I came upon this due to all the train vids I watch and the train fanatic that I am, lol. I must say that you explain things very well and you seem to give a very good overview of what to expect in week one of NS training. Great job, Anthony!
Just stumbled across your video ! Not interested in becoming a Train Conductor , but thxs for what you do! Your "training" sessions reminded me of my first day/week of Airline Flight Attendant training - fun but very intense! ...best wishes to you and stay safe!🌸😎
I went through McDonough in 2001. Back then we had phases 1-4 in which phases 1 and 3 were 8 days each in McDonough. Phases 2 and 4 were field training at your yard. It was very strict back then. If you walked up the stairs without holding the handrail, you were in trouble. The Harriman Safety Award was a very big deal to NS.
This information about radio etiquette brings back some painful memories of when I tried to get a job as a police dispatcher; my background in Air Force radio protocol was "unprofessional" in a police radio situation.
Really appreciate this video and the insight you provided. Im considering applying for a job with BNSF or UP. Its something ive considered for a while but just haven’t taken the necessary steps but im finally at that point in my life where i need to step it up. Hope youre still doing well at the yard!
This video is incredibly helpful, at least regarding the process at NS. You get there, learn the ropes, and they treat you like responsible adults. If you make it, welcome aboard. If not, hit the street. Also, don't rush straight to the class 1; short lines can be a great place to learn the ropes. There are resources online to pre-study for signal rules, or at least the fundamentals, without getting bogged down in the details for your particular railroad, division, line heritage, et cetera. Just understand the differences between GCOR, NORAC and CROR (don't forget our northern neighbo(u)rs, they're in the market to buy more US lines.) It should also be possible to do some physical training for the hang test. Go to your local gym and do a bunch of "knuckle carries" or go for a long hike in your work boots on crushed gravel. As for office politics, you can't avoid it. Don't think you're going to be guaranteed that 55k/year either. Being low seniority on the extra board during a slow economy, you may get furloughed, or you may not see the hours. It also might help to practice getting up at 3:40 in the morning and working for twelve hours. All this comes with the territory, but the opportunity is there to work hard and take pride in moving the national economy around safely.
I’m sure that it sucks working “on call” for several years as my cousin put up with the railroad for 3 years and still couldn’t get a regular bid shift. I understand the retirement and benefits are good but I worked on call for 6 years for a trucking company and it was horrible so I’m glad I got out when I did. Nice informative video for all these future conductors and railroad workers…👍👍👍
Being on call is really luck of the draw as to where you end up. I worked a major class yard and I also worked a smaller local yard. The smaller yards will be more predictable as to when your working, and can sometimes lead to you possibly being able to bid on a regular job sooner.
Study and highlight your rule books. They will teach you to pass the test at the end and study your signals. Study in groups but break up the brain ache by taking a day break on the weekend. I did watch a dude get dismissed after he failed the final test, also watched one get dismissed for failing signal test. DO NOT RUN, WALK BACKWARDS, SHOW UP WITH CORRECT BOOTS (lace up), DO NOT BUY ALCOHOL ON THE MEAL CARD. BRING A GOOD LAPTOP.
Im still thinking of looking into a career as a train. Conductor I"m a hotel maintenance engineer. .Love the video thoufh admired trains since I was a kid
I’m down here now. It’s a 3 week program now. Check into the hotel after 3pm on a Sunday. And class doesn’t start until 4pm on that Monday. I’m ready to go!!!
I just had a job interview with Norfolk Southern for a conductor position yesterday afternoon I feel I did a good job for the interview part the interviewer was nice and personable
This guy is talking like he is in a hostage video😂 the railroad is forcing him to say good things! Seriously tho amazing video! Very helpful, great explanations! Things I didn't even think about and are now apparent! Keep doing these man this was very worth it! You've gained a new sub
“Hang Test”…. weeds people out I guess. 30+ years with the company and I’ve never hung on the side of a car and “continuously” given hand signals in that way. I really have questions on who and how instruction is given at the training center. Your best knowledge will be obtained once you get to your actual work location and go hands on with experienced employees.
Im a railroader and yes for a class one on the east coast and yes its weird, but rn volume is picking back up. Also stick with it and youll be rewarded it sucks but it gets better with time. Learn learn learn
Intermodal is gonna get big with amazon and walmart looking at cubes so pay attention to that. Also china is buying our coal so coal exports are gonna be a thing
My son goes on November 8 how was the hang test and are the instructor really kind and helpful and try to help everyone pass or is it everyone for themselves?
