There will soon be another addition to the diverse program offerings available at Parkland College. The new Railway Conductor Certificate program will be offered this summer. This certified pre-employment program from Red River College in Winnipeg is scheduled to begin in July. In just 12 weeks, students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to work for any of Canada's 52 railways as a train crew member in either road or yard service. Job opportunities are plentiful as veteran rail line employees head into retirement. Industry estimates suggest about 700 jobs will need to be filled in the next five years. The program's combination of classroom theory and hands-on exercises on real rail lines and equipment prepares students for immediate work in the industry. The Railway Conductor program integrates knowledge in safety, business, communications, and wellness with the management of trains, including switching and marshalling cars, copying authorities, transporting dangerous goods, performing inspections, and keeping records - all within the context of the Canadian Rail Operating Rules and railways General Operating Instructions. Recruitment for this program is underway. Information sessions will be scheduled in the coming months. For more information, call Darrell at Parkland College at 786.2761, or phone toll free at 1.866.783.6766.
