Manager training programs

[sulkair]

I wanted to get ya all's take on the railroads hiring managers such as Yard Masters, MYO's, and other operating managers off the street, through manager training programs, instead of promoting Trainmen from within the ranks. I can't imagine there not being plenty of people willing to take it on. I also can't imagine a Train Master that didn't once carry a lantern himself. Any thoughts on the reasoning behind it?

 

[roee]

The reasoning behind it is because it is becoming very hard to get employee from the ranks to take management jobs. It would be much easier to bring people up through the ranks, but if not enough people from the ranks are willing to step up, what are the railroads to do?

 

[sulkair]

roee,

No, absolutely, that makes perfect sense. But I have to say, it surprises me that this is so. Care to speculate why people don't want to do it anymore?

 

[Ed Sand]

There's a bunch of reasons why a railroad might do this. As others have said, they may not be getting the number or quality of applicants up through the ranks. They may also want to change the management culture, which is easier done by bringing in outsiders. or they're looking for different skill sets in entry level management than operating experience. Depends on the railroad and what their strategic decisions are. I wouldn't say there's just one answer.