I have my behaviour interview with Canadian Pacific Railroad. Would you know if the training will be similar? I’ve watched all the videos on RUclips and I really can’t find anything on it and how long is the hiring phase from day one?
@@andrewcao5915 Congrats man👍🏻 Stay safe out there. If you are curious about what week 5 training looks like etc I documented it just like I did for McDonough on TikTok. Same user name as YT. Good luck!
I just got my Class A CDL and so far love trucking, but have always wished I could have become a conductor, but apparently it's a who you know kinda deal on getting hired on.
@@Jarhead1313 that and the precision railroading top 21 plan..plus 2,000 cuts from the NS system next year...their philosophy is do more with way less.
Watched your video.. only problem i have is when i open ATC monitor i get an error mesagethat i need to install century gothic font.. i open the font file and see the DONE button but NO INSTALL BUTTON.
I got an offer and awaiting for my start date. I started out on track and into operations. So this is familiar to me coming from a short line. You wanna get ahead read up on GCOR. I was a Engineer, Conductor, and trainer. I also did level 10 maintenance to the locomotive and railcars. The biggest problems when I trained new hires is checking switch points, giving yourself distance to put knuckles back in, stopping short of a couple, tieing hand brakes from the ground, verbal communication, and trying to cut the air in to fast which will put the locomotive into a penalty application. Keep a few rubber seals in your pocket I promise you. You will need them.
Hey, thanks for the video. I just started my application on their website yesterday. Do you have any advice for my application process or any helpful knowledge to help me get hired? thanks again
when i hired on Cn in 2011 we had one guy who made it to the very last day, didnt pass the final and since he struggled and was kind of a know it all they sent him home. we all felt bad but if he wasnt cut out for it the instructors didnt want him getting hurt or worse because they decided to pass him anyways, now i am currently looking into CP lol
Back in the 1970s, there was this guy who was going through to become an engineer At that time, it was a 3 month course with a month back in your home terminal. This guy failed every test that was given and wasn't sent home till the very end. They gave him every chance. One thing he couldn't understand why a derail must be kept in derailing position regardless
Going through training now. End of week 1. It’s not as hard as most people think. Don’t overthink things and study. As long as you are doing your e-learning and topic reviews, you will be fine. Hang test is not all that difficult and I am a skinny guy. Don’t overthink it. They will talk to you while you do it to distract you from overthinking. Signals can be tough, but I have NW, so it’s not too bad. Everyone is here to help you succeed. Also, as of right now all 3 weeks are day shift, but that will probably change again.
Brooo my app got accepted and it wasn’t any interview slot available I’m so hurt idk what to do I was banking and so eager bout it now my momentum gone
I head down on the 29th for my training, excited to get started. That’s cool to hear about the day shift, won’t hold them to it but would definitely be nice for my class too!
Is there an age cut off? Do they keep records of past failed test taking (years ago)? What does your resume has to say to even be looked at even though I am retired military. I've been trying and trying.
If you were denied employment from a class 1 railroad, count your blessings and move on. It is a miserable existence that will suck every ounce of life from your soul. Don't listen to any propaganda they have to offer.
Signals are difficult for some, especially if you don't bring a lot of RR knowledge with you. Study, study, study. You can't lean on just the theory or the sequences you expect, you have to just memorize them. If you put in the time, you should eventually get them to click, just keep at it.
So here's my question bro, I'm a bodybuilder so for me all I'm thinking about is after we leave training class that extra time is out free time? Nevermind lol you just answered it.
I definitely need to know this. Unfortunately for me, NS has a conductor trainee position in NC but I live in GA.. Wonder how that might play out.. if i can transfer to GA?
Hi Anthony, I did interviews with Norfolk south as well as NJ Transit for conductor positions. Which is a better choice in your opinion if I get called by both? Could you also say why you no longer work with NS? Is it true about them laying off staff frequently? Thanks for the help.
Hey Anthony! Thanks for the video. I’m awaiting my start date to head to Georgia for training. I was curious, do they fly you down to the training center? I’ll be hiring out of Conway Yard Near Pittsburgh. Was supposed to start on the 6th of December but with closing my business I had to wait until the next class in January.
@@travisriddick3809 I did. I’ve been uploading on TikTok. Just haven’t had a minute to move the vids over here. I finished up my two weeks of training in McDonough and started my OJT at my home terminal today. I’ve been trying to update after my shift each day and answer questions in between too.
