Thomas Gohde
Bozeman,MT
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven Trainmaster with extensive experience at Montana Rail Link, excelling in safety compliance and operational efficiency. Proven critical thinking and problem-solving skills led to significant process improvements, enhancing service reliability. Adept at team building and training, fostering a culture of safety and collaboration in high-pressure environments.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Engineer/Train Conductor
BNSF Railroad
05.2017 - Current
- Conducted the movement of rail cars and train movements; signals crew members for movement of engine or train using lantern, hand and/or flag signals or radio to indicate when to start, stop, back-up or set or release air brakes.
- Observed, interpretted and relayed arm, lantern or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
- Operate track switches (visually check switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties.
- Understanding of the books of rules, timetable, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions and other written or printed material.
- Prepared required daily reports; switch lists-manually or with a computer; fill out forms including train orders
- Inspected the condition of the train and equipment in movement and stationary.
- Coupled air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains
- Operated electric, diesel-electric locomotives; interprets train orders, train signals and railroad rules and regulations to transport freight in a safe manner.
- Inspected locomotive for operational readiness by making FRA and company required checks and tests
- Recieved train consist which provides the physical make-up of train and includes weights, lengths, location of loads and empties and cars requiring special handling
- Applied knowledge of territory, including terrain, grades, curves, and grade crossings, in order to give prescribed warning signals and to otherwise operate the train in a safe manner.
- Complied with train orders, train signals, radio communications and railroad rules and regulations to operate the locomotive in an efficient and safe manner
- Observed track to detect obstructions and to anticipate operating problems as required by federal or company rules. Diagnose minor malfunctions and perform minor maintenance and servicing activities.
- Confer with conductor or traffic control personnel by radio to give or receive information and to give instructions concerning stops, delays or oncoming trains.
- Notified proper authorities and prepare reports to explain accidents, unscheduled stops or delays.
- Made logical choices and/or drew up logical conclusions.
- Judging speed/distances of objects/moving parts
- Take actions and make decisions affecting security/well being of others.
- Recalled information required for work activity.
- Understanding oral communication.
- Understanding visual displays.
- Exercising eye/hand coordination
Engineer/Conductor
Montana Rail Link
05.2017 - 01.2024
Trainmaster/Roadforeman
Montana Rail Link Inc.
11.2021 - 04.2023
- Supervised daily train operations, ensuring safety compliance and adherence to schedules.
- Coordinated crew assignments and shift changes to optimize workforce efficiency.
- Developed training programs for new employees on operational protocols and safety procedures.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced service reliability and reduced delays.
- Conducted Engineer/Conductor recertification's.
- Conducted tests on crews in compliance with FRA and company safety procedures.
- Conference calls
- Problem solved to complete tasks quickly.
- Developed a great safety environment.
Engineer/Conductor
San Joaquin Valley Railroad
05.2011 - 04.2017
Education
No Degree - Criminology
California State University, Fresno
Fresno, CAAssociate of Arts - General Studies
Fresno City College
Fresno, CA06-1998
High School Diploma -
Bozeman Senior High School
Bozeman, MT05-1996
Skills
- Critical thinking
- Project management
- Project planning
- Active listening
- Multitasking Abilities
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Team building
- Attention to detail
- Troubleshooting
- Multitasking
- Problem resolution
- Work Planning and Prioritization
Timeline
Trainmaster/Roadforeman
Montana Rail Link Inc.
11.2021 - 04.2023
Engineer/Train Conductor
BNSF Railroad
05.2017 - Current
Engineer/Conductor
Montana Rail Link
05.2017 - 01.2024
Engineer/Conductor
San Joaquin Valley Railroad
05.2011 - 04.2017
No Degree - Criminology
California State University, Fresno
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Fresno City College
High School Diploma -
Bozeman Senior High School