Charles Ritchey
Tuscola,IL
Summary
Resourceful Locomotive Mechanic known for high productivity and efficient task completion. Possess specialized skills in diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and electrical system repairs. Excel at problem-solving, time management, and teamwork, ensuring top performance in fast-paced environments.
Overview
3
3
years of post-secondary education
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Locomotive Mechanic
Norfolk Southern
Decatur, IL
08.2023 - Current
- Inspected locomotives for mechanical issues and safety compliance.
- Repaired and replaced faulty components on various locomotive systems to include; traction motors, air compressors, turbos, power asemblies (ge and emd), can perform wheel true operations as well.
- Conducted preventative maintenance to ensure optimal locomotive performance.
- Can work in the yard and at various locations throughout our territory as needed.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot mechanical problems effectively.
- Maintained accurate records of repairs and maintenance performed on locomotives.
- Followed company standards for safety and environmental regulations during repairs.
- Replaced defective parts or components with new or reconditioned parts.
- Performed troubleshooting and maintenance on locomotive components, including brakes, lights, air systems and electrical systems.
- Diagnosed mechanical problems through visual inspections and diagnostic tests.
- Inspected locomotives for defects in mechanical parts, such as wheels, axles, bearings and couplings.
- Assembled locomotive components according to specifications.
- Operated hoists to lift heavy objects during repairs.
- Cleaned and lubricated various components and mechanisms of locomotives.
- Disassembled faulty assemblies for repair or replacement of parts.
- Conducted periodic tests of the safety systems of locomotives.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations when performing repairs.
- Welded broken or cracked metal parts using arc welding equipment.
- Adjusted valves to ensure efficient operation of engines.
- Assessed the condition of brakes, wheel sets, traction motors and other component parts.
- Removed old oil, replaced filters, and added correct amounts of fluids.
- Completed standard inspections to assess wear and damage to vehicles.
Shop Mechanic
Midwest Transport Inc.
Greenup, Illinois
05.2012 - 08.2023
- Installed new parts in accordance with manufacturer's instructions or engineering drawings.
- Tested drivetrain components including transmissions and clutches to determine proper functioning.
- Diagnosed engine performance issues using computerized diagnostic testing equipment.
- Welded steel components together to create custom structures or repair existing ones.
- Replaced faulty fuel injectors, spark plugs and other engine parts as needed.
- Maintained records of all work performed on each vehicle in order to track repair history.
- Performed preventative maintenance services on vehicles such as oil changes, brake repairs, tune-ups, fluid flushes and coolant replacements.
- Cleaned up workshop areas after completion of jobs to ensure a safe working environment.
- Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to safety protocols and regulations.
- Conducted safety inspections of all vehicles prior to releasing them back into service.
- Adjusted brakes and replaced brake pads or shoes when necessary.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Auto/Diesel Technology
Lincoln College of Technology
Nashville, TN 01.2003 - 01.2004
Associate of Applied Science - Auto/Diesel Technology
Lakeland College
Mattoon, IL 08.2000 - 05.2002
Neoga Community High School
Neoga, ILSkills
- Mechanical troubleshooting
- Locomotive repair
- Preventative maintenance
- Diagnostic testing
- Vehicle inspection
- Safety compliance
- Record maintenance
- Equipment operation
- Team collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication
- Power assembly replacement
- Brake system repair
- Exhaust system repair
- Diagnostic skills
- Drive train repair
- Locomotive inspection
- Air compressor repair
- Wheel truing techniques
- Valve adjustment
- Turbocharger servicing
- Mechanical aptitude
- Coupler maintenance
- Fuel system maintenance
- Heavy equipment operation
- Electrical troubleshooting
- Transmissions
- Efficiency and Punctuality
- Oil service
- Inspect vehicles
- Hand and power tool operation
- Engine diagnostic software
- Time management abilities
- Wire stripping
- Forklift operation
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Vehicle Safety Standards
- Repair work orders
Timeline
Locomotive Mechanic
Norfolk Southern
08.2023 - Current
Shop Mechanic
Midwest Transport Inc.
05.2012 - 08.2023
Associate of Applied Science - Auto/Diesel Technology
Lincoln College of Technology
01.2003 - 01.2004
Associate of Applied Science - Auto/Diesel Technology
Lakeland College
08.2000 - 05.2002
Neoga Community High School