@@KurtisCharlton What's your tiktok? I currently have a good paying job that requires me to be away from home for weeks or months at a time with heavy manual labor but looking for a change. Just received a email asking for a virtual interview start date. What kind of money were/are you making. Hotels covered? Mileage?
I want to come there for schooling. Does that school in GA have specific start time for classes or no. Im struggling a bit to find information on this. I would love if you could help me out to get me heading in the right direction please and thank you. Great videos also you're very informative.
I had the same problem when I was getting ready to start. There isn’t a ton of info out there so when I started training I documented all of it on TikTok so people can see what it’s like. I’ve been answering questions over there as well.
All I can say is good luck to anyone who hires out on the NS. I was hired in 2010 and asked to resign 3 months later. They are out to get you fired from the day you begin. Happily employed on a regional short line now. They value their employees.
These trainmasters have to justify their jobs. They must make x number of efficiency tests. otherwise, their managers are their asses .One day, this yard crew at Bisson yard had two of them watching every more they made. When Conrail was broken up back in 90s The NS was losing money. They had no money to buy welding rods but they still had money to buy eggs to put between switch points to see if you looked before throwing the switch
dhornjr1 for us it was hang with one hand while waiving a lantern for 1:20. Then regrip switching arms and hanging again with one hand and swinging the lantern for another 1:20. Then regrip and dismount. Could not regrip during that 1:20 or shift your feet you would have to start over. We also had the hang test in the middle of a downpour.
Gabriel Poveda lantern doesn’t weigh much at all..maybe 2 lbs? Don’t sweat the hang test, it’s more about technique and having a high grip vs strength.
Who pay for the hotel and do I have to drive where the training is? I just want to know where is the training at!? And the hang test is that hard? Are their any female are conductor at Norfolk just curious and is there a test you take after your training? I’m asking this because I want to know if incase I want to do this or not! And also is the pay good while your on training? No offense to anyone here about asking I just want to know that’s all thank you!
You hang from a ladder with one arm and both feet. You swing a lantern with the other hand for 1:30 seconds believe. You are not allowed to move your grip hand during the test. Completely not like the real job🤣
question about pay. I was told that as a CT you start at 25/hr or 200/day (whichever is highest). after you mark up you get "80%". 80% of what? it wasn't very clear on what that meant. what would the hourly rate be?
@@d675e88 nothing. They told me they would start me in january/February so I went back to the oilfield. Pay isn't better so no real reason to wait around on them.
Thank you Anthony, but why does it say HB CONDUCTOR -JERSEY CITY (CROXTON) Jersey City , New Jersey , United States ? That is what the vacancy stated. While the other one says the same thing except the HB part .
Did I understand you correctly in that you had 4-5 guy's on the ground and you in the cab? I'm assuming I missed something here. Does this mean that 4-5 guy's can tie-up air on a 50-100+ car train, (out of the yards), and still stay on schedule? Perhaps I mi-heard, but I'm guessing it would take some time to do so. How does that work...(checking for knuckle / air-hose damage, etc.)...and then having to hook & check the air on a Train of ANY length...(might make a cool new video of how to do this), probably wouldn't take much time.
For training at McDonough I was referring to when we were working on testing out for doing class 1 break inspections, walking the train and making sure air was tied in and checking over the equipment. We all did it at the same time. Typically it’s just the conductor on the ground that walks the cut of cars “taking the air with them” by checking angle cocks and tying up air lines as they’re walking.
Hey anthony my name is chris and im going down in February to NS training in GA and i printed out the signals test i found online through NS and i was wondering what major tests i have to pass with 85-100 percentage
Hey, I'm getting ready to start training in 2 weeks at ns. Are there any training guides that I could use to study before I get there? Thank you in advance either way! Hope all is well.
Oh nice, I got furloughed 2 days before marking up lol I’m suprised they hired more people with so many CTs furloughed right now. Good for you though lol
Jeffrey Rupchak 80% is required passing on all tests minus the signal exam which is now a 97%. Your allowed one retake test on all exams except for the hazmat exam, which that one is open book for the most part..shouldn’t fail that one.
Yeah, there is zero amount of error that is acceptable for signals. If you get just one wrong in the real world it can very likely kill people. Anybody who thinks that there should be anything less than 100% accepted needs to be in a less critical line of work.
