Action-packed work and wonderful days off!

Pia Niemi from Kouvola qualified as a conductor from VR’s training course in summer 2006. After her first year in the job Pia is really excited about her work. Working on trains with people has plenty of variety – and, best of all, it also pays quite reasonably.

“After graduating from commercial college I worked for two years at the cash desk in a store in Kouvola, and tried to find work there to match my qualifications. Fortunately I decided to apply to VR’s conductor training course in Helsinki, for I have been really happy here in Helsinki and in my work as a conductor.

In practice, apart from selling tickets my work also includes checking the train before departure that everything is in good shape and everywhere is tidy. I also make the on-board train announcements.

If you just manage to maintain a cheerful, relaxed attitude, and not get upset even during the rush hour, a conductor’s work is enjoyable. You need to have a sense of humour and the ability to get on with all sorts of people.

One of the best aspects of my work is the long periods of time off. Shift work suits me and my current situation. I have to mention that I also found my partner here, we were on the same conductor course, so at the moment we are work colleagues!”