Ceres Magazine Issue 2 - Winter 2016 | Page 66

Ceres: What brought you to this job?

David: I saw it when I was working at the Amtrak Call Center, and I applied. I was hired as a conductor by Amtrak, then transferred over to Metrolink in 2011.

Ceres: Why did you join Metrolink?

David: The opportunity to make more money, learn more, and work by myself, and it was closer to home, too. I live in Riverside, Moreno

Valley. With Amtrak, I had to commute to LA, every day, either driving or catching Metrolink to work.

Ceres: What do you think about women working as conductors?

David: I think it's a good thing! I’m also an instructor for new students and new hires, and it’s always good seeing that women get a fair chance too, that they can prove themselves that they can do a job. It shouldn’t be strictly for men or for women. Everybody should get an equal chance, and it’s good for the railroad to have diversity, people from different backgrounds, and from both sexes. It benefits everybody.

Ceres: Why do you think that it is good for the railroad?

David: Because in the old railroad culture, I've heard that there was a lot of bigotry, and sexism. But those doors are now open. Things have changed, and now everyone has a fair shot.

Ceres: How is your work relationship with female coworkers?

David: I get along with everyone, with all the female conductors and engineers. They’re trained properly, and they can do the job. As long as you can do the job, I’m good with you.

Ceres: I know that you guys consider each other as family.

David: Yes, we do. We would put our lives on the line for each other, every day. I’m that type of person; I have your back. If I have to put my life

on the line to save you, I will. We would all do it to protect the passengers, as well. We take it

"...it’s not just about the money, it’s about the safety of the passengers..."

Photos by Lands of Void

David Cameron

is from New Orleans, Louisiana. He went to the University Louisiana Lafayette, where he earned a bachelor degree in Science and Industrial Tech-nology. He moved to Los Angeles to find a job in August 2004, and was hired by Amtrak, first at the Reservation Call Center, then as Conductor, before transferring over to Metrolink. We meet him on the Orange County line.

66 - Ceres Magazine - Winter 2016