I came upon this due to all the train vids I watch and the train fanatic that I am, lol. I must say that you explain things very well and you seem to give a very good overview of what to expect in week one of NS training. Great job, Anthony!
Really Nice job, Anthony! 👍 You Sound like you really have your act together and will go far @ NS.
GREAT synopsis! You have a talent for explaining. Not everyone does.
Just stumbled across your video ! Not interested in becoming a Train Conductor , but thxs for what you do! Your "training" sessions reminded me of my first day/week of Airline Flight Attendant training - fun but very intense! ...best wishes to you and stay safe!🌸😎
How is that bro???
Thanks for this. I just submitted my application. Wish me luck! This looks like a great career and advancement onto loco engineer.
I went through McDonough in 2001. Back then we had phases 1-4 in which phases 1 and 3 were 8 days each in McDonough. Phases 2 and 4 were field training at your yard. It was very strict back then. If you walked up the stairs without holding the handrail, you were in trouble. The Harriman Safety Award was a very big deal to NS.
This information about radio etiquette brings back some painful memories of when I tried to get a job as a police dispatcher; my background in Air Force radio protocol was "unprofessional" in a police radio situation.
Really appreciate this video and the insight you provided. Im considering applying for a job with BNSF or UP. Its something ive considered for a while but just haven’t taken the necessary steps but im finally at that point in my life where i need to step it up. Hope youre still doing well at the yard!
This is really helpful as I was just hired last week
I have NS on my Model Railroad Just wished I was Young again I would be definitely in that Group. I love Trains
This video is incredibly helpful, at least regarding the process at NS. You get there, learn the ropes, and they treat you like responsible adults. If you make it, welcome aboard. If not, hit the street. Also, don't rush straight to the class 1; short lines can be a great place to learn the ropes. There are resources online to pre-study for signal rules, or at least the fundamentals, without getting bogged down in the details for your particular railroad, division, line heritage, et cetera. Just understand the differences between GCOR, NORAC and CROR (don't forget our northern neighbo(u)rs, they're in the market to buy more US lines.) It should also be possible to do some physical training for the hang test. Go to your local gym and do a bunch of "knuckle carries" or go for a long hike in your work boots on crushed gravel. As for office politics, you can't avoid it. Don't think you're going to be guaranteed that 55k/year either. Being low seniority on the extra board during a slow economy, you may get furloughed, or you may not see the hours. It also might help to practice getting up at 3:40 in the morning and working for twelve hours. All this comes with the territory, but the opportunity is there to work hard and take pride in moving the national economy around safely.
I’m extremely nervous for the school tests and actually working for the first couple of weeks. Any Insights or anything to help me out?
@@drbuttblast2387any updates
Thanks so much for this. I'm looking into becoming a conductor.
Responsibility is the key
Thanks for the vid im thinking of starting in this career.
Have recently applied for this position. Thank you for the video!
I’m sure that it sucks working “on call” for several years as my cousin put up with the railroad for 3 years and still couldn’t get a regular bid shift. I understand the retirement and benefits are good but I worked on call for 6 years for a trucking company and it was horrible so I’m glad I got out when I did. Nice informative video for all these future conductors and railroad workers…👍👍👍
Being on call is really luck of the draw as to where you end up. I worked a major class yard and I also worked a smaller local yard. The smaller yards will be more predictable as to when your working, and can sometimes lead to you possibly being able to bid on a regular job sooner.
Does CSX have the same training process??
Study and highlight your rule books. They will teach you to pass the test at the end and study your signals.
Study in groups but break up the brain ache by taking a day break on the weekend. I did watch a dude get dismissed after he failed the final test, also watched one get dismissed for failing signal test.
DO NOT RUN, WALK BACKWARDS, SHOW UP WITH CORRECT BOOTS (lace up), DO NOT BUY ALCOHOL ON THE MEAL CARD.
BRING A GOOD LAPTOP.
Im still thinking of looking into a career as a train. Conductor I"m a hotel maintenance engineer. .Love the video thoufh admired trains since I was a kid
keep that job
I do appreciate this video I should go in 2 weeks and I’m so frustrated about it
How was it?
Fingers crossed that I get this job
Great Video 👍
I put in for Greensboro last week.
Did you get hired?
Nice overview.
Reminds me of the training of getting my CDL A.
Signals and rules are the hardest part.
I’m down here now. It’s a 3 week program now. Check into the hotel after 3pm on a Sunday. And class doesn’t start until 4pm on that Monday. I’m ready to go!!!
