Hunter Mertes
Cape Coral,FL
Summary
Dynamic Locomotive Engineer and business owner with a proven track record at CPKC, showcasing expertise in train operation and fuel efficiency optimization. Leveraged problem-solving abilities and effective communication to enhance safety and operational efficiency, achieving significant cost savings. Committed to continuous learning and excellence in customer service, driving success and innovation in the rail and water systems industries.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Locomotive Engineer/Conductor
CPKC Formerly Canadian Pacific Railway
03.2003 - Current
- 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.
- Reduced fuel consumption with strategic train handling techniques, resulting in significant cost savings.
- Strengthened communication between crew members through regular briefings and debriefings, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Skillfully operated multiple types of locomotives across diverse terrains, displaying adaptability and flexibility in challenging situations.
- Conferred with conductors and traffic control center personnel via radio phones to issue and receive information concerning stops, delays and oncoming trains.
- Demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement by participating in company-wide safety initiatives and attending regular training sessions.
- Quickly resolved technical issues related to locomotives'' mechanical systems, reducing potential delays or malfunctions during trips.
- Improved rail safety by conducting thorough pre-trip inspections and adhering to industry regulations.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by maintaining locomotive equipment and troubleshooting issues as they arose.
Owner/Operator
Owatonna Water Systems Inc/RainSoft
07.1991 - 06.2001
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
- Managed daily operations for optimal efficiency, streamlining processes to reduce costs.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Established strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring consistent delivery of goods and services at competitive prices.
- Developed and implemented successful marketing strategies, resulting in increased brand awareness and customer base.
- Developed business plan, processes and procedures to provide superior Product or Service to customers.
Education
Associate Business - Business
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MNSkills
- Safety rules and regulations
- Train Control Systems
- Railroad Signaling Understanding
- Two-way communication device use
- Continuous learning mindset
- Train Operation Expertise
- Train control apparatus tests
- Federal regulations compliance
- Brake control operation
- Fuel Efficiency Optimization
- Locomotive Troubleshooting
- Safety Procedures
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Organizational Skills
- Effective Communication
Additional Information
I sit on the board of directors of PKM Resources LLC since 2014. A small but thriving gas and oil company
Timeline
Locomotive Engineer/Conductor
CPKC Formerly Canadian Pacific Railway
03.2003 - Current
Owner/Operator
Owatonna Water Systems Inc/RainSoft
07.1991 - 06.2001
Associate Business - Business
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities