James Chacon
Crown Point,IN
Summary
Skilled Train Dispatcher with proven expertise in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of trains at Metra Railroad. Excelled in coordinating complex rail networks, leveraging computer proficiency and problem-solving abilities. Demonstrated flexibility and strong communication skills, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Train Dispatcher
Metra Railroad
Chicago, Illinois
01.2024 - Current
- Monitored the progress of trains to ensure timely operation and proper spacing between trains.
- Coordinated with other dispatchers, supervisors, engineers, and other personnel to provide safe and efficient rail service.
- Maintained communication with crew members via radio or telephone regarding their location, speed and any delays encountered.
- Verified that all signals were properly set before authorizing a train's movement through an area protected by signal protection devices.
- Analyzed traffic patterns in order to anticipate potential problems that could affect operations.
- Prepared special reports regarding operational incidents or unusual occurrences affecting service.
- Reviewed routes, daily traffic and weather conditions to adjust plans, meeting daily requirements and service needs.
Train Dispatcher
Union Pacific Railroad
Omaha, Nebraska
08.2022 - 01.2024
- Responsible for safe and efficient movement of trains and maintenance personnel throughout the rail network, prioritizing movements to minimize delay.
- Dispatched the following types of territories, Computerized Traffic Control (CTC), Track Warrant Automatic Block Signaling (TWC-ABS), and Non-Signaled Track Warrant Control (TWC).
- Ensured train and engine employees, as well as other crafts, perform duties in a safe, efficient, and professional manner through operational monitoring and field presence.
- Maintained compliance and report alleged violations of all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations and the Federal Railroad Administration.
- Staged trains to do meets on single main track and ran Amtrak passenger trains to ensure safe passage through corridors and timely manner.
Remote Control Locomotive Operator
Belt Railway of Chicago
Bedford Park, IL
05.2005 - 08.2022
- Operate locomotive equipment using a remote control device and use of hand signals, color signals in territories including CTC, ABS, TWC, Communicated and maintained situation awareness following proper track authority using signals, Dispatcher instructions, Yardmaster, Maintenance of Way foreman instructions, Track Warrants, General Track Bulletins, and Yard Limits.
- Mentored student conductors, provided leadership and proper training
- Interpreted and stayed up to date with all FRA safety rules, standards, policies and procedures including: wearing PPE, maintaining awareness of environment and promptly adjusting to adverse changes.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Operations Management
Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, NH06-2028
Communications
South Suburban College of Cook County
South Holland, IL05-2002
High School Diploma -
Mount Carmel High School
Chicago, IL06-2000
Skills
- Computer Proficiency
- Flexibility
- Highly Organized
- Written & Verbal Communication
- Problem Solving
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Certification
- Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Conductor Certification
- Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Remote Control Locomotive Operator Certification
Timeline
Train Dispatcher
Metra Railroad
01.2024 - Current
Train Dispatcher
Union Pacific Railroad
08.2022 - 01.2024
Remote Control Locomotive Operator
Belt Railway of Chicago
05.2005 - 08.2022
Communications
South Suburban College of Cook County
Bachelor of Science - Operations Management
Southern New Hampshire University
High School Diploma -
Mount Carmel High School