Career + Professional Development — Locomotive Engineer + Conductor

Locomotive Engineer + Conductor Training Program

Your Path to the Railroad Industry

Prepare to pursue a career in the railroad industry with Bucks County Community College’s Locomotive Engineer + Conductor Training Program. This 11-week program provides a strong foundation in railroad operations and prepares students to take the next step toward employment or a railroad training academy.

Through engaging, industry-focused instruction, you’ll learn about railroad operations, operating rules, safety procedures, industry regulations, signaling systems, communications, and the roles and responsibilities of railroad professionals. Whether you’re interested in passenger or freight rail, you’ll gain practical knowledge of how the industry operates and what employers expect.

Career Readiness and Industry Connections

We’ll also help you prepare for what comes next. Career preparation is built into the program through a dedicated Career Readiness Workshop, with practical guidance on resumes, interviews, navigating the railroad hiring process, and pursuing employment opportunities.

Students may also have opportunities to connect with recruiters and hiring representatives from employers such as Amtrak, NJ TRANSIT, WMATA, and freight rail companies to learn about career paths, hiring expectations, and current opportunities.

Whether you’re exploring a new career or ready to enter the railroad industry, Bucks can help you prepare for your next step.

Join Us for a Virtual Information Session

Interested in learning more? Join us for a free virtual information session and get a closer look at the Locomotive Engineer + Conductor Training Program.

We’ll cover the curriculum, program expectations, career preparation and industry connections, with time to answer your questions and help you decide if the program is right for you.

Upcoming Virtual Information Session: Saturday, January 9 at 10:00 a.m.

Advance registration is required.

Course Description

Led by an experienced railroad industry professional, this classroom-based course provides an in-depth examination of the operating principles, safety requirements, rules, regulations, and professional responsibilities that guide passenger and freight rail operations. Students develop a detailed understanding of how the railroad industry functions and the standards essential to safe and efficient rail service.

Core Curriculum

Railroad Industry Fundamentals
Railroad Operating Personnel
Railroad Operating Rules
Rail Operations and Procedures
Safety Standards and Practices
Railroad Communications
Signal Systems and Train Movement
Hours of Service Requirements
Yard and Switching Operations
Hazardous Materials Awareness
Certification and Qualification Processes
Professional and Career Expectations

Course ID	Tuition	Location	Dates	Time
XTMCO-1153-C52	$1,350	Bristol	11 Sat, Feb 13 - May 8 No class on 3/27 or 4/17	8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Financial Assistance

Scholarships are available for students who require financial assistance to help with the cost of the Locomotive Engineer & Conductor Basic Training Program, thanks to the generosity of the Justamere Foundation. Limited funds are awarded on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis.

The program is also eligible for the Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan®.

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About the Instructor

Thomas A. Philip, Ph.D., has 24 years of railroad experience in a variety of roles in both union and management. He began his railroad career as a freight conductor, working in road, local and yard settings, where he was qualified in operating and hazmat rules. Philip joined the United Transportation Union (UTU) and maintained his membership throughout his career.

After gaining foundational railroad experience, he was promoted to yardmaster, a position he held for 17 years. During that time, he earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from Drexel University and a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University. He later completed a Doctor of Philosophy degree at Capella University.

After earning his doctorate, Philip accepted a position as control center manager (train dispatcher), where he became qualified on NORAC rules. Two years later, he was promoted to senior operations planner and later to manager of long-range planning. In July 2021, he joined NJ Transit as manager of train operations.