I Am new to the forum and a non railroad worker (At least at this time) I am a 45 year old guy who at present works in an auto parts plant as a forklift driver I like the job but things are looking a little dicey. I have always been interested in possible rail employment and i even bought an e-book on the subject. Not really giving much thought until recent economic events made me start to investigate options. I Live in the Heart of CSX territory and live about 40 mins away from CSX Big Four Yard but I have read some very desparaging stories abut CSX Online and I have heard that You have to pay $4000 to train for a conductor job? Is this right ? Also do you think I am a little "Long in the tooth" to get a Railroad job? Hows the RR job market now ? thanks sorry about the lenght of the post!!!

its not too late to get on, shortlines are hiring, just not now with this recession. also with as many railroaders that are laid off like me there is no guarantee that they will return to work a year down the road from now. I'm going in the navy , so there is a railroad job opening right there, and i suspect there will still be openings in the future. i track repair contractors are hiring. its bullsh*t tough work, but you make a lot of overtime. I guess you live in Avon, IN well try the Indiana Southern Railroad, Indiana Railroad, Louisville and Indiana Railroad. In Louisville, you have Paducah and Louisville R.R. and RJ Corman Railroad. These are just the shortline railroads near you.