Christopher Norgaard
Winslow
Summary
Professional transportation expert prepared to handle responsibilities of operating and maintaining locomotives. Known for ensuring safe and efficient train operations and resolving mechanical issues promptly. Committed to team collaboration and adapting to changing operational needs with reliability and flexibility. Skilled in safety protocols, mechanical troubleshooting, and effective communication.
Self-motivated Locomotive Engineer offering 13-year background interpreting train orders, monitoring gauges and meters and diagnosing minor breakdowns. Analytical and determined professional with proven communication and troubleshooting skills. Expertise in locomotive inspection and train assembly and disassembly. Certified in Locomotive Engineering with thorough knowledge of FRA Compliance.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Locomotive Engineer
BNSF Railroad
01.2022 - 11.2025
- Operated locomotives efficiently, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and operational guidelines.
- Conducted thorough inspections of equipment, identifying issues and coordinating repairs to maintain optimal performance.
- Collaborated with dispatchers to optimize train schedules and enhance service reliability across routes.
- Monitored track conditions and responded promptly to signals, ensuring safe and timely transit operations.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced delays during loading/unloading operations at various terminals.
- Led incident investigations, analyzing data to develop strategies for mitigating future risks in locomotive operations.
- Coordinated with maintenance teams to schedule routine inspections, enhancing locomotive reliability and reducing downtime.
- Coordinated with yardmasters to ensure the efficient movement of trains within rail yards, optimizing space utilization and minimizing delays.
- Examined locomotives to verify adequate fuel, sand, water and other supplies before each run.
- Reduced fuel consumption with strategic train handling techniques, resulting in significant cost savings.
- Assisted in training new Locomotive Engineers, sharing knowledge and best practices for optimal job performance.
- Climbed on and off train cars to set or release hand brakes, couple and uncouple air hoses between rail cars and remove and replace broken knuckles.
- Strengthened communication between crew members through regular briefings and debriefings, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Skillfully operated multiple types of locomotives across diverse terrains, displaying adaptability and flexibility in challenging situations.
- Monitored gauges and meters to measure speed, amperage, battery charge and air pressure in brake lines and main reservoirs.
- Successfully navigated complex rail networks using detailed maps, GPS technology, and keen observation skills while operating trains in various weather conditions.
- Improved rail safety by conducting thorough pre-trip inspections and adhering to industry regulations.
- Collaborated with track maintenance teams to identify potential hazards or areas requiring repairs before incidents occurred.
- Inspected locomotives for operational readiness by making FRA and company-required checks and tests.
Railroad Conductor
BNSF Railroad
10.2013 - 01.2022
- Operated locomotives and coordinated train movements to ensure timely service and safety compliance.
- Monitored track conditions and communicated with dispatch to address potential hazards effectively.
- Conducted pre-trip inspections of trains to verify operational readiness and adherence to safety standards.
- Trained new conductors on operational procedures, safety protocols, and emergency response techniques.
- Led safety briefings for crew members, fostering a culture of vigilance and accountability within team operations.
Education
Engineering Certification - Locomotive Engineering Program
Johnsonville Community College
Overland Park, KS01-2022
EMT Certification - EMT
Northland Pioneer College
Winslow, AZ10-2012
Conductor Certification - NARS National Academy of Railroad Science
Johnsonville Community College
Overland Park, KS01-2007
Skills
- Locomotive operation
- Safety compliance
- Equipment inspection
- Incident investigation
- Emergency response training
- Team leadership
- Collaboration with dispatchers
- Safety rules and regulations
- Railroad signaling understanding
- Yard operations
- Federal regulations compliance
- Locomotive troubleshooting
Timeline
Locomotive Engineer
BNSF Railroad
01.2022 - 11.2025
Railroad Conductor
BNSF Railroad
10.2013 - 01.2022
Engineering Certification - Locomotive Engineering Program
Johnsonville Community College
EMT Certification - EMT
Northland Pioneer College
Conductor Certification - NARS National Academy of Railroad Science
Johnsonville Community College