Light Rail Engineering Technology: Certificate
The Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) engineering faculty prepares students to gain the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to understand typical railroad rules and regulations, including changes that are a result of accidents and imposed by the Federal Railroad Administration, circuit analysis, motor controls, electronics, electricity, radio communications, maintenance, and most importantly safety.
Our program offers students the knowledge and skill sets to work in the expanding passenger and freight railroad industry. Students will learn to service, maintain, operate and manage transportation networks which are key for railroad occupations.
A Certificate in Light Rail Engineering Technology from WCCCD prepares you for work across various roles such as:
- Signal Maintainer
- Lineman
- Radio Maintainer
- Communications Technician
- Conductor
- Electrician
- Carman
- Train Dispatcher
What’s the Job Outlook for Railroad Occupations?
Employment of railroad workers is projected to decline from 2018 to 2028. Although demand for rail transportation may grow, an increase in productivity may hold employment growth in rail occupations. However, job opportunities for these occupations are expected to be favorable in the Detroit Metropolitan area as the light rail system becomes operational.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, December 11, 2019, Railroad Occupations, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-andmaterial-moving/railroad-occupations.htm
What’s Required to Complete the Light Rail Engineering Technology Program?
A certificate in light rail engineering technology from WCCCD requires 42 credits to complete.
As a light rail engineering technology student at WCCCD, you’ll take both general education courses and courses required for a light rail engineering technology major.
Some students plan to matriculate to an associate program to then transfer to a four-year college or university after earning their AAS. If that’s your goal, you might choose specific courses. Talk with your advisor about a personalized plan that meets your goals.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Light Rail Engineering Technology Certificate?
Most light rail engineering technology students take three semesters (1.5 years) to complete certificate prerequisites and required courses.
What Will I Learn as a Light Rail Engineering Technology Student?
WCCCD light rail engineering technology students will be exposed to the basic safety concerns, rules, orders, and regulations that are standard in the industry and become equipped to pass the standardized rail examinations required by each rail industry employer. Students will find employment with freight railroads, and passenger or light rail operations in railcar or track maintenance, dispatch, signaling, and many other related positions. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including liberal arts and other engineering-focused disciplines.
Recommended course sequence:
Where is WCCCD’s Light Rail Engineering Technology Certificate Offered?
The Light Rail Engineering Technology program is offered at our campuses. All three campuses also offer classes for other general education-related certificates and degrees.
As a WCCCD student, you can take courses, use facilities, and get involved at any of our six locations.
Educational Affairs Contact Information
Phone: 313-496-2600
Email: edaffairs@wcccd.edu
