This current hiring freeze is the worst I've seen. CN, UP, and CP have nothing. CSX and NS have a few openings, but even they are hesitant to hire. Amtrak has a few spots, but they are very hard to get into. The regional railroad I interviewed with called me today. They told me they've put all train crew hiring on hold for an indefinite amount of time. Got excited when they called I think it's highly unethical for these "railroad academies" to hold classes and take your money in an economy like this. They say most students are recruited before graduating. That might be true in a good economy. "Oh, the railroads will call you right after you complete our program". What b.s. The only people who've been calling me are bill collectors and crazy family. You will graduate in worse financial shape than before (I am one of them), with little to no job prospects. It's quite frightening. Most short lines now want experienced railroaders. I simply can't compete with furloughed employees who have many years of experience. The school will never tell you that. This training is so specialized too. You can't apply it to any other field besides train service. What other fields do you couple and uncouple cars and tie hand brakes?? Yeah, those air tests will really be useful for an office job I'm considering volunteering at my local scenic railroad as a Conductor, so what I've learned isn't completely wasted. I might even be able to get some contacts. Fill a resume gap. I shouldn't HAVE to volunteer after spending 8 grand, not to mention my time and energy! Get a retail job or something to get some income (can barely afford the vending machine lol). Not what I envisioned for myself at all, but I need to eat. Anyway, what are your thoughts on this? I am very angry. Feel like I was taken advantage of and lied to. There was no placement. My instructor connected me with one railroad during the program, and they're not even freakin hiring! Sorry for the rant. Stay as far away from these schools as possible. They mislead you and give you false hopes. They will take your money, and leave you stranded in the middle of the sea.
P.S. Do any of you know of any railroads that are hiring Conductors? Regionals, tiny short lines? The Alaska Railroad? I'm willing to work anywhere. I'm running out of railroads to apply to. Thanks.
P.S. Do any of you know of any railroads that are hiring Conductors? Regionals, tiny short lines? The Alaska Railroad? I'm willing to work anywhere. I'm running out of railroads to apply to. Thanks.