Janise Jennings
Chicago,IL
Summary
Senior rail professional with 11 years of experience at Metra, including over 5 years supporting Positive Train Control (PTC) systems and onboard locomotive technologies. Experienced in system troubleshooting, root cause analysis, regulatory compliance, software and hardware implementation, technical documentation, and fleet reliability. Proven ability to support cross-functional teams, mentor employees, and improve operational processes through procedure development and system analysis.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Car Inspector – PTC
Metra
Chicago, IL
06.2024 - Current
- Lead inspector responsible for troubleshooting, testing, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of onboard PTC systems on locomotives and cab cars.
- Perform Tier 2 analysis and root cause investigations of PTC system events, failures, and operational issues.
- Monitor, analyze, and document system faults using vendor diagnostic applications and Service Max ticketing systems.
- Support onboard software and hardware upgrades while ensuring compliance with FRA regulations and interoperability requirements.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Mechanical, Transportation, and vendor personnel to resolve technical issues and improve system performance.
- Develop and maintain technical procedures and documentation, including creation of the PTC Locker Procedure.
- Assist with employee mentoring, technical training, and knowledge transfer initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with FRA 49 CFR Parts 236 and 238 and applicable railroad operating requirements.
Electrician
Metra
Chicago, IL
02.2015 - 06.2024
- Installed, assessed, maintained, and repaired onboard PTC equipment and associated communications systems on locomotives and passenger railcars.
- Performed troubleshooting of onboard computers, communications equipment, radios, antennas, wiring systems, and electrical components.
- Supported software, hardware, and system upgrades to maintain fleet reliability and FRA compliance.
- Conducted diagnostic testing, inspections, and root cause analysis of equipment failures and service interruptions.
- Worked with cross-functional teams to restore equipment to service while minimizing operational impacts.
- Supported in-house modification programs including lighting, camera, HVAC, and onboard electrical systems.
Human Resources Specialist
United States Army
Fort Sheridan, IL
07.2004 - 01.2013
- Managed personnel accountability, records management, operational reporting, and organizational readiness activities.
- Coordinated information tracking, documentation, and administrative support functions across multiple units.
- Cross-trained and served as Military Police (31B).
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Information Technology
Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana
Crown Point, IN12-2027
Skills
- Positive Train Control (PTC) Systems
- Root Cause Analysis
- Tier 2 Troubleshooting
- FRA 49 CFR Parts 236 & 238
- PTC Interoperability Requirements
- Onboard Locomotive Systems
- Radios, Antennas, and Communications Equipment
- Networked Train Control Systems
- Software and Hardware Upgrades
- Diagnostic Testing and Failure Analysis
- Service Max
- Microsoft 365
- Technical Documentation
- Fleet Reliability and Maintenance
- Employee Training and Mentoring
Certification
- Metra Apprenticeship Program - Completed multi-shop apprenticeship; obtained IBEW Journeyman Electrician Card
- U.S. Army Training - Primary MOS: 42A Human Resource Specialist - Secondary MOS: 31B Military Police
- Certifications
- Positive Train Control (PTC) Certified
- FRA 49 CFR Parts 236 & 238 Certified
- Journeyman Electrician – Metra Apprenticeship Program
- HVAC Certified
- CPR Certified
- Valid Driver’s License
- Lean Six Sigma White Belt
Timeline
Senior Car Inspector – PTC
Metra
06.2024 - Current
Electrician
Metra
02.2015 - 06.2024
Human Resources Specialist
United States Army
07.2004 - 01.2013
Associate of Applied Science - Information Technology
Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana