High School
A high school diploma is usually necessary to be hired. Take any shop classes available, as well as courses in mechanics, electronics and computer science.
Postsecondary Training
Vacancies for positions as locomotive engineers are usually filled from within by workers who have experience in other aspects of railroad operation, such as brake operators or conductors. Most railroads require that their engineers be at least 21 years old. Federal law requires that beginning engineers undergo a six-month training program, which includes classroom, on-the-job, and simulator work. Major railroads generally have their own training schools and smaller railroads usually send their engineers to these schools as well. After completing the training, prospective engineers must pass a hearing and visual acuity test, a skills performance test, a safety conduct background check, and a railroad operation knowledge test before receiving a license to work as an engineer.
Certification
A few colleges and organizations offer certificates in railroad operations. For example, the National Academy of Railroad Sciences and Johnson County Community College offer certificates in locomotive-electrical, locomotive-mechanical, railroad operations, and other railroad-related areas.