Become aRailway Trades

Choosing a career in Railway Trades means you’ll never have a dull moment. It’s perfect for those who love working with their hands, enjoy technology, and want to have a real impact on the world. Rail Tradespeople are key players in keeping the country connected, helping people and goods move efficiently across cities and regions. Plus, with advancements in rail technology, your career will always be on the move, offering endless opportunities for growth and learning.

A Rail Tradesperson wears many hats—maintaining tracks, fixing machinery, upgrading systems, and sometimes, ensuring that all railway operations comply with safety regulations. You might find yourself repairing a train engine one day and replacing old railway ties the next. Each task you undertake plays a vital part in keeping trains punctual and safe for everyone.

From the adrenaline of working outdoors to the satisfaction of solving technical challenges, Rail Trades offers a variety of experiences that are as rewarding as they are vital. You will use a blend of hands on skills and cutting edge technology to make a tangible difference in the daily lives of commuters and travellers. Imagine being part of a team that ensures thousands of trains run smoothly every day—your future in Rail Trades could be the start of an exciting career journey!

You might be responsible for the maintenance of rolling stock, stations and other rail assets. Or required to ensure breakdowns are minimised and to fix issues in a timely and safe manner. The various roles will evolve with the advancement of technology, giving you opportunities to work in innovative and new ways. For instance, drones are becoming a big part of this work, used to survey tracks for maintenance needs.

Railway Trades isn’t just about working on the tracks; it spans a variety of industries where your skills are highly valued. Here’s where you can make a mark:

Transportation and Logistics

Ensuring that trains run on time and goods get to their destinations.

Engineering Services

Focusing on the design and construction of railway systems.

Manufacturing

Building the trains and components that keep the industry moving.

Government and Regulation

Making sure railways meet safety standards.

Education and Training

Teaching the next generation of Rail Tradespeople.

Technology and Innovation

Developing new technologies to improve railway efficiency and safety.

To track success in Railway Trades, you’ll need a mix of practical and technical skills that you can build over time. Here are some key skills that will help you succeed:

Technical Proficiency

Knowledge of rail infrastructure, signalling systems, and electrical systems.

Skills in using specialised tools and equipment for rail construction and maintenance.

Problem Solving Skills

Ability to troubleshoot and repair railway equipment and infrastructure.

Analytical skills to assess and improve rail systems’ efficiency and safety.

Attention to Detail

Precision in track alignment, signalling installation, and safety inspections.

Ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Teamwork and Communication

Working effectively with other tradespeople, engineers, and management.

Clear communication to ensure safety and efficiency in railway operations.

The right STEM subjects can set you on the right track for a career in Railway Trades. Here are some subjects that will give you a head start:

Maths

Essential for calculating measurements and understanding engineering principles.

Physics

Helps you understand forces and motion, crucial for railway dynamics.

Design & Technology

Great for gaining hands-on skills and understanding how machines work.

Geography

Useful for learning about logistics and planning routes.

Computer Science

Offers insights into the digital aspects of rail systems.

Physical Education

Keeps you fit, which is important for the physically demanding parts of the job.

You could be part of the team that builds and maintains the tracks for high speed trains, or that you help keep vintage steam railways running for historical tours! Rail Tradespeople also get to work with some of the most advanced technology in transport, like magnetic levitation trains and state-of-the-art signalling systems.

While there may not be celebrities in the Rail Trades in the traditional sense, what is interesting about railway trades, is that many people who work in a rail career, said that it was not their first career choice. Understandably, not everyone wakes up and says ‘Today, I pursue my career in the rail industry!’. In fact 84% of people in the rail industry said it was not where they thought they would end up, but even cooler, 90% of them said they would not change careers and are happy where they are.

So while a rail career might not sound like a career that people naturally roll into, it is a fulfilling and stable career with many great benefits.

A successful Rail Tradesperson not only has technical skills but also the right personality traits to tackle daily challenges with a positive attitude:

• Creative
• Conscientious
• Adaptable
• Resilient
• Team player
• Enthusiastic

Embarking on a career in Rail Trades means entering a world of endless possibilities where you can truly make a difference. Are you ready to get on board?

Starting with a University degree can really propel your career in railway trades and set you up with a strong foundation.

Bachelor of Engineering (Civil Engineering)

University of Sydney offers courses in civil engineering with a focus on transport infrastructure, including railway systems.

Monash University provides a strong program in civil engineering with specialised courses in transportation and railway engineering.

University of Queensland (UQ) includes a focus on civil infrastructure and transportation systems.

Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)

University of New South Wales (UNSW) mechanical engineering program that includes courses on the mechanics of railway systems.

University of Adelaide offers mechanical engineering with electives in transportation and railway systems.

Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering)

RMIT University provides a program focused on electrical systems, including railway electrification and signalling.

University of Western Australia (UWA) offers courses in electrical engineering with specialisations in transportation and rail systems.

When you think about studying to become a Railway Trades professional, imagine mixing different flavours of ice cream to create the perfect sundae. Just like combining flavours, you can mix different areas of study to build a unique set of skills. For instance, you might study engineering with a splash of business management to understand both the nuts and bolts and the bigger picture of railway operations. This kind of combined knowledge makes you a versatile player in the Rail Trades arena.

Or, you might decide to pair your engineering degree with environmental science. This is especially important as the world moves towards more sustainable transportation solutions. Understanding how railways impact (and can help protect) our environment makes you a valuable asset to any project aiming to reduce carbon footprints and promote eco-friendly travel.

Lastly, don’t overlook the power of technology. Combining your main study with courses in computer science or technology can prepare you to work on advanced railway systems, like those using artificial intelligence to improve safety and efficiency. By weaving together different strands of knowledge, you become the kind of well rounded candidate who stands out in the Rail Trades world.

Studying Rail Trades will equip you with a toolkit of skills and knowledge. From learning the fine details of how trains operate to understanding the infrastructure that supports them, your studies will cover everything from basic mechanics to high tech electronics. You’ll also look into project management, safety protocols, and perhaps even a bit about the history of rail transport. This mix ensures you not only know how to maintain and improve railway systems but also understand the role they play in connecting communities and bolstering economies.

Getting physical experience could really help you on your journey to becoming a Rail Trades expert. This might include summer internships with railway companies, shadowing experienced engineers, or getting involved in logistics projects. These opportunities not only enhance your resume but also give you a taste of what daily life in the Rail Trades field looks like.

For those who prefer a more hands on approach, vocational and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) programs are ideal for gaining practical skills in railway trades:

Certificate III in Rail Infrastructure

TAFE NSW – This program covers the skills needed for rail infrastructure work, including track maintenance and construction.

TAFE Queensland – Offers training in railway track laying, maintenance, and safety procedures.

Certificate IV in Electrical – Rail Signalling

TAFE SA – Focuses on the installation, maintenance, and repair of rail signalling systems.

Box Hill Institute (Victoria) – Provides specialised training in railway signalling and electrical systems.

Diploma of Engineering – Technical (Rail)

TAFE NSW – This diploma provides technical skills in rail infrastructure engineering, including track design and construction.

Swinburne University of Technology (TAFE Division) – Offers a program that combines engineering principles with practical railway applications.

Advanced Diploma of Rail Operations Management

TAFE Queensland – Designed for those looking to advance into management roles within the railway industry, covering operational planning, safety management, and logistics.

TAFE Western Australia – Focuses on operational and strategic management skills for the rail industry.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, the rail network is expanding rapidly, with projects aiming to connect more remote areas and boost the local economy. Careers here often focus on rail construction and maintenance, offering roles in both the public and private sectors. Look into the Public Transport Authority https://www.pta.wa.gov.au/careers 

Australia

Across Australia, Rail Trades professionals can find opportunities in city metros, national rail lines, and even in specialised freight services. With an ongoing emphasis on improving and expanding rail networks, the demand for skilled professionals is high. Explore the Australiasian Railway Association Careers Page https://ara.net.au/careers/ 

Rest of the World

Globally, the Rail Trades sector is booming. High speed rail projects in Europe, expanding urban metros in Asia, and innovative freight solutions in North America mean that skilled professionals can find exciting opportunities almost anywhere in the world.

Whatever path you choose, a career in Rail Trades promises not just a job, but a journey of continuous learning and adventure. So, (if you aren’t sick of all the rail and train puns) are you ready to board the train to your future?