MBCR Graduates 22 from Assistant Conductor Program

Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad Company (MBCR) today announced that 22 men and women have completed their training as an assistant conductor, where they will serve as second-in-command to the conductor while working on commuter rail trains in Eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

The graduates join the ranks of a select group that works directly with customers and transportation managers to provide safe, reliable service. The new assistant conductors were formally inducted on March 15 during a ceremony at MBCR’s training facility in Somerville, Mass.

MBCR General Manager Hugh J. Kiley, Jr. was a featured speaker at the event. He focused on the importance of safety and customer service on the commuter rail.

Assistant Conductors play an essential role in commuter rail operations by staffing entrances and exits to ensure customer safety, working with customers to ensure their well-being, and checking trains for any onboard issues. They also collect revenue, tickets and check passes.

All assistant conductors are required to complete an extensive training program, including classroom and field experience with safety, federal rules and regulations, revenue collection and customer interaction.

The March graduates also were trained during the most recent buy-before-you-board initiative to identify fraudulent passes using blacklight technology and spot potential fare evasion.