Is the mental test hard as far as the signal tests and stuff
hey did they send you an email of when to check in the hotel? my boyfriend starts class monday and he hasn’t heard any info on the hotel!
How has it been for you bro?
@@athenaciawise1857very nice of you to help out ya bf checking up info on his new career. He's a very lucky man ❤️ 😊
I just had a job interview with Norfolk Southern for a conductor position yesterday afternoon I feel I did a good job for the interview part the interviewer was nice and personable
Hopefully Brian is still there teaching. He was a cool guy and very good instructor.
Brian was a good instructor
Brian was great. Made the whole course extremely enjoyable.
Very helpful. How does the on call system work though? Do you have any videos of usual work day?
How does that pay in training works? Do you get a full check after you complete your training or during the training?
Thank you man
I'm starting on Monday April 25th
This guy is talking like he is in a hostage video😂 the railroad is forcing him to say good things! Seriously tho amazing video! Very helpful, great explanations! Things I didn't even think about and are now apparent! Keep doing these man this was very worth it! You've gained a new sub
“Hang Test”…. weeds people out I guess. 30+ years with the company and I’ve never hung on the side of a car and “continuously” given hand signals in that way. I really have questions on who and how instruction is given at the training center. Your best knowledge will be obtained once you get to your actual work location and go hands on with experienced employees.
Im a railroader and yes for a class one on the east coast and yes its weird, but rn volume is picking back up. Also stick with it and youll be rewarded it sucks but it gets better with time. Learn learn learn
Damn, where at and they keeping cutting jobs. They want main line freight
@SpectreNRO411 yeah they def do.
Yeah NS went with PR late in the game
Intermodal is gonna get big with amazon and walmart looking at cubes so pay attention to that. Also china is buying our coal so coal exports are gonna be a thing
How long have you been on the railroad? I'm on my 16th year and it has never gotten any better. It's steadily went straight downhill since day one.
I applied for conductor position in Macon waiting on feedback now. Thanks for the video.
If I was you look for a different job, I have 10 years seniority and I’m still on a conductors extra board.
@@bradcrooks3891 I feel ya and still haven't heard anything. It's been almost 3 months
Did you start
@@taecocky been gave up
Going to conductor training tomorrow, glad I stumbled across this!
How did it go?
@@larrygonzales7410 great, passed my tests and I’m completing my on the job training now.
My son goes on November 8 how was the hang test and are the instructor really kind and helpful and try to help everyone pass or is it everyone for themselves?
@@henriettaparker8905 I’ll be there with him. I’m curious myself.
@@maverickhenderson4902 have you being practicing the hang test ?
I have my behaviour interview with Canadian Pacific Railroad. Would you know if the training will be similar? I’ve watched all the videos on RUclips and I really can’t find anything on it and how long is the hiring phase from day one?
Hey! Thanks so much for posting this. I do have a question- did y'all have to pick up a knuckle while down there?
Yes you do. I just finished training in McDonough on Friday.
@@KurtisCharlton just finished week 2 today and going to OJT on Monday 🤙🏻
@@andrewcao5915 Congrats man👍🏻 Stay safe out there. If you are curious about what week 5 training looks like etc I documented it just like I did for McDonough on TikTok. Same user name as YT. Good luck!
Can you touch on the book test material?
Do they reimburse food/board or do they pay for that while your there?
Awesome job you just earned a sub I got some NS train videos
10 feet… I‘d have to keep converting this all the time to imagine what this looks like!
10-12hr days however would be no problem for me.
Great information, thanks! Are you able to drive home on the weekends or do you have to stay at the hotel?
Depends how far away you live but your weekends are your own business while your there. Just keep yourself out of trouble mostly.
I just got my Class A CDL and so far love trucking, but have always wished I could have become a conductor, but apparently it's a who you know kinda deal on getting hired on.
Not really a who ya know, just right timing. Honestly, it’s a shit show of a time to get on any railroad right now.
Figures, Covid-19 has got everything fucked up at the moment.
@@Jarhead1313 that and the precision railroading top 21 plan..plus 2,000 cuts from the NS system next year...their philosophy is do more with way less.
@@absoluteblockproduction2039 I'll keep trucking then. That's crazy with all the job cuts.
Watched your video.. only problem i have is when i open ATC monitor i get an error mesagethat i need to install century gothic font.. i open the font file and see the DONE button but NO INSTALL BUTTON.
