Amtrak Will Pilot A New Apprenticeship Program

With the introduction of this new program, Amtrak will be creating a reliable path to learn on the job and grow skills for the railroad industry. With an influx of new hires and existing employees with diverse backgrounds, program participants will begin with some related technical instruction in a classroom setting before moving to on-the-job training in a specific trade.

With funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Amtrak has the opportunity to effectively invest in its employees, helping them forge lasting careers. Each apprentice will be required to take core courses that cover safety, environmental awareness, personal protective equipment, and others. They then will meet their mentors and move into craft-specific training, based on Amtrak's current curriculum.

“Apprenticeship and effective training programs, just like this one, are proven ways to grow workforces, attract and retain the right talent, and help working people expand their skillsets. We are working with Congress to ensure Amtrak and the FRA have the necessary funding to develop more training like this one that provides well-paid, meaningful jobs for generations to come. We are proud to support Amtrak in this endeavor.”

John Feltz, Transport Workers Union Rail Division

Since the start of this year, Amtrak has reported that it has brought on more than 1,500 new employees this year, and is currently offering hiring bonuses and relocation packages in an attempt to fill critical positions. Earlier this year, the company was named to Forbes magazine’s America’s Best Employers 2022” list of large companies.

Amtrak continues to stay committed to creating a work an environment where diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives thrive. The mission of this program is for Amtrak to provide career growth and satisfaction through a wide range of professional and personal opportunities that help enable a work, and life balance while empowering employees to reach their full potential.