Locomotive Diesel Mechanic - where to begin????????

[idlinthetruck]

Hi all,



Just thought this may be a good spot to ask where one would begin to build a career in locomotive diesel mechanic/engineer.

I live in Ontario and only wish to work within Canada.



I'm also very interested in marine diesel engines for large vessels.



I know CN Rail or CP Rail would. be a good start... if I can get my foot in the door. .

I work 7 days a week, and have done so for the better part of the last decade... . tired of killing myself and living paycheque to paycheque.



So if anyone knows anyone in any area of these trades PLEASE, any help or info would be greatly appreciated!



Thanks!

 

[GHarman]

First off, you need to get a formal Diesel education , if you dont have one already! Employers love sheep skins, industrial or academic! If you have some diesel experience, it never hurts to enhance it with modern updated classes. Yes I know you are working all hours of the week. If you are going to make a jump, you need to get yer springs set! Might have to have a talk with the boss about reducing your hours! For personal reasons!

Second, I do know a Lady that is the manager for the Denver Union Pacific Rail Road locomotive maintainence shop. If you give me some specific questions, I will be glad to pass them on!

Hope this is helpful!

GregH

 

[MHoverson]

When I worked for Burlington Northern in the early 80's they had an apprenticeship program for diesel mechanics. I was fresh out of diesel tech school but I still had to
go through the program. It lasted about 3 years.
Check to see what jobs are available on the CN or CP web sites and submit a resume if there's one you want. You never know.

 

[rscurtis]

There used to be a locomotive mechanic on here by the name of nickleionen. He was located somewhere in Canada. I have not seen him active for at least several years, but perhaps another member knows how to contact him for you.

 

[bheiting]

At least you don't have to worry about health insurance! I would call the human resources dept of companies you might be interested in and see what they require. Never know what you could find with a Google search.

 

[idlinthetruck]

thanks to everyone who offered some advice!!

 

[CRodi]

When you say mechanic/engineer, do you mean mechanical engineer or locomotive engineer? With continuing education and a degree you can become a mechanical engineer while working as a diesel mechanic. Although this rarely happens, anything is possible.

A locomotive engineer is not a progression from a diesel mechanic. These are 2 completely different departments with vastly different qulaifications and working conditions.

You need to figure out exactly what your goal is and then go for it.