I got an offer and awaiting for my start date. I started out on track and into operations. So this is familiar to me coming from a short line. You wanna get ahead read up on GCOR. I was a Engineer, Conductor, and trainer. I also did level 10 maintenance to the locomotive and railcars. The biggest problems when I trained new hires is checking switch points, giving yourself distance to put knuckles back in, stopping short of a couple, tieing hand brakes from the ground, verbal communication, and trying to cut the air in to fast which will put the locomotive into a penalty application. Keep a few rubber seals in your pocket I promise you. You will need them.
Jason, did you get a start date yet?
@@d675e88 I'm awaiting for a start date hopefully they got a few gyms by this training facility because I also compete in powerlifting.
@@d675e88 Im awaiting my start date too..
How did things turn out? Did you get a start date yet? I am still waiting for mine...
How long did it take for you to get a start date ?
Hey, thanks for the video. I just started my application on their website yesterday. Do you have any advice for my application process or any helpful knowledge to help me get hired? thanks again
Can you send me the link on where to sign up? I've tried to find it but I can't
I'm looking to join up. How's the work life balance once you get to your station? I have small kids that I would miss dearly.
I did the first round of interviews for NS just a couple of days ago. Would appreciate some good thoughts that I hear back from them soon.
Any update??
I’m about to go down for training and all I have a steel toe boots are they OK
when i hired on Cn in 2011 we had one guy who made it to the very last day, didnt pass the final and since he struggled and was kind of a know it all they sent him home. we all felt bad but if he wasnt cut out for it the instructors didnt want him getting hurt or worse because they decided to pass him anyways, now i am currently looking into CP lol
Did you ever make it to CP?
If so how do you like it and why did you leave CNR?
Take care buddy 🍻🤙🇨🇦
@@SvenTSchixe not yet and i got dismissed
Back in the 1970s, there was this guy who was going through to become an engineer At that time, it was a 3 month course with a month back in your home terminal. This guy failed every test that was given and wasn't sent home till the very end. They gave him every chance. One thing he couldn't understand why a derail must be kept in derailing position regardless
Going through training now. End of week 1. It’s not as hard as most people think. Don’t overthink things and study. As long as you are doing your e-learning and topic reviews, you will be fine. Hang test is not all that difficult and I am a skinny guy. Don’t overthink it. They will talk to you while you do it to distract you from overthinking. Signals can be tough, but I have NW, so it’s not too bad. Everyone is here to help you succeed. Also, as of right now all 3 weeks are day shift, but that will probably change again.
Brooo my app got accepted and it wasn’t any interview slot available I’m so hurt idk what to do I was banking and so eager bout it now my momentum gone
Just hang in there. They are sending classes through pretty much nonstop. Just make sure you sign up for a slot right when you get that email.
I head down on the 29th for my training, excited to get started. That’s cool to hear about the day shift, won’t hold them to it but would definitely be nice for my class too!
i'm not sure if they are bringing back nights. Good luck and study a lot. youll make it through
How long did it take to get a response from nfs after the physical exam?
If you fail the test or they send you home do they still give you a reimbursement on the mileage
Is there an age cut off? Do they keep records of past failed test taking (years ago)? What does your resume has to say to even be looked at even though I am retired military. I've been trying and trying.
If you were denied employment from a class 1 railroad, count your blessings and move on. It is a miserable existence that will suck every ounce of life from your soul. Don't listen to any propaganda they have to offer.
@@truss6282 can you tell me more about your experience?
How hard is to get moved to a different terminal?
I went to school at the readi center in atl for csx in 2007 is ns the same
What is a better way on getting a job onto the railroad going to a conductor training school or just going straight to the railroad
Live Life straight to the railroad, they will train you.
Great video!! Does NS provide you with a laptop or do you have to bring your own?
They provide you with one but you can only use it on campus.
Any tips you can give about the signals? How did you go about knowing the signals?
Signals are difficult for some, especially if you don't bring a lot of RR knowledge with you. Study, study, study. You can't lean on just the theory or the sequences you expect, you have to just memorize them. If you put in the time, you should eventually get them to click, just keep at it.
So here's my question bro, I'm a bodybuilder so for me all I'm thinking about is after we leave training class that extra time is out free time? Nevermind lol you just answered it.
Do you share the rooms with
other's or another? 🤔
I definitely need to know this. Unfortunately for me, NS has a conductor trainee position in NC but I live in GA.. Wonder how that might play out.. if i can transfer to GA?
You can hire out there then move there
You’d be out there a few years, but you could eventually transfer back.
Have a preliminary interview with CSX tomorrow for a freight conductor position. Any tips?
did you get the job?
What is the hang test?
Does everyone go to Georgia for training?
Just got my start date for April 4th. anybody else coming to that class?
Hi Anthony, I did interviews with Norfolk south as well as NJ Transit for conductor positions.
Which is a better choice in your opinion if I get called by both?
Could you also say why you no longer work with NS? Is it true about them laying off staff frequently? Thanks for the help.
There should be no hesitation to go transit!!! I cant stress that enough
Hint: commuter trains run on published schedules.
Nj Transit if you can handle a very high cost of living area
GO TO NJ TRANSIT
Hey Anthony! Thanks for the video. I’m awaiting my start date to head to Georgia for training. I was curious, do they fly you down to the training center? I’ll be hiring out of Conway Yard Near Pittsburgh. Was supposed to start on the 6th of December but with closing my business I had to wait until the next class in January.
Did you start yet
@@travisriddick3809 I did. I’ve been uploading on TikTok. Just haven’t had a minute to move the vids over here. I finished up my two weeks of training in McDonough and started my OJT at my home terminal today. I’ve been trying to update after my shift each day and answer questions in between too.
That's great ok question so am I paying to stay in a hotel for 2 weeks out my pocket or is it paid for already
@@KurtisCharlton What's your tiktok? I currently have a good paying job that requires me to be away from home for weeks or months at a time with heavy manual labor but looking for a change. Just received a email asking for a virtual interview start date.
What kind of money were/are you making. Hotels covered? Mileage?
@@someguy6978 Same Name on TikTok
I want to come there for schooling. Does that school in GA have specific start time for classes or no. Im struggling a bit to find information on this. I would love if you could help me out to get me heading in the right direction please and thank you. Great videos also you're very informative.
I had the same problem when I was getting ready to start. There isn’t a ton of info out there so when I started training I documented all of it on TikTok so people can see what it’s like. I’ve been answering questions over there as well.
@@KurtisCharlton what's your tiktok? :)
What is a hang test
If you live close to where the facility that your training is in... is it required that you stay or can you go home after training is over?
I recommend you stay at the motel so you can study free of distractions
All I can say is good luck to anyone who hires out on the NS. I was hired in 2010 and asked to resign 3 months later. They are out to get you fired from the day you begin. Happily employed on a regional short line now. They value their employees.
I AGREE
These trainmasters have to justify their jobs. They must make x number of efficiency tests. otherwise, their managers are their asses .One day, this yard crew at Bisson yard had two of them watching every more they made. When Conrail was broken up back in 90s The NS was losing money. They had no money to buy welding rods but they still had money to buy eggs to put between switch points to see if you looked before throwing the switch
Awesome is this similar for csx? I was just hired as a freight conductor. Thank you for you knowledge.
Subscribe to my channel if you don’t mind
What are the rules of the hang test? At the CN, you had to hang for three minutes with both hands.
dhornjr1 for us it was hang with one hand while waiving a lantern for 1:20. Then regrip switching arms and hanging again with one hand and swinging the lantern for another 1:20. Then regrip and dismount. Could not regrip during that 1:20 or shift your feet you would have to start over. We also had the hang test in the middle of a downpour.
not true, at CN we did for 5 minutes and just had to be 3 point contact
Hang test is pointless. Nothing like the real on the job riding a car.
@@absoluteblockproduction2039 so the hang test is on a car I take it? Foot on the rung and hang out holding a lantern?
How heavy is the lantern in the hang test? I'm 5'8 130..
Gabriel Poveda lantern doesn’t weigh much at all..maybe 2 lbs? Don’t sweat the hang test, it’s more about technique and having a high grip vs strength.
Who pay for the hotel and do I have to drive where the training is? I just want to know where is the training at!? And the hang test is that hard? Are their any female are conductor at Norfolk just curious and is there a test you take after your training? I’m asking this because I want to know if incase I want to do this or not! And also is the pay good while your on training? No offense to anyone here about asking I just want to know that’s all thank you!
What is the ''hang test" everyone worries about so much???
You hang from a ladder with one arm and both feet. You swing a lantern with the other hand for 1:30 seconds believe. You are not allowed to move your grip hand during the test. Completely not like the real job🤣
I am starting in a few days. I'm concerned about the written tests. I've never been a good test taker and have failed many.
How’d it go?
Did you get paid? While going to school
Heading down there this week. How do they do weekends? Or are you free
Weekends are your own time to do whatever you want, choose your time wisely.
question about pay. I was told that as a CT you start at 25/hr or 200/day (whichever is highest). after you mark up you get "80%". 80% of what? it wasn't very clear on what that meant. what would the hourly rate be?
I was wondering the same thing, did you get any answers from anybody or any other resources?
@@d675e88 nothing. They told me they would start me in january/February so I went back to the oilfield. Pay isn't better so no real reason to wait around on them.
What is the difference between HB Conductor and just Conductor? I have seen both positions posted.
“HB” is for Harrisburg Pa.
Thank you Anthony, but why does it say HB CONDUCTOR -JERSEY CITY (CROXTON)
Jersey City , New Jersey , United States ? That is what the vacancy stated.
While the other one says the same thing except the HB part .
@@cookingwiththesalmons2474 that area is still part of what was the Harrisburg division or “Harrisburg east”
Ok thank you
Thanks. I've just been hired of as a Conductor for Augusta, Ga and I need to know what's to expect once I get down to McDonough, Ga
Just got hired at csx Augusta ga!
@@huntheadley8181 that's dope. They turned me down lol
Great job
Expect your life to go to compete shit within 3-5 years. That's what you can expect, honestly.
@@truss6282 I been applying for conductor positions and scrolled across your comment watching this video and wanted to know why you feel that way?
Sounds like my navy A school
So I just finished my first week they had us start at 4pm now the next 2 weeks are 7-4.
For us our second week was the “night shift”. I believe since I was there in 2019 the training has changed a handful of times.
ABP, I take it if I wanna be a diesel engine mechanic, I will be send to a different training school, or this training facility is for any level?
Did I understand you correctly in that you had 4-5 guy's on the ground and you in the cab? I'm assuming I missed something here. Does this mean that 4-5 guy's can tie-up air on a 50-100+ car train, (out of the yards), and still stay on schedule? Perhaps I mi-heard, but I'm guessing it would take some time to do so. How does that work...(checking for knuckle / air-hose damage, etc.)...and then having to hook & check the air on a Train of ANY length...(might make a cool new video of how to do this), probably wouldn't take much time.
For training at McDonough I was referring to when we were working on testing out for doing class 1 break inspections, walking the train and making sure air was tied in and checking over the equipment. We all did it at the same time. Typically it’s just the conductor on the ground that walks the cut of cars “taking the air with them” by checking angle cocks and tying up air lines as they’re walking.
Do you kinda regret leaving the railroad?
New railfan already an NS guy.
Hey anthony my name is chris and im going down in February to NS training in GA and i printed out the signals test i found online through NS and i was wondering what major tests i have to pass with 85-100 percentage
Do you still have information on the signal test?
Run, as fast as you can, NOW!
These guys just don't know, but some will find out soon enough.
Why do you recommend that ?
Is it that bad of a Job ? 🤔
Terrible advice bro
@@godsandmonstars
Hmmm 🤔
Elaborate
Is the test hard to take ?
Guessing you passed and are a conductor now. In teresting video.
Hey, I'm getting ready to start training in 2 weeks at ns. Are there any training guides that I could use to study before I get there? Thank you in advance either way! Hope all is well.
How long did it take you to go from awaiting start date to being called for training
@@erics5496 takes about 2 months
what kind of drug test did you do?
2 weeks for me@@erics5496
hair@@tyreseking671
I just got an offer of employment from NS but it’s been a month and half and my application still says awaiting start date
Did you start?
Did you go to the school in March 2020? I was under the impression they shut down the training center lol
Guerro Peuto yeah we went down feb 24th and they finished our class up then shut down briefly after.
Oh nice, I got furloughed 2 days before marking up lol I’m suprised they hired more people with so many CTs furloughed right now. Good for you though lol
Great video!!! What is score have to pass the test ? before they cut u?
Jeffrey Rupchak 80% is required passing on all tests minus the signal exam which is now a 97%. Your allowed one retake test on all exams except for the hazmat exam, which that one is open book for the most part..shouldn’t fail that one.
@@absoluteblockproduction2039 signals use to be 100% 3 years ago. Did they change it to 97?
Yeah, there is zero amount of error that is acceptable for signals. If you get just one wrong in the real world it can very likely kill people. Anybody who thinks that there should be anything less than 100% accepted needs to be in a less critical line of work.
straight to furlough