tasks, or simply follow and watch as he goes about his daily work routine. Over time, the railroad apprentice will be asked to perform tasks under the direct supervision of more experienced employees. These tasks must grow in complexity as the learner gains competence and skill in their chosen field.
The exact job description of a railroad apprentice may vary depending on the chosen field. Many of these apprenticeship programs allow candidates to choose positions focused on railway maintenance and assembly, safety and inspection, or even customer service and operations. Those involved in the maintenance and assembly programs will learn to repair and maintain railcars, signals, tracks and all related equipment. They can handle simple tasks like welding or more complex tasks like diagnosing a problem with a railroad engine.
Inspection apprentices learn tasks related to employee and passenger safety. They walk the tracks looking for problems with signals, equipment, or the tracks getting stuck. These employees also oversee the transport of hazardous waste on the railroad and help develop effective operating procedures to minimize the risk of accidents. Inspection-related learnings also focus on monitoring railcars and equipment to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently.
Finally, a railroad apprentice can be prepared for a career in operations. Here he will learn how to provide effective customer service to train passengers. These apprentices also complete tasks related to budgeting, accounting, and marketing.
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