Day in the life of working as a Train Driver
To help grasp a better understanding of what a day in the life of a Train Driver at CrossCountry looks like, Karen kindly spoke about her roles at CrossCountry and how she has transitioned to become a train driver.
Before joining the railway, what were you doing?
"Before joining the railway industry I worked in retail and also attended university in Newcastle. This meant I frequently used CrossCountry services where I saw the Retail Service Managers working on-board. I loved the idea of combining my passion for travelling and my retail background, so when I saw a position advertised for Retail Service Manager in Leeds I applied and was successful in gaining a position."
What has been your career so far with CrossCountry?
"I joined CrossCountry as an RSM at Leeds in 2009 and was in the role for a total of 4 years, 2 of which I was the Catering Coach helping new starters and supporting existing caterers that needed support on-board. Then in 2013, I successfully gained a promotion to a Train Manager position at Leeds. I was in this role until I began a Train Driver Apprenticeship at CrossCountry."
Why did you want to be a Train Driver?
"As a Train Manager, you work very closely with Train Drivers and learn a lot about their role. I thought it looked very interesting. I was also fortunate to have a go on a simulators at CrossCountry's Driver Training Centre in Derby, this inspired to me apply for the position when I saw a vacancy."
What do you enjoy about being a Train Driver?
"As much as I like working with my colleagues on-board, I'm also comfortable working on my own. I like the responsibility the role brings and the job also offers me the chance to continuously develop and keep on learning.
Each day is different as a Driver, I'm lucky to work with different people, have a different view from the cab window but also face different challenges depending on the weather, track conditions etc."
What is it like being a female Train Driver?
"Its great, I have been fully supported by everyone and all of my colleagues work collaboratively creating a good team ethic. I also have a great manager and he is always there when I need him which is so important for supporting me whenever I need it."
What would you say to any females who are thinking about becoming a Train Driver?
"Go for it! If it's something you want then apply for it. Becoming a Train Driver has changed my life and I thoroughly enjoy."
Jane's day in the life as a Train Driver for CrossCountry
Feel inspired to become a Train Driver by watching Jane take us through her day working for CrossCountry.
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