Company: Illinois Central Railroad, Chicago-based operator of a 2,600-mile freight railroad.
Salary range for job: $37,000 to $50,000
Time on this job: 25 years
Previous jobs: I worked at various jobs in the steel and aluminum industry.
Age: 44
Education: A.S. in mathematics from Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, business and engineering courses at Purdue University-Calumet and a four-year electrical apprenticeship at Illinois Central.
How I got this job: I heard from a friend that they might be looking for help, so I filled out an application and was called four months later.
Why I took this job: I was offered an electrical apprenticeship in a field that had always interested me. It gave me the opportunity to become a skilled craftsman in an occupation that was expanding and evolving, with better pay and more job security.
Main responsibilities: I inspect, troubleshoot, repair and upgrade the electrical components and systems on locomotives. The newer locomotives have up to three computers to control the engine, air brakes and alternators; laptop computers are needed to program, test and troubleshoot these systems. They’re also used to download data from the “black box” event recorders that monitor all key components and crew performances on the trains. Everything in the railroad industry now is controlled by computers, so I upgrade the trains by replacing switches, relays and wiring with computerized systems. Also, all the older equipment must be upgraded and maintained to meet operating standards, so I refurbish older models to comply with the new technologies.
Best thing about the job: The job is always changing. There are new problems to solve, modifications to make and new technologies to learn.
Worst thing about the job: Railroads need to run on schedule, so there’s always the pressure to get the work done on time.
My ideal next job: After retirement, I’d like to open a small electrical-design consulting business.
Advice to job seekers in this field: It seems, nowadays, that almost everything that runs on electricity is controlled by computers. If you enjoy technology and like hands-on work, this field will provide employment opportunities in just about any industry.
