4 Things You Should Know About Railroad Dispatchers

How do railroad operations run smoothly without any complications? Who gives orders to the trains? Do you ever think about these questions? If yes, then you should read this column for all your answers.

We know the railroad is popular for the transportation of both freight and passengers. But, very few people know about the unsung heroes responsible for the safe movement of the train.

Railroad employees who work hard to ensure the safety of trains and crews are known as railroad dispatchers. Let’s dive deep to know more about dispatches.

• Railroad dispatchers are an integral part of the railroad since the mid-19th century. Some of the major responsibilities of a railroad dispatcher include – keep track of train movement, track usage, handling emergencies, and monitoring factors that affect the train movement. They make sure no train gets delayed.

• A person who is interested in making a career as a train dispatcher should pursue the best freight dispatcher training program. In the training program, dispatchers thoroughly learn every aspect of dispatching. They go through classroom learning as well as practical learning on the tracks. Apart from this, they also get to learn various dispatching software.

• With time, there have been several changes in the railroad. New technology has simplified various things. But, even now, the role of dispatchers is significant in the industry. High tech technology like positive train control, a centralized traffic signal is popular among railroad professionals. But, it cannot replace the dispatchers.

• There is a centralized traffic control system that allows the dispatcher to see a segment of the track. Technology has simplified the work of dispatchers. They can see the location of the trains and check the status of the signals.

The bottom line

Dispatchers are considered the backbone of railways. They ensure the safe movement, track usage, safety of passengers and freight, and the efficiency of the railway.

There are various types of freight dispatcher training programs that usually last up to 6 months. The technical and non-technical skills of dispatchers are developed in training. One should only rely on experienced and trained dispatchers for the highest standard of services.