8 Years as a Conductor/Engineer and I Can't Recommend It Anymore

Thinking about a career in the railroad industry? For the first time, I am telling you to be cautious before signing that offer letter. 📺 ABOUT THIS VIDEO In this video, I provide an honest, unfiltered look at the current state of the railroad industry and why I no longer recommend it as a long-term career path. With eight years of experience as both a conductor and engineer, I have witnessed firsthand how Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR), aggressive cost-cutting, and poorly vetted automation are negatively impacting the workforce and public safety. This video is essential viewing for anyone considering a job in railroading or those interested in understanding the hidden dangers of modern freight operations. We dive deep into the reality of job instability, the overloading of dispatch operators, and the dismantling of regulatory safety standards that have historically protected workers. From the struggles in the field to the corporate boardroom decisions that prioritize shareholder profits over infrastructure health, I break down the systemic issues behind the current ‘race to the bottom.’ If you are looking for long-term career stability in the transportation sector, you need to understand the realities hidden behind the corporate marketing before you commit your future to the tracks. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS • Why current PSR practices and cost-cutting measures are creating a volatile environment for new hires. • The dangers of unvetted automation and how crews are currently preventing major rail system disasters. • Understanding that modern railroad career paths lack the long-term retirement and job stability promised in the past. • The impact of reduced regulatory oversight and why public safety is increasingly at risk due to industry deregulation. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Should you work for the railroad in 2026? 1:30 - Why my perspective on railroading has changed 2:45 - The risks of unvetted AI and automation systems 4:15 - PSR and the truth about job cuts and efficiency 6:30 - Dispatcher burnout and operational chaos 8:20 - Regulatory failure and the lack of corporate accountability 10:05 - The future of the railroad industry 12:15 - Final advice for new and current rail workers 💬 NOTABLE QUOTES I don't think you should be coming into the railroad right now, especially if you're coming in with the mentality of this being your last job. - John #RailroadCareers #RailIndustry #FreightRail #RailSafety #PSR All our links in one place 👉 https://link.me/txfire 💯 Rails, Tails, and Trails - All Rights Reserved 💯 This channel for entertainment purposes only. We simply share our thoughts, opinions, and experiences about the railroad and railroad industry and full time rv life. We encourage everyone to do their own research and make your own decisions. Any paid endorsements will be clearly stated. I am an employee of BNSF Railway Company. The thoughts and opinions expressed are mine and do not necessarily represent the views of BNSF. I am not an official representative for the company nor do I speak on their behalf.