Before coming to Metro Transit, Director of Rail Systems Maintenance Carlos Canchola spent 25 years in freight rail. Here, he’s found more professional opportunities, a better work-life balance, and a chance to make a difference in the community he calls home.
Carlos shared his story to motivate others open to a similar kind of career change.
🚉 How did you begin your career with Metro Transit?
I started at BNSF as an apprentice trailer mechanic. Over 25 years in freight railroad service, I worked as a carman and held several management positions, moving to different car and locomotive shops around the country. I came here in 2019 as manager of rail quality assurance and training and after a temporary assignment in vehicle maintenance became the director of rail systems maintenance when my predecessor retired.
🚉 What advice would you give people thinking about switching from heavy rail to light rail?
Talk with someone here about the benefits and opportunities provided by Metro Transit. To prepare for the Green Line Extension’s 2027 opening, we are actively hiring about 50 people in signals, communications, track, and traction power. Our positions for track maintainers, signal maintainers, and communications techs would be almost the exact same roles as those positions in freight rail.
🚉 Why did you make the switch?
The opportunities, benefits, ability to settle down in one location, and job security were all attractive to me. There is a real benefit to being home every night and having a good work-life balance. My goal has always been to make a difference and help other people, and having the chance to mentor people and serve the community has been another great benefit of coming here.
🚉 What advice do you have for others who want to take on more or different responsibilities?
Be comfortable being uncomfortable. Sometimes you have to take a leap. I’ve taken on several roles that were lateral positions that allowed me to gain experience and see other points of view. The biggest risk I took was leaving the railroad and starting a new career, and it’s really paid off for me.
With service on the extended METRO Green Line beginning in 2027, Metro Transit is filling about a number of open rail maintenance positions. Learn more and apply at metrotransit.org/rail-careers.