Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Languages
Outdoor Activities
Timeline
Intern
Darren Thom

Darren Thom

Jasper,AB

Summary

Adept at enhancing operational efficiency and safety, my tenure at Canadian National Railways showcased my expertise in train operation and emergency response preparedness. Leveraging strong analytical thinking and teamwork, I significantly contributed to optimizing rail movements and improving safety protocols, embodying a proactive approach to freight handling and collaborative problem-solving. Self-motivated Locomotive Engineer offering 36-year background interpreting train orders, monitoring gauges and meters and diagnosing minor breakdowns. Analytical and determined professional with proven communication and troubleshooting skills. Expertise in locomotive inspection and train assembly and disassembly. Certified Locomotive Engineer with thorough knowledge of Railway operation

Overview

36
36
years of professional experience

Work History

Locomotive Engineer

Canadian National Railways
04.1988 - 08.2024
  • Coordinated with yardmasters to ensure the efficient movement of trains within rail yards, optimizing space utilization and minimizing delays.
  • Inspected locomotives before and after runs.
  • Operated locomotives to transport freight and other materials.
  • Examined locomotives to verify adequate fuel, sand, water and other supplies before each run.
  • Assisted in training new Locomotive Engineers, sharing knowledge and best practices for optimal job performance.
  • Strengthened communication between crew members through regular briefings and debriefings, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Climbed on and off train cars to set or release hand brakes, couple and uncouple air hoses between rail cars and remove and replace broken knuckles.
  • Conferred with conductors and traffic control center personnel via radio phones to issue and receive information concerning stops, delays and oncoming trains.
  • Checked speed and air pressure of locomotive at various points throughout route.
  • Worked with conductors and assistants to drive locomotives safely.
  • Improved rail safety by conducting thorough pre-trip inspections and adhering to industry regulations.

Vice Local Chairmain (union)

TCRC Division 898
05.2011 - 07.2024
  • Composed and transcribed well-written reports, emails, and technical documents with minimal supervision.
  • Helped record, compile, summarize and analyze data.
  • Communicated with Company officials to create a synergistic relationship with union members and Company
  • Represented members for disciplinary hearings
  • Upheld contractual obligations between members and the Company


Firefighter

Municipality of Jasper
05.2000 - 03.2016
  • Collaborated with fellow firefighters to execute efficient firefighting strategies, mitigating property damage and loss of life.
  • Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
  • Operated fire hoses, hydrants and extinguishers to eliminate fire and prevent from spreading.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a mentor to new firefighters, fostering a culture of teamwork and professionalism within the department.
  • Maintained optimal readiness for emergency situations by regularly participating in drills and training exercises.
  • Improved operational efficiency by helping maintain apparatuses, equipment, and facilities according to established standards.
  • Utilized technical expertise in operating specialized firefighting equipment such as aerial ladders, hydraulic extrication tools, and thermal imaging cameras.
  • Participated in physical fitness and training programs to maintain preparedness and stamina for fire rescues.
  • Educated the local community on fire safety practices through presentations at schools, businesses, and other public venues.
  • Assisted in wildfire suppression efforts by coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to establish containment lines and protect threatened structures.
  • Engaged in continuous professional development through advanced firefighting and rescue training courses.
  • Operated hoses, pumps, ladders and other firefighting equipment.
  • Responded to emergency calls and provided medical assistance to injured individuals.
  • Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
  • Performed maintenance on water tanks, fire hoses and other firefighting equipment.

Education

No Degree - Locmotive Engineer Training

CN Internal Training
Gimli, MB
05.1993

High School Diploma -

Jasper Junior Senior High School
Jasper, AB
06.1987

Skills

  • Safety rules and regulations
  • Train Control Systems
  • Railroad Signaling Understanding
  • Two-way communication device use
  • Train Operation Expertise
  • Freight Handling Knowledge
  • Car coupling
  • Federal regulations compliance
  • Braking System Knowledge
  • Locomotive Troubleshooting
  • Department of Transportation Regulations
  • Emergency Response Preparedness
  • Multitasking
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Professional Demeanor

Accomplishments

  • Achieved 35 year Safety Award for surpassing 35 years injury free in 2023 and retired from CN Injury free with no lost time injury for my career

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Outdoor Activities

Being from Jasper outdoor activities play a large role in my hobbies and extracurricular activities, some of the activities include mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, I also am physically active and attend the gym 4 to 6 times a week to maintain optimal health.

Timeline

Vice Local Chairmain (union)

TCRC Division 898
05.2011 - 07.2024

Firefighter

Municipality of Jasper
05.2000 - 03.2016

Locomotive Engineer

Canadian National Railways
04.1988 - 08.2024

No Degree - Locmotive Engineer Training

CN Internal Training

High School Diploma -

Jasper Junior Senior High School
Darren Thom