“Journey Through Tracks: Unveiling the Lives and Insights of Amtrak Crew Members”

A railroading way of life: An ethnographic investigation of perceptions and individual experiences of Amtrak crew personnel

Funding disclosure: 

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Authors: 

Joseph M Lane  University of Minnesota Duluth

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Abstract

Globally, inter-city passenger rail is frequently regarded as a public indicator showcasing a nation’s economic, political, social, and even environmental achievements. Currently, in the United States, personal vehicles still reign as the primary mode of passenger transport; nevertheless, passenger rail is becoming increasingly vital to the comprehensive transportation framework. Amtrak stands as the largest provider of intercity passenger rail services in the United States. Crew members bear the responsibility for the secure and efficient management of passenger trains. There is a scarcity of knowledge concerning these crew individuals. Data pertaining to perceptions and individual experiences from on-duty, voluntary Amtrak crew were gathered through semi-structured in-depth interviews, surveys, and researcher observations. Findings elucidate prevalent themes associated with career advantages, disadvantages, influences on quality of life, and repercussions on personal lives, as reported by the Amtrak crew members.