The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently awarded the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) a $5.625 million Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant to expand and enhance work force development training at the Short Line Training Center.
The organization will provide a 25 percent match for a total project value of $7.5 million.
The Short Line Training Center provides short line railroads and contractors with industry specific safety, compliance, and regulatory training via in-person instructor-led seminars and online computer-based courses.
The grant will fund a minimum of 24 industry-specific instructor-led and computer-based training programs, up to 48 in-person instructor-led training seminars, and enables the acquisition and implementation of technology to enhance course delivery, improve learners’ experience and maximize content retention.
“Training delivered via the online LMS (learning management system) platform allows employees who cannot be spared for a three or four day in-person seminar the opportunity to
gain knowledge, acquire skills, and improve the safety, compliance and efficiency of their
railroads,” Chuck Baker, ASLRRA president, said.
ASLRRA is a non-profit trade association representing 603 short line and regional railroads and railroad supply company members in legislative and regulatory matters. In the United States, short lines operate approximately one third of the national